The discourse over the popularity of Major League Baseball is never-ending. When the Arizona Diamondbacks unexpectedly knocked the Phillies in the NLCS Game 7, many were disgruntled. It sparked a debate questioning numbers, which were lower than expected – both at Chase Field as well as on TV. Although the underdog team turned cliché opinions upside down, many are wondering what the 2023 Fall Classic will look like.

For a game that has existed in the country for something close to two centuries, the evolution has been endless. What happens when powerhouses are brutally defeated and the dark horses take over? Although not quite the World Baseball Classic, the World Series is a major event in the sport’s history. Surely it would attract millions around the world?

What Do the Numbers Say About MLB World Series Popularity?

Since it was first recorded in the 1970s, MLB’s viewership has gone through a rollercoaster of ups and downs. 1980’s Game 6 of the World Series remains the most-watched MLB game of all time, as an average of 54.86 viewers watched the Phillies take their first crown against the Kansas City Royals. Although not exactly a dying sport, the last few World Series audience count does not bode well for the current season.

Can it be said that fan sentiment towards the game has dwindled? While the revenue numbers say otherwise, an X user posted some interesting facts on Wednesday. Out of the least-watched World Series, 2020 ranks at the top with 9.785 million users. The country was understandably battling a life-threatening virus plaguing the country. But what excuse does the rest of the list have?

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Unpopular teams rose and dynasties were beaten. By 2021 the number had risen to 11.744 million, but only increased marginally to 11.762 in 2022. What do these numbers say for 2023? As the caption pointed out, “The MLB is coming off their three least viewed World Series of all-time and we’re now getting a Diamondbacks vs Rangers World Series. Yeah this sport’s future is cooked.”

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While some may not be so sure, others are looking forward to the battle of the underdogs.

Baseball Fans Defend D-Backs vs. Rangers

The drama that has unfolded this postseason saw strong teams choke when most needed. Favorites like the Braves were knocked out by the Phillies. Then the same winning team lost to the D-backs, despite having a record-breaking playoff run. Fans had varied reactions, with most being happy that the Dodgers and Astros had lost.

One pointed out how the popularity of baseball has been in question for years.

One supported the two teams, asking others “don’t hate”

One pointed out how it was fun to finally watch different teams.

One wondered why the previous ratings were so low.

Another thought huge fanbases had nothing to do with overall popularity.

Is MLB a dying sport then? Not for loyal fans. Let’s see how many of these commenters turn up to see the 2023 Fall Classic!

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