Major League Baseball (MLB) is on a collision course with another labor dispute, as the expiration of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) on December 1, 2026 is expected to trigger a lockout by team owners. The MLB Players Association (MLBPA), led by Executive Director Tony Clark, has already warned of a potential work stoppage, citing major unresolved issues between players and owners.

History Repeating Itself?

The last CBA negotiation in 2021 resulted in a three-month lockout, delaying the season and frustrating both players and fans. Now, with economic disputes intensifying, the chances of a lengthy labor shutdown seem higher than ever. At the core of the conflict is the ongoing battle over team spending, salary structure, and competitive balance.

The Salary Cap Battle

One of the most contentious issues is the push by some owners for a salary cap. With teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers spending aggressively, smaller-market teams fear that the game is becoming unbalanced, resembling European soccer, where a handful of wealthy clubs dominate. Owners argue that a salary cap would level the playing field and prevent teams from outspending their competition by hundreds of millions.

However, the MLBPA has long opposed a salary cap, viewing it as a restriction on players’ earning potential. Instead, Clark has hinted that the union might consider a salary floor, which would require every team to invest a minimum amount in player payroll—a move that could prevent teams from intentionally cutting costs at the expense of competitiveness.

A Disastrous Outcome for Baseball?

If a lockout occurs in 2026, baseball could once again face delayed seasons, lost revenue, and further damage to its fanbase. After recovering from the last work stoppage, MLB cannot afford another prolonged dispute, especially as attendance numbers and TV ratings continue to fluctuate.

Unless players and owners find common ground before 2026, the league will face yet another labor disaster—one that could jeopardize the future of America’s pastime. The clock is ticking, and both sides must act before it’s too late.