Shorter schedule, multiple playoff changes included in latest MLB proposal

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Shorter schedule, multiple playoff changes included in latest MLB proposal

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Oct 8, 2026 3:22 PM ET

Major League Baseball has made another major proposal to the MLB Players Association as the two sides continue negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement.

With the current CBA set to expire Dec. 1 and a lockout seeming to be a foregone conclusion, the two sides are trying to work toward a deal to prevent that and the proposal revealed Thursday could be a step in the right direction.

MLB's proposal includes shorter schedule, postseason changes

The first proposed change was shortening the season from 162 games to 154, beginning in the 2029 season. That would give a standard weekly off day, similar to the minor leagues having Monday as their off day.

Other changes included the Division Series transitioning from best-of-five to best-of-seven games, as well as an interesting one, that being higher-seeded clubs in the Wild Card and Division Series would select their opponents, effective in 2027.

MLB is proposing returning to a 154-game Regular Season and best-of-seven Division Series pic.twitter.com/KKiE8xP3fi
— MLB (@MLB) October 8, 2026

MLB is proposing enhancements to the Wild Card and Division Series pic.twitter.com/fRCG8c2mOC
— MLB (@MLB) October 8, 2026

The MLBPA offered a response on Thursday

With the proposed changes from MLB came a response from the MLBPA. The MLBPA responded to both Thursday's proposed changes, as well as something that many believe will hold up CBA negotiations.

"The league made multiple scheduling proposals today. We are reviewing these materials, including the proposed changes to the playoff format. Players will weigh in on these proposals, and we will respond at the bargaining table. Unfortunately, the league once again made clear that all of its proposals are contingent on players’ agreement to a salary cap, a system that guts player rights and compensation, as well as its other anti-player proposals."

The salary cap issues will still likely cause a lockout

Even if the MLB and MLBPA agree on changes to the season schedule, it is the salary cap issues that will keep the two sides apart. MLB is wanting to impose a salary cap on all teams, while the players are 100% against a salary cap.

If the two sides can't come to some sort of money agreement, then a lockout could and likely will impact the entire 2027 season.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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