Some Arizona officials are hoping MLB "delays the start of spring training," according to Bill Shaikin of the L.A. TIMES. By waiting another month, as "holiday-related coronavirus surges subside and vaccinations become more readily available," Cactus League games could be regarded as "a safer and more attractive draw for tourists." An MLB spokesperson yesterday said the league has "not heard directly from Cactus League representatives." Arizona Public Health Assn. Exec Dir Will Humble said that a "one-month delay would allow for greater vaccination of the senior citizens that serve as volunteers and staffers at Cactus League game." Sources said that the commissioner’s office and the MLBPA "have discussed postponing the regular season for a month." But Shaikin notes the two sides so far have been "unable to reach agreement" because the union asked the league to "guarantee the contractually required paying players for 162 games." The first Cactus League games are scheduled Feb. 27. MLB has invited teams to "submit attendance plans for spring training stadiums." In Arizona, "'public events' of more than 50 people are prohibited statewide," but local officials can "approve such events with 'adequate safety precaution.'" Glendale city manager Kevin Phelps, who approved the Coyotes’ attendance plan, said that he would feel "comfortable allowing 25% of capacity at Camelback Ranch -- about 3,250 fans -- with such safety protocols as mask wearing, hand sanitizer stations and temperature checks" (L.A. TIMES, 1/13).
