Major League Baseball appears to be moving closer toward a bubble for its postseason after struggling with canceled games because of positive COVID-19 tests among teams. Locations in Southern California and Texas top the list of cities in consideration should the league pursue the playoff bubble format, sources told ESPN.
MLB may look to use two hubs like the NHL so it could complete its expanded 16-team playoff format, with reports of interest in Chicago/Milwaukee. Markets like New York, with multiple ballparks, are also likely being preferred.
While a decision hasn’t been made to move forward with the bubble plan, it’s likely in the best interest for the league as a majority of the season’s revenue is tied to playoff media rights. Postseason broadcast revenue could be in excess of $900 million, with the playoffs raking in about $787 million annually prior to the expanded format.
![[Subscription Customers Only] Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Chelsea FC midfielder Cole Palmer (10) celebrates winning the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium](https://frontofficesports.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/USATSI_26636703-scaled-e1770932227605.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)
