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Commissioner could shut down season if coronavirus management doesn’t improve

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The 2020 season is going to be in jeopardy soon if things don’t improve.

MLB: San Diego Padres at Atlanta Braves
Apr 14, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; MLB commissioner Rob Manfred speaks prior to the first MLB game at SunTrust Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

While the Atlanta Braves have yet to have their schedule impacted, several teams around the league are dealing with positive COVID-19 tests and game postponements. While the Miami Marlins have been hit with a serious outbreak, other teams are also starting to see positive test results. The St. Louis Cardinals had a couple of players test positive Friday and their game against the Milwaukee Brewers was canceled. The Phillies and Yankees are also dealing with an uncertain schedule.

Major League Baseball may be headed towards a reckoning and soon according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan . Per the report, commissioner Rob Manfred told MLBPA executive director Tony Clark on Friday that the season could be shut down if the sport doesn’t do a better job of managing the coronavirus.

Should another outbreak materialize, Manfred, who has the power to shut the season down, could move in that direction. Multiple players briefed on the call fear that season could be shut down as soon as Monday if positive tests jump or if players continue not to strictly abide by the league’s protocols.

The report also states that state and local governments have pressured the league about players skirting mandates that were outlined in their operating manual. Things such as players not wearing masks, high-fiving and spitting have shown up on broadcasts.

This is all something to keep in mind as the Braves and the rest of Major League Baseball continue the season Friday night. While the games for the most part have been relatively normal albeit without fans, the off the field situation is anything but.