16 MLB clubs at 85% vaccine threshold for relaxed COVID-19 protocols

Over half of all MLB clubs have reached or exceeded the 85% COVID-19 vaccination threshold that allows for the loosening of certain health and safety protocols. 

In a joint statement, MLB and the MLB Players Association confirmed Friday that 16 clubs have at least 85% of Tier 1 employees - including players, managers, coaches, trainers and other essential personnel -- fully vaccinated against COVID-19, up from 14 teams from the previous week. 

Additionally, 84.5% of all Tier 1 individuals are fully or partially vaccinated, with 81.2% of Tier 1 employees now considered fully vaccinated ahead of the Memorial Day holiday. Last week, nearly 79% of those individuals were deemed fully vaccinated per MLB rules. 

One new MLB player, a Triple-A player and a staff member all tested positive for the coronavirus over the past week. MLB and the MLBPA are not mandating players be vaccinated to participate in the season. 

Earlier this week, the NFL loosened certain COVID-19 health and safety protocols for fully vaccinated players, but both the league and NFL Players Association have insisted unvaccinated players cannot be released or otherwise punished by coaching staffs or clubs.