MLB still has chance to save full regular season schedule?

Monday marks Major League Baseball’s deadline to salvage Opening Day and avoid canceling regular season games. Odds do not appear high that a new labor deal will be done in time, but Sunday brought a hint of optimism that it was at least possible.

Reports Sunday indicated that MLB and the MLBPA had “productive” talks, though that does not necessarily mean a deal is close. Jon Heyman of MLB Network reported that there is a “chance” of a Monday deal, though there did not seem to be a huge amount of optimism involved.

There seems to be a chance for a deal tomorrow on deadline day, which is positive. But it remains only a chance. Most on the players side sounded more cautious in their assessment of today’s talks. Lots of issues still to resolve. https://t.co/UBk72GGHor

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 28, 2022

The fact that a deal is even viewed as possible might be considered a win at this point. Saturday’s negotiations went very poorly, and all signs were pointing toward the league losing regular season games.

Core economic issues remain the largest issue between the two sides, particularly on key issues such as revenue sharing and the luxury tax. It would be quite impressive if negotiators close the gap as quickly as they would have to in order to make a deal.

Photo: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports