Play-off places and seeding still open as MLB reaches final weekend
ESPN says division titles, post-season positions and statistical races remain unsettled with three days left in the regular season. Justin Verlander is scheduled for his final start; Max Scherzer’s plans remain uncertain.
Several division titles and play-off seeds remain undecided as Major League Baseball enters the final three days of its 2026 regular season, according to ESPN. The remaining games will determine both who advances and how teams are placed in the post-season.
The Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs clinched play-off berths on Thursday. ESPN Research said it was the first time the two clubs had secured places on the same day. The White Sox remain in contention for their division title, while the Cubs’ final seeding is still at stake.
Individual statistical races are also unresolved. ESPN reports that Pete Crow-Armstrong could add the National League home-run lead to his season milestones, while several players remain in contention for league batting and home-run titles.
Justin Verlander has announced his retirement and is scheduled to make his final career start for Detroit on Saturday. He enters the appearance with 266 career wins, according to ESPN.
Max Scherzer may start for Toronto on Sunday, but has not announced whether he will retire. ESPN says he is four strikeouts behind Verlander on the all-time list; whether he pitches again this season remains uncertain.
