Best 2026 World Series matchups for every type of MLB fan - ESPN

With 12 teams in the MLB playoffs, there are 36 possible World Series matchups. This year's matchups give us the possibility of small-market showdowns or deep-pocketed behemoths facing off — and the 2026 playoff field also boasts three franchises that have won a World Series and a fourth with the longest title drought in the sport.

Somewhere in there is one series for every type of fan to enjoy. Here are six matchups that would be fun to see in this year's Fall Classic, using all 12 teams.

Since 2018, the Milwaukee Brewers are fourth in the majors in wins and the Tampa Bay Rays sixth, and although they've combined to miss the playoffs just four times in 18 seasons, the only World Series appearance came from Tampa Bay in the shortened 2020 season. The Brewers haven't been to a World Series since 1982 and remain without a championship since the franchise was born as the Seattle Pilots in 1969.

Neither team was expected to be the top team in its respective league coming into the season. The Brewers, despite having the majors' best record in 2025, were just 11th in ESPN's preseason power rankings — perhaps understandable given they lost rotation members Freddy Peralta and Jose Quintana over the winter (and Quinn Priester then missed the entire season). Milwaukee more than held serve, leading the majors in games started by rookie pitchers while winning 100 games for the first time in franchise history.

The Rays, meanwhile, were just 21st in the preseason rankings. They overcame a seasonlong injury to Ryan Pepiot as Nick Martinez and Drew Rasmussen had great years in the rotation while Bryan Baker locked down the ninth inning and Junior Caminero powered the offense.

Combined years without a championship: 85

Five players to