The 2024 MLB Postseason: What You Need to Know

As the regular season winds down, baseball fans are gearing up for the excitement of the 2024 MLB postseason. With the final games set to conclude on either Sunday, September 29, or Monday, September 30, depending on the outcomes of the Mets and Braves, the anticipation is palpable. This year, 12 teams will vie for the coveted World Series title, with six teams from each league making the playoffs. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect as the postseason approaches.

The Structure of the 2024 MLB Playoffs

The postseason format remains consistent with recent years. The two teams from each league with the best records will receive first-round byes, while the remaining four teams will compete in the Wild Card round. The Wild Card series will be a best-of-three format, with the winners advancing to the Division Series. This structure not only adds excitement but also ensures that every game counts, making for thrilling matchups.

When Do the 2024 MLB Playoffs Start?

Mark your calendars! The 2024 MLB Playoffs will kick off on Tuesday, October 1, featuring four games in the Wild Card Series. This is the moment when teams that fought hard all season long will finally get their chance to shine on the postseason stage.

When Is the 2024 World Series?

The grand finale of the baseball season, the 2024 World Series, is scheduled to begin on October 25. If the series extends to a full seven games, it will run through November 2. However, the start date could shift depending on when the League Championship Series (LCS) concludes in each league. Fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to the season, filled with nail-biting moments and unforgettable plays.

Teams in the 2024 MLB Playoffs

National League Contenders

As of now, the following teams have secured their spots in the National League playoffs:

• Philadelphia Phillies (clinched National League East)
• Los Angeles Dodgers
• Milwaukee Brewers (clinched National League Central)
• San Diego Padres

There are still two Wild Card spots open, adding an extra layer of excitement as teams battle for their postseason lives.

American League Contenders

In the American League, the following teams have clinched their playoff berths:

• New York Yankees
• Houston Astros (clinched American League West)
• Cleveland Guardians (clinched American League Central)
• Baltimore Orioles

Similar to the National League, two Wild Card spots remain up for grabs, making the final games of the regular season crucial for several teams.

Tiebreaker Rules for the 2024 MLB Postseason

Gone are the days of Game 163s to determine playoff spots. In 2024, tiebreakers will be resolved mathematically. The first criterion is the head-to-head record between the tied teams. If necessary, the intradivisional record will be considered, followed by the interdivisional record. This streamlined approach ensures clarity and efficiency as teams jockey for position.

Home-Field Advantage in the World Series

Home-field advantage in the World Series will be awarded to the team with the best overall record. In the event of a tie, the same tiebreaker rules will apply to determine which team gets to host the crucial games. This adds an extra incentive for teams to perform well throughout the regular season.

Detailed Postseason Schedule

Wild Card Series: October 1-3

The Wild Card Series will feature a best-of-three format, with matchups determined by seeding. The lowest-seeded division winner will face the lowest-seeded Wild Card team, while the other Wild Card teams will compete against each other. All games will take place at the home stadium of the highest-seeded team.

Game Schedule:

• October 1, 2024:
  • AL Wild Card A, Game 1
  • AL Wild Card B, Game 1
  • NL Wild Card A, Game 1
  • NL Wild Card B, Game 1
• October 2, 2024:
  • AL Wild Card A, Game 2
  • AL Wild Card B, Game 2
  • NL Wild Card A, Game 2
  • NL Wild Card B, Game 2
• October 3, 2024:
  • AL Wild Card A, Game 3 (if necessary)
  • AL Wild Card B, Game 3 (if necessary)
  • NL Wild Card A, Game 3 (if necessary)
  • NL Wild Card B, Game 3 (if necessary)

Division Series: October 5-12

The Division Series will continue in a best-of-five format, played in a 2-2-1 format, with the higher-seeded team enjoying home-field advantage for Games 1, 2, and 5 (if necessary).

Championship Series: October 13-22

The League Championship Series will follow, with the winners of the Division Series facing off for a chance to compete in the World Series.

2024 World Series: October 25-November 2

The World Series will culminate the postseason, showcasing the champions of the American and National Leagues in a best-of-seven format.

Key Rules for the 2024 MLB Playoffs

Pitch Clock Regulations

The pitch clock will remain in effect during the playoffs. Pitchers must deliver the ball within 15 seconds when the bases are empty and 18 seconds with runners on base. Violations will result in an automatic ball, while hitters must be in the batter’s box with eight seconds left to avoid an automatic strike.

Extra Innings Format

Unlike the regular season, there will be no automatic runner on second base to start extra innings in the playoffs. This means that teams will have to earn their victories without the benefit of a free runner, adding to the intensity of each game.

Injured Player Replacements

Teams will have the option to replace injured players during a series, but once a player is replaced, they will be ineligible for the remainder of that series and the following round if the team advances. This rule ensures that teams can adapt to injuries while maintaining the integrity of the competition.

As the 2024 MLB postseason approaches, fans can look forward to a thrilling series of games filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or simply enjoying the spectacle of playoff baseball, this year’s postseason promises to deliver.