MLB following MLBPA with fund for workers impacted by lockout
MLB's decision on Tuesday to cancel at least the first two series of the 2022 season after owners and players couldn't come to terms on an agreement to end the lockout that began on Dec. 2 impacts more than just the athletes, clubs and fans hoping to be inside ballparks.
On Friday, the MLB Players Association confirmed it is launching a $1 million fund to support individuals employed by clubs who find themselves out of work through no fault of their own. According to ESPN, MLB will soon announce the establishment of a similar fund for workers.
Particulars about MLB's fund weren't known as of early Friday afternoon.
"Many aren't seen or heard, but they are vital to the entertainment experience of our games,'' union executive board members Andrew Miller and Max Scherzer said of impacted workers, some of whom were also without gigs during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. "Unfortunately, they will also be among those affected by the owner-imposed lockout and the cancellation of games. Through this fund, we want to let them know that they have our support.''
Specifically, stadium workers and behind-the-scenes personnel needed for television and radio broadcasts were mentioned by the union on Friday.
Unfortunately for those employees and fans, it's unknown when owners and MLBPA representatives will meet again for discussions that could end the work stoppage and spark the opening of spring training sessions as soon as possible.
MLB previously said it wants at least four weeks of spring training before Opening Day. Based on such a timeline, it's looking less likely that meaningful contests will be held at home ballparks on April 7 as hoped unless a deal is struck at some point next week.
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