Cardinals' McGreevy Steps Up as Player Rep Amid MLBPA Shakeup
**JUPITER, Fla. ** - Michael McGreevy might be relatively new to the major leagues, but he's already taking on significant responsibilities with the St.
Louis Cardinals. Just days into his role as the team’s player representative to the MLB Players Association (MLBPA), McGreevy finds himself in the thick of pivotal union developments.
Union Leadership Changes
The MLBPA recently saw Bruce Meyer unanimously approved as interim executive director, following Tony Clark's resignation. Clark, who led the union since 2013, stepped down amid reports of an inappropriate relationship and financial improprieties. This leadership change comes at a crucial time, with collective bargaining sessions on the horizon and the current agreement expiring in November.
Potential Lockout Looming
Team owners are expected to push for a salary cap, potentially leading to a lockout. Whether this will disrupt the 2027 season remains uncertain, but the union's internal challenges could heighten the risk of lost games.
McGreevy's Unique Position
With the Cardinals navigating roster changes, McGreevy’s role becomes even more intriguing. Traditionally held by seasoned veterans, the player rep position fell to McGreevy after Miles Mikolas left in free agency. Despite his limited big league experience, McGreevy is eager to make an impact, drawing inspiration from his family's legal background.
“It’s always something I’ve wanted,” McGreevy shared. “My family’s in law, and I wanted to bring something to the dinner table. What a time to become a player rep, you know?”
Building Clubhouse Unity
McGreevy is not alone in his efforts. He's encouraged by the solidarity among his teammates, from newcomers to seasoned players like Dustin May and Ryne Stanek.
“It’s been very good with their involvement,” he noted. “Everybody’s on board, and we’re all pulling in the same direction.”
Facing Negotiation Challenges
As Meyer leads the union through upcoming negotiations, his reputation as a tough negotiator will be tested. Maintaining union solidarity will be crucial in determining the future of baseball’s economic landscape.
For McGreevy, balancing his role on the mound with his duties as a labor leader is a challenge he's ready to embrace. “Doing it within this clubhouse and getting more involved, it’s an everybody thing,” he emphasized. “Whether it’s the 40-man roster or the 60-plus guys we have, everybody knows what’s going on.”
In this pivotal moment for the MLBPA, McGreevy is stepping up, ready to contribute both on and off the field.