MLB Suggests Shortening Season to 154 Games and Choosing Playoff Opponents

The Major League Baseball (MLB) unveiled a proposal on Thursday, October 8, that could transform both the regular season and the playoffs: a reduction of the schedule from 162 to 154 games per team, along with the possibility for certain high-ranking clubs to select their playoff opponents.

This plan has been presented to the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) as part of negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement. It has not yet been approved, and the changes have different proposed start dates: the ability to choose playoff rivals could begin in 2027, while the shortened 154-game season and best-of-seven Division Series would start in 2029.

The MLB's proposal aims to revive the 154-game season format, which was standard for much of the 20th century before the American League expanded to 162 games in 1961, followed by the National League in 1962. According to information released by MLB, starting in 2029, every Monday would typically be a rest day, with exceptions for holidays, special events, and one or two nationally televised games. Teams playing on Monday would rest on Thursday.

The league argues that a weekly break would aid players, especially pitchers, in their physical recovery and help with roster management. These are MLB's justifications for the change rather than proven medical benefits from cutting eight games.

The most eye-catching aspect of the proposal might be implemented as early as 2027, pending agreement. Instead of automatic playoff matchups determined by seeding, certain high-seeded teams could choose their opponents from predetermined options.

In the Wild Card round, the third seed in each league might decide whether to face the fifth or sixth seed, with this choice being made right after the regular season concludes. Later, in the Division Series, the top seed in each league could select which advancing Wild Card team to play against, making this decision after the first round is completed.

However, this doesn't mean any team can freely pick its opponent; only those designated by the proposal would have this privilege, limited to eligible rivals at each stage.

Another proposed adjustment is to extend the Division Series from a best-of-five to a best-of-seven format starting in 2029. This change would require four victories to advance instead of three. The new structure could introduce up to eight additional games across the four Division Series. MLB also suggests incorporating more rest days during the postseason and staggering the start of playoff rounds to reduce overlapping games and avoid some midweek afternoon time slots.

The league believes that a less compressed October would give star pitchers more opportunities to participate in critical games and increase television visibility for the series.

The main hurdle isn't just the sports format. In its official response on October 8, the MLBPA stated it would review the proposed schedule and playoff changes, consult with players, and respond during negotiations. However, the union also highlighted that MLB has tied these proposals to the acceptance of a salary cap system, which they oppose, arguing it would limit players' rights and earnings.

Therefore, the reduction to 154 games and the option to choose playoff opponents are not final decisions and cannot be announced as new MLB rules. Their future hinges on negotiations between the league and player representatives.

If approved, these changes would affect all MLB teams, including Cuban players participating in the league. They would not alter the postseason currently underway in 2026. Previously, CiberCuba reported on the nine Cuban players present in the 2026 playoffs, which are being played under the existing format.

The current MLB collective bargaining agreement expires on December 1, 2026. Until the league and the MLBPA agree on new terms, the 154-game schedule, best-of-seven Division Series, and opponent selection remain proposals under negotiation.

MLB aims to return to the 154-game schedule used for much of the 20th century, arguing that it would allow for more player rest and better roster management.

High-seeded teams could choose their opponents from predetermined options, starting with the third seed in each league selecting their Wild Card round rival.

MLBPA is reviewing the proposal but opposes the linked salary cap requirement, which they believe would restrict player rights and compensation.