MLB proposes limiting free agent signings to a few weeks in December and then from February on

NEW YORK — Major League Baseball proposed limiting free-agent signings to a several-week window in December and early February, contingent on players accepting a salary-cap system the union has vowed to reject. The plan, presented to the MLB Players Association on Aug. 27, would extend the offseason "quiet period" until the winter meetings, allow signings from the meetings' start through Dec. 21, and impose a complete ban on signings and trades from Dec. 21 until the first Monday in February. MLB also proposed weekly rosters, reducing minor-league options from five to four, and increasing pitcher limits to 14. MLBPA interim executive director Bruce Meyer immediately rejected the proposal, calling it "entirely unserious" and warning it would "eliminate player rights". MLB's salary-cap proposal, first made in May, includes a $245.3 million cap, a $171.2 million floor, and a 50-50 revenue split. The current collective bargaining agreement expires Dec. 1.