MLB wants to save the minor leagues

In their column, U.S. Reps. David McKinley, Max Rose, Mike Simpson and Lori Trahan are right to laud the many contributions of Minor League Baseball, but wrong to attempt to scare fans into thinking that baseball could disappear.

In negotiating a new operating agreement with the minor leagues, Major League Baseball believes that we have an opportunity to improve minor league player wages, working conditions and development, while protecting baseball in communities nationwide.

It is not our goal to eliminate any club in these negotiations — in fact, MLB has subsidized minor league operations.

Negotiations with the minor leagues are early. No one can predict what the final agreement will be.

MLB is open to solutions that involve professional baseball continuing where it is being played. Minor League Baseball must return to the negotiating table and make a similar good-faith commitment.

Dan Halem

MLB deputy commissioner Harrison, N.Y.