This what the current MLB playoff picture looks like as they head to the last week of the regular season. MLB is scheduled to begin a sixteen -team postseason tournament on September 29th with World Series to start October 23rd. The MLB and MLBPA have decided on a bubble for the upcoming postseason to be held in San Diego, Houston, and Arlington.
At this point, there are still several spots up for grabs due to expanded playoffs. Wild Card games are going to be the best of three series at the home ballpark of the better seed. The best of seven games of the ALDS series will be held in San Diego AL and Houston for NL. The same format for the League Championship Series. Followed by the seven-game World Series in neutral Arlington.
Playoff Picture
Since there are still some spots up for grabs with the tight races the final few games are a must-watch. In the American league the Rays, White Sox, and Athletics hold their divisions. Followed by the Indians, Astros, and Twins. The Dodgers, Braves, and Cubs have top playoff seeds though it will be a close race to finish. As the Padres are gaining ground on the Dodgers in the West.
The Yankees and Blue Jays hold the wild cards, but the Mariners are still in the hunt. The National League wild card teams are the Giants and Phillies for the moment, but that could change as the Rockies and Reds are in the hunt. Furthermore, the Rockies are only three games behind in the second wild card and if they have a good week it can change the standings.
Other Scenarios
There will be some storylines to ponder in the postseason. Such as if the Dodgers can end the three- decade long World Series drought? Can the White Sox and Padres find October glory like? Or is it the year of the Rays? No matter what happens it will more than likely be an interesting end to a strange season.
Since it is an expanded playoff situation fans get to see some different teams competing. The last week of the season will be crazy as these races will go down to the wire. Keep an eye on the standings because it could change fast.
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