Chicago Cubs: How many opt-outs is too many for MLB?

The Chicago Cubs and MLB are headed down a road less traveled. How many opt-outs are too many? Five percent?

The Chicago Cubs‘ Jed Hoyer said two staffers had the coronavirus previously. Several others have tested positive for COVID-19 through Major League Baseball. Although with HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), some players waive their right to be identified or discussed. So the question is, how many opt-outs is too much?

It’s a vague question for a league that’s set on making money. They won’t have fans in the stands. But people watching through phones, computers and television? There you go. Almost $60 for the league. If you want to watch a single team? $50. Do the math. And the monthly is $24.99–that’s what gets you. God blessed. I’m one of those few. Not anymore. I do the Cubs. Highlights are good for me.

Now, the players that have tested for the COVID-19 virus are asymptomatic–or not showing any signs of being sick. Others have had ‘mild cold symptoms.’ But they’re in quarantine for 14 days. So 13 players and 11 MLB umpires have opted out. That’s a small few with everything involved. But believe me. As the season grinds on, and there’s a discussion with the COVID-19 virus? Many other players will opt-out.

Also, the rooftops across from Wrigley Field. The price? $400, or more. Unreal. Never have I heard of them since the playoffs or the World Series for that price. But for experiencing baseball in its purest form? You’ve got to pay up.

So what’s that mean? The players represent the lowest on the totem pole. Now the umpires? Roughly 12 percent of them have opted-out. And the ‘high-risk’ players, or players with a family that are high-risk?

Do you think that Mike Trout will harm his unborn child? Nope. Not at all. He hasn’t said it yet–but he’s opting-out. And they’ll be a few of them with high-risk that will opt-out, as well.

So to Rob Manfred, the likelihood of canceling the season is not likely. It doesn’t mean that he shouldn’t do it.