FULL ARTICLE: Here’s Who Wins (and Loses) with New Schedule by Mike Petriello, MLB.com
MOST VALUABLE INTEL: The Reds’ playoff chances are remarkably higher due to the schedule change
As expected, the updated MLB schedule altered multiple league rules and traditions. Baseball fans will have the rare opportunity to see unusual matchups between interleague opponents (Yankees vs. Nationals on Opening Day), but will sadly miss out on watching many big-time rivalries (Dodgers-Cardinals, Braves-Cubs, etc.) With these scenarios, MLB.com’s Mike Petriello evaluates which franchises will benefit or be hurt the most due to the new league norms.
One team who’s 2020 schedule is significantly easier than expected is the Cincinnati Reds. During this past spring, the Reds were planning on playing each team in the mighty AL East (.487 projected win percentage, MUCH higher when BAL is subtracted), but instead, get to face the weak AL Central (.478 projected win percentage). In addition to Cincinnati making monstrous offseason moves toward their first playoff appearance since 2013, the franchise will have the advantage of playing the lousy Royals, Tigers, and Pirates (combined for a .360 win percentage last year) for one-third of its 2020 campaign.