Business of Sports · MLB
MLB Proposes Salary Cap and Floor for 2028; Players Union Objects
The latest bargaining offer proposes a $258.2 million cap and $180.2 million floor in 2028, with the players union opposing the framework.
Major League Baseball proposed introducing a salary cap and floor in 2028 during collective bargaining talks Tuesday, November 3, while the players union said delaying the change did not resolve its objections.
The league’s latest offer sets a proposed 2028 cap of $258.2 million and floor of $180.2 million, MLB.com reported. Those figures would govern payroll calculations that include player benefits. They are bargaining proposals, rather than agreed rules or limits already applying to clubs.
MLB spokesman Glen Caplin said clubs needed a full offseason to prepare. Under the offer, the current revenue-sharing arrangement and competitive balance tax would continue in 2027 before a proposed transition the following year.
The MLB Players Association’s November 3 statement opposed the framework, arguing that it would reduce compensation and restrict contract rights. The union also objected to provisions it said would affect amateur signing bonuses and existing competitive advantages for smaller-market clubs.
The league said other proposed changes, including earlier access to free agency for qualifying players and increases in minimum compensation, could begin in 2027. The sides’ differing descriptions of the package remain negotiating positions; Tuesday’s session did not produce an announced collective bargaining agreement.
