Heyman: 'No Evidence of Progress' Between MLB, Players on Plan to Resume Season

Major League Baseball and its players association reportedly remain far apart as they try to come to an agreement to restart the 2020 season.

According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, there is "no evidence of progress" between the two sides, making it unlikely they reach a deal before Monday's "soft" deadline. 

Heyman predicted they would need to secure an agreement by June 5-9 in order for the regular season to begin on July 4 weekend.

MLB owners had previously approved a proposal for an 82-game season beginning in early July, but players haven't agreed to salary concessions in the proposed deal.

There is also disagreement about the length of the season, as Heyman detailed:

Players had already agreed to prorated salaries for a shortened season in March, but owners are now asking for further reductions, especially with the highest-paid players:

Agent Scott Boras has advised players, including his 71 clients, to refuse the salary reductions and hold out for a better deal, per an email obtained by Ronald Blum of the Associated Press.

Owners are attempting to overcome losses that would occur if no fans are in attendance during games. According to Mike Axisa of CBS Sports, the proposed salary changes would create about $1.5 billion in total salary costs compared to $4.25 of a full 162-game season.

The 2020 regular season was scheduled to begin in March but play was suspended during spring training because of the coronavirus.