2026 MLB Postseason: Full Bracket, Game Times, and TV Schedule
The 2026 MLB playoffs began Tuesday with 12 teams competing for the World Series. The Dodgers are pursuing a third straight title, a feat only a few franchises have achieved. The article lists the bracket, wild-card matchups, and television times for the postseason.
The 2026 postseason field opened with 12 clubs still in contention. In the National League, Atlanta took Game 1 of its wild-card set against Philadelphia, 5-3, while Chicago and San Diego began their series late Tuesday on Peacock. Milwaukee and Los Angeles await those winners in the NLDS.
Tampa Bay owns the American League’s No. 1 seed and Cleveland is No. 2, so both have byes. The Rays will meet the Yankees-Red Sox winner; the Guardians will face the Astros-White Sox winner. Los Angeles is trying to become the first NL club to win three straight World Series.
The expanded playoff field may keep more fan bases engaged into October, potentially boosting local spending around ballparks and media viewership. Players and team staff could face added physical and scheduling demands, while broadcasters and streaming services may see heightened subscription interest. For communities tied to contending clubs, a deep run could shape civic pride and business activity, though outcomes remain uncertain.