MLB Makes Huge Changes in 2022 Playoff Format Amidst Lockout, 7 Teams From Each League to Battle Out

The lockout in Major League Baseball doesn’t seem to end anytime soon, as both the owners and players are yet to reach the new Collective Bargaining Agreement. However, recently, there has been little progress towards the next season of MLB. If reports are true, then MLB owners are about to change and expand the playoff format for the 2022 season.

Earlier on Thursday, MLB owners and the Players’ Association met to discuss a new deal. But the meeting didn’t last very long and was over in just 15 minutes. This came as a huge disappointment as, since the last week, the two parties have been trying hard to find a solution that leads to the end of the lockout, so that the regular season can start on schedule.

First, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, in his media address, announced the inclusion of two new rules in MLB. One is the approval of universal DH (designated hitter) for both leagues and the removal of draft-pick compensation of free agents. Notably, these were two of the key demands from the players which the owners approved. And now, the recent report suggests that MLB is likely to change its playoff format as well.

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Major League Baseball to change the playoff format?

After adding two rules in favor of the players, now the owners are likely to expand the playoff format of MLB. This will also cause a significant change in the money they earn, compared to the previous format for MLB.

As per Craig Carton of WFAN, from this season onwards, seven teams will be able to compete in the playoffs from each league. The team with the best record in each league will get a bye and will go to the division series, while the top remaining winner will pick its opponent from the four wild cards teams.

“MLB playoff format is set fans gonna love it – 7 playoff teams per league – Team with best record gets bye and goes to Div Series. Top remaining Div Winner picks opponent from the 4 wild card teams and plays best of three all games at home – Then the 3rd Div winner does the same,” said Carton.

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However, these are unofficial announcements about such changes. Only time will tell if MLB will expand the playoff format in reality or not.