The members of the Central League executive committee agreed Monday to consider introducing a playoff system for the first time in league history in 2007.
The agreement was reached after several rounds of discussions over the issue, on which committee members had been split over a proposal to introduce postseason playoffs next year.
Last year, the Pacific League reintroduced playoffs and its latest two-stage system, in which the top three teams have a chance to play in the Japan Series, helped draw more attention to the league.
Meanwhile, the Central League said its 2006 season will open March 31, six days after the start of the new Pacific League season, and maintain its 146-game format.
The 2006 All-Star series will be played at Jingu Stadium in Tokyo and Sun Marine Stadium in Miyazaki. Tokyo Dome and Fullcast Stadium have been picked for the 2007 series.