Why Monday’s lockout deadline is important for MLB, players in discussions

On Monday, MLB and representatives of the player’s union will meet in a last-ditch attempt to beat a key deadline in the lockout: Missing regular-season games.

Here’s a closer look at what the discussions on Monday will mean and what fans should expect going into the day.

Why is Monday a deadline?

Because MLB decided it was. The league told players that if a deal is not reached by Monday, it will begin canceling games starting with Opening Day and the first week of the season. Notably, however, there is not a time of day when the teams and players are required to stop talking. If the two sides are close to a deal, or if they have positive momentum, they can keep conversations open indefinitely.

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