It is looking increasingly more likely that the eventual MLB opener will be played in empty stadiums.
This is according to a recent report by Joel Sherman, though it is hardly a new development as MLB looks to get the season started as soon as safely possible.
The MLB season has been delayed until at least May 9, following the guidelines by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention to not have mass gatherings. However, many expect the season to begin in either June or July, shortening the schedule.
Both sides would ideally start the season with fans in the stands, but as COVID-19 continues to spread through the country, they may ultimately decide it is better to get the games in rather than delaying the season further, or not playing at all.
During a conference call Monday, Pirates player union representative, Jameson Taillon, said the players were "pretty willing to do whatever it’s gonna take to get as many games in as possible.” That included extending the season into October, playing more double-headers and playing games on neutral sites or in empty stadiums.
“It seems like both sides are willing to do it,” Taillon said about potentially playing games without fans Monday. “I don’t think the goal would be to do that for an entire year. At some point, we would love to have fans in the stands, especially if we go to a playoff scenario.”
The idea of playing games without crowds would be new for players, and a unique challenge.
"I think it's gonna test the mental toughness of guys," Derek Holland said on Mar. 12 when asked about what it would be like to play in an empty stadium. "You're not going to have the sounds anymore... We've just got to go out there and play."
On Tuesday, the city of Toronto banned all public events until June 30, though that does not apply to the Blue Jays or the city's other sports teams.
MLB cancelled the London series between the Cubs and Cardinals Wednesday. Those games were scheduled to take place June 13-14.
To continue reading, log into your account:
