Players seeking more clarity in MLB's safety plan

*Photo from Bleacher Report*

   Major League Baseball made more steps towards a return when they sent a 67 page safety proposal to the MLBPA for when play begins over the weekend. After reviewing and talking about the document for a few days, players are seeking clarity on a certain few details of the plan, and potentially loosen some restrictions. Several guidelines were presented for the play of the 2020 season, including regular COVID-19 testing, a ban on spitting, and frequent replacing of baseballs.

   St.Louis Cardinals infielder Paul Dejong said of the plan that The daily testing, I'm a fan of, to quickly determine our status every day, but given that, I'd like to see the freedom operating in the clubhouse and on the field." One player, on condition of anonymity, said that "If we all test negative, why do we have to use separate baseballs?" 

   Infectious disease expert Jessica Metcalf said that negative tests aren't always accurate. "Somebody could still be infected, even if everyone has tested negative, one infected person could result in many new cases. There have been many 'super-spreading events' associated with this infection to date." 

   The MLB and the MLBPA are still in ongoing discussions regarding the 2020 season, so nothing is set in stone yet. Some players and officials remain skeptical about how MLB is going to enforce some guidelines, such as no spitting. However, it seems they are working towards an agreement.