All of Major League Baseball, and the entire world essentially, is currently on hold due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that is forcing thousands to remain inside and be limited to only essential duties.
There is no telling how long this will last, but at minimum group activities will not take place for the next seven weeks. MLB’s latest statement on the matter was they would adhere to recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have closed Camelback Ranch for at least two weeks, and several other clubs have shuttered their Spring Training facilities as well.
There have been many different options discussed by the league since everything was shut down, including extending the season past October and playing postseason games at neutral sites.
In an interview on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Roberts acknowledged a scenario where MLB could be forced to cancel the entire season if it gets too late into the calendar:
“I do. I don’t know that date. I think the NBA is different because they’re two-thirds of the way with their season. We’re starting anew, potentially, so how much of the season makes it relevant. So I do think there is a drop-dead point. Ideally, everyone wanted to get in 162 or 131. But as every day goes on, the more we learn, it’s even more unlikely but I’m still trying to hold out hope (of playing a full season).”
Of all teams, the Dodgers probably want to avoid cancellation the most as they are one of the World Series favorites in 2020 after acquiring Mookie Betts and David Price just before the start of Spring Training.
Betts is in his final year of club control before reaching free agency. Meaning, the Dodgers are not getting the full bang for their buck after completing the blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox if the season is shortened or cancelled altogether.
It has become clear over the last week or so just how serious the pandemic is. With lives at stake, baseball takes a back seat for the time being. Hopefully, the country can get everything under control sooner rather than later, and the Dodgers could get back on the field in their quest for their first World Series since 1988.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events and more!
