MLB is still working with the union to determine how far to take the ban on in-game videoGETTY IMAGES
MLB is looking at ways to curb cheating and has informed clubs about "planned in-game protocols to bar non-uniformed personnel from the clubhouse, close video rooms" and "turn off all live video feeds except for the replay review monitor," according to Tom Verducci of SI.com. The league is working with the union to "establish enhanced protocols" by Opening Day on March 26. MLB Senior VP/On-Field Operations & Umpiring Departments Chris Young said, "We're not as far apart with the players association as you might think." Verducci noted under MLB's proposed plans, access to the dugout and clubhouse during the game "will be limited to players, seven coaches and necessary interpreters and trainers." The measure will be "'seriously policed' by an increase in MLB security agents." Under the proposal, front-office staff members are "banned from the clubhouse during games." Such employees "often work in video rooms or set up laptops in the clubhouse during games." Meanwhile, the league still is "working with the union on how far to take the ban on in-game video." In the "most extreme measure, all clubhouse televisions will be turned off during games in addition to the video room, as well as a ban against players using their phones during games." Sources said that one possible allowance "would be to permit one television in the training room that carries the game broadcast, but only on an eight-second delay" (SI.com, 3/2).
DRAWING A LINE: ESPN.com's Jeff Passan cited sources as saying that during meetings with team personnel, from the front office to coaching staff, officials from the commissioner's office have been "exceedingly clear in their message" that if one aids or abets cheating "in any form -- from sign stealing to using foreign substances to the many other forms and fashions -- you will be held responsible and disciplined" (ESPN.com, 3/2). Yankees hitting coach Marcus Thames said that "restricting access to video during the games could affect some players." He said, "Guys like going in and watching their at-bats." Yankees 1B Mike Ford said that when he is the DH or expecting to pinch-hit, he "spends time looking at video while he takes swings in the cage." Ford: "It doesn't seem fair that we are getting a tool taken away because they did something wrong" (N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 3/3).
