OPEN THE LOCK[OUT]! BASEBALL IS BACK!

Patrick: Baseball is back!

Russ: Not too long ago, we were discussing the lockout and how long it could last.

Patrick: Right. So, now that we are in an opened season— a full 162-game one—let’s talk about it. John, you look as if you have something to say. Let’s hear it.

John: Thanks, Patrick. The first thing I want to say is that I have been so looking forward to opening day on April 7th. The second thing I’d like to mention is that I like that the Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Rob Manfred was apologetic to baseball fans, but he still has a long way to go before earning full trust from the fans.

Donald: Well, remember, fellas, my thing was that I figured it was simply a case of billionaires attempting to protect the cash from the millionaires. Well, recently, I’ve learned a bit more about what the lockout was intended to improve. One of the points is that the minimum salary— in 2022—is $700,000 and, in 2026, the number reaches $780,000.

Patrick: So, it jumps $20,000 every year through 2026?

Donald: That’s right.

Patrick: What was it prior to this new contract?

Russ: This past year, 2021, the minimum salary was $570,500. And…the new minor league minimums for those on the roster–beginning 2022—is $57,200 for first-year players and $114,100 for those not a first-year player. The number rises to $63,600 in 2026 for the 1styear players, and $127,100 for those not beginning or signing as a first-year player.

John: So, basically, the costof-living increase has grown, with both sides relatively happy with the numbers?

Russ: Exactly.

Patrick: Also, that the playoffs are increasing from 10 to 12 teams is huge. Let alone the introduction in both leagues of a wild card series instead of, simply, two wild card games. This is big.

John: Especially because it’s interesting that the owners wanted 14 teams. I’m not completely sure why they would want so many teams in the playoffs, but 14 seems a bit much for me. Putting my own stamp of disapproval on this particular point because, with the playoffs now moving into November, this would open up the possibility for even more delays and replacement games and cancellations due to the weather—cold rain, wind, snow, etc.

Donald: And there are a ton of good teams from the coldweather cities like Chicago, Cleveland, New York, Boston, etc. It could get dicey around that time.

Russ: I would like to see how we'd think if the Cubs or White Sox made that 14th spot: see how against it we are then!

Patrick: I can already tell you I’ll be down for it! But even with the 12, I can say that I’ve always sorta thought that not enough teams made the playoffs. With most other sports leagues, it’s usually more than the division leaders who make the playoffs; some of those teams who did well, but come up just short of winning the entire division, they deserve to get an opportunity to win top dawg.

Russ: Now, this isn’t necessarily a lockout or lock-open topic, but let me say I’m extremely excited to have baseball back. My favorites are the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Cubs—yes, I like both of these Chicago teams! I’m also happy for those stadium and team workers who could have lost their jobs for a long while.

Donald: I’m glad we’re back. This could be the Year of the White Sox.

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Vendors Russell Adams

Vendors John Hagan

Vendors Donald Morris

Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards.