It's probably too convoluted to execute in reality, but I think there needs to be some level of benefit to the higher seed in an expanded field due to the randomness of a short series (Dodgers/Brewers, for example), plus I think having every game in a 3 game series being an elimination game is probably good for networks. TV ratings are down for practically every sport during the pandemic, but I'm curious to see how the MLB playoff ratings do. If it turns out viewers like this format, then maybe fans don't really care about what is fair or not. More teams = more fanbases engaged.
12-14 teams making it with the best team in each league getting a bye and the other division winners getting to choose their opponents during the WC round is a good compromise, though.