2026 MLB playoff predictions: Expert picks for every League Division Series
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 MLB League Division Series begin with matchups: Yankees vs. Rays, White Sox vs. Guardians, Padres vs. Brewers, and Braves vs. Dodgers, featuring four teams with first-round byes.
- The White Sox vs. Guardians series is expected to be close, with most experts predicting the White Sox to win due to their superior power hitting, despite the Guardians' strong pitching.
- The Dodgers are favored over the Braves, with analysts citing the Dodgers' healthier, deeper rotation and stronger offense as key advantages in a short series.
- The Yankees vs. Rays matchup is seen as highly competitive; while the Yankees have pitching depth and power, some experts believe the Rays' strong pitching and offense could push the series to five games.
- The Padres vs. Brewers series is considered intriguing, with the Padres' recent strong performance and bullpen strength countered by the Brewers' superior rotation depth; predictions are split but lean towards a five-game series outcome.
