Report: MLB active rosters to expand to 26 in 2020

Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association are reportedly nearing an agreement to expand active rosters by one to 26 players in 2020.

The deal includes a commitment to discuss larger economic issues after Opening Day, according to a report Tuesday from The Associated Press based on anonymous sources familiar with the negotiations.

In addition, September’s expanded rosters would be lowered from the current 40 players to 28, also starting in 2020. The reason for the reduction is to help speed up the pace of September games by limiting long parades of relief pitchers.

According to the report, other highlights of the MLB/MLBPA agreement would include:

–A maximum of 13 pitchers on the roster for most of the season, expanding to 14 after Sept. 1.

–Increasing the regular injured list minimum for pitchers from 10 to 15 days starting in 2020.

–Starting extra innings of the All-Star Game with a runner on second base.

–Giving MLB the right to shorten breaks between innings.

–MLB agrees not to pursue a pitch clock through the 2021 season.

–The 26-player limit would also apply to the postseason.

Baseball’s current collective bargaining agreement is due to expire on Dec. 1, 2021.

–Field Level Media