MLB and Players Union inching closer to new deal as CA opens up to resume play in June

The talks between the Major League Baseball Players Association and the MLB are continuing into their second week regarding the what will be made of the 2020 season. At his point in time, no decision has been made, but some close to the situation have voiced their pleasure with how close the sides seem to be as of late, per R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports.

“Over the last 48 hours, it really feels like we’re getting some stuff done,” San Diego Padres catcher and union representative Austin Hedges told Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I really do believe we’re to a point where a decision will be made. … I feel very confident it’s going to happen.”

Right now, the sticking points for both sides seem to be caught on aspects of player compensation and safety of the players who are putting their health on the line to get back on the field. Earlier this week, The Athletic published highlights from a 67-page proposal the league sent to the union, detailing plans for variables like travel and player testing.

The owners are still currently hoping to push through an agreement that would split revenue 50-50 with the players in order to recoup some of the lost revenue since the league was forced to suspend play.

With recent advancements being made in the progress needed to get professional sports back, things are looking a bit bright than they were just seven days ago. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced that the state will allow professional sports will be able to return to play without fans as early as next month.

Say some prayers, because if the two sides can’t come to a deal, it won’t matter how much better the pandemic gets. This deal will be the end-all be-all of the 2020 MLB season and ultimately decide if/when it starts.