The cusp of the MLB playoffs: It’s my favourite time to watch America’s pastime, especially with the expanded format that now includes 16 teams. This shift has transformed the postseason landscape, making it far more inclusive and thrilling for both teams and fans. To appreciate the magnitude of this change, it’s worth contrasting it with MLB’s earlier playoff structure, where there were only two rounds of playoffs, and no wild card teams.
Old Playoff System: Before the introduction of wild card teams, MLB’s postseason was a much smaller affair. From 1969 to 1993, the playoffs consisted of just two rounds: the League Championship Series (LCS) and the World Series. Only four teams made the postseason—two from each league. This format often left deserving teams out in the cold. For instance, in 1980, the Baltimore Orioles won 100 games but were excluded from the postseason because they finished second in the AL East behind the New York Yankees. Of course my beloved Bronx Bombers then lost three straight playoff games to the KC Royals who advanced to the World Series.
The Expanded Playoff Format: Now the playoff race extends deeper into the season, keeping fans engaged until the very end. Teams that may have been considered out of the running in previous decades now have a shot at making a Cinderella run thru the postseason, adding a layer of suspense and drama. The addition of wild card teams has particularly revolutionized the game. Teams that win a wildcard spot still have a shot to play for a championship.
It also ensures that the best teams have multiple pathways to the playoffs, maintaining fan interest across the league and setting the stage for some of the most exciting baseball in decades. I just hope that my Yanks win their 28th title. Go Yankees!
