Saturday came and went without any progress in negotiations between Major League Baseball and the MLBPA for a 2020 season. While the deliberations continue, the real world health concerns are once again stepping to the forefront and are starting to overshadow the league’s negotiations.
A number of teams have reported positive cases among their organizations including four from the Yankees and two from the Angels on Saturday. The growing numbers led MLB to immediately shut down all Spring Training facilities in both Arizona and Florida until they have been disinfected and are declared safe for reopening.
These latest developments are a sobering reminder of the big challenge that the league will face in completing a season should they be able to strike a deal with the players.
Atlanta Braves News
MLB Pipeline’s Jim Callis reported early Saturday morning that the Braves and fifth round pick Bryce Elder have an agreement on an overslot deal. Elder’s signing was the final signing for the 2020 draft class. Jared Shuster, Jesse Franklin and Spencer Strider all reportedly agreed to deals earlier this week.
More MLB News
Former Braves lefty Manny Banuelos has signed a deal with the Fubon Guardians of the Chinese Professional Baseball League. Banuelos returned to the majors in 2019 with the White Sox. He was with Seattle during Spring Training but was released from his minor league contract in June.
Former Cubs shortstop Addison Russell has reportedly agreed to a deal with the Kiwoom Heroes of the KBO.