New MLB pandemic rules (they're hilariously unrealistic) [View all]

[Auggie]

NEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball will look somewhat like high school ball this year under protocols to deal with the new coronavirus, with showers at ballparks discouraged and players possibly arriving in uniform, like they did when they were teenagers.

Team personnel will be banned from eating at restaurants on road trips.

Even the Phillie Phantic and Mr. Met will be missing, banned from the field along with all other team mascots.

https://apnews.com/fa448199aebdc7993e0d742f4dc13a88

Highlights:

• Spitting is prohibited along with water jugs and the use of saunas, steam rooms, pools and cryotherapy chambers.

• Hitting in indoor cages is discouraged, batting gloves encouraged.

• Batting practice pitchers are to wear masks.

• Dugout telephones are to be disinfected after each use.

• Players may not touch their face to give signs, and they’re not allowed to lick their fingers.

• Teams are encouraged to hold meetings outdoors, players spread apart.

• Seats in the empty stands near the dugout should be used to maintain distance

• Next day’s starting pitcher can’t sit in the dugout.

• Everyone must keep their distance during “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America.”

• Fielders are “encouraged to retreat several steps away from the baserunner” between pitches.

• First and third base coaches are not to approach baserunners or umpires, and players should not socialize with opponents.

• Managers and coaches must wear masks while in the dugouts.

• The entire traveling party -- including players -- must wear personal protective equipment while on buses and flights.

• Restaurants are off limits on the road, including the ones in hotels, as are hotel fitness centers

• A ball will be thrown away after it is touched by multiple players, and throwing the ball around the infield will be discouraged.

• Personnel who rub baseballs with mud for the umpires must use gloves.

• Individuals must avoid any physical interactions (such as high-fives, fist bumps, or hugs) while at club facilities.

Road trip changes:

• Use of Uber, subways and public buses is banned.

• Private airports encouraged and if not available, teams are to use private aviation facilities to board and exit.

• Transportation Security Administration screen should take place at ballparks if it can be arranged.

• In-flight catering is limited.

• Lower floors are to be used if possible at hotels, so stairs can be used instead of elevators, and private areas arranged for entrances, exits and check-in.

• Six staggered bus trips will be scheduled to and from the ballpark.

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More at the link.

Good grief, the season is dead. Give it up already.