With the Los Angeles Dodgers one week out from holding their first formal workout of Spring Training 2.0 at Dodger Stadium, president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman revealed members of the organization have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).
“Obviously this is a delicate subject and something that’s been front of mind for all of us the last four months,” Friedman said on a conference call. “We have had some people in our organization test positive.
“None that have resulted in symptoms that have been problematic, but obviously this is front of mind for all of us. By trying to handle this in the way we think best as we’re figuring this out and learning as we go, it’s very much a personal thing.
“If any want to share, then obviously it’s up to them. But from my standpoint, Doc’s standpoint, we’re not comfortable doing that (revealing who tested positive).”
Friedman didn’t specify if a player(s) tested positive, nor did he offer any certainty on if some will be unavailable when camp opens next week. “It’s definitely possible,” he said. “But I don’t know for sure on that front right now. As we learn how to communicate on this, we’ll obviously do so.”
Players are due to report by July 1 for testing, and if medically cleared, they will have access to Dodger Stadium for voluntary workouts. The Dodgers will officially gather as a group on July 3.
Friedman conceded the team is likely to experience positive coronavirus tests throughout the course of the 60-game season. He emphasized taking quick action and preventing significant spread will be paramount.
MLB and the Players Association agreed to various health and safety protocols for this season, with the manual spanning more than 100 pages.
Multiple teams, including the Colorado Rockies and Philadelphia Phillies, have had players test positive for coronavirus. It promoted MLB to order Spring Training facilities be shut down last week and thoroughly cleaned.
Beyond possible concerns with respect to the coronavirus, Friedman said the Dodgers are in a “really good spot” in terms of injuries. There was some doubt back in March whether Joc Pederson would be available for Opening Day, but he has since made a full recovery from a hip/side issue.
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