Major League Baseball has put forth a proposal to reduce the length of the regular season from 162 games to 154 games starting in 2029. In addition, there are plans to extend the Division Series to best-of-seven games as part of negotiations with players. Owners are also suggesting that higher-seeded teams in the initial two rounds of the postseason be allowed to choose their opponents starting next year. Furthermore, a proposal has been made to designate Mondays as off days for most teams from 2029 onwards, with exceptions for those involved in one or two nationally broadcast games.
The proposed reduction in regular-season games may impact players’ chances to set season and career records. MLB spokesperson Glen Caplin stated that shifting to a 154-game schedule would enable the introduction of a weekly off day, promoting player well-being, and create a new national broadcast opportunity to feature top teams and players. This change aims to enhance the postseason experience for fans by minimizing weekday afternoon games, extending the Division Series, and providing more opportunities to showcase top pitchers on a larger stage. Allowing top-seeded teams to select their opponents in the first two rounds is anticipated to generate intriguing storylines, intensify existing rivalries, and spark new ones.
MLB has clarified that player salaries will not be adjusted to account for the reduced number of games. However, bonus provisions tied to the number of games played will be adjusted to align with the shortened schedule. Historically, both the National and American Leagues adopted 154-game schedules in 1904, with teams playing each opponent 22 times within an eight-team circuit. The AL transitioned to a 162-game schedule in 1961 upon expanding to 10 teams, followed by the NL the following year. The LCS originated in 1969 as best-of-five series before evolving into best-of-seven matchups. Division series have consistently been best-of-five since their debut in 1995. Wild card games were introduced in 2012 with the playoff expansion to 10 teams and evolved into best-of-three Wild Card Series when the postseason expanded to 12 teams in 2022.