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**Summary:**

This article analyzes the upcoming schedules of 16 MLB teams with winning records, focusing on the first two weeks of September, to determine their playoff chances. It highlights key series for each team and includes their FanGraphs’ playoff odds and strength of schedule. The article emphasizes that even teams with low playoff odds can make a run, citing the Detroit Tigers’ surprising success last year. The analysis covers both the American League and National League contenders, identifying crucial matchups that could significantly impact their postseason aspirations.

**News Article:**

**MLB Playoff Race Heats Up: September Schedule Holds the Key**

*NEW YORK* – With September upon us, the MLB playoff picture is rapidly taking shape. But as last year’s Detroit Tigers proved, anything can happen. ESPN’s latest schedule analysis dives into the upcoming weeks for the 16 teams boasting winning records, examining their chances of making a postseason push.

The article highlights key series that could define the playoff hopes for these teams, analyzing their FanGraphs’ playoff odds and the difficulty of their remaining schedule.

**AL Contenders Under Pressure**

In the American League, the Tigers and Blue Jays maintain strong playoff odds, but face crucial series against division rivals like the Yankees and Astros, respectively. The Yankees themselves face a daunting schedule, offering both peril and opportunity as they battle for a division title. The Red Sox have a mixed bag, with tough matchups against the Yankees bookended by easier series against the Athletics. Meanwhile, the Mariners and Rangers find themselves in a tight AL West race, with critical series against the Blue Jays and Astros looming. The Royals and Guardians, considered long shots, need to capitalize on key divisional matchups to make an improbable run.

**NL Battle Intensifies**

In the National League, the Brewers and Phillies appear poised for the playoffs. They face off in a crucial series that could determine seeding. The Dodgers face a favorable schedule, with the Giants offering the most formidable challenge. The Braves, Cubs, Padres and Mets all face critical matchups, with the Mets fighting to hold their Wild Card position against the surging Reds.

“This is where legacies are made,” the article notes, emphasizing the importance of the next few weeks. “Every game counts.”

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