As Major League Baseball (MLB) navigates the complexities of a shortened season, the stakes have never been higher for both owners and players. The ongoing negotiations have shown that the owners may be nearing the limit of their concessions, which could have significant financial implications for some of the sport's biggest stars. If the owners' proposals are accepted, many players will face substantial pay cuts, leaving them to ponder the future of their contracts and livelihoods.
According to MLB on Fox reporter Ken Rosenthal, the current proposal from the league outlines a 60-game season that is set to commence on either July 19th or 20th. This condensed schedule aims to take place over a span of 70 days, during which players would receive full prorated salaries. However, this deal comes with stipulations, including the waiver of any potential grievances and participation in an expanded playoff format for the years 2020 and 2021. The league is also pushing for an increase in playoff teams from 10 to 16.
As players weigh their options regarding this deal, MLB has prepared contingency plans. Jon Heyman reports that if the players reject the proposal, Commissioner Rob Manfred would have the authority to implement a schedule of 50 to 60 games. This authority stems from a prior agreement made on March 26, which granted Manfred the power to dictate the season’s structure, provided that players receive prorated salaries according to the number of games played.
Nolan Arenado (Harry How/Getty Images)
However, if MLB proceeds with this alternative plan, the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) is unlikely to agree to the expansion of playoffs and would maintain its rights to file grievances. Should the 60-game season be approved, baseball could return within a month, but it would greatly affect the earnings of the league's highest-paid players.
Reports from Darren Rovell indicate that with players potentially earning only a third of their salaries this season, as many as nine players could stand to lose over $20 million each. For instance, Mike Trout, projected to earn $13.9 million in this format, could lose an astounding $23.7 million. Other high-profile pitchers like Gerrit Cole and Max Scherzer are also facing significant financial losses, with Cole forfeiting approximately $22.7 million and Scherzer around $22.6 million this year.
Players such as Nolan Arenado, Zack Greinke, and Stephen Strasburg are set to earn $12.9 million during this abbreviated season, resulting in a loss of about $22.1 million each. Other top earners, including Justin Verlander, Manny Machado, and David Price, are also facing substantial pay cuts, with Verlander losing $20.8 million and both Machado and Price losing $20.2 million.
Despite the significant losses, it's important to note that these players will still earn substantial amounts. Even the lowest-paid among them, Machado and Price, will make just under $200,000 per game. However, the reality remains that losing 63 percent of one’s salary is painful, and players are left to consider whether to accept the latest proposal or risk letting the league dictate their schedules.
- Current Negotiations: MLB owners and players are discussing terms for a shortened season.
- Financial Implications: Stars may lose millions based on potential agreements.
- Proposed Structure: A 60-game season with prorated salaries and expanded playoffs is on the table.
- Contingency Plans: If rejected, MLB might implement a shorter schedule unilaterally.
