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Do 1st-round byes disrupt momentum? Not so fast

Every October, debates spark over whether first-round byes in baseball's postseason format rob resting clubs of their competitive rhythm. Critics point to short-series hiccups, yet historical data since 2022 shows these rested squads boasting a flawless opening-round record and a solid overall division series winning tally.

Meanwhile, advancing Wild Card survivors face distinct disadvantages, such as disrupted pitching rotations that force aces out of opening games.

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