United States MLB owners propose ban on teen draftees
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Major League Baseball club owners have presented a sweeping labor proposal to the MLB Players Association that would bar teams from signing high school players, fundamentally changing the amateur talent pipeline. The proposal, discussed during ongoing collective bargaining ahead of the current CBA’s expiration in December 2026, would require draftees starting in 2028 to be at least 20 years old by September 1 of their signing year and at least two years removed from their high school graduation class. Junior college players would also need two years of school. Owners additionally propose shrinking the domestic amateur draft from 20 to 12 rounds beginning in 2027.
More context
Timeline
- 1965 Amateur draft introduced for MLB signings
- December 2026 Current MLB collective agreement expires
- Recently Owners present new draft restrictions proposal
- 2027 Domestic amateur draft reduced to 12 rounds
- 2028 New age requirement begins for draft eligibility
- 2028 High school players barred from professional contracts
- 2028 Junior college players must complete two years
Why it matters
This proposal could change the face of baseball. If you're a fan, it might affect the quality of play. If you're a parent of a young athlete, it could impact their career path. Keep an eye on the MLB Players Association's response.
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