The NYT Connections: Sports Edition for September 27, 2026, presents puzzle number 734. Today’s challenge leans heavily into Major League Baseball structure and specific geographic footprints, alongside a nod to a storied Pacific Northwest college football program.
Hints for Today’s Categories
If you are looking for a nudge before the full reveal, these hints categorize the words by their general themes:
- Yellow: These terms appear in the bracket during the MLB postseason.
- Green: These are the specific municipalities where certain MLB teams play their home games, which may differ from the city mentioned in the team’s name.
- Blue: Figures associated with the Denver Broncos.
- Purple: Elements, traditions, and locations synonymous with the University of Oregon’s football team.
Category Hints
- MLB Playoff Rounds: Think of the different stages teams must advance through to win a title.
- Actual MLB Home Cities: These are technical locations for ballparks; for instance, the “Tampa Bay” Rays actually play in one of these cities.
- Denver Broncos: Players like Bo Nix and Nik Bonitto lead this group.
- Oregon Football: This category includes the stadium, the mascot, and a specific musical tradition.
Final Answers and Groups
SPOILER WARNING: The following section contains the completed groups and answers for today’s puzzle.
Yellow: MLB Playoff Rounds (followed by ‘Series’)
CHAMPIONSHIP, DIVISION, WILD CARD, WORLD
These terms define the path from the end of the regular season to the crowning of a champion. Each is followed by the word “Series” in official Major League Baseball terminology.
Green: Actual MLB Home Cities
ANAHEIM, ARLINGTON, SACRAMENTO, ST. PETERSBURG
This category highlights cities that host MLB teams but are not always the primary name on the jersey. Notably, Sacramento is included because the Athletics began playing at Sutter Health Park for the 2025 season. St. Petersburg is the home of the Rays, while Anaheim and Arlington host the Angels and Rangers, respectively.
Blue: Denver Broncos
BONITTO, HARVEY, NIX, WADDLE
This group identifies names associated with the Denver Broncos roster. Nik Bonitto and Bo Nix are key members of the team for the 2026 season. While some names may overlap with players on other teams, in the context of this puzzle, they represent the Denver franchise.
Purple: Associated with Oregon Football
AUTZEN, DUCKS, NIKE, SHOUT
This category is a tribute to the Oregon Ducks. Autzen refers to Autzen Stadium, their home field. Nike reflects the deep ties between the university and the sportswear giant. “Shout” refers to the traditional singalong that takes place at the stadium, a staple of the Oregon game-day experience.
