The 2026 MLB playoff bracket is down to five teams. The Tampa Bay Rays, Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers have advanced to the League Championship Series. The Chicago White Sox lead the Cleveland Guardians 2–1 in the final unresolved Division Series.
Here’s where the postseason stands and what comes next. Current postseason results
Current MLB Playoff Bracket
| League | Division Series matchup | Series result or status |
|---|---|---|
| American League | Tampa Bay Rays vs. New York Yankees | Rays win 3–0 |
| American League | Chicago White Sox vs. Cleveland Guardians | White Sox lead 2–1 |
| National League | Milwaukee Brewers vs. San Diego Padres | Brewers win 3–1 |
| National League | Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Atlanta Braves | Dodgers win 3–1 |
Those results set up Brewers vs. Dodgers in the NLCS, while the Rays await the White Sox–Guardians winner in the ALCS. Full playoff bracket
American League: Rays Await Their ALCS Opponent
Tampa Bay secured its place in the American League Championship Series by sweeping New York.
Chicago is one win away from joining the Rays. Cleveland must win Game 4 to force a deciding fifth game and keep its postseason hopes alive.
Guardians at White Sox, Game 4, is scheduled for Thursday, October 8, at 8 p.m. ET. If necessary, Game 5 will take place Saturday, October 10. Game schedule and series standings
National League: Brewers vs. Dodgers Is Set
Milwaukee and Los Angeles each finished their Division Series in four games, eliminating San Diego and Atlanta, respectively.
The Brewers and Dodgers will open the National League Championship Series on Sunday, October 11. With both teams through, the National League side of the bracket is set for the next round. NLCS matchup and schedule
Key Dates for the Rest of the MLB Playoffs
| Event | Start date |
|---|---|
| National League Championship Series | October 11, 2026 |
| American League Championship Series | October 12, 2026 |
| World Series | October 23, 2026 |
The ALCS and NLCS winners will advance to the World Series to compete for the championship. Postseason calendar
MLB Playoff Bracket FAQ
Which teams are still in the 2026 MLB playoffs?
The Rays, White Sox, Guardians, Brewers and Dodgers remain.
Who will the Rays play in the ALCS?
Tampa Bay will face the winner of the White Sox–Guardians Division Series.
Who is playing in the NLCS?
The Milwaukee Brewers will face the Los Angeles Dodgers.
When does the 2026 World Series start?
The World Series begins October 23. Its matchup will be determined by the league championship results. Bracket and schedule details