MLB looking to switch to a new playoff format – MLB News
Baseball’s playoffs are expected to expand from eight to 10 teams in 2012 season. The schedule for 2012 season was already set by MLB. If the agreement is finalised before the start of 2012 Spring Training, MLB officials will also have to come up with a new games schedule. To let the wild cards compete in the playoffs, there will be major adjustments required in the 2012 season schedule.
According to sport’s new collective agreement, additional wild cards were supposed to be added in each League before the end of 2013 season but Commissioner Bud Selig wanted to put the plan into practice immediately. In an effort to expand MLB format as early as possible, Selig talked to MLB players union to switch the current 9-teams playoff format to a more interesting 10-teams format.
The officials have not disclosed the final details of the new format as yet. A source familiar with MLB told reporters on Wednesday that the starting times for final day of the regular season can be changed. Additionally, the one game wild card knockout and Game one of the Division series can also be changed.
The new format is very exciting as it will allow each League’s three Division winners to earn a first round bye. Number 4 teams will have to play an additional game to win the wild card entrance in playoffs. The wild card entrants will then play the Division winner in the first round.
The source further added the agreement on the additional wild card entrants has not been finalised as yet. The management still has to tie a few loose ends before making a decision. MLB officials can make an announcement on Thursday, sources commented.
In some ways, the new format can prove to be really beneficial for Major League Baseball as it can provide weaker team with an opportunity to make it to the playoffs. However, it is unclear if the format will come into play in 2012 or 2013. The fans will also be hoping to see a more competitive playoffs season. It will be interesting to see if the new format can live up to its hype.
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