striker42
Well-known member
Yankees also say hello
First, I don't think MLB can go as far as dictating who advances. I just think they slant the playing field to try to get the most lucrative results. I think this goes for all professional sports. You don't let a little thing like the integrity of the game stop you from making a couple billion dollars. So it's possible MLB favored the Yankees against the Rays but the Rays just overcame it. Personally, I think MLB wanted a pennant for the Rays as the Rays desperately need a new stadium or else a new city. Having an exciting playoff run helps. You just have to have a major market team out of the NL.
It's similar to the Falcons Super Bowl run a couple years ago. They got helped by the refs all through the playoffs. Why would the NFL favor a mid-market team? Simple, the Falcons had a new stadium and needed to sell PSLs. The NFL helped them out. They also guaranteed a major market team out of the AFC to ensure great ratings.
I find if you look for the financial incentive, you usually wont be surprised by the results.