There's some informal discussions among staff going on and a bunch of research being done by both sides. I don't think it will be too long before we start. I'm not really sure we'll have some sort of a formal opening like the auto workers with a big picture. We're still quite a ways from contract expiration. |
This agreement reaffirms that major league players are committed to the elimination of performance-enhancing substances and that the system of collective bargaining is responsive and effective in dealing with issues of this type. |
We always thought it was out of line. Were we surprised? No. |
We are grateful for the cooperation of the Departments of State and Treasury. The license we have been given opens the way for the Cuban Baseball Federation's participation, along with other federations from around the world, in the inaugural Baseball Classic, and we now look forward with even greater anticipation to the opening of the tournament in early March. |
We believe very strongly that the purpose of penalties ought to be to deter, not to punish for its own sake. |
We believe we've made strides. The process is working, and we're prepared to do a lot more. |
We discussed it so much with the players that there is no need for it. The executive board has the authority, anyway. |
We have some track record of working things out ... |
We never talk about specifics of internal meetings. We have an agreement coming up and we talk about issues relevant to preparation for that. We keep our internal meetings confidential. |
We share your concern about the criticism our program has received, and, in response, the players have demonstrated, several times now, their willingness to take all reasonable measures in response. |
We were able to get it done the last time, but having said that, I am so far out of the prediction business and have been for 10 or 12 years that I don't want to suggest I know things that other people don't because I just don't. |
When a reliable, valid urine test is available, we will adopt it immediately. If another type of test becomes available, we will take a hard look at it. |