June 7, 2020

Olney on Negotiations

Buster Olney presents a well balanced approach to the long-term negotiating tactics on both sides that led to the current stand-off. That said, he thinks the owners should move first:

The owners, with greater wealth and with the lasting stewardship of the game, need to emerge from their bargaining bunker and extend themselves into the middle ground with an offer of a significant concession. Maybe a season of 81 games — a number of significance, because it’s exactly half of the regular schedule — with a very high percentage of the players’ prorated salary. Maybe not 100%, but something that represents a legitimate good-faith proffer.

ESPN.com

I would agree, as my perception, and I believe the perception of most fans, is that ownership failed to build on the small concessions that were offered.

I say that despite my feeling in general that this is an extremely difficult situation, and it’s tough to apportion blame when there are a large number of issues that could curtail a season even if the sides sat down and cooperated constructively. There are 16 different states and two countries whose rules for play may all be different. There are the health concerns of the players, and especially the older staff and coaches. There is the money, which seems to be the biggest factor right now, but could be dwarfed by the other two. Is there liability if the season starts and personnel die? Is there liability if the season starts and fans die?

I hope there are some games this season. If not, I will understand that the game was in a very difficult position, and I am willing to forgive the loss of a season. I will be upset, however, if the inequities the players currently face due to the length of time until free agency, the manipulation of service time, the unfairness to amateurs, and the structural incentives to tanking are not addressed in the next CBA.

1 thought on “Olney on Negotiations

  1. Jeff A

    I find myself not caring as much whether there’s a season this year. I don’t mean to exaggerate–if games are played I’ll watch some of them, or more accurately listen, because that’s what I usually do. But I can’t see myself being as passionate about it as I usually am. Life is moving on, and baseball is getting left behind.

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