MLB and Players Association Agree To Health Protocols - Season Set To Begin On Time

The back and forth between Major League Baseball and the MLBPA finds partial resolution with the agreement of health protocols for the 2021 season. The 2021 season is expected to have 162 games and start on time, which means Spring Training games in late February and the regular season kicking off April 1st.

There was some fear the season would be delayed after the MLBPA rejected the 154 game offer by the MLB last week. Those fears will be pushed for a year as a lockout looms in 2022. MLB wants expanded playoffs, while players are unhappy with the current state of contracts and free agency.

The 2021 season will happen and as of now, there will NOT be the universal DH or expanded playoffs, both of which were introduced last year for the 60 game sprint. However, some of the 2020 protocols will return including 7-inning double headers for makeup games, as well as beginning extra innings with a runner on second base.

Players will be limited as to their activity and will have to wear sensors to monitor social distancing and potentially help with contact tracing. They won't be allowed to go to any indoor events or social gatherings not sanctioned by the team. With prior approval, they can go to outdoor restaurants within walking distance of hotels (excluding bars, lounges, clubs, casinos or like environments). They can't meet with anyone outside of the traveling party. What's the point of even being in The Show? At least they can golf.

CALENDAR

Spring Training games can either be 5, 7, or 9 innings long, up to the manager's discretion. The 2021 season will begin with a 3 phase Spring Training:

• Phase 1 (Start of S.T. - Feb 20th) - Individual and small group workouts

• Phase 2 (Feb 20 - Feb 27) - Larger group workouts and intra-squad games

• Phase 3 (Feb 27/28 - Mar 30) - Spring training games against other clubs

The regular season is scheduled to start April 1.

DODGERS

• Dodgers are set to have pitchers and catchers report Feb 17.

• First Spring Training game is scheduled Feb 27 against the Cubs.

• The regular season begins April 1, 2, 3, 4 @ Colorado; April 5, 6, 7 @ Oakland

• Home Opener: Friday April 9 vs. Nationals.