MLBPA Makes First Move In CBA Talks With Owners

The owners are pushing for a player salary cap. They want a limit on how much money can be spent on a roster. The players are heavily against this because it limits their earning opportunities. They would much rather there be a salary floor to make the owners spend more. Just from that, it’s easy to see these two sides are as far apart as imaginable.

MLBPA Asking for Salary Floor, Higher Minimums, and Higher Tax Thresholds in Opening Offer.

In addition to the above, ESPN’s Jeff Passan says the MLBPA is also asking for “Changes to the revenue-sharing system that would distribute more money from local television revenue but decrease the amount distributed from in-stadium revenue to incentivize teams that win and draw larger crowds.” There are also provisions on when a player can become a free agent after making their MLB debut.

The MLBPA’s motive is very clear: players want to be paid more, and they want more teams to try to win. Some teams could be spending more to try to compete more regularly, but choose not to because of the steady stream of revenue. On the flip side, some teams have not spent top-tier money, but can still compete. Some teams spent obsessively, but fail to produce. Just ask the New York Mets.

If you’re holding your breath for a resolution to this all, please do not and continue breathing. This is a battle of deep pockets and big egos. In the end, both of the sides will win somehow. The real losers are the fans who just want to watch MLB baseball.