MLB ratifies new CBA for Minor League players

Major League Baseball’s owners voted unanimously to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement with Minor League players on Monday, a move that will not only increase salaries, but also improve lifestyle and medical care for Minor Leaguers.

Minor League players voted to approve the new five-year CBA – the first of its kind for the Minors – last week.

“When Minor League players formally declared their intention to unionize last September, MLB opted to immediately and voluntarily recognize the players’ rights to unionize and began negotiations on a first collective bargaining agreement,” MLB said in a statement. “Meeting throughout the offseason, we made tremendous progress over a short period of time and are pleased to have reached a five-year agreement with the players.

“This agreement builds upon the significant effort MLB undertook four years ago to modernize baseball’s player development system, including increased salaries, free housing, improved facilities, better clubhouse conditions, and reduced in-season travel with better geographical alignment. We look forward to a great season.”

MLB voluntarily recognized the MLBPA as bargaining representatives for the players.

Based on the new CBA, players will earn salaries in the following ranges on their first contract:

Triple A: $36,000-$42,000
Double A: $30,000-$37,000
High A: $27,000-34,000
Single A: $26,000-$33,000
Rookie: $20,000-$29,000

The high and low of the ranges will be based on the number of weeks players spend at their team’s offseason complex.