MLB and Players Association Report Progress
ATLANTA – Major League Baseball (MLB) along with the MLB Players Association seem to be on the right track.
Commissioner Rob Manfred noted during a gathering with the American Association of Baseball Writers that, “Right now, games, business—our sports are really thriving. The quality of play on the field is the best we’ve seen in a long time.”
Tony Clark, the executive director of the MLBPA, echoed these sentiments, stating, “Our game’s in a solid spot. Attendance is up, the seats are filled, and we have some of the best talent we’ve seen in ages.”
Yet, despite this positive atmosphere, a confrontation looms.
The current collective bargaining agreement is set to expire on December 1, 2026. Clark has indicated that players are gearing up for a potential lockout, although they sincerely hope it won’t come to that. This echoes the recent lockout of 2022, which lasted for 99 days before a five-year agreement was reached.
Core to the upcoming discussions is likely to be the players’ resistance to the owners’ push for a salary cap, which Clark has described as “institutionalized collusion.”
Manfred mentioned that he’s avoided direct appeals regarding the term “salary cap,” instead focusing on competitive issues within the league. “When I talk to players, I’m not trying to sell the idea of a pay cap,” he said. “What I’m really doing is highlighting a problem in the media business that requires a response from the owners.”
He further emphasized the need to address concerns about competitive balance in various markets.
While there are challenges in managing income potential for players, Clark asserted that the union is open to a pay floor. This would ensure that lower-budget teams, like the Marlins, are compelled to spend more, leveling the playing field. However, he is wary of the implications that a salary cap would have on player compensation and the game as a whole.
Clark expressed that a salary cap doesn’t actually promote the growth of baseball. “Caps are more about controlling franchise value and profits,” he argued. “If there are rough edges in our current systems, we’ll make suggestions for improvements. That’s the right way to go.”
He also confirmed an ongoing federal investigation into a licensing company partially owned by the MLBPA, stating, “We are aware of the investigation and are fully cooperating. There’s no set timeline or additional details to share.”
In light of safety concerns raised by recent instances of violence across the country, Clark acknowledged the importance of ensuring the well-being of players, particularly those from Latin America.
As for Atlanta, after having stripped the city of the All-Star Game in 2021 due to a controversial voting law, MLB has decided to return this year. Manfred conveyed that the decision was based on the evident excitement and support from the local community for the Braves and baseball.
Earlier this year, the MLB updated terminology on its website for its diversity initiatives, noting the importance of adapting to societal changes. “At times, it’s necessary to reassess and adjust our approaches,” Manfred remarked. “Some previous language within our programs felt outdated and needed reworking to align with our core values.”
Looking ahead, despite player grievances, Manfred expects the A’s to remain in West Sacramento for a while longer before possibly relocating to Las Vegas.
Regarding stadium issues, the league is hopeful that Tropicana Field will be ready soon, even considering a “contingency plan” if it’s not prepared by the start of the 2026 season.
Manfred also affirmed that he would allow players to participate in the 2028 Olympics held in Los Angeles. He’s looking to arrange a suitable All-Star game that year while ensuring the season remains manageable.
“We could hold the All-Star game in a typical venue and have a longer break, which would still allow for a full season without the risk of extending into mid-November,” he added.
