MLBPA’s Tony Clark Braces for Labor Clash as CBA Nears 2026 Expiration

With Major League Baseball’s current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) set to run through December 2026, tension is already brewing between the league and its players, hinting at a potential work stoppage. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred recently stirred the pot by framing a lockout as “actually a positive” for the league—a comment that aligns with the owners’ interests he represents but strikes an odd chord for players and fans alike. The remark underscores a growing divide, and on Friday, MLB Players Association head Tony Clark signaled that the union is gearing up for a fight once the CBA expires, suggesting that labor peace may soon give way to another contentious showdown.
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Speaking to reporters after meeting with San Francisco Giants players at Scottsdale Stadium, Clark didn’t mince words about the looming conflict. “Unless I am mistaken, the league has come out and said there’s going to be a work stoppage,” he told Sportico and other outlets, adding that he wasn’t breaking new ground with the observation. While Manfred recently softened his stance, telling media earlier this month that he wouldn’t “speculate” on negotiations and owed it to fans to avoid early saber-rattling, the damage may already be done. Clark’s comments reflect a union steeling itself for battle, setting the stage for what could be a disruptive clash in late 2026.