MLB is one of the four major sports in North America that has been shutdown to the COVID-19 pandemic, and talks have been going on about restarting the season. But unfortunately it seems the MLB and the MLBPA seem to be at odds at how many games will be played and how much money will given to the players in the shortened season.
Major League Baseball obviously wants to play as many games as possible and sent out a proposal to the players association for a 114 game season with pay cuts earlier on this week. But the MLBPA countered with a 50 game season where the players would receive full prorated salaries. As of Friday, it appears that a 48 schedule is in the works, after the MLBPA 'resoundingly' rejected salary reductions on Thursday. The two sides remain at a standstill in negotiations as of June 5, and things are looking dyer for a 2020 MLB season.
Owners have said that playing a longer schedule without fans in attendance would cause substantial losses that they are reportedly unwilling to absorb. The players have asked owners to open their books to show specific numbers related to the expected financial shortfall, but that request has not been granted.
Part of the stalemate has been attributed to the prior agreement in March where the MLBPA agreed to prorated salaries based on how many games were played. There is some doubt surrounding whether or not the entire season would be played in front of empty stands. The state of Texas has already opened its sports venues to allow 50% capacity, which is a start, but it looks like the players will not let the MLB season be played this year unless they get their full prorated salaries.
Things could change soon, but in my opinion the MLB season will be not held this year, because the players and owners remain, to coin a baseball phrase, not even in the same ballpark, when it comes to negotiations. I hope I'm wrong, but the way things are as of right now, hopes look grim for a 2020 MLB season to be held.
Tue, May 14, 7:00 PM
