No Fans Allowed

May 29, 2020

Baseball seemed to be on the cusp of returning. The owners proposed an 82 game regional schedule, starting July 4. The playoffs would increase to seven teams from each league, which was likely to be the plan in the future. There is also a plan in place for safety protocols, among them are bench players wearing masks and massive testing. No fans will be allowed for quite some time, probably not until next season. However, the problem that has plagued the league in the past leaves the season in doubt. It’s all about the money.

It sickens me that billionaire owners and millionaire players can’t get their acts together when millions of Americans are unemployed and families struggling trying to put food on the table. The blame should go to both parties. The owners can afford the losses that are sure to accrue. They did originally offer the players prorated contracts for games played. When it became evident fans, a major point in revenue, would not be allowed, they changed to a form of revenue sharing. The players are adamant in getting what they signed for. At this point negotiations have stalled. They must reach an agreement to start the season, knowing that when the pandemic is more under control things will return to normal. The return of baseball can be a morale booster and will bring a sense of normalcy this country desperately needs. Owners and players, WAKE UP!

It looks as if the NHL is ready to resume sometime in August. The good news for Hawk fans is they will be part of 24 teams vying for the Stanley Cup. It’s hard to believe there are teams worse than the Hawks that won’t be involved. However, don’t get too excited as the Hawks will probably be gone after their best of five match-up with the Edmonton Oilers. You can watch on TV.

Basketball is moving slower than other leagues. Facilities in Florida are open for players to work out. All games may shift to Florida or other areas that are bouncing back from the coronavirus. I haven’t heard of many plans to start up. I imagine the NBA will start with some playoff schedule. I have no idea when this will occur. There will be no fans allowed.

Football looks like it may be safe to open the season on time or be delayed by just a couple of weeks. The determination will be based on when they can start training camps. Then Bear fans can watch the competition between Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles for the starting quarterback position. Regardless of who wins the job, with Matt Nagy making the calls you’re looking at an 8-8 season.