MLB owners spent several hours today at the conclusion of quarterly meetings in Coral Gables, Fla., discussing labor policy in advance of formal bargaining with the MLBPA. This was the last owners meeting before labor talks are slated to begin in earnest, and the league shifted its typical meeting schedule to accommodate a longer session between MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and one rep from each club to discuss labor matters.
Manfred declined to outline specifics of the session, but said, “We did spend considerable time on bargaining preparation efforts. It is that time when we’re proximate to the expiration of the agreement, and we need to spend time with the clubs to get ready for that process.” The current five-year deal expires in December, and significant changes are likely, particularly with regard to the acquisition of amateur talent and player accrual of benefits.
Manfred did make several announcements at the conclusion of the meetings. Rays Owner Stuart Sternberg and Cubs Chair Tom Ricketts were each elected to full four-year terms to MLB’s Exec Council. Manfred additionally said an equity investment deal for BAM Tech could be “weeks away.” Meanwhile, no decisions have been made yet regarding potential discipline for either the several players facing investigations for alleged domestic violence incidents, or for the Cardinals for the hacking scandal against the Astros. In each instance, Manfred said he is waiting for more info from ongoing criminal proceedings.
