The possibility of a postseason bubble for Major League Baseball appears to be progressing.
There are ongoing discussions to play the postseason at “controlled sites,” Ken Rosenthal of the Athletic reported Wednesday. Among the possibilities being considered would be for the American League to play in southern California and the National League to play in Texas.
The World Series would possibly be played at Globe Life Park in Arlington -- the Texas Rangers’ new ballpark.
The discussions aren't close to final and would be subject to ownership approval, Rosenthal noted, and other regions aren't out of the question, although southern California boasts three stadiums while Texas has two – making them ideal fits.
MLB has had a difficult time containing COVID-19 outbreaks compared to the NBA and NHL – both of which continue to produce zero positive test results in the bubble format.
The league reportedly began discussing the possibility of a postseason bubble earlier in August, but there are still plenty of logistics that remain to be sorted out, such as whether players would have to quarantine for two weeks before the postseason begins – something that could be an issue in a sport dedicated to continuity and playing every day.
Yet, the league also can't afford to have an outbreak in the playoffs similar to what the Marlins and Cardinals experienced early in this regular season.
MLB initially expressed interest in having a bubble for the regular season in Arizona, where spring training sites would host games, but players resisted because they didn't want to spend a significant time away from their families.
The postseason would be about a month long, and it represents a significant chunk of money to be made via TV revenue, which may make it more palatable for players.
Some players, such as Yankees star Aaron Judge, have already come out against the idea of playing in the bubble, but Judge’s reasoning was the he didn't want to give up any kind of home-field advantage – which is marginal this season due to the absence of fans.
On the other hand, Cubs outfielder Ian Happ told 670 The Score in Chicago that he believes it is “very likely” a bubble will be created for the postseason.
How the majority of players feel remains to be seen, but despite Judge’s reservations, a bubble or hub cities have proved to work in other sports and may be MLB’s best chance at completing the 2020 season.
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