Major League Baseball team owners collectively agreed on a proposal for the 2020 season, but many hurdles remain before play can potentially resume this summer.
Compromising on an economic plan will be necessary, as owners reportedly want players to accept a 50-50 revenue split this year. While that figures to be a challenge, MLB must also come to terms on health and safety protocols with the Players Association.
A 67-page document was submitted last week, outlining how often players would be tested this season and the changes they have to make to minimize the chances of one being infected.
This includes the elimination of high fives, spitting and showering at the stadium. The MLBPA recently issued a response to these guidelines, and it is clear the two sides are still a ways off before potentially finalizing an agreement.
During an appearance on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw reiterated his desire to play this year if everything checks out medically:
“All I can say about everything is if it deems medically that we’re able to play and we can’t figure out the business side of it, between the two sides, it’s not going to look good on anybody. If we do figure it out medically, I’m pretty optimistic that we can play.
“There’s obviously risk involved. But there’s also a risk of just going outside any day. There’s a lot of people smarter than me, thankfully, figuring this stuff out as far as what is protocol for what’s going forward and how to do this baseball stuff. Bottom line, I think the majority of us want to play. We want to play, we want to be out there. For whatever small bit it is, it’s probably helpful to the country to see some sports. I know I’m tired of watching PGA re-runs over and over again. We want to do it, and if somebody smarter than us says that we can do it, I’d be on board, for sure.”
Kershaw’s comments echo that of most MLB players. While there is a desire to salvage the season, such will only be possible if players are put in the best position to stay healthy.
While Kershaw outlined what he’s seeking in order to take the field this year, he did sympathize with Blake Snell’s controversial remarks. Though, Kershaw felt Snell was a bit strong in his delivery.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our shows, and more!
