Major League Baseball on Wednesday said the league has canceled more games, pushing Opening Day to April 14 as negotiations between the owners and players union remain at a standstill.
MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred said, “Because of the logistical realities of the calendar, another two series are being removed from the schedule.”
The MLB Players Association said MLB’s decision to cancel additional games was “completely unnecessary” and players have “yet to hear back” following proposals.
It’s been more than a week since the owners canceled the beginning of the regular season. League representatives and MLB Players Association officials met this week in New York as they seek a new collective bargaining agreement. Issues that need to be resolved include MLB’s competitive balance tax and minimum salaries.
It’s possible gameplay additions, such as a pitcher’s clock, could be added, and a 14-team postseason is being floated as a possible bargaining chip, too. There were 10 postseason teams last year.
