The MLB Players Association (MLBPA) is the organization in charge of protecting the interest of MLB (and, as of September, minor league) players.
The union also looks after MLB managers, coaches, and athletic trainers who hold or have held a signed contract with a Major League club.
Basically, the MLBPA is the collective bargaining representative for all MLB players.
So far, they have done their job admirably over the years in America.
However, it’s harder for them to reach other important latitudes in which there are also a lot of former players and current prospects.
They took a huge step forward as they try to increase their reach in the Latin American region.
“Today we announced the opening of our first international office in the Dominican Republic, with the objective of increasing the level of support provided throughout Players’ playing and post-playing careers,” the MLBPA tweeted.
Today we announced the opening of our first international office in the Dominican Republic, with the objective of increasing the level of support provided throughout Players’ playing and post-playing careers. @PELOTEROS_MLB pic.twitter.com/4ZSg6BaOvv
— MLBPA (@MLBPA) December 5, 2022
The MLBPA Now Has More On Its Plate
The Dominican Republic is the country with the second-highest number of MLB players, after the United States.
They also have several Rookie-level leagues with MLB talent, which means there are lots of prospects in need of guidance and support.
Naturally, there are also lots of retired players in the country.
Strategically, it was also a good decision to open an office there: it’s close to lots of Latino countries such as Puerto Rico, Mexico, Cuba, Venezuela, Colombia, and others.
The Players Association is growing in reach, and with it, there comes bigger responsibilities.
They have welcomed minor leaguers and now opened an office in the Dominican Republic.
They have more on their plate, so this latest decision works well with their goal of protecting the players.
NEXT: The Mets Are Hosting A Reunion In The Rotation