MLBOct 8
MLB Seeks 154-Game Schedule and Longer Division Series
Owners offer changes to regular season and playoffs in talks with players
· 2 min read
On this page3 sections
Proposed Schedule and Playoff Adjustments
Major League Baseball has suggested moving the regular season to 154 games from the current 162 starting in 2029. The plan includes expanding the Division Series to a best-of-seven format. Higher-seeded teams would gain the ability to select their opponents in the first two rounds of the postseason beginning next year. Most teams would receive Monday as an off day under the new structure, with exceptions only for one or two nationally broadcast games.
Impact on Player Compensation and Health
Player salaries would remain unchanged despite the reduced number of games. Bonus thresholds tied to games played would be adjusted to match the shorter schedule. The addition of a weekly off day is intended to support player health while opening a dedicated national broadcast window for top teams and players.
Historical Context of Schedule Lengths
Both the National and American Leagues used 154-game schedules beginning in 1904, with each team in the eight-team leagues facing opponents 22 times. The League Championship Series began in 1969 as best-of-five before moving to best-of-seven in 1984. The Division Series has remained best-of-five since annual use started in 1995. Wild card games began in 2012 with the playoff field growing to 10 teams and later became best-of-three when the postseason reached 12 clubs in 2022.
Analysis, not a wagering instruction. Confirm every number on the sportsbook. 21+.
