Locked On MLB - Daily Podcast On Major League Baseball Back to the Bullpen: MLBPA Shakeup, Comeback players and More
Feb 19, 2026
They dig into why star players sat out the WBC and how contract insurance and guaranteed deals reshape international rosters. The conversation tackles the sudden MLBPA leadership shakeup and rising risks around CBA talks and a potential work stoppage. Houston’s rotation drama and Lance McCullers’ injury-plagued comeback bid get close attention. They also debate the new automatic ball-strike system and what it means for the sport.
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Contract Insurance Drives WBC Absences
- MLB teams increasingly insure player contracts rather than players themselves to protect guaranteed payroll.
- Mike Stanton explains insurance decisions kept Mike Trout, José Altuve, and Carlos Correa out of the WBC despite being healthy enough to play.
WBC Depth And Ticket Demand Persist
- High-profile withdrawals have depleted some national rosters but depth still exists for Team USA and others.
- Brett Chancey and Mike Stanton note ticket demand and prices remain sky-high despite star absences.
McCullers' Injury-Plagued Last Stand
- Mike Stanton recounts Lance McCullers Jr.'s career of elite spin but chronic arm issues and recent downcast interview.
- He suggests McCullers may face his last chance with the Astros as spring competition tightens.