While MLB is moving forward with its 2020 return to play plan, some recognizable names won’t be taking part. The league has allowed players to opt out of this season for health or other concerns, and Monday saw several reports of notable players doing that. So far, those names include Ryan Zimmerman and Joe Ross from the defending World Series champion Washington Nationals (Zimmerman is seen above speaking at the Nationals’ championship parade in November), as well as Mike Leake of the Arizona Diamondbacks:
Ryan Zimmerman and Joe Ross have elected to opt out of the 2020 season, per sources. More details here: https://t.co/6AGwFby495
— Mark Zuckerman (@MarkZuckerman) June 29, 2020
A statement from Mike Leake's agent, Danny Horwits of Beverly Hills Sports Council: pic.twitter.com/bQctIlUTml
— Zach Buchanan (@ZHBuchanan) June 29, 2020
— CAA Baseball (@CAA_Baseball) June 29, 2020
There are some coaches who won’t be taking part in games this year, either. In particular, the Minnesota Twins won’t allow bullpen coach Bob McClure, who’s 68, or major league coach Bill Evers, who’s 66, to work games this year. (They’ll remain on the payroll and may contribute in advisory capacities.)
These are just the names that have come in so far, but it seems likely there will be more players opting out. We’ll update this post as we see more.
