MLB Proposes Shorter Regular Season and Expanded Division Series for 2029

Major League Baseball proposed a 154-game regular season and a best-of-seven Division Series format during negotiations on Thursday.

Major League Baseball proposed shortening the regular season from 162 to 154 games and expanding the Division Series to a best-of-seven format during collective bargaining negotiations on Thursday. The changes would take effect in 2029 to align with new national media deals. Under the plan, the No. 3 seed in each league would choose to face either the No. 5 or No. 6 seed in the best-of-three Wild Card round. Following that round, the No. 1 seed would select their opponent from the remaining Wild Card winners for the Division Series.

The 154-game schedule, which was the league standard prior to 1960, would establish Monday as a recurring off day for most teams. Clubs playing on a Monday would receive a Thursday off day instead, though holidays and special events would remain exceptions. MLB spokesperson Glen Caplin stated the reduction aims to improve player health through weekly rest while creating new national broadcast windows. While yearly salaries would not be reduced, the league plans to adjust bonuses and similar provisions proportionally to the shorter schedule.

The MLB Players Association confirmed it is reviewing the proposal but noted that the league has made these changes contingent on the implementation of a salary cap. The union has expressed opposition to a cap system, stating it impacts player compensation and rights. Consequently, negotiations regarding the schedule and playoff format remain on hold until broader economic issues are resolved.