Call to the pen
Fansided

Mexican League shutdown a warning to MLB

By David Hill

Mexico's Anthony Giansanti runs to first base after hitting a single during the Caribbean Series baseball tournament game against Puerto Rico at the Hiram Bithorn stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico on February 2, 2020. (Photo by Ricardo ARDUENGO / AFP) (Photo by RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images)
Mexico's Anthony Giansanti runs to first base after hitting a single during the Caribbean Series baseball tournament game against Puerto Rico at the Hiram Bithorn stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico on February 2, 2020. (Photo by Ricardo ARDUENGO / AFP) (Photo by RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images) /
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In what could be considered a warning sign for MLB, the Mexican League has officially shut down for the 2020 season.

While professional baseball has started up in Asia, the same could not be said stateside at this point. While MLB is looking to start their abbreviated 2020 campaign, the minor league season has officially been postponed. But that was considered more of a logistical issue, with major league teams having a taxi squad and expanded rosters.

Then came an announcement from the Mexican League. On Wednesday, the league officially announced that they will not attempt to conduct the 2020 season, postponing the league until 2021.

This decision was not made without consideration. The league had numerous conversations with Minor League Baseball, the 16 team owners, federal health officials, and the state governments, in determining a course of action. In the end, it was felt that, for the safety of the fans, players, and officials, suspending the season was the best option.

Related Story. MLB players that test positive for COVID-19 to be anonymous. light

It is refreshing to see a league and a government put safety over any potential profits. Instead of fighting about salaries, revenue share, and how many games to play, the Mexican League did what it felt was best for everyone. The 2020 season would have been a shell of itself, making this an easy decision.

This decision is also a warning for MLB. While players arrived at Spring Training Part Two at the same time the Mexican League was shutting down, dark clouds are gathering. The pandemic is surging in Florida, Texas, and Arizona, states that had previously begun to open back up. Those states are starting to shut back down again, which is not a great sign.

Yes, teams will be playing without fans in the stands. And yes, there are plenty of guidelines around social distancing and permissible behavior on and off the diamond. But this is still about getting as much money as possible. If player safety was truly a concern, the 2020 season would be canceled.

Next. Bring back the future faces of the game. dark

That may still end up happening. The Mexican League has canceled their 2020 campaign, which could be a warning sign for MLB and their hopes.

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