As the MLB continues to discuss plans for a potential return to play, what would the latest idea look like for the KC Royals?
It seems that with each passing day, we become more and more optimistic that the 2020 MLB season will actually occur. Despite the developments in the COVID-19 pandemic taking a toll on youth sports and many professional leagues, MLB is hopeful that games will begin this summer. If there isn’t a season, things should be back to normal by the time spring training rolls around next February.
Thinking positively, though, let’s assume one of the league’s many discussions turns into a solidified plan. Per USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, 100-or-so games could still be played in a season beginning either at the end of June or the beginning of July. No fans would be present, but a baseball season is a baseball season nonetheless. The only catch: Teams would be split into three divisions, separated by geographic region.
The usual divisional opponents (Indians, Tigers, Twins, White Sox) will still be in place. On top of that, the Royals would be squaring off against the Braves, Brewers, Cardinals, Cubs and Reds. Fans would get to see former friends of the team Mike Moustakas and Lorenzo Cain far more often under this layout. I don’t think many Royals fans would object. Nightengale added the following:
"“The plan, pending approval of medical experts and providing that COVID-19 testing is available to the public, would eliminate the need for players to be in isolation and allow them to still play at their home ballparks while severely reducing travel.”"
Every time a report of a discussion like this one surfaces, things slowly get more logical. The latest development — the potential three-region setup — is the closest thing to a practical plan there’s been to this point. Before we know it, something will (hopefully) get passed and we’ll have baseball back on our televisions.
Until then, keep faith that the league is close to a solution. Maybe the KC Royals’ all-important 2020 season will still take place!