**BREAKING: 2025 MLB Postseason Preview: Wild Card Matchups Set to Ignite Playoff Fever**
As the regular season wraps up, the stage is set for an electrifying start to the 2025 MLB postseason with the Wild Card Series kicking off on Tuesday. Fans can expect thrilling matchups and high-stakes baseball action right from the get-go.
In its fourth year, the 12-team postseason format promises intense competition and exciting storylines. The playoff bracket for this year features top contenders from both the American League and National League.
**AMERICAN LEAGUE:**
– Bye: Blue Jays (No. 1) and Mariners (No. 2)
– Wild card: Tigers (No. 6) at Guardians (No. 3) (winner plays Mariners)
– Wild card: Red Sox (No. 5) at Yankees (No. 4) (winner plays Blue Jays)
**NATIONAL LEAGUE:**
– Bye: Brewers (No. 1) and Phillies (No. 2)
– Wild card: Reds (No. 6) at Dodgers (No. 3) (winner plays Phillies)
– Wild card: Padres (No. 5) at Cubs (No. 4) (winner plays Brewers)
Notable comebacks in the regular season saw the Guardians and Tigers secure their postseason berths in dramatic fashion. Cleveland’s remarkable 15 ½ game comeback against the Tigers is now etched in history, surpassing the legendary 1978 Yankees’ feat. The Wild Card Series showdown between the Guardians and Tigers promises to be a thrilling rematch after a series of intense battles in recent weeks.
Looking ahead to the postseason, bold predictions are already making waves among fans and analysts alike. Here are some bold predictions to watch out for:
**1. Ohtani Set to Make History:** Shohei Ohtani’s versatility is set to take center stage as he is expected to start a game and close another during the postseason. While this move is not unprecedented, Ohtani’s unique skill set adds an element of creativity and excitement to the Dodgers’ playoff strategy. The discussion around utilizing Ohtani out of the bullpen highlights the strategic decisions teams will face in optimizing his impact on the game.
The 2025 MLB postseason promises to deliver unparalleled excitement, with star players and underdog teams ready to showcase their talent on baseball’s biggest stage. Stay tuned for more updates and breaking news as the playoff action unfolds. Let the games begin!
Source: www.cbssports.com