MLB "would need to resolve a host of health-related and logistical questions" to begin the '20 season in empty ballparks, as well as another "thorny subject: Whether players would accept further reductions in salary," according to Rosenthal & Drellich of THE ATHLETIC. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday referenced "potential salary cuts while discussing a conversation he had earlier in the day with Mets COO Jeff Wilpon." However, some on the players' side said that the issue is "already settled, pointing to the 17-page agreement" that MLB and the MLBPA reached in March. Rosenthal & Drellich noted that document "created a framework for the sport during the shutdown, and includes a subhead titled, 'Player Compensation and Benefits'" (THEATHLETIC.com, 4/16).
THE OTHER SIDE: In N.Y., Joel Sherman notes agent Scott Boras has "railed against MLB for suggesting that a second negotiation about economics is necessary." The deal reached by the league and union "called for players to be paid their 2020 salaries prorated." An MLB spokesperson said, "Both parties understood that the deal was premised on playing in stadiums with fans, and the agreement makes that clear." But Boras said, "MLB was fully aware of all the factors 45 days ago (when the deal was negotiated). In their deal with players, what concessions they wanted, why didn't they seek them when making this deal? They got what they requested. Why are they saying now they need to reopen the deal? What kind of negotiation is that?" A source said that the clause was "not intended to signal any willingness by the players to reopen salary discussions." But other sources said that the issue was "left undecided, and that the league made it clear to the union that economic adjustments would be necessary if games were played in empty parks" (N.Y. POST, 4/17).
