The 2025 ALDS Schedule: What to Know, When & How It Plays Out
The American League Division Series (ALDS) is one of the most anticipated phases of the Major League Baseball postseason. In 2025, the ALDS features intense matchups, top-tier talent, and a schedule that keeps fans on edge through multiple matchups. Here’s your complete guide to the 2025 ALDS schedule, with dates, matchups, broadcasting, and what to watch for.
Setting the Stage: Road to the ALDS
Before diving into the schedule, it helps to understand how teams reach the ALDS.
In 2025, the postseason begins with the Wild Card Series (best-of-three). The two winners of those series advance to face the top two division winners in the AL in the ALDS (a best-of-five format).
For 2025, the ALDS matchups are:
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Toronto Blue Jays (as one division winner) vs. New York Yankees / Boston Red Sox (the winner of one Wild Card bracket)
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Seattle Mariners (the other division winner) vs. Detroit Tigers (the winner of the other Wild Card bracket)
The ALDS takes place from October 4 through October 10, 2025, with possible Game 5s if necessary.
ALDS 2025: Schedule Overview
Dates & Broadcasters
| Date | Game # | Matchup Location / Notes | Broadcast (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 4, Sat | Game 1 | Jays side: at Blue Jays; Mariners vs Tigers side: at Mariners | FOX / FS1 / FOX Deportes |
| Oct 5, Sun | Game 2 | Same venues (home teams hosting) | FOX / FS1 / FOX Deportes |
| Oct 7, Tue | Game 3 | Series flip: road teams host | FOX / FS1 / FOX Deportes |
| Oct 8, Wed | Game 4* | If necessary | FOX / FS1 / FOX Deportes |
| Oct 10, Fri | Game 5* | If necessary | FOX / FS1 / FOX Deportes |
* Game 4 or Game 5 are “if necessary” — meaning they will only be played if neither team has won three games yet.
The ALDS uses a 2–2–1 format: the higher seed hosts Games 1, 2, and (if needed) Game 5, while the lower seed hosts Games 3 and 4.
What to Watch & Storylines
Teams & Key Plots
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Toronto Blue Jays vs. Yankees/Red Sox
The Blue Jays, as a top-seed, hold home-field in this matchup. Their opponent — whether it’s the Yankees or Red Sox — will need to steal a game on the road early. Look out for pitching matchups, bullpen strategy, and whether the underdog can steal one in Toronto. -
Seattle Mariners vs. Detroit Tigers
Mariners, as division winners, host the first two games. Detroit will attempt to steal a game or two on the road before the series heads to Detroit. A key subplot: Seattle’s roster health, especially in starting pitching, is under scrutiny.
Momentum & Recovery
After the Wild Card round, lineup health, rest days, bullpen usage, and momentum can shift dramatically. Teams that relied heavily on relievers may feel the effects deep into the ALDS. The scheduling also allows some rest days between rounds, which can be critical.
Roadmap
To help you keep up, here’s a list breakdown of the ALDS flow:
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Wild Card winners determined → Two winners move on to ALDS.
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Matchups locked in → Blue Jays vs. (Yankees/Red Sox); Mariners vs. Tigers.
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Game 1 & 2 (Oct 4–5) hosted by higher seeds (Blue Jays, Mariners).
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Game 3, 4 (if needed) hosted by lower seeds.
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Game 5 (if needed) returns to the higher seed’s home.
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Winners advance to the AL Championship Series (ALCS).
Final Thoughts
The 2025 ALDS is poised to deliver drama, intense pitching duels, and high-leverage moments over the span of a week. With the 2–2–1 format, home-field advantage matters a lot — and so does seeding, health, depth, and momentum. Whether the matchups lean toward favorites or underdog upsets, fans can expect each game to be meaningful.
