By Sam Bush
MLB made it official last night:
“Spring Training camps will be suspended, effective immediately. Major League players can elect to return home, remain in their Spring Training cities, or return to their Club’s home city. This step is in the best interests of players, employees and the communities who host Spring Training. MLB will continue to monitor ongoing events and undertake the precautions and best practices recommended by public health experts. We send our best wishes to all the individuals and communities who have been impacted by coronavirus.”
It is unclear how many Phillies might remain in Clearwater, but an expected meeting today should provide more clarity. While other teams are still trying to work out who stays and who leaves, the Yankees voted unanimously to remain in Tampa and continue to train.
“Look, this is something that I think we’ll remember for the rest of our lives,” Rhys Hoskins said Thursday. “It’s something that’s kind of stopping the world as we know it. … We’re kind of in unchartered territory. I think health and safety have to come first and foremost. We’ve kind of seen that around the rest of the sports industry and throughout really every other sector throughout the world, too.”
“We greatly appreciate our fans’ patience and understanding during this unprecedented situation,” the Phillies said in a statement. “The safety of our fans, organization, city and nation are the utmost importance and #1 priority. We are coordinating with Major League Baseball and government officials on next steps. Please continue to follow @phillies for the latest updates and developments.”
