MLB Proposes a 67-Page Detailed Operational Manual

A 67-page protocol document proposing a “system of rules” for MLB return season 2020 after coronavirus, was presented to Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) from Major League Baseball. This full-fledged document covers everything - intake processes, game-play conditions, spring training rules, testing, and other protocols while on the ground or in the dugouts. Undoubtedly, testing the players is the most pertinent part of the document. In the document, already a number of protocols have been floated - how the team is going to travel, what measures & steps would be taken if a player tests positive for coronavirus & what would be the revised plan for spring training and how players would be brought to the training. 

In addition, the league also has outlined plans & protocols for how COVID-19 potential spread and exposure can be controlled during the game. Every single detail has been mentioned in the 67-page document - like disinfecting the “dugout phones” whenever they are used would be necessary, using sports drink coolers/jugs & communal water will not be permitted and more. The document also mentions that the team limit for Spring training would not be more than 50 players at a time. And, there are definitely going to be more minutiae details that would come up with the complete game manual. This detailed all-inclusive document would be released only when the official agreement would be reached between MLB players & MLBPA. 

In restarting the MLB season 2020, after the game came to a halt in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, this new “MLB operations manual” will have the biggest role to play. And, in addition to this “MLB operational manual 2020”, the Players’ Union must handle the auxiliary staff members & logistics for medical emergencies. There could be other aspects to handle that could derail the game returning to action. The preparations of the league look all fitted and the legwork done properly - they look ready to address all issues that come with the return of the game in action. 

Social distancing would remain on top of this - players would strictly have to follow the social distancing norms throughout the season. This is going to be an interesting team game - when any kind of socializing and communal dining is prohibited. Players would only be allowed to socialize with their family members. Except on the fields, masks would be necessary to wear and the players would be required to maintain a distance of six feet even when they are in the dugouts. It is going to be super-interesting to see how the teams are maintaining the bonds and keeping with the team spirits in a restrictive social environment under these protocols. This document would provide all the important information on how the game will resume and proceed given this restrictive environment.