MLB cancels remaining Spring Training games, delays opening of 2020 season amid covid-19 pandemic
Only two days after the MLB announced they’d be continuing with Spring Training games and the uninterrupted opening of the regular 2020 season in spite of the coronavirus epidemic, as of 4 p.m. today (March 12,) Major League Baseball reported suspending remaining Spring Training games and to delay the start of the 2020 regular season by at least two weeks due to the national emergency created by the coronavirus pandemic. This action is being taken in the interests of the safety and well-being of the players, Clubs and fans, according to Major League Baseball.
The MLB will announce the effects on the schedule when they can and will remain flexible as events warrant, with the hope of resuming normal operations as soon as possible.
Nothing is more important to us than the health and safety of our players, employees and fans. MLB will continue to undertake the precautions and best practices recommended by public health experts. We send our best wishes to all individuals and communities that have been impacted by coronavirus. ~ Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr.
Spokespersons for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Miami Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers and Baltimore Orioles all jumped on the bandwagon in support of the Commissioner’s decision. The Orioles went on to say that:
“The Orioles organization is fully supportive of Major League Baseball’s decision to suspend Spring Training games and to delay the start of the 2020 regular season by at least two weeks. The health and safety of our players, fans, staff, and partners will always be our top priority. We will communicate additional details, including information about refunds, directly to fans when they become available, as this is a rapidly-evolving situation. We encourage everyone to continue to follow the important guidelines established by the CDC and other public health organizations.”
(Source: MLB)
Posted by: Richard Webster, Ace News Today / Follow Richard on Facebook and Twitter