A team has to win 4 games to win the World Series.

Basic format

  • The modern World Series is a best-of-seven series.
  • That means the first team to reach four wins is crowned champion.
  • Because it’s “first to four,” the total series can last anywhere from 4 to 7 games.

Possible lengths

  • Minimum: 4 games (a sweep, one team wins 4–0).
  • Common other outcomes: 4–1 (5 games), 4–2 (6 games), or 4–3 (full 7-game series).

Quick historical note

  • Since 1922, MLB has consistently used this best-of-seven, first-to-four-wins format for the World Series.
  • Earlier in history, some World Series were best-of-nine, but that format is no longer used.

TL;DR: To win the World Series today, your team must win 4 games before the other side does.