With the MLB season entering its final stretch, the standings remain crowded—but does that mean baseball has compelling playoff races or simply too many mediocre teams still in contention?

In Episode 722 of Almost Cooperstown, Mark and Gordon Kolier examine the American and National League playoff pictures, the teams building momentum and the supposed contenders beginning to fade. The expanded postseason keeps more fan bases interested deep into August, but it can also create a path to October for teams that have barely played winning baseball.

Which clubs are legitimate World Series threats? Which teams are hanging around only because the playoff field has grown? And how much should one strong postseason run erase five months of ordinary regular-season baseball?

The discussion also covers the continuing uncertainty surrounding MLB’s next collective bargaining agreement, the owners’ interest in greater payroll controls and whether baseball can avoid another damaging work stoppage before the 2027 season.

Plus, Mark and Gordon consider late-season injuries, pitching concerns, surprising performances and the players and teams worth watching as September approaches.Almost Cooperstown is a weekly baseball podcast featuring thoughtful conversations about the Baseball Hall of Fame, baseball history, current MLB topics, player comparisons, statistics and the stories that connect today's game with its rich history.

Thanks again to Mercury Maid for the Intro & Outro music.

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