(Audacy) As MLB and the players’ union remain stalled in labor negotiations, the league requested the immediate assistance of a federal mediator Thursday to help reach a resolution, according to ESPN reporter Jeff Passan.
Any request for federal mediation in collective bargaining talks would still have to be agreed to by the Players Association.
This isn't the first time MLB has sought federal mediators to help reach a resolution to a work stoppage.
Federal mediators were called upon during the 1994 strike, but it didn't save the season. The World Series was cancelled a month after they met, and a resolution wasn't reached for another seven months.
Eugene Freedman, a union lawyer and writer on baseball labor negotiations, explained the significance of federal mediators in a Twitter thread.
One player called it a "publicity stunt," Audacy Sports insider Bob Nightengale reported. Meanwhile, MLB won't respond with a counter-offer to the players following their last meeting Tuesday.
MLB owners have locked out the players since Dec. 2 after the two sides failed to reach a deal on a new collective bargaining agreement.
While both sides have met over the last few weeks, little progress has been made, and a delay to the start of spring training appears likely.
As long as the lockout continues, no free agents can sign, no trades can be made, players can't talk to team officials nor take part in team activities, including use of team facilities.
If the lockout persists into March, missing regular-season games could be on the table.
Opening Day is March 31.
LISTEN on the Audacy app
Sign up and follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram