[EmpireWF]

The Wild Card system in both leagues is under scrutiny because it puts the W.C. team and the division winners on equal footing. MLB will be discussing this over the next month and negotiations could end up leading to an amendment in the way the MLB Playoffs are handled. So how would you change them?

Some possible scenarios:

-Force Wild Card teams to play all 5 games on the road
-Force Wild Card teams to carry less players on roster
-Figure some way to incorporate a bye for the team with the best record in each league

[MVB]

I think it's fine the way it is... IF MLB officials don't like the entire WC system, get rid of it. But don't make it harder for the WC teams ( that would just give the team playing them a huge advantage).

[legend]

It is perfect the way it is.

[EmpireWF]

I do think the system needs some change. What's the difference between winning the Wild Card and winning the Division? There is none. There should be some difference that the WC team must deal with.

What's the incentive in winning a division when you can simpy win the WC?

[MVB]

What's the difference between winning the Wild Card and winning the Division?

You have to beat only 4 teams to win the Division, but 14 teams to win the wild card.

[MJHMarc]

Good point there, MVB.

Just for example purposes, the Twins have clinched a spot in the Playoffs so I couldn't care less how they finish. As long as they make the post-season, I will be pleased by thier accomplishments.

With the current Playoff setup, every team that has qualified for the post-season has an almost identical chance of reaching the World Series. That seems fair to me so I cannot understand what is the officials rational.

[EmpireWF]

Originally Posted by MJHMarc

With the current Playoff setup, every team that has qualified for the post-season has an almost identical chance of reaching the World Series. That seems fair to me so I cannot understand what is the officials rational.

The point being that there should be some sort of incentive or benefit to winning the division.

In the current playoff format, there is none.

[azrael492]

How about shortening the season by about 10 games and letting another team in each league get a chance. They could have to play a 3 game series and the winner gets the team with the best record.

I only say shorten the season because this would add another week to the playoffs. Adding another WC team is the only way to create a bye unless the other 3 teams have a playoff and face the team with the best record.