MLB proposes roster and offseason changes to the Players’ Association

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Aug 31, 2026

MLB proposes roster and offseason changes to the Players’ Association
Summary

Major League Baseball submitted a new round of collective bargaining agreement proposals to the Players’ Association focused on roster stability. The league’s plan includes shortening the offseason to a three-week period in December, implementing weekly rosters, and reducing the number of times a player can be optioned to the minor leagues from five to four. These measures aim to decrease roster churn throughout the season and create a condensed free-agent window similar to other professional leagues. While the league suggests these changes will help fans track players and accelerate the offseason, the proposal remains tied to salary cap discussions. The league’s timeline includes maintaining the current five-day window after the World Series for contract options and qualifying offers, with free agency beginning during the Winter Meetings on December 21.

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By the Numbers
  • MLB proposed limiting offseason transactions to a three-week window in December.
  • The plan seeks to reduce player options to the minors from five to four.
  • Weekly roster updates are included in the league's stability proposal.
  • Proposed free agency would open on December 21 following the Winter Meetings.
  • The new proposals are tied to ongoing salary cap discussions between the league and players.
Latest Updates
  • 5:00 PMYahoo SportsOn MLB’s most recent CBA proposals
What they're saying
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Somehow, MLB’s latest CBA proposal has the seeds of a good idea.

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