The 2025 MLB playoffs are shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years, with a well-formulated postseason structure that features a 12-team format. As September 30, 2025, approaches, the playoff picture is becoming increasingly clear, setting the stage for thrilling action as teams vie for the coveted World Series title.
Overview of the 2025 Playoffs Format
This year’s playoffs consist of 12 teams, with eight of them facing off in a wild-card round, hoping to secure one of the four available spots for the division series. The format aims to heighten competition by including an additional wild-card team from both the American League (AL) and National League (NL), adding layers of complexity and excitement to the postseason.
The wild-card round features a best-of-three series, followed by best-of-five division series, and if teams advance, they will proceed to the best-of-seven championship series before ultimately reaching the World Series.
Current Standings and Wild-Card Race
Entering the final games of the regular season, the playoff picture is becoming clearer. As of September 30, the Cincinnati Reds have secured the last wild-card spot in the National League through a tiebreaker, joining the Phillies in the postseason mix. Despite both the Reds and New York Mets falling in their respective games, the Reds advanced owing to tiebreaker protocols.
In the American League, the Toronto Blue Jays clinched the AL East title after a crucial victory on the final day, landing them the top seed in the AL playoffs. The Cleveland Guardians also emerged as champions of the AL Central, adding to a competitive postseason atmosphere.
Wild-Card Round Schedule
Here is an overview of the upcoming wild-card matchups, showcasing the best-of-three series format:
American League
Detroit Tigers at Cleveland Guardians
- Game 1: Saturday, OCT 2, 1:08 PM ET on ESPN
- Game 2: TBD
- Game 3: TBD (if necessary)
- Boston Red Sox at New York Yankees
- Game 1: Saturday, OCT 2, 6:08 PM ET on ESPN
- Game 2: Monday, OCT 4, 6:08 PM ET on ESPN
- Game 3: TBD (if necessary)
National League
Cincinnati Reds at Los Angeles Dodgers
- Game 1: Tuesday, OCT 3, 9:08 PM ET on ESPN
- Game 2: Wednesday, OCT 4, 9:08 PM ET on ESPN
- Game 3: TBD (if necessary)
- San Diego Padres at Chicago Cubs
- Game 1: Tuesday, OCT 3, 3:08 PM ET on ABC
- Game 2: Wednesday, OCT 4, 3:08 PM ET on ABC
- Game 3: TBD (if necessary)
Division Series and Beyond
The winners of the wild-card series will advance to the American League Division Series (ALDS) and National League Division Series (NLDS), which follow a best-of-five format. Here’s a preliminary outlook on the division series:
American League Division Series
- Seattle Mariners vs. Winner of Tigers-Guardians
- Toronto Blue Jays vs. Winner of Red Sox-Yankees
National League Division Series
- Philadelphia Phillies vs. Winner of Reds-Dodgers
- Milwaukee Brewers vs. Winner of Padres-Cubs
The ALDS is set to start on Saturday, October 4, 2025, while the NLDS will begin shortly after.
Championship Series and World Series
As teams strive to progress through the rounds, the stakes only get higher. The American League Championship Series (ALCS) will commence on October 12, 2025, while the National League Championship Series (NLCS) will kick off the following day, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown as teams grapple for a position in the World Series.
The crowning moment will culminate with the World Series, commencing on Friday, October 24, 2025, and running until November 1 if the series extends to a Game 7.
How to Watch
Fans can catch every thrilling matchup on ESPN, ABC, FOX, and TBS, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all games throughout the postseason. With a blend of cable networks showcasing both primetime games and afternoon contests, there’s ample opportunity for fans to engage with the action.
Conclusion
As the 2025 MLB playoffs approach, anticipation builds around which teams will rise to the occasion and make memorable runs towards the championship title. The playoff format promises to deliver nail-biting excitement, while the increased inclusion of teams fosters a more competitive atmosphere. With every pitch, swing, and catch potentially altering the course of history, fans are in for a rollercoaster October filled with the spirit of the game.
Keeping an eye on the latest updates, standings, brackets, and schedules will allow fans to remain engaged as they cheer on their favorite teams through this exhilarating postseason journey.
