NLCS stands for the National League Championship Series. It is a best-of-seven playoff series in Major League Baseball (MLB) that determines the champion of the National League, with the winner advancing to the World Series to compete against the American League champion. The series is played between the winners of the two National League Division Series and has been conducted in its current best-of-seven format since 1985, starting originally as a best-of-five series in 1969. The NLCS is a crucial part of the MLB postseason, showcasing intense competition to decide which National League team proceeds to the World Series.