With less than a month before pitchers and catchers report to camp, important questions remain about what the 2021 season will entail. MLB and MLBPA are reportedly at an impasse on issues such as postseason structure and the universal designated hitter.
MLB offered a universal DH if the union agreed to expanded playoffs. Union rebuffed the deal, which included extra money for players, so at least for now there will be no universal DH.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 25, 2021
The inclusion of the universal DH seems like a win for players, but it may not be the bargaining chip it seems when compared to the benefits that owners receive from expanded playoffs, says Eno Sarris.
Universal DH is not the great barganing chip that the owners seem to think it is. It’s not an extra roster spot, it’s not a big-money job for most teams. Expanded playoffs are a much bigger get for the owners.
— Eno Sarris (@enosarris) January 25, 2021
Regardless of what agreements take place, they will need to be ironed out very quickly. The season is fast-approaching and everyone involved needs clarity. Teams need to know the number of positions they’re filling to properly make personnel decisions and players need teams to show interest. These converging needs would seem to spark some movement from each side but the progress appears to have halted with the latest offer. We can only hope that something positive develops in the near-term.
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