Red Sox Face December 1 Lockout Deadline as Offseason Begins

The World Series has ended, and the Red Sox’ offseason begins with a compressed schedule before MLB owners plan to lock out players on December 1. The current collective bargaining agreement expires that night, and the lockout would stop all baseball business until a new deal is reached. The dispute centers on owners’ push for a salary cap.

The general managers’ meetings are scheduled for November 9-12 in Las Vegas. Team officials typically use the gathering to discuss possible moves with other executives and agents. Boston’s lead baseball executive Craig Breslow is expected to address reporters several times during the week. Players must also decide by November 12 whether to accept qualifying offers.

Teams must submit reserve lists by 6 p.m. on November 17, adding eligible minor leaguers to their 40-man rosters to protect them from selection in the Rule 5 draft. Among Boston’s players who could be exposed are outfielder Braiden Ward, pitcher Blake Wehunt and infielder Mikey Romero. The draft’s timing is uncertain because of the impending lockout.

At 5 p.m. on November 20, teams must tender contracts to players under team control or allow them to become free agents. Boston has 17 arbitration-eligible players, including Jarren Duran, Triston Casas and Wilyer Abreu.

The owners’ meetings are set for November 17-19 in New York. The Winter Meetings, scheduled for December 7-9 in San Diego, are expected to be canceled if the lockout is underway.