MLBPA LEADERSHIP IN LABOR NEGOTIATIONS QUESTIONED

     The union's bargaining style in MLB's ongoing labor dispute
in examined by Tracy Ringolsby in the current BASEBALL AMERICA.
Although the players appear to have the "learn-and-go-on
attitude," the union leadership is "still preaching about past
transgressions."  Ringolsby notes the leadership "could take a
cue from its members," adding the "attitude of union leadership
must change. ... If that can't happen, then the leadership needs
a change."  He writes negotiation, and not litigation, should be
the goal, and the union should employ "proven negotiators instead
of legal eagles at the table."  Ownership, for the "first time in
the history of baseball's labor wars, ... has shown signs of
understanding compromise and settlement," and that "appears to be
making the union leadership uncomfortable ... It's time for a
wakeup call. Things have changed" (BASEBALL AMERICA, 5/27 issue).