MLB proposes shorter regular season and expanded postseason format

Major League Baseball (MLB) has proposed significant structural changes to the regular season and postseason as part of ongoing collective bargaining negotiations with the MLB Players Association (MLBPA). The proposal includes reducing the regular season from 162 to 154 games starting in 2029, which would allow for a scheduled weekly off-day to improve player health.

Postseason changes include expanding the Division Series from a best-of-five to a best-of-seven format. Additionally, starting in 2027, higher-seeded teams would have the privilege of selecting their opponents in the Wild Card and Division Series rounds. MLB spokesperson Glen Caplin stated that these changes aim to enhance player well-being and create more engaging television windows.

However, the MLBPA has expressed strong opposition, noting that the league's proposals are contingent on players accepting a salary cap. The union argues that a salary cap would undermine player rights and compensation. With the current collective bargaining agreement set to expire on December 1, the league is also preparing for a potential lockout, having distributed internal guidance to franchises on how to operate during a work stoppage.