Major League Baseball (MLB) is experiencing significant success, but a potential work stoppage looms as the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between MLB and the MLB Players Association (MLBPA) approaches expiration. World Series champion John Smoltz emphasizes the sport cannot risk a halt in operations.
At the end of this season, the CBA will expire, leading to a period of challenging negotiations throughout the winter. Smoltz believes this confrontation has been on the horizon and stresses the importance of resolving the issues to prevent baseball from suffering.
“We know that if they don’t get this worked out, baseball will suffer. They cannot afford to have a stoppage with all the good that has been done and all the great games that have been played lately,” Smoltz told Fox News Digital.
MLB aims to enforce a salary cap, but the MLBPA strongly opposes it. Smoltz acknowledges there is a disparity in competitive balance within the league. He refers to how teams like the Dodgers and Mets spend significant amounts, yet no guarantees exist for a championship win.
The Dodgers’ consecutive World Series victories in 2024 and 2025 marked the first repeat since the Yankees’ three-year victory streak from 1998 to 2000. Smoltz questions whether a new system could truly resolve current issues.
“There’s a competition issue in baseball and disparity that’s bigger than ever. I think a lot of it’s been on purpose to reach this point,” Smoltz remarked.
Smoltz further critiques the idea of a single system solving disparities in baseball. He questions the practicality of imposing limits in a free market dominated by MLB’s unique structures.
He notes a shift towards younger players, with a small percentage earning most of the income. Veteran players find their careers cut short. Smoltz comments on how salary caps in other sports have not necessarily resulted in more competitive environments.
“If you look at every other sport and salary caps, you can argue they haven’t created a competitive environment for most teams,” Smoltz said.
In late May, MLB and the MLBPA exchanged proposals. The initial offer by the MLBPA faced a counterproposal from MLB, suggesting a salary cap and floor, but no new proposals have since emerged.
Last month, MLB announced that viewership for exclusive national games increased by 44% compared to the previous season, marking the best in nine years. With this momentum, Smoltz hopes for a resolution between MLB and MLBPA to maintain the sport’s progression.
John Smoltz, an eight-time All-Star, played 21 seasons primarily for the Atlanta Braves, finishing with the Cardinals and Red Sox. He recorded a career 213-155 record, a 3.33 ERA, and 154 saves, transitioning briefly to a reliever role.
Smoltz will compete in the American Century Championship at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe from July 10-12, broadcast on NBC and Peacock.