MLB, union talk as baseball struggles with virus

MIAMI — With six teams idled Friday by the COVID-19 pandemic, Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred spoke to union leader Tony Clark about the importance of players following the sport’s coronavirus protocols.

Manfred and Clark talked about what needs to be done to finish the season, a person familiar with the conversation said. the person who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

The conversation between Manfred and Clark comes amid growing evidence that the spread of infection threatens to overtake efforts to play ball.

Concerns have been expressed about lax behaviour by players on the field — such as spitting or high-fives — and off. The scrambled schedule has also heightened doubts about whether the owners’ desire to play is realistic.

The latest game to be postponed was Milwaukee’s home opener against St. Louis, called off hours before the first pitch after two Cardinals players tested positive for COVID-19.

“TV Show suggestions please,” tweeted Cardinals pitcher Jack Flaherty, one of an increasing number of players who found themselves with unexpected free time as postponements mounted.

The Cardinals said in a statement they learned Thursday night about positive tests from samples collected Wednesday. Players and staff were instructed to isolate in their hotel rooms.

“The team is currently conducting rapid testing of the entire travelling party, has implemented contact tracing, and will continue to self-isolate,” the Cardinals said.

The Cardinals and Brewers still hoped to play tonight, and to make up Friday’s game with a pair of seven-inning games Sunday under a newly approved MLB plan for doubleheaders.

Brewers owner Mark Attanasio shrugged off the setbacks and said baseball is braced for curveballs, especially this year.

“We’re all committed, I believe — and I’ve talked to a number of players today — to finishing the season,” Attanasio said. “Insofar as we can continue to provide some enjoyment for our fans, I think that’s something we’re all committed to doing . ... If we’re not smart and safe, then we’ll fail. But we’re doing everything we can not to fail.”