MLB Proposes Shorter Season and Expanded Playoffs

Shorter Season and Player Health

Major League Baseball has proposed a shorter regular season of 154 games starting in 2029. This is part of ongoing negotiations with the MLB Players Association for a new collective bargaining agreement.

The current 162-game schedule has been in place since 1960. Going back to 154 games would allow for a weekly off day.

MLB spokesperson Glen Kaplin stated that a weekly off day is good for player health. It would also create a new national broadcast window for top teams and players.

MLB is not suggesting any reduction in yearly salaries with the shorter schedule. However, bonuses and similar provisions would be adjusted proportionally.

Expanded Playoffs and Team Selections

The proposals also include expanding the Division Series to a best-of-seven format. The wild card round would remain a best-of-three series.

Higher-seeded teams would get to choose their opponents in both the wild card and division series rounds. The number three seed in each league would pick whether to play the number five or six seed in the wild card round.

The number one seed would choose which wild card winner to face in the division series. Kaplin mentioned that this idea would create compelling storylines and intensify rivalries.

These playoff ideas are relevant to current postseasons. For example, the top three teams in the American League ended up on the same side of the bracket.

Union Response and Salary Cap Debate

The MLBPA said it is reviewing the proposals and will respond at the bargaining table. The union noted that any changes are contingent on players agreeing to a salary cap.

The union has strongly opposed a salary cap. It stated that a cap system hurts player rights and compensation.

Because the two sides have not agreed on larger economic issues, everything involving the schedule or other major changes remains on hold.

Future Timing for the Changes

MLB wants to implement the new format starting in 2029. This timing would coincide with the start of the sport's next national media deals.

Discussions between the league and the players union are ongoing. No final agreement has been reached yet.