Manfred Warns Cap Could Trigger MLB Strike

Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed serious concerns Wednesday that the owners' new salary cap proposal could trigger a work stoppage reminiscent of the 1994-95 strike that canceled the World Series. Owners believe the luxury tax system implemented in 2003 is no longer effectively addressing competitive balance issues, as evidenced by rising tax payments and more teams exceeding thresholds.

The commissioner, who was a junior lawyer on the owners' bargaining team during the 1994 negotiations, acknowledged the risks but argued that financial penalties haven't achieved competitive balance goals. Players have vowed to fight a cap indefinitely, and with the current collective bargaining agreement set to expire December 1, management may impose a lockout that would halt free-agent signings and trades. afsport.lat