Sources: MLB plan would ban preps from draft, slash bonuses
Major League Baseball has proposed a sweeping overhaul of its amateur-entry system that would eliminate high school players from the domestic draft and reduce annual signing bonuses by more than $150 million, according to sources. The proposal, presented during a collective bargaining meeting with the MLB Players Association, seeks to shift the professional pipeline toward college-aged talent while instituting a new international draft.
How would the new MLB amateur draft system work?
The league proposes shortening the domestic draft from 20 rounds to 12 hard-slotted rounds. This change would nearly halve the amateur signing bonus pool to $200 million, sources told ESPN.
A new international draft would cover amateur players outside the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. This system would also feature 12 rounds and a $200 million bonus pool, with a first draft potentially occurring in late 2027 or early 2028.
Why is the MLB Players Association opposing the plan?
The MLBPA claims the proposals “fall woefully short” and would cost players $1 billion over the next five years. This includes a projected loss of $400 million between this year and 2027 compared to the current system.
In a statement, the union described the moves as “flat out bad for baseball,” arguing the changes would cripple the next generation of players and damage the sport’s future.
What is the league’s justification for these changes?
MLB stated the proposal responds to the “remarkable transformation” of college baseball, citing expanded scholarships, NIL opportunities, and improved facilities. The league argues that a system centered on college-aged players allows them to reach the majors more quickly after benefiting from an elite development environment.
ACC commissioner Jim Phillips supported the league’s view. Phillips stated that increased scholarships and revenue sharing are creating more opportunities for student-athletes to develop before turning professional.
What other restrictions are included in the proposal?
The plan includes a $10,000 maximum signing bonus for undrafted players. Domestic players could receive a $30,000 bonus if teams wish to remove them from Rule 5 draft eligibility after their second season.
Other proposed changes include reducing the draft lottery from six picks to four and eliminating competitive-balance picks. Additionally, teams could trade all draft picks, but only for the following draft, with a ban on dealing back-to-back first-round choices.
What happens next in the bargaining process?
The current collective bargaining agreement expires on Dec. 1. Because players are already vehemently opposed to a previously proposed salary cap, these amateur-entry changes may increase tensions during high-stakes negotiations.
The outcome of these talks will determine if the domestic draft is shortened and if the international draft is implemented by 2027 or 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proposed minimum age for domestic players to enter the draft?
The proposal sets a minimum draft age of 20 for domestic players.
How much would the domestic signing bonus pool be reduced?
The pool would be nearly halved to $200 million, contributing to an annual cut of more than $150 million in signing bonuses.
Which regions would the proposed international draft cover?
The international draft would cover all amateur players outside of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
Do you think raising the minimum draft age to 20 will improve the quality of play in the major leagues?