MLB and the MLB Players Association have reached a tentative agreement to expand rosters from 26 to 28 players through May 1 to compensate in some way for a 3 1/2-week spring training, according to the New York Post’s Joel Sherman.
Both parties also agreed to a ‘Shohei Ohtani rule,’ which stipulates that if the starting pitcher is also hitting in the lineup, then that player remains as the DH even if he is pulled from the start.
This rule will remain until the expiration of the new collective bargaining agreement.
Other changes include the removal of seven-inning double-headers, meaning a return to nine innings for both games.
MLB’s opening day is scheduled for April 7. The Toronto Blue Jays kick off their 2022 season on April 8 at home against the Texas Rangers. Live coverage of the Blue Jays’ opener starts at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT on Sportsnet.
