Major League Baseball owners are proposing significant changes as a way to proceed with the baseball season amid potential lockout scenarios. They suggest reducing the season to 154 games, a reduction from the 162-game schedule in place since 1961. This revised schedule aims to reintroduce regular off-days for player health and introduce a new national broadcast window.
The playoff format would also see a change, with the Division Series shifting from a best-of-five to a best-of-seven format. Additionally, the proposal includes allowing the highest seed in both the Wild Card and Division Series to select their opponents. This is intended to create engaging storylines and new and intensified rivalries.
According to MLB spokesman Glen Caplin, “A shorter regular season unlocks making October even better for our fans—with fewer weekday afternoon games—and more opportunities to see the game’s best pitchers on the biggest stage.” The changes are set to provide fans with enhanced viewing experiences during the postseason.
Under the current system, the top seed faces the winner of the 4-5 match-up, while the 2-3 seeds face each other. This has led to scenarios like the Yankees, with the second-best record, becoming the fourth seed. The proposed changes could rectify situations where highly-ranked teams miss out on the expected playoff advantages.
If implemented, the 154-game schedule would not take effect until 2029. This plan includes giving all teams a Monday off, with a few exceptions for televised games or holidays. Scheduled split doubleheaders against division rivals would also become a regular feature.
One controversial aspect remains—the inclusion of a salary cap, which players have strongly opposed. The existing collective bargaining agreement is set to expire on December 1, prompting concerns of a lockout.