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MLB proposes new playoff format that favors high seeds

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 6:52 PM

Last updated Oct 8, 2026

MLB proposes new playoff format that favors high seeds

Summary

Major League Baseball is negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement with the MLBPA, focusing on several proposed changes, including a reduction of the regular season from 162 to 154 games. The latest proposal allows higher-seeded teams in the playoffs to select their opponents, while also expanding the division series to seven games. These measures have raised concerns regarding fairness, especially if lower-seeded division winners are given selection privileges over higher-performing Wild Card teams. Discussions continue, and the future of these proposals remains uncertain.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•MLB proposes shortening the regular season to 154 games.
•Higher seeds would get to choose their playoff opponents.
•Division series would expand from five to seven games.
•Concerns arise over fairness of opponent selection.
•Negotiations with the MLBPA are ongoing.

Latest Updates

6:52 PMYahoo Sports — MLB’s new proposal includes wild playoff change Dodgers would absolutely love

What they're saying

"
MLB and the MLBPA are still working toward a new collective bargaining agreement. While the threat of a lockout likely hinges on the salary cap discussion , there are other issues that are being proposed as well. Jeff Passan of ESPN shared MLB’s latest proposal on Thursday, with topics including the regular season schedule as well as postseason […] The post MLB’s new proposal includes wild playoff change Dodgers would absolutely love appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

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