Daytona Beach, FL - As the global COVID-19 pandemic continues, Minor League Baseball announces that it will officially cancel its 2020 season.
Yesterday (June 30th), the organization made the announcement after receiving the news that its parent body, Major League Baseball, will not provide players for the 2020 season.
"These are unprecedented times for our country and our organization as this is the first time in our history that we've had a summer without Minor League Baseball played," said Minor League Baseball President & CEO Pat O'Conner in that release. "While this is a sad day for many, this announcement removes the uncertainty surrounding the 2020 season and allows our teams to begin planning for an exciting 2021 season of affordable family entertainment."
There is also an unfortunate irony behind the 2020 season cancellation, as it already came close to not happening in the first place.
Months ago, a proposal from the MLB created an uncertain future for the MiLB after it revealed plans to axe about 42 teams from the minor league roster in 2020.
Legislators, a number of city governments and a countless number of fans around the nation then rallied behind their local teams and began the fight to keep their clubs.
Now, even with the hopes of a 2020 season in the rearview mirror, teams like the Daytona Tortugas are looking forward to 2021, when they hope to host a season. The club announced on their Facebook page Tuesday that they are optimistic of a 2021 return
"We cannot thank you enough for your patience and support, and we cannot wait to see you at The Jack soon," said the team in their announcement.
News Daytona Beach reached out to the team's management for comment following the MiLB's announcement. They have yet to respond.
