2020 Minor League Baseball season shelved

Statement from Pacific Coast League President Branch Rickey

“Today is a momentous day. The first season cancellation in the 118-year history of the Pacific Coast League. But there is some good to be gleaned from what is obviously an overall very disappointing announcement.

“The good that comes to my mind, immediately, is what a vivid jolt this becomes in reminding us how much we treasure our game, how much we want this season to be played, how badly we would like to be out at our favorite ballpark, and why we are going to so badly miss not having this season. It warms the heart to instantly bask in the nostalgia of what we love and reflect on how much baseball is a part of our family life.

“At its core, baseball is America, and baseball is all of us. For generations, our game has been part of our society’s rich tapestry, interwoven in times good and bad, prosperous and challenging, joyful and reflective. For the first time since its founding in 1903, a pitch will not be thrown in the PCL this year. The stadium lights may have dimmed on this season before a batter had stepped into the box, but that also means they will shine brighter when next illuminated – as will our communities.

“The PCL joins all of our fans in aiming for a 2021 that will begin to make up for everything being missed now and in the coming baseball months.”

Minor League Baseball Announcement

Major League Baseball™ (MLB™) has informed Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) that it will not be providing its affiliated Minor League teams with players for the 2020 season. As a result, there will not be a Minor League Baseball season in 2020.

"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. "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."

Minor League Baseball, which began as the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues, was founded on Sept. 5, 1901.