Major League Baseball prepares for potential offseason lockout

Major League Baseball is preparing for a potential lockout as the current collective bargaining agreement is set to expire on December 1. MLB has issued a memo to teams outlining procedures and guidelines for personnel should a work stoppage occur, noting that clubs must be prepared for the possibility that an agreement is not reached.

A lockout would freeze offseason activities, including the Rule 5 draft, which is currently scheduled for mid-December. Similar to the 2021-22 lockout, a work stoppage would likely bar team personnel from interacting with players on 40-man rosters regarding professional matters. The league has clarified that minimal non-work relationships, such as attending weddings, may be maintained, but holiday gifts must be sent before December 2.

Despite the looming labor uncertainty, the off-season calendar will initially proceed under existing rules following the World Series. This includes the filing of free agency and the ability for teams to initiate contact with players, though formal signings remain prohibited until a new agreement is reached. Teams like the Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly preparing for multiple outcomes to manage the potential disruption to their winter business.