After weeks of posturing and high, inflexible demands, it appears that MLB and the Players Association are ready to find solutions and make concessions in the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations.
It could be that both sides are finally realizing, with the regular season being so close, that they just can’t afford not to play at all.
There is a lot at stake for everyone involved, especially for players.
According to ESPN insider Buster Olney, “sources say that the tone of the MLB labor talks yesterday was much improved, more about problem-solving than stance restatements.”
Sources say that the tone of the MLB labor talks yesterday was much improved, more about problem-solving than stance restatements.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) February 22, 2022
It’s important to know that both parties appear ready to compromise, at least a little, rather than wasting time reminding the other side that they have “X” stance on a particular subject.
There is a lot of work to be done to finally turn the corner in negotiations, let alone reach a deal that can ensure that the season will be played.
Both Sides Remain Hopeful About A New CBA Deal
Right now, both sides remain hopeful they will reach an agreement sooner or later, and the possibility of losing the season remains remote.
Regular season games, however, could be lost if there isn’t a deal before February 28: that was the league’s deadline to find a resolution to the conflict.
The regular season is scheduled to begin on March 31, and players have said that they need about four weeks to get in shape.
If the lockout extends into March, losing games is likely, not just possible.
This week will be crucial for negotiations, but both sides appear to be more open to a fluid dialogue.
Stay tuned for potential advances in core economics issues.
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