If the MLBPA gets a vote, the 2021 MLB All-Star Game could be on the move in the wake of a State of Georgia decision to alter voting laws.
In 2020, there was no MLB All-Star Game for the first time since WW II.
One season later, that the Midsummer Classic will be played was not in question. However, what now might be in question is the where.
The plan going into the season, and the plan since 2019, was for it to take place at Truist Park- home of the Atlanta Braves. But a Thursday change to how election laws will operate in the State of Georgia has sparked a rather public backlash. One that has made it all the way to the offices of the head of the MLBPA.
Players union chief Tony Clark announced on Friday that he would be very interested in talks with MLB about moving the game in response to the State of Georgia’s decision.
He was also quick to note that the league hasn’t approached him yet, or done anything to suggest that conversation is forthcoming. This means that it is entirely possible that by the end of the weekend, Rob Manfred and MLB will plainly state that the 2021 MLB All-Star Game isn’t going anywhere. Which Clark might have both expected and accepted, making his Friday comments a one and done, pointed rebuke of something he and his charges disagreed with. It is possible this could be much ado about nothing.
Except that nothing has been nothing between the MLBPA and MLB over the past year, as their contentious relationship is expected to only continue to deteriorate between now and the expiration of the current CBA. Consequently, MLB fans should probably expect one of two things to happen:
Either the game will be moved…or the game will be boycotted.
Players have no obligation to play in the All-Star Game, after all. Many frequently opt out to rest up or rehab minor injuries. Plenty of concerns already exist about the dramatic increase in workload from the shortened 2020 season this full-length 2021 campaign. Covid-19 concerns with travel could persist into the summer. As mentioned earlier, labor and management are already at odds- players might be less disposed than usual to participate in the league’s summer showcase.
Now, throw in the very real possibility of a large percentage of players being personally and politically aggrieved.
As unfortunate as it is for Atlanta Braves fans, the only path forward for MLB is clear. The only thing that isn’t is which city the All-Star Game will now be played in.