Major League Baseball discussed a plan with its players union outlining health protocols to starting the 2020 regular season interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Major League Baseball is expected to continue discussions with its players union on a plan that outlines steps to starting the 2020 regular season that was interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, officials informed CNBC.
Multiple people familiar with the discussion said the league gave a presentation to the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) on Tuesday. According one of the individuals, the two parties met for more than three hours discussing player safety, testing and medical guidelines for a return. The parties did briefly discuss economics of a resuming operations, but the MLB did not submit a formal proposal that’s been in the works.
The individuals who confirmed the talks spoke to CNBC on condition of anonymity, as they aren’t authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
The MLB isn’t expecting the players union to accept any recommendation immediately. One of the individuals said Tuesday’s meeting is the first exchange of what is expected to be a lengthy dialogue on plans to start the season. The sides will not meet on Wednesday, but more talks are expected to be scheduled, the individuals said.
The Associated Press reported team owners signed off on proposal on May 11 that said clubs would resume spring training programs in June to prepare for a July start to the season. But the big issue is that owners are reportedly seeking a 50-50 revenue-sharing plan, which ties player-compensation to league profits.
But the MLBPA will most likely balk over revenue-sharing provisions in any plan.
