Since the start of the lockout in December, MLB and the Players Association have held several meetings to discuss core economics for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Among the key issues that still need to be resolved are establishing a bonus pool for pre-arbitration players, the competitive balance tax and the minimum salary.
While the sides remain divided on those topics, there has been some agreement in other areas. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred held a press conference at the conclusion of the owners meetings in Orlando on Thursday and hinted that a Draft lottery will be adopted, beginning with the 2022 season.
Manfred also indicated that a universal designated hitter will return on a permanent basis. The rule was introduced during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season but went away last year after the league and union failed to reach an agreement to bring it back.
Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Justin Bruihl is excited about the universal DH potentially being implemented and jokingly noted that he has the highest on-base percentage in MLB history:
With the DH being implemented in the national league, I just want it to be known that I have the highest OBP in MLB history thanks to the one walk I had this year 😂
— Justin Bruihl (@Jbruihl24) February 11, 2022
Bruihl made his big league debut last year and emerged as a key reliever for the Dodgers, posting a 2.89 ERA, 3.97 FIP and 1.07 WHIP in 18.2 innings of work. He also drew a five-pitch walk in his only plate appearance, which came against Philadelphia Phillies reliever Enyel De Los Santos on Aug. 10.
Prior to the 2021 season, Bruihl had never pitched above High-A. He began the year with Double-A Tulsa and later saw time with Triple-A Oklahoma City before receiving his first MLB promotion in August.
“It definitely was a little bit shocking,” Bruihl said at the time of his call-up. “I wouldn’t say I didn’t expect it, because this was my goal to start the year. I wanted to make it to the big leagues this year. A little bit surprising, but at the same time I felt like I was ready for it.”
Manfred: MLB making ‘good-faith’ CBA proposal to MLBPA on Saturday
Manfred revealed the league is planning to make a momentous CBA proposal to the Players Association on Saturday and cited his optimism for not yet announcing a delay to the start of 2022 Spring Training.
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