A crucial week is about to start on Monday, at least for MLB, players, fans, and media.
The baseball universe will pay close attention to what happens in Jupiter, in the bargaining negotiations between the league and the union.
The start of spring training, and most specifically, the first few games (previously scheduled for February 26) have been delayed at least through March 5 because there is no deal in place between the two parties.
They have to negotiate the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which is governing document for all things related to baseball, labor, salary, and other things.
Because MLB and the union couldn’t come up with a deal last year, owners locked out players on December 2 and won’t lift the lockout until there is a new CBA.
Last week was frustrating in terms of talks, but this week is already looking promising.
For starters, there is a set deadline on February 28 to finish a deal, or the regular season won’t start on time (March 31).
Some Of The Game’s Most Influential Players Will Be Bargaining
Additionally, several owners and players flew in to be a part of negotiations and talks.
That could result in some ugly spats, but it could be beneficial because negotiations will be speedier, in theory.
Some of the game’s brightest stars will be there bargaining with MLBPA’s negotiators and attorneys.
According to Washington Post’s Chelsea Janes, “Max Scherzer is among the players expected here for negotiations. Also expected: Jameson Taillon, Sonny Gray, Whit Merrifield, Brandon Nimmo, Francisco Lindor, Paul Goldschmidt, Taylor Rogers. Tony Clark is here too.”
Max Scherzer is among the players expected here for negotiations. Also expected: Jameson Taillon, Sonny Gray, Whit Merrifield, Brandon Nimmo, Francisco Lindor, Paul Goldschmidt, Taylor Rogers. Tony Clark is here too.
— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) February 21, 2022
Tony Clark is the leader of the MLBPA.
The first bargaining session is set for Monday at 1:00 pm ET.
Let the crazy week begin.
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