USA Today reports MLB is examining a plan to start the season in late June with games played in each team’s home stadium, but without fans.
The plan allows for at least 100 regular season games, an expanded playoff format and a realignment to three 10-team divisions based on geography to minimize travel. Clubs would only play opponents inside their division. The Pirates would be in the East Division with the Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Nationals, Orioles, Phillies, Blue Jays, Rays, and Marlins. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said there are a variety of contingency ideas being considered.
The Pirates have become the first MLB team to suspend retirement contributions for baseball operations employees as a cost-cutting move to save jobs. General manager Ben Cherington confirmed the team temporarily suspended 401(k) contributions in an effort to preserve full salaries. The team also suspended fellowship and internship programs. Last week, the Bucs said they would pay full-time employees through May and they have cut salaries for their top executives.
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