The Impact of Including Inferior Teams in MLB Playoffs: Balancing Competitiveness and Financial Considerations

Introduction

This year's World Series matchup between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Texas Rangers has raised questions about the impact of including inferior teams in the playoffs. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this change and its potential consequences.

The Increase in Inferior Teams

In 2012, Major League Baseball made the decision to increase the number of inferior teams in the playoffs from two per league to three per league in 2022. This change was aimed at increasing the likelihood of unexpected teams reaching the World Series.

Negating the Regular Season Results

One overlooked consequence of adding inferior teams to the playoffs is the potential negation of the statistically significant results of the winning teams in the 162-game schedule. While the Diamondbacks and Rangers may have performed well in a few postseason games, it does not necessarily prove their overall superiority.

Rethinking the Current Policy

In light of these concerns, it is worth considering whether Major League Baseball should reconsider its current policy. One possible solution is to roll back the number of inferior teams in the postseason, as it was between 1995 and 2011 when only one inferior team in each league made the playoffs.

The Challenges Ahead

Unfortunately, making such a change is unlikely due to MLB's revenue hysteria and the high player salaries. While it may be in the best interest of the sport to ensure more competitive World Series matchups, the financial implications make it difficult to even consider this option.

Conclusion

The inclusion of inferior teams in the MLB playoffs has sparked debate among baseball fans. While it may increase the likelihood of unexpected matchups, it also raises concerns about the validity of the regular season results. Ultimately, the decision rests with Major League Baseball, but it is important to consider the potential consequences and strive for a balance between competitiveness and financial considerations.