It isn’t a secret that Major League Baseball and the MLB Players’ Association are having a hard time getting on the same page when it comes to terms for the 2020 season resume. Each side doesn’t seem willing to make big compromises, causing concerns that baseball might not be played this year. However, according to MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, there is a zero chance that this might happen.
During a recent interview with MLB Network, Manfred guaranteed that the 2020 MLB season will end up taking place.
“We’re going to play baseball in 2020,” said Manfred. “One hundred percent. If it has to be under the March 26 agreement, if we get to that point in the calendar, so be it. But one way or the other, we’re playing Major League Baseball.”
The main disagreement between the MLB and players is in the number of games in the regular season and salary conditions. While the league is offering 76 games and 50 percent to 75 percent prorated salaries, the union wants 89-game season and full prorated salaries.
According to Manfred, the league is ready to get closer to MLBPA’s demands in terms of salary but reiterates that having an 89-game season is simply not manageable.
“I remain committed to the idea that the best thing for our sport is to reach a negotiated agreement with the MLBPA that plays as many games as possible for our fans,” he added.
