MLB commissioner Rob Manfred is optimistic MLB will reach a new Collective Bargaining Agreement ahead of the Dec. 1 expiration date.
Entering his third season in charge of the league, Manfred told reporters at GM Meetings he was confident a new CBA would get done.
“I’m optimistic that we’ll be able to do that,” Manfred said. “Collective bargaining is one of those processes where it’s difficult to predict with certainty when things are going to take place.”
Manfred discussed potential changes in the new CBA. He suggested the new agreement could have an international draft, to promote transparency and pro-competitive balance.
“From my perspective there’s two things about the international draft that are overriding in terms of their importance,” Manfred said. “No. 1, I believe in today’s climate in baseball, entry-level talent is crucial and that an effective draft system is a really important way to preserve competitive balance. It’s not about money. It’s not about paying people less. It’s about access to talent and giving out that access in a way that is pro-competitive balance.”
The move would put North American and international prospects on an even playing field in terms of earnings.
Manfred also discussed the potential of pro baseball at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. The conversations haven’t gone far, as no meeting has officially taken place.
The 58-year-old has a lot to figure out ahead of the CBA getting signed. But, if he’s optimistic a deal will get done with the players association, at the very least, it’s an encouraging sign progress is being made.
