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All 30 MLB teams to pay ballpark employees during league stoppage
From commissioner Rob Manfred:
“Motivated by desire to help some of the most valuable members of the baseball community, each Club has committed $1 million. The individual clubs will be announcing more details surrounding this support effort in their local communities. The timing of these announcements will vary because of the need to coordinate with state and local laws as well as collective bargaining obligations in an effort to maximize the benefits realized by each group of employees. I am proud that our clubs came together so quickly and uniformly to support these individuals who provide so much to the game we love.”
There is a growing belief that even when the 2020 regular season gets underway, it won’t be possible to complete the usual 162-game slate. But it sounds like gameday staff will receive their checks as originally scheduled to take proper care of themselves, rather than having to scramble for temporary work elsewhere.
Marlins minor leaguers still getting Spring Training stipends
Marlins fully committed along with all of MLB in taking care of ballpark staff financially. The Marlins organization is also paying their minor leaguers a stipend for the duration of Spring Training. Good work.
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) March 17, 2020
The Marlins are among seven teams thus far, according to Baseball America, to ensure that their non-roster players are continuing to receive spring camp meal money even though most have returned to their offseason homes. As Kyle Glaser explains, “minor leaguers are unable to collect unemployment benefits because they are technically under contract with their clubs, but also struggle to find jobs at home because they may have to quit at any moment and return to baseball.”
Donate for chance to win signed baseball
In his latest philanthropic effort, right-hander Sandy Alcantara is fundraising on behalf of the CDP COVID-19 Response Fund. Anybody who donates at least $25 is entered into a random drawing to receive a baseball signed by the Marlins All-Star. Join the cause here before Apr. 4.
Walk-off links
- Alex Carver of Fish On The Farm speaks to a prospect about how the pandemic has brought added stress and uncertainty into his life.
- After hosting an MLB The Show tournament last weekend, right-hander Sterling Sharp is craving more competition. He will be streaming games against fellow pro baseball players, including Miguel Rojas.
During this downtime I will stream @MLBTheShow games against players around the league. Tag some guys you would like to see play.
— Sterling Sharp (@DatDude_Ster42) March 17, 2020
- Speaking of MLB The Show, Fish Stripes contributor Tyler Wilson has organized a tournament for Marlins fans. It’s already underway. Follow @KingOfBuffalo on Twitter for updates.
- Our Games of the Decade series launched on Tuesday! Keep nominating your faves and I’ll do my best to find the full-length television broadcasts of them.