The American League Championship Series (ALCS) is the penultimate stage of the MLB postseason, determining which American League team advances to the World Series. Played as a best-of-seven series, the ALCS showcases the two best remaining AL clubs in a high-stakes battle for the pennant.
What is the MLB ALCS?
The ALCS is one of two League Championship Series in Major League Baseball, alongside the National League equivalent (NLCS). It pits the winners of the American League Division Series against each other in a best-of-seven format. The victor earns the American League pennant and the right to represent the AL in the World Series. The ALCS has been a fixture of the MLB postseason since 1969, when the league expanded to divisional play, and has produced some of the most iconic moments in baseball history.
When is the ALCS?
The 2026 ALCS is scheduled to run from 13 to 22 October 2026. The exact dates of individual games depend on results, as the series ends when one team wins four games. Off days are built into the schedule for travel between the two teams’ home ballparks.
Where is it held?
The ALCS is played across the home stadiums of the two participating teams, with home-field advantage awarded to the team with the better regular-season record. Games alternate between venues in a 2-3-2 format, meaning the team with home-field advantage hosts Games 1, 2, 6, and 7, while the opposing team hosts Games 3, 4, and 5.
Key contenders
The ALCS participants are determined by the results of the Division Series, so the exact matchup is not known until the earlier rounds conclude. Perennial AL contenders include the New York Yankees, Houston Astros, Baltimore Orioles, and other powerhouse franchises that consistently compete for postseason berths. The 2026 regular season will reveal which clubs have the roster depth and pitching to reach this stage.
How to watch
In the United States, the ALCS is broadcast on Fox or TBS, depending on the year’s broadcast rotation. In the United Kingdom, MLB postseason games are available through MLB.TV or BT Sport (or its successor platform). International viewers can access coverage via MLB.TV’s international subscription service, which streams all postseason games live.
History and significance
The ALCS was introduced in 1969 as a best-of-five series and expanded to best-of-seven in 1985. It has been the stage for legendary rivalries, including the storied Yankees-Red Sox contests of the early 2000s. Memorable moments include the Red Sox’ historic comeback from 3-0 down against the Yankees in 2004 and the Astros’ dominant runs in the late 2010s. The ALCS MVP award recognises the outstanding individual performer of the series.
Tickets
Tickets for the ALCS are sold through MLB.com and the participating teams’ official ticket platforms. Prices vary significantly depending on the venue, seat location, and demand. Season-ticket holders of the participating teams typically receive priority access. Secondary market platforms such as StubHub and SeatGeek also carry ALCS tickets, often at premium prices given the high demand for postseason baseball.
FAQs
How is home-field advantage determined in the ALCS?
Home-field advantage is awarded to the team with the better regular-season record among the two ALCS participants.
How many games are played in the ALCS?
The ALCS is a best-of-seven series, meaning it can last between four and seven games depending on results.
What happens if the series is tied after six games?
A decisive Game 7 is played at the ballpark of the team with home-field advantage.
Can I watch the ALCS from outside the United States?
Yes, MLB.TV’s international streaming service provides live coverage of all postseason games, including the ALCS, to subscribers outside the US.
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