Despite renewed collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations this week, MLB and the Players Association (MLBPA) remain far apart on several key subjects. One of the primary sticking points between the two sides is the format for an expanded postseason.
For many seasons now the MLB playoff format has comprised of 10 teams, which includes a pair of Wild Card Games featuring two teams from each league. The league and union agreed to a 16-team expanded postseason in 2020 to help offset the impact of a shortened regular season.
During the nine consecutive days of CBA negotiations at Roger Dean Stadium, it appeared a tentative agreement had been reached to go with the union’s preference for a 12-team playoff. However, with talks stalling, it was reported the MLBPA could be open to 14 teams if other gains were made with respect to the luxury tax threshold and pre-arbitration bonus pool.
According to Ronald Blum of the Associated Press, a disagreement still exists on which playoff format to move forward with:
The union prefers 12 and the parties appear headed toward that number, but Scherzer said players would consider 14 if clubs would agree to the “ghost win” format.
“The 14-team format MLB originally proposed offers significant advantages to division winners and provides incentives to win at every level of the bracket,” MLB spokesman Glen Caplin said Saturday. “In an effort to compromise, MLB accepted a 12-team format after the discussion of formats including a `ghost game.′ MLB made clear that the `ghost game’ raises serious issues and is not a viable path forward.”
One significant concern the Players Association has if the playoffs were to increase to 14 teams is what it would mean for division winners. Hence, their proposal including a ‘ghost win.’
MLB has reportedly proposed the division winner with the best record in each league would automatically receive a bye and spot in the Division Series.
That would leave the two other division winners from each league to select their opponent and play at home throughout a best-of-three series. The division winner with the second-best record would have the first pick for an opponent from the three lowest-seeded Wild Card teams.
Playoff selections would air as part of a television special, which of course would create another revenue stream for the league. MLB reportedly is due to receive $100 million from a postseason television rights deal with ESPN if a 14-team postseason is implemented.
That figure drops to $85 million if the playoffs are 12 teams.
Rob Manfred believes expanded postseason is good for fans, players
With expanded playoffs remaining one of the concepts that must be figured out in the new CBA, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has publicly stated they are a benefit for players, teams and fans alike.
At the end of the day, the idea of playoff expansion comes down to money. With TV revenue at stake for the league, they are pulling out all the stops to maximize their bottom line.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
