Updated

The MLB Wild Card round wrapped up with several decisive results shaping the Division Series field. The Yankees routed the Red Sox 18-2 across their series to cruise into the ALDS, while the White Sox beat the Astros 7-3 to secure their first playoff series win since 2005, just two years after a historic 121-loss season. In the National League, the Phillies' Bryce Harper rebounded from an earlier gaffe to help set up Alec Bohm's season-saving 10th-inning home run, forcing a decisive Game 3 against the Braves, and the Padres took control of their own NLDS-clinching series. ESPN also previewed the full slate of upcoming ALDS and NLDS matchups. The results mark the opening stage of the 2026 MLB postseason, with teams like the White Sox and Padres emerging as surprise contenders while traditional powers like the Yankees asserted dominance early. Attention now turns to the full Division Series matchups as teams prepare for the next round.