Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred called for a salary cap and floor in the next collective bargaining agreement during annual Q&A sessions Tuesday in Philadelphia ahead of the All-Star Game.
Manfred and MLB Players Association executive director Bruce Meyer addressed the Baseball Writers’ Association of America on Tuesday. Manfred said a cap and floor would help fans in smaller markets believe their teams have a chance to win.
The league’s initial proposal sets a cap at $245.3 million and a floor at $171.2 million. Manfred noted the $441 million gap between top and bottom payrolls and argued that other major sports with caps show better competitive balance.
Meyer countered that baseball already has stronger competitive balance than capped leagues, pointing to recent success by teams such as the Brewers, Rays and Guardians. He called the owners’ messaging about a lack of hope for fans perverse.
Bargaining began in late May and the current agreement expires Dec. 1. Manfred expressed optimism that the sides can reach a deal.
