MLB to Examine Postseason Format After Upsets
Major League Baseball (MLB) is set to examine its postseason format following a series of upsets during the Division Series. Teams with 100-win seasons, such as Atlanta, Baltimore, and the Los Angeles Dodgers, were eliminated from the playoffs, prompting discussions about the current format. However, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred believes that the format has served the league well.
MLB expanded the playoffs from 10 teams to 12 for the 2022 season, but there were still surprises with Arizona and Texas advancing to the World Series as wild card teams. The Diamondbacks, with just 84 wins, could potentially have the second-fewest wins for a champion over a regular-length season.
One of the concerns raised is the performance of division winners who had a first-round bye. Three of the four division winners lost after a five-day break, and both the Orioles and Dodgers were swept. The discussion surrounding the postseason format will take place after the completion of the postseason.
MLB had proposed expanding the playoffs to 14 teams, but the players’ union refused to agree. Union head Tony Clark stated that they were content with the current system and preferred the 10-team format. There were also discussions about implementing the ghost win system used in South Korea, which would give division winners a 1-0 lead in playoff series before the first pitch. Some have suggested extending the Division Series to best-of-seven, but this raises concerns about colder weather as the postseason could extend deeper into November.
The results of the playoffs in recent years have challenged the notion that the team with the best regular-season record is guaranteed to win the World Series. Manfred believes that the unpredictability makes the postseason more interesting for fans.
In addition to examining the postseason format, MLB is also considering changes to pitcher limits and addressing concerns about pitcher injuries. Manfred mentioned that there is a desire to encourage a return to a greater emphasis on starting pitchers. The players’ union has also expressed concerns about injuries resulting from the high-effort pitching style that is increasingly popular.
Another topic of discussion is the use of technology in umpiring. While the Automated Ball-Strike system won’t be implemented at the major league level next year, there have been improvements in tailoring the system to individual batting stances in minor league testing. However, there is still a need for consensus on the shape of the strike zone.
MLB is also looking to develop a less slick baseball that provides better grip for pitchers without significantly increasing spin rate. The goal is to find a balance that benefits both pitchers and hitters.
Furthermore, MLB has taken control of the broadcasts of San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks games. The league has filed a motion in bankruptcy court to determine which teams Diamond Sports intends to broadcast on its Bally Sports networks next season. This information is crucial for MLB to plan the delivery of games to fans.
MLB continues to evaluate various aspects of the game to ensure its growth and maintain fan interest. The discussions and potential changes will shape the future of the league and its postseason format.
