There have been three instances of an MLB team securing a postseason berth with a losing record in the history of the sport. However, all three instances occurred during a shortened season.
In 2020, both the Milwaukee Brewers (29-31) and Houston Astros (29-31) made the playoffs as sub-500 teams in a pandemic-shortened campaign.
The first team to make the postseason with a losing record was the Kansas City Royals, who accomplished the feat in 1981 with a 50-53 record in a strike-shortened season.
List of MLB Teams to Make Playoffs With a Losing Record
| Year | Team | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Milwaukee Brewers | 29-31 |
| 2020 | Houston Astros | 29-31 |
| 1981 | Kansas City Royals | 50-53 |
Worst Record for MLB Playoff Team in Full Season
The San Diego Padres went 82-80 en route to an NL West title in 2005, making the playoffs with a .506 winning percentage. It marks the worst winning percentage across a full 162-game season for a playoff team in MLB history.
The content provided in this blog is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of BetMGM LLC. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.
