Major League Baseball has been discussing its options in recent days to potentially carry forward with the 2020 season sometime in May.
One of the proposals that went public involves all 30 teams beginning the year in Arizona, where games would be played at Chase Field and upwards of 10 Spring Training facilities without fans being permitted to attend.
The plan has received support from federal health officials, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, who believes the concept may be the only realistic way for baseball to return in the immediate future.
While some players have already expressed a willingness to play under these circumstances, others made it clear they are against the idea.
Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star Justin Turner explained that the Arizona plan is more feasible for married players without children such as himself, while those with have families are in a much more difficult position, via LZ Granderson of the L.A. Times:
“For my category of guys, it’s easy,” he said. “I’m married, but I don’t have any children. For the single guy or the guys with kids at home, that’s a lot tougher. You’re asking a lot more — to either be alone or not see your kids.”
Turner’s comments reflect those of his Dodgers teammates. Alex Wood, who also is married and doesn’t have children, previously said he is onboard with the Arizona proposal.
Clayton Kershaw, on the other hand, is not crazy about the idea of potentially leaving his children for four months. The deal-breaker for him is the expectation that players must self-quarantine in between games.
L.A. Angels All-Star Mike Trout raised the same concerns.
Kenley Jansen, who has children of his own, offered a different perspective. He believes players need to be willing to compromise in order for the season to start as soon as possible.
As a result, Jansen would be in favor of beginning the 2020 campaign in Arizona.
In addition to possibly having all teams play in Arizona, MLB reportedly is mulling scenarios that involve the Cactus and Grapefruit Leagues; and using Arizona, Florida and Texas as a hub for teams.
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