Toronto Blue Jays: Concerns still present despite new MLB deal
After agreeing to a deal to get the 2020 season started, there are concerns that still remain especially for the Toronto Blue Jays.
Given how the past month has gone, seeing the announcement of a 2020 MLB season is certainly a step in the right direction. But before you get excited about Toronto Blue Jays baseball returning, there are still some concerns that need to be addressed.
While I hate to burst the bubble on what should be a happy occasion for baseball fans, this wasn’t exactly a smooth road and it won’t get any easier. In order to get the season underway, players have to report by July 1 to each team’s spring training location and for some that is easier said than done.
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For the Blue Jays, the facility in Dunedin was shut down after a player showed symptoms for COVID-19. As Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith reports, the team doesn’t see Rogers Centre as an option to hold spring training because of the 14-day quarantine, which means Dunedin is the likely destination.
Not only that, but the Blue Jays won’t be getting a favourable schedule with 40 of the proposed 60 games being played within the AL East. That means playing 10 games against the Yankees, Red Sox, Rays and Orioles.
Also, since the season is shortened the MLB trade deadline is expected to be held on Aug. 31. This means if the Blue Jays plan to be sellers, they won’t have a lot of time to consider who they want to part with or if they intend on competing.
It might be too early to be concerned about what the players will be trying to get back as compensation for having Rob Manfred impose a season after the league and union couldn’t reach a deal. While the issues have been pushed aside, you can’t help but be worried about what comes next.
For now, be happy that baseball will back on even without fans in the stands, because it’s better than hearing about the labour unrest for a change.
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What are your thoughts on baseball returning? What are your expectations for the Blue Jays? Let us know in the comments below.