Analysis shows little correlation between September performance and postseason success
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 28, 2026, 1:44 PM
Last updated Sep 28, 2026
A recent study discusses the lack of correlation between MLB teams’ September performance and their success in the postseason. Eric Samulski analyzed data from 98 seasons over the last nine years and found that teams with strong September records do not necessarily fare better in the playoffs., several teams have reached the World Series despite poor September performance. For instance, the 2023 Diamondbacks entered the playoffs with the lowest OPS among contenders but still made it to the World Series.
- •98 MLB playoff seasons analyzed from 2016 to 2025
- •September winning percentage shows minimal correlation to postseason success
- •The 2023 Diamondbacks reached the World Series despite poor September stats
- •Several teams succeeded in playoffs with subpar September performances
- •Data suggests playoff outcomes are unpredictable regardless of regular-season trends
- 1:44 PMYahoo Sports — MLB Postseason 2026: Does regular-season momentum matter in the playoffs?
"Eric Samulski digs into whether or not data suggests teams can really "stumble" into the playoffs
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