The 2026 MLB regular season is down to under 30 games. The playoff picture is becoming clearer, with division leaders warding off teams chasing them and teams making a push for a Wild Card.
There is still time to see movement in the playoff race, and years past saw teams make final pushes during the final week of the season. Here is the National League playoff picture entering September.
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Division Leaders: These teams are currently leading their respective divisions.Aug 12, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (13) runs to third against the New York Mets in the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesEast – Atlanta Braves
Atlanta has seen its double-digit division lead shrink over the past month. However, the team has reapplied pressure to the gas pedal and is winning ball games. Offensively, the Braves’ offense ranks in the top 10. Atlanta’s pitching staff has been one of MLB’s best in 2026.
Central – Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers have had a comfortable lead for the better part of the season. They’ve seen the Cubs chase them, but Chicago has yet to make a real push for the division. Milwaukee’s offense doesn’t do it with power but rather reaching base and finding ways to score runs. The team’s pitching staff continues to get the job done and is one of MLB’s best.
West – Los Angeles Dodgers
There was never a doubt that Los Angeles would win the NL West. No division opponent has proven to be a real threat to overtake the Dodgers. The Dodgers’ offense ranks second in MLB and has arguably the most feared lineup. The starting rotation ranks in the top ten, but the team’s bullpen has had its fair share of hiccups.
Wild Card: These teams are currently holding a Wild Card spot.Aug 26, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) hits against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Chicago Cubs
The Cubs continue to go on runs but have yet to make the Brewers nervous for the division crown. Chicago currently owns the top Wild Card spot but needs to continue winning. The team’s remaining schedule features teams vying for playoff berths.
Philadelphia Phillies
Philadelphia has gained traction in the NL East but is still chasing Atlanta. They have gone on a run in recent weeks and need to ride the momentum. The team’s remaining schedule gives them a realistic chance of chasing down the Braves for the division lead.
San Diego Padres
San Diego has performed better than anyone could have expected. The Padres have competed throughout the season and took over the final NL Wild Card spot on Monday. It won’t be easy, but the Padres can manage reaching the playoffs if their starting pitching holds up.
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In the Hunt: The following teams are chasing a playoff berth.Feb 22, 2026; Salt River Pima-Maricopa, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) heads off the field after the third inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesArizona Diamondbacks
Arizona fell out of the final Wild Card spot on Monday night. The Diamondbacks have their work cut out for them, especially with all the drama surrounding Ketel Marte. They must get back to their winning ways and mitigate hiccups as the season ends.
Miami Marlins
Miami is the biggest surprise of any team in the hunt for the playoffs. They entered the season as favorites to finish last in the NL East. The Marlins can cap off a successful season by reaching the playoffs.
St. Louis Cardinals
They’re young, but they play the game the right way. The Cardinals were not expected to be in the playoff hunt, but they’ve played their way into contention. The team needs to go on a streak during the final stretch of the regular season.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Pittsburgh is currently in the hunt but faces many obstacles if the team is to reach the playoffs. For starters, the team would get a boost if the starting rotation could go on a run. Currently in the hunt, it is unlikely the Pirates reach the playoffs.
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