The 2026 MLB Wild Card Games got underway today.
All four opening games delivered drama, big performances and postseason pressure.
With the best of three series underway, four teams have taken an early step toward the Division Series.
Four others are already facing the possibility of going home.
From dominant pitching performances to clutch home runs and lopsided scorelines, the opening day of the postseason had something for baseball fans everywhere. Here’s a look at how all four Wild Card Game 1 matchups played out and where each series stands heading into Game 2.
Phillies vs Braves — Atlanta leads 1-0 after Austin Riley’s dramatic three run homer in the eighth inning turned a 3-2 deficit into a 5-3 Braves victory. Philadelphia now needs a response to keep its season alive.
White Sox vs Astros — Chicago took Game 1, winning 6-3 and putting Houston on the brink. The White Sox produced a balanced offensive attack while their pitching staff kept the Astros from mounting a comeback.
Red Sox vs Yankees — New York delivered one of the biggest statements of Game 1, crushing Boston 9-0. Ben Rice homered twice and drove in six runs, while Cam Schlittler struck out 10 over 6⅓ dominant innings.
Cubs vs Padres — San Diego dominated Chicago 8-0 behind Michael King, who carried a no hitter into the seventh inning. Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts all homered as the Padres grabbed a commanding series position.
With four teams potentially facing elimination, tomorrow’s Wild Card slate could produce some of the biggest moments of the opening round of the 2026 MLB postseason. If any series goes the distance, Game 3s are scheduled for the following day.
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