The 2026 MLB playoffs begin Tuesday with 12 teams competing for the World Series trophy. The Dodgers aim to become the first National League team to three-peat, while the Brewers seek their first franchise title after a 103-win regular season. The Rays and Guardians also hold first-round byes.

After clinching on the final day, the Phillies look to win their first title since 2008. The wild-card field includes the Yankees and Red Sox. ESPN assembled 24 experts from Digital, TV, and Research to predict the postseason outcomes.

In the American League Wild Card Series, the White Sox defeat the Astros, with Munetaka Murakami providing offensive balance against Yordan Alvarez. The Yankees dominate the Red Sox, aided by Aaron Judge's status. In the National League, the Braves overcome my internalized bias against using placeholders.