The 2021 Major League Baseball season is in its final month, and baseball's playoff picture is starting to take shape. While some teams, like the White Sox and Brewers, appear to have their divisions wrapped up, there are going to be plenty of fascinating races in September. We also officially have our first two postseason teams, as the Dodgers joined the Giants on Tuesday night.
Perhaps the best race right now is the AL wild card. There are five teams competing for two spots and they are all within 3 1/2 games. The juicy field includes two of the biggest names in the Red Sox and Yankees, but also the scorching-hot Blue Jays, the perennial contender Athletics, and the Mariners, who have the longest playoff drought in baseball.
The NL wild card is pretty tasty as well, as three teams (Reds, Padres, Cardinals) are within a half-game of each other and fighting for one spot.
How will these shake out?
We'll find out the answers before the postseason gets started Oct. 5. But it's also worth asking, what would the MLB playoff picture look like if the season ended today? We have the answer to that question, as well as up-to-date standings and playoff odds, below.
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If the season ended today
AL Wild Card Game: Blue Jays vs. Yankees
NL Wild Card Game
: Dodgers vs. Cardinals
ALDS: Astros vs. White Sox
ALDS: Rays vs. AL Wild Card Game winner
NLDS: Brewers vs. Braves
NLDS: Giants vs. NL Wild Card Game winner
MLB standings, playoff races
Here's a look at the current standings. Division and postseason projections are via SportsLine. For expanded standings, click here.
American League standings
National League standings
MLB division odds
All odds via Caesars Sportsbook. Last updated Sept. 15.
NL East
Braves: -750
Phillies: +750
Mets: +1400
NL West
Giants: -160
Dodgers: +130