The 2025 MLB postseason is in full swing, with the wild-card round wrapping up in dramatic fashion just days ago. Indeed, the New York Yankees clinched their spot in the Division Series with a gritty Game 3 victory over the Royals, showcasing that familiar Bronx resilience amid a tense three-game set. Meanwhile, the Cubs and Tigers also advanced, edging out their opponents in winner-take-all thrillers that kept fans on the edge of their seats. It's this kind of unpredictability that makes October baseball so addictive, even if it occasionally feels a bit too chaotic for the purists.
Now, as the bracket takes shape, the Division Series kicks off this Saturday under the best-of-five format—a change from the old three-game wild card that added even more intensity to the opener. The American League pits the Yankees against the Guardians in Cleveland for Games 1 and 2, while the Orioles host the Royals. Over in the National League, the Dodgers face the Mets in Los Angeles, and the Phillies take on the Brewers in Philadelphia. Schedules are tight: ALDS games air on FOX and FS1, NLDS on TNT platforms, all building toward the League Championship Series starting October 13 if things go the distance.
Key dates to mark: The ALCS and NLCS run through October 20, potentially, before the World Series launches on October 21 in the higher seed's ballpark. That Fall Classic could stretch to November 2, wrapping up the season with seven possible games broadcast nationwide. The format remains straightforward—best-of-seven for both LCS and World Series—ensuring plenty of room for comebacks and controversies alike. However, with seeding locked after the 162-game grind, teams like the Yankees enter as favorites, their playoff pedigree shining through despite a regular season that wasn't without its stumbles.
Moreover, the playoff picture highlights how division winners get that bye advantage, a rule tweak from years back that's sparked endless debate on fairness. Still, as the action unfolds, one can't help but wonder if this year's bracket will deliver another classic underdog story or just reinforce the dominance of the big-market clubs.