Sun Oct 05 03:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The MLB postseason has started, and it’s important for fans to understand the rule differences compared to the regular season. Key changes include the elimination of the “ghost runner” in extra innings (returning to traditional extra-inning rules) and an increase to two manager challenges per game. Standard rules like the pitch clock, limited pickoff attempts, and the three-batter minimum rule remain in effect. Home-field advantage in the World Series is determined by the better regular-season record (or tiebreaker if records are identical).

**News Article:**

**MLB Postseason: Extra Innings Get Traditional, Managers Get More Challenges**

The Major League Baseball postseason is in full swing, and while the excitement is building, fans should be aware of a few key rule differences from the regular season that could impact the games.

One significant change is the return to traditional extra-inning rules. Unlike the regular season, where a runner is automatically placed on second base starting in the 10th inning, playoff games will start extra innings with no runners on base. This could lead to longer games and more bullpen usage.

Managers will also have an increased ability to challenge calls. Each manager will have two challenges per game, compared to just one during the regular season. Retaining a challenge on overturned calls, and loosing the challenge on failed reviews.

Other rules, such as the pitch clock (30 seconds between batters, 15/20 seconds between pitches with bases empty/runners on), limits on pickoff attempts (two per plate appearance, resetting upon runner advancement), and the three-batter minimum rule, will remain in place for the playoffs.

Finally, home-field advantage in the World Series will be determined by the better regular-season record between the pennant winners. In case of a tie, a specific tiebreaker will be used.

With these rules in mind, fans can better understand and enjoy what promises to be an exciting MLB postseason.

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