Fans and players are fed up with Major League Baseball. Players have been in a lockout since early December, and their spring training was just delayed. MLB views February 28 as the last day they can negotiate without delaying opening day. Players and owners have agreed on some things about this next season, but what is still left on the table?

Let’s start with what has been agreed upon. Both sides have agreed upon a universal DH, draft lottery, and to the elimination of the buyer side of draft-pick compensation. There are no specifics on the draft lottery. And with the elimination of buyer side of draft-pick compensation, teams can sign players without losing draft picks. These are some positive changes for the game of baseball. A universal DH will bring more excitement  for viewers now that they don’t have to watch a pitcher strike out. The draft lottery will eliminate teams tanking for top picks. This forces owners to spend more money to be competitive. These are all good changes, but what still needs addressed?

MLB owners are known for trying to save as much money as possible. That’s why you see teams like the Pirates, Oriels, and Diamondbacks struggling to find their footing every season. The Major League Baseball Players’ Association (MLBPA) want to address the problem with arbitration and service time manipulation. Arbitration is used when a player is not eligible for free agency and cannot come to terms  on a contract with an organization before a set deadline. Organizations are then allowed to determine the salary for the player without discussion. Owners abuse this to save as much money as possible, forcing players into terrible salaries. Another thing that needs addressed is the living conditions and salaries of minor league players. If a player was not signed to a very big contract then they don’t really have wiggle room when it comes to what they are spending. Housing and the food provided are not very ideal. Owners will have to step up to provide.

As an outside source, it seems like MLB owners are killing their own game. They’ve taken advantage of players for years now, and MLBPA wants to change that. The glaring problems with MLB are going to have to be addressed for this lockout to end, and we may be close to that end.