Introduction to MLB Playing a Full Season in 2022
Major League Baseball (MLB) is the world’s oldest professional sports league. It is the premier baseball league in the United States and Canada, boasting some of the most popular teams and players in the world. The MLB season typically runs from April to October, with the World Series taking place in late October.
However, the 2020 MLB season was anything but normal. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the MLB season was postponed and eventually shortened to just 60 games. This was done to limit the spread of the virus and to keep players, coaches, and fans safe.
Now, as the pandemic continues to subside, the MLB is looking forward to the 2021 season and beyond. Many are wondering if the MLB will be able to play a full season in 2022, or if the shortened season will become the new norm.
Factors Impacting MLB Playing a Full Season in 2022
Whether or not the MLB plays a full season in 2022 will depend on many factors. Here are some of the most important ones:
COVID-19 Vaccine
The ability to play a full season in 2022 will depend largely on the availability of a COVID-19 vaccine. If a safe and effective vaccine is available, it could help reduce the spread of the virus and allow the MLB to return to normal operations.
Safety Protocols
Even with a vaccine, safety protocols will still need to be in place to protect players, coaches, and fans. This could include social distancing, masks, limited capacity stadiums, and other measures.
COVID-19 Cases
The MLB will need to consider the rate of COVID-19 cases when determining whether or not to play a full season in 2022. If the rate of cases continues to rise, the MLB may opt to play a shortened season again.
Attendance
Another factor that could impact the MLB’s decision to play a full season in 2022 is attendance. Low attendance could lead to financial losses, which could make it difficult to maintain a full season.
Travel Restrictions
The MLB will also need to consider any travel restrictions that may be in place. International travel could be difficult, which could mean that teams may have to play in their own region or local area.
Pros of MLB Playing a Full Season in 2022
There are many benefits to the MLB playing a full season in 2022. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Normalcy
The biggest benefit of the MLB playing a full season in 2022 is the return to normalcy. The shortened season was a necessary response to the pandemic, but it was not ideal for the players, coaches, and fans. A full season would restore the sense of normalcy that the MLB has been missing.
Economic Benefits
A full season would also bring economic benefits to the MLB, its teams, and its cities. The MLB stands to make more money from ticket sales, merchandise, and concessions. This could help stimulate the local economy and boost employment.
Player Development
A full season would also provide players with more time to develop their skills. The shortened season put players at a disadvantage, as they had less time to practice and hone their craft. A full season would give them the opportunity to further their development as players.
Competition
A full season also provides more opportunities for competition. The shortened season limited the amount of games between teams, which made it difficult for some teams to establish a true rivalry. A full season would provide more chances for teams to battle it out and create lasting rivalries.
Cons of MLB Playing a Full Season in 2022
Despite the benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to the MLB playing a full season in 2022. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Health Risk
The biggest concern is the potential health risk of playing a full season. Even with a vaccine, there is still the possibility of players, coaches, and fans getting infected with the virus. This could lead to more positive tests, more game cancellations, and more financial losses for the MLB and its teams.
Fatigue
Playing a full season could also lead to fatigue for players and coaches. There is a risk that players may become overworked and injured, which could lead to more missed games and fewer wins for teams.
Cost
Playing a full season could also be costly for the MLB and its teams. The shortened season allowed teams to save money on travel expenses, but a full season would require more money for flights, hotels, and other costs.
Conclusion
Whether or not the MLB plays a full season in 2022 is yet to be seen. It will depend on many factors, such as the availability of a vaccine, safety protocols, COVID-19 cases, attendance, and travel restrictions.
On one hand, there are many benefits to the MLB playing a full season in 2022, such as the return to normalcy, economic benefits, player development, and increased competition. On the other hand, there are potential drawbacks, such as an increased health risk, fatigue, and costs.
Ultimately, it will be up to the MLB to decide whether or not to play a full season in 2022. Regardless of their decision, it is clear that the pandemic has had a significant impact on the league and that it will take time for the MLB to get back to normal.
Keywords: Major League Baseball (MLB), COVID-19 vaccine, safety protocols, COVID-19 cases, attendance, travel restrictions, normalcy, economic benefits, player development, increased competition, health risk, fatigue, costs.