MLB commissioner Rob Manfred spoke to reporters on Thursday for the first time since the lockout started and said he’s optimistic a deal will be reached that allows Opening Day to start on time.
“The status of spring training is no change right now. … I’m an optimist, and I believe we will have an agreement in time to play our regular-season schedule.”
Spring training is scheduled to begin on February 16 and Opening Day is slated for March 31.
Manfred said that once a deal is reached on a new CBA, it should take less than a week to get players to camp and they would need about four weeks to get ready for the regular season.
Manfred also revealed that the two sides had officially agreed on a universal DH, said free agent draft pick compensation has been eliminated, and noted that expanded playoffs in 2022 are possible.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].