Major League Baseball on Tuesday announced a $1 million fund to support Grapefruit (Florida) and Cactus (Arizona) League workers who have been affected by canceled Spring Training games. This initial fund, which will be administered by Clubs to individuals based on financial need, will be available to all part-time and seasonal workers, including (but not limited to) concessionaires, grounds crew, security, clubhouse and general ballpark and game operators. An additional fund will be created by MLB and Clubs for seasonal and part-time workers affected by missed Regular Season games with details to be announced at a future date.
Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred Jr. said: “We know that our sport is facing a challenging time as we work toward a new collective bargaining agreement. Regrettably, the people who make Spring Training a first-class experience for our fans have been affected through no fault of their own. As an institution, Major League Baseball and our Clubs remain committed to supporting our most vulnerable staff. We hope this fund will alleviate some of the financial concerns they have faced due to missed Grapefruit and Cactus League games this spring.”