Reports: MLB Labor Talks Improve, Deal May Be Near

A MLB labor deal may be struck as early as this week, sources tell ESPN.com. Negotiations in MLB labor talks had stalled, but appear to have taken “a step forward” the source says.

Some of the major points of contention include a hard slotting system for amateur draft picks and change in compensation for premier free agents. However, the players’ union and owners appear to have been exploring possible ways to form mutually agreeable solutions in order to expedite free agency.

The labor discussions have bearing on the current MLB free agency market, with potential changes coming that could have an impact on the upcoming season.

A leading MLB sports agent tells ESPN.com:

I think the (labor uncertainty) is definitely having an effect. I think some teams just want to know a deal is in place before they start spending significant money."