MLB and MLBPA Negotiations 'Coming to a Head' on Monday and Potentially Forcing Rob Manfred's Hand
By Max Smith
We could be down to the final hours of the MLB and MLBPA's negotiations for a 2020 MLB season. While we are still unsure what an MLB season would look like, we could have an announcement by the end of the day. Baseball fans should keep an eye out for Rob Manfred's next press conference.
After months of arguing over money and games, it looks like Manfred will have to step in and implement a 54-60 game season soon. If the two sides do not come to an agreement today, Manfred will likely call the negotiations off once and for all. The two sides are currently attempting a last-minute agreement before the commissioner steps in.
We are down to the last hours before possible implementation of a short season by MLB/Manfred, and behind the scenes, there are efforts being made to circumvent implementation. Last-minute attempt at haggling.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) June 22, 2020
The MLBPA was meant to vote on the owners most recent proposal of a 60 game season at 3 p.m., but they have delayed this meeting twice now, which could be promising for an agreement between the two sides. However, at this point it is hard to be optimistic.
If the commissioner does need to step in, the league will decide the length of the season. The players will also receive their full prorated salaries. The season would not feature expanded playoffs, which has been a point of contention between the players and owners.
Everything appears to be coming to a head today: #MLB and the #MLBPA are trying to see if they can reach a last-minute agreement on a 60-game season this afternoon or Commissioner Rob Manfred will implement a 54-60 game season.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) June 22, 2020
If the owners want to save any face, they will come to an agreement with the players in these final hours. The negotiations have been a PR nightmare for the owners and the league as a whole. No matter what happens from this point, the entire situation will do damage down the road for the league.