MLB wild-card preview: Series predictions, X-factors and more for Red Sox-Yankees, Cubs-Padres, Phillies-Braves and White Sox-Astros

Key Points:

• The MLB playoffs begin Tuesday with four wild-card series: Phillies vs. Braves, White Sox vs. Astros, Red Sox vs. Yankees, and Cubs vs. Padres, each featuring identical schedules for the first two games.
• Phillies rely on a strong starting rotation despite a rough September, facing a Braves team rejuvenated by managerial changes and a late-season surge from Ronald Acuña Jr., with the Braves predicted to win in 3 games.
• The White Sox, making their first postseason since 2021 after three consecutive 100-loss seasons, face the Astros, who won their division with a .500 record; the Astros are favored to win in 3 games despite pitching challenges.
• The Red Sox overcame a poor start and injuries to reach the playoffs, while the Yankees dealt with key injuries but maintained strong pitching; the Yankees are predicted to win their rivalry series in 3 games.
• The Cubs, led by NL MVP favorite Pete Crow-Armstrong but hampered by pitching issues and an injured Alex Bregman, face the Padres, who have surged since late July with strong bullpen and Fernando Tatis Jr.'s resurgence; Padres are favored to win in 3 games.