With multiple postseason spots up for grabs in Major League Baseball, understanding the tiebreaking procedures becomes crucial for contenders. Unfortunately, tiebreaker games are no longer in play, and teams now determine playoff positions based on the following criteria:
- Head-to-head record.
- Intra-division record.
- Inter-division record.
- Record in the last 81 intraleague games.
- Record in the last 82 intraleague games, including one until the tie is resolved.
- The head-to-head record typically resolves ties.
This article focuses on how these rules impact teams as they head towards September.
AL East
The Blue Jays lead the Red Sox and Yankees while winning the season head-to-head against both. Hence, if tied, they’ll clinch the division.
AL Central
The Tigers dominate the division and have outperformed the Royals in their match-ups.
AL West
The rivalry is tight between the Astros and Mariners, currently tied in their season series, promising an exciting finale.
AL Wild Card
Here’s how teams stack up:
| Team | Wins | Losses | Wild Card Games Behind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Sox | 75 | 60 | +2 ½ |
| Yankees | 74 | 60 | +2 |
| Mariners | 72 | 62 | - |
| Royals | 69 | 65 | 3 |
| Rangers | 68 | 67 | 4 ½ |
| Guardians | 66 | 66 | 5 |
Focusing on the Mariners, their battles against the Royals and Guardians will prove crucial in the wild card picture.
NL East
The Mets clinched their season series against the Phillies, setting themselves up for potential postseason clashes despite a significant deficit.
NL Central
The Cubs have taken a slight advantage over the Brewers in their match-ups, boosting their chances in the home stretch.
NL Wild Card
Current standings reflect the Cubs’ and Padres’ strong positions, but the Mets and Reds are still in contention for the final spot.
First-round Byes
The top two division winners get a bye in the playoffs. Likely candidates in the AL are the Blue Jays and Tigers, with the Astros and Mariners fighting for vital positions as they enter the final stretch of the season.
