{
  "id": 8501541,
  "title": "2026 MLB postseason: Magic number for Boston Red Sox to make playoffs",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/2026-mlb-postseason-magic-number-for-boston-red-sox-to-make-playoffs",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-19T17:09:57.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/2026-mlb-postseason-magic-number-170957618.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the 2026 MLB season reaches its climax, the Boston Red Sox find themselves in the midst of a heated playoff race. According to the current standings, the Red Sox need just two additional victories to secure an AL Wild Card spot, with their magic number currently at 2. This crucial number signifies the total amount of wins the Red Sox require, plus the losses by their nearest competitors, to make the postseason. The Dodgers have clinched the NL West, while the Atlanta Braves, Milwaukee Brewers, and Los Angeles Dodgers have also secured their respective NL playoff spots. The Tampa Bay Rays and New York Yankees have earned their AL playoff berths, while the Chicago White Sox, Texas Rangers, and Atlanta Braves maintain their division leads. The MLB playoffs are set to commence on Tuesday, Sept. 29, following the conclusion of the regular season on Sunday, Sept. 27.",
  "summary": "The Boston Red Sox are close to securing a spot in the MLB postseason. Here is their magic number.",
  "key_points": [
    "Boston Red Sox need 2 more wins for AL Wild Card",
    "Dodgers clinched NL West, Braves secured NL spots",
    "Playoffs start Sept. 29 following Sept. 27 season end"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}