MLB discusses using ‘bubble’ format for playoffs after coronavirus outbreaks: report

MLB officials are reportedly considering creating a “bubble” akin to the one used by the NBA and the NHL for its playoffs to prevent further coronavirus outbreaks.

A fully contained, single-location bubble would likely be logistically difficult for MLB, but officials are considering a version of the format incorporating several cities like the NHL, sources told ESPN.

The presence of 16 teams in the playoffs would require at least three city hubs for the wild-card round, while the league championship series and World Series could both be limited to one or two venues, according to the network. The plan would allow for the teams to avoid traveling by plane and possibly allow all players to stay in a single hotel throughout the postseason.

Several possible areas are under discussion as potential hubs due to the wide availability of local stadiums, according to ESPN. They include Southern California, the New York area and the greater Chicago area. Officials are leaning toward the Los Angeles area due to colder weather in mid-autumn in the other locations.

The league considered a season-long bubble earlier in April but eventually abandoned the idea due to player objections and logistical concerns. However, since the late beginning of the season in July, there have been several confirmed cases on both the St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins.

The teams have conceded that disregard for health protocols led to spread of the virus.

Under early discussions for a bubble format, the National League Division Series could play two games a day at Dodger Stadium, while the American League could do the same at Angel Stadium. The leagues could either play their respective championship series at the same sites or at a single stadium. The World Series could also be held at both or one of the sites.

The tentative plans could likely face their own logistical issues, including the question of playing three games in a day at one location.

“If we want to make sure we get through October, we really need to get this right,” one official told ESPN.