Spring Training Threatened, MLB Asks For Federal Mediator
Feb 3, 2022, 4:19 PM | Updated: 4:21 pm
Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred Jr. speaks during a press conference announcing a partnership with the Players Alliance during the Gatorade All-Star Workout Day at Coors Field on July 12, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
(Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
NEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball has asked a federal mediator to intervene in stalled labor negotiations that likely will put off the start of spring training.
On the 64th day of a lockout, MLB Deputy Commissioner Dan Halem asked the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to enter the dispute.
An agreement by the players’ association is needed for the federal conciliation service to enter talks.
Major League Baseball today requested immediate assistance of a federal mediator to help resolve the sport’s lockout, sources told ESPN. Under their request, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service would help assist with the proceedings.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 3, 2022
The union declined comment and its lawyers were expected to consult with players.
There is now almost no hope spring training workouts will start as scheduled on Feb. 16.
Baseball’s ninth work stoppage will soon threaten opening day on March 31.
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