The wider picture
The 2026 MLB season is set to begin on March 26, 2026, with the Los Angeles Dodgers entering as the two-time defending champions. Having won the World Series in the previous two seasons, the Dodgers have established themselves as a powerhouse in the league. According to FanGraphs, they hold a remarkable 26.9% chance of winning the World Series again this year, making them the team to watch as the season unfolds.
In addition to the Dodgers, other teams are also positioning themselves for a strong postseason showing. The Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners, and Toronto Blue Jays are predicted to receive first-round byes in the postseason, indicating a competitive landscape as the teams gear up for the upcoming season. Observers are keen to see how these teams will perform, especially after the Cubs’ near-title run last year, which raises questions about their resilience and strategy moving forward.
As teams prepare for the season, discussions about MLB expansion are gaining traction. The league is likely to consider expansion after the Oakland Athletics and Tampa Bay Rays resolve their stadium situations. Potential cities for this expansion include Nashville and Salt Lake City, which could bring new rivalries and fanbases into the fold. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline for this expansion.
Furthermore, the proposed realignment of the league aims to maintain existing rivalries while fostering new divisional matchups. The new schedule would feature 150 games, a reduction of 12 games from the current format. This includes 51 games against divisional opponents, 84 games against teams from other divisions, and an additional three games against a designated rival, along with 12 extra games against teams in the same league but different divisions.
As the season approaches, analysts are weighing in on the competitive dynamics within the league. One commentator noted, “This is going to be a really tough division,” highlighting the challenges teams will face as they navigate their schedules. Another remarked, “Could be a sneaky contender,” suggesting that while some teams may not be in the spotlight, they could surprise fans and analysts alike.
While the Dodgers are favored, the unpredictability of the sport means that anything can happen. As one observer quipped, “They can’t lose 119 again… or can they?” This reflects the uncertainty that often accompanies a new season, where past performance does not always dictate future outcomes.
As the 2026 MLB season draws closer, the excitement builds not only for the games but also for the potential changes within the league structure. With expansion on the horizon and a new schedule in place, fans and teams alike are eager to see how these developments will shape the future of baseball.