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The MLB has been in a lockout since December 2. Now, with Spring Training season right around the corner, fans are wondering if and when the season will start. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred held a press conference on Thursday to discuss the current situation in the league as baseball season approaches.
In the press conference, Manfred said that there is “no change” regarding the status of Spring Training. However, he is optimistic that the MLB and MLBA will come to an agreement in enough time to play a full, regular season of baseball.
ESPN's Jeff Passan tweeted the news Thursday morning.
“The status of spring training is no change right now,” Rob Manfred says.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 10, 2022
Asked Rob Manfred if he thinks opening day will be as scheduled March 31. His response: “I’m an optimist, and I believe we will have an agreement in time to play our regular-season schedule.”
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 10, 2022
The commissioner also discussed a new agreement going into effect this season. The league is adopting the agreement of a universal designated hitter and eliminating draft pick compensation.
Washington Post reporter Chelsea Janes tweeted the news, adding that the MLB agreed to this, but it isn't a final deal yet.
On this, remember this is what MLB has agreed to. Nothing is certain until it's in a final deal. But league and owners have said they would drop draft pick compensation for free agents. https://t.co/Mj5MLwk2MX
— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) February 10, 2022
According to The Athletic, Manfred met with Dan Halem, the MLB’s lead negotiator, and MLB owners on Wednesday in Florida prior to his press conference. Meantime, Tony Clark, the executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association, and the association's lead negotiator Bruce Meyer met with players in Arizona.
The MLB and MLBPA are expected to meet on Saturday. If the two groups are able to come up with an agreement sooner rather than later, 2022 MLB Opening Day will be March 31.
