MLB Reportedly Makes Significant Minor League Decision
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It's still unclear when the 2022 season will begin, but the MLB has made a major decision regarding minor league players.
According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, a memo was sent out this morning that states minor league players will not be required to be vaccinated for the 2022 season.
Managers, coaches and on-field staff, however, must be "up to date" on COVID vaccinations in order to have in-person contact with players.
"Our expert consultants have advised that fully up-to-date vaccination of all on-field staff and others with close player contact provides a safer environment in which to prevent infection and transmission," a MLB spokesman told Passan. "Reasonable accommodations will be considered for staff members who receive an exemption to this requirement."
Unvaccinated staff members can get a shot before the start of minor league spring training, per Passan.
Staff members can avoid being vaccinated only if they have a "bona fide religious and medical exemption request."
Despite these rules for the 2022 season, the MLB does encourage vaccination among minor league players. As a result, it will have plenty of resources available for those who want to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
