BBWAA votes to remove restriction against MLB.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) The Baseball Writers' Association of America has voted to remove the provision in its bylaws barring employees of MLB.com from membership.

The decision was made by a 71-14 vote Tuesday at the organization's winter meeting session. The change will allow MLB.com employees to apply for membership to BBWAA chapters, which will make decisions on each individual.

MLB.com is operated by MLB Baseball Advanced Media, which is controlled by the 30 major league teams.

The BBWAA votes annually for MVP, Cy Young Award, Rookie of the Year and Manager of the Year, and veteran members vote for the Hall of Fame.