MLB and the Players Association held a pair of meetings this week to discuss core economics, and while that’s reason for optimism, the sides remain far apart on several key issues.
With January winding to a close, it is believed that a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) needs to be in place by Feb. 1 for Spring Training to begin on time. That appears to be a long shot at this point, but until players officially hear otherwise, they are scheduled to report to camp in just over two weeks.
Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star Chris Taylor told David Vassegh of AM 570 L.A. Sports that he is preparing for that possibility and wants to put the lockout behind him:
“As a player, I think all we can do is be prepared to play Spring Training on time. We’re hoping for the best. We hope we can agree on something before pitchers and catchers report, and then we can just look forward to the season. Me personally, that’s all I’m doing. I’m preparing like we’re going to be reporting on time in February and be ready to go.”
Taylor was one of the many notable free agents to sign a contract before business came to a halt, returning to the Dodgers on a four-year, $60 million contract extension.
The super utility man is coming off an excellent 2021 season that saw him hit .254/.344/.438 with 25 doubles, 20 home runs, 73 RBI and 13 stolen bases in 582 plate appearances (148 games). His ability to play all over the field was instrumental to the Dodgers withstanding a rash of injuries as he saw time at six different positions.
Taylor earned a first career All-Star Game selection, and was the recipient of the organization’s 2021 Heart & Hustle Award and the 16th Roy Campanella Award.
Taylor thankful to receive 4-year contract extension from Dodgers
As more teams place an emphasis on versatility, Taylor was a popular free agent at the start of the offseason, and at one point was projected to receive a contract in the five-year range.
His top priority, however, was remaining with the Dodgers, and he reportedly left salary on the table to make that a reality. Taylor explained he is grateful the team gave him such a generous deal and was happy to finalize it before the work stoppage.
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