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As expected, the MLBPA rejected MLB’s most recent proposal that would have delayed the start of the 2021 season for about a month. Instead, the league has confirmed that players will report to spring training on February 17 with Opening Day set for April 1. While it is going to be good to have baseball back, the ongoing tension between MLB and the MLBPA is disappointing. The two sides are now 0-for-2 in most recent negotiations and there is little reason to be optimistic that things are going to change anytime soon. With the CBA set to expire on December 1, we may be in for another long and dark winter.
Atlanta Braves News
It is being overlooked in a lot of places, but getting a healthy Ozzie Albies back is going to be a huge boost for the Braves in 2021.
More accolades for outfield prospect Cristian Pache who was named as the best defensive player among MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospects.
Pache has been in the discussion as the best defensive prospect in the Minors since 2017, when he earned the first of four straight mentions on our All-Defense team. His plus-plus speed and outstanding instincts give him extraordinary range in center field, where his plus-plus arm is stronger than most at his position. He could make a run at Andruw Jones’ Braves record of 10 Gold Gloves.
A good explainer here from The Athletic’s Bill Shea on the upcoming changes to what will now be known as Bally Sports South and Bally Sports Southeast.
MLB News
The Los Angeles Angels announced that they have suspended pitching coach Mickey Calloway, pending an investigation with Major League Baseball after allegations of inappropriate and lewd behavior surfaced Monday night.
Rockies owner Dick Monfort and GM Jeff Bridich met with the media Tuesday to discuss the trade of All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado to the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite the move, Monfort says that the Rockies are not rebuilding and are “built to compete.”
Arenado also met with the media in St. Louis via Zoom Tuesday and said that he is hoping to remain with the Cardinals “for a long time.”
The Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Red Sox are among six teams with reported interest in utility player Marwin Gonzalez.
The San Diego Padres announced Tuesday that GM A.J. Preller has been promoted to president of baseball operations and given a contract extension through 2026. The club also announced that Erik Greupner was named CEO and his contract was also extended through 2026.
The Cincinnati Reds and reliever Sean Doolittle have an agreement on a one-year, $1.5 million deal.
Chris Archer will look to bounce back with the Tampa Bay Rays after agreeing to a one-year, $6.5 million deal.
This is the best thing and probably the most important thing you will read today. ESPN’s Jeff Passan tells the story of Giants outfielder Drew Robinson.