What is the World Series?
The World Series is the championship series of Major League Baseball (MLB) in North America. It is an annual best-of-seven playoff between the American League champion team and the National League champion team. The World Series has been held since 1903, with the winner determined by a best-of-seven playoff. The champion team is awarded the Commissioner’s Trophy, one of the most coveted trophies in all of sports.
Why is the World Series Postponed?
The 2020 World Series was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic that has been sweeping the globe. The MLB season was halted in March due to the pandemic, and the league was unable to resume play until late July. The shortened regular season and expanded playoff format meant that the World Series couldn’t begin until late October, which was too late in the season to play the full seven-game series.
Impact of Postponement on Players and Fans
The postponement of the World Series has had a significant impact on players and fans alike. Players have been forced to adjust to the changes in the schedule and the lack of a definitive end to the season. For fans, the postponement has meant that they have been unable to attend their favorite team’s games and cheer them on in person.
MLB’s Response to the Postponement
In response to the postponement of the World Series, MLB has taken several steps to ensure that the season can go forward as planned. The league has added doubleheaders, expanded the postseason, and limited the number of teams that can qualify for the playoffs.
Expanded Postseason Format
The 2020 MLB postseason will now feature an expanded playoff format. There will be 16 teams instead of the usual 10 teams, with the top four teams in each league receiving a bye in the wild-card round. The wild-card round will feature eight teams competing in a best-of-three series. The divisional round and championship series will be best-of-seven.
MLB’s Safety Protocols
MLB has implemented several safety protocols to ensure the safety of players, coaches, and staff. These protocols include the use of face masks, regular testing for COVID-19, and social distancing. The league has also implemented a strict quarantine policy for players and staff who test positive for the virus.
MLB’s Television Deals
The postponement of the World Series has also had an impact on MLB’s television deals. The league has had to renegotiate its contracts with broadcasters, as the original contracts were based on a full 162-game regular season. The renegotiated contracts have allowed MLB to continue broadcasting games on its networks.
Impact on the Economy
The postponement of the World Series has had a significant impact on the economy. The closure of stadiums has meant that many businesses that depend on the presence of fans have suffered. Hotels, restaurants, and retail stores in the cities where the games were to be played have all seen a decrease in business due to the postponement.
Future of the World Series
Despite the postponement of the 2020 World Series, MLB is committed to holding the event in 2021. The league is working with its broadcast partners to ensure that the games can be seen by fans around the world. With the implementation of safety protocols and the expanded postseason format, the 2021 World Series is sure to be an exciting event.
Conclusion
The 2020 World Series has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. This has had a significant impact on players, fans, and businesses alike. MLB has taken steps to ensure that the season can still go forward as planned, with an expanded playoff format and safety protocols in place. Despite the postponement, MLB is committed to holding the event in 2021, and fans around the world are sure to be excited for the return of the World Series.