Phillies closing spring training facility after positive coronavirus tests

The Philadelphia Phillies are closing their spring training facility in Clearwater, Florida, after five players and three staff members tested positive for the coronavirus.

The facility will remain closed until medical authorities are confident that the virus is under control, the team said in a statement Friday.

The first confirmed case occurred Tuesday. Eight staff members tested negative, while 20 players and 12 other staff members are awaiting test results.

The team declined to comment on the implication of the positive tests on the Phillies' upcoming season, saying it is too early to know.