Just days into the 2020 season, MLB experienced its first COVID-19 outbreak and canceled two games. Despite concerns from fans and players, Major League Baseball is reportedly pushing forward with the season.
MLB won’t cancel or suspect season following Marlins’ COVID outbreak
Before Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies, the Miami Marlins reported multiple players tested positive for COVID-19. Despite the virus spreading in the clubhouse, the team decided to take the field and won the series finale. However, things quickly spiraled out of control.
Fearing an outbreak of the coronavirus among the team, the Marlins suspended their flight home to Miami despite being scheduled to play Monday. The next morning, the club canceled its game against the Baltimore Orioles after 14 players tested positive for the coronavirus.
Soon after word of Miami’s outbreak hit the wire, the Phillies canceled their game against the New York Yankees and all players and staff underwent testing. With fears of a league-wide outbreak rapidly intensifying, many wondered if MLB would step in and suspend play to ensure the safety of its players and coaches.
However, per The New York Times’ Tyler Kepner, MLB has no plans to cancel or suspend the 2020 season. Instead, following a conference call with all 30 club owners, the league will have the remaining teams play as scheduled tonight and hope the Phillies can play tomorrow if players test negative for COVID-19.
The decision has already drawn criticism from at least one MLB star, blasting the league for failing to put the health of its players first. Given Boston Red Sox pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez is now dealing with a serious heart issue caused by COVID-19, things might have to get even worse for players before MLB steps in after its too late.