Talks between MLB and the MLBPA toward a comprehensive domestic violence policy continue, and both sides expressed hope a new plan could be in place for the ’15 season. The two sides have met regularly on the topic over the past two months, and have additionally engaged more than a dozen outside organizations involved in domestic violence matters. “Talks are ongoing and have been very productive,” said MLB Commissioner-elect Rob Manfred. “The tones have been very positive. I’m sure like most issues in recent years we’ll come up with something positive. We’re going to take our time and try to get this one right. We’ll have something for next year is my guess.” While next season remains a clear goal, Manfred and MLBPA Exec Dir Tony Clark said the paramount need is to fashion a correct policy without requiring numerous revisions after the fact. “We’ve been fortunate to make connections with a number of thoughtful, involved organizations, and we want to have something that serves the game well,” Clark said. “Could we have something in two days? Perhaps. Two weeks? Perhaps. Two months? Maybe. Whatever it is, the important thing is that we have a truly comprehensive policy moving forward.” Current statutes allow for MLB Commissioner Bud Selig to discipline a player under “just cause” provisions of the CBA, but those statutes have little definition in terms of punishment. The issue continues to be a hot-button topic across pro sports, particularly with the NHL’s recent indefinite suspension of Kings D Slava Voynov. Manfred: “Obviously, we watch what goes on in other leagues to try to understand the distinct issues, difficult issues in each of these, and try to pay attention to what goes on around us" (Eric Fisher, Staff Writer). In L.A., Bill Shaikin writes the issue of how pro sports leagues handle domestic violence issues "exploded into a national debate" when the NFL suspended Ray Rice. The NFL had "no domestic violence policy in place at the time of the Rice incident," and the NBA now is "reviewing its policy to decide whether discipline should be imposed before a conviction" (L.A. TIMES, 10/23).
NOTHING TO SEE HERE: USA TODAY's Lacques & Perrotto note Manfred last night walked behind the batting cage at Kauffman Stadium prior to Game 2 of the World Series and "went virtually unnoticed by most of the dozens of baseball dignitaries." Manfred "moved with ease as he worked the perimeter, befitting a figure in professional limbo." Manfred said of Selig, "He's been pretty good to me. I'm trying not to push him out the door. I want him to leave gracefully" (USA TODAY, 10/23).
THROWING A CHANGE-UP: In Chicago, Mike Imrem writes although this year's playoff series "haven't been stretched to the limit, the games have been compelling and the storylines intriguing." So Manfred should "put near the top of his to-do list a longer postseason with more teams and more games." He should "make the regular season more of a sprint and the postseason more of a marathon" (Chicago DAILY HERALD, 10/23).
