Los Angeles Angels: MLB closes clubhouses to media amid coronavirus concerns

Major League Baseball will close team clubhouses to media in reaction to novel coronavirus.

Amid concerns over the potential spread of the novel coronavirus, Major League Baseball announced they will close team clubhouses to the media. Players will be made available via press conferences and additional interviews will be granted outside of the locker room, but players are recommended to follow the CDC suggestion to keep 6 feet away from reporters, according to ESPN.

Major League Baseball still plans to play out the remaining Spring Training schedule and start the season on time. Obviously this is a very fluid situation, so it’s possible plans could change in the future. In fact, during a conference call to owners, the league brought up contingency plans, including the possibility of playing games in alternate locations in the event a particular market is forced to react to a larger outbreak, as reported by ESPN.

The Angels open the season in Houston on March 26. They return to California to play in the Freeway series beginning on March 22. Their home opener is set for April 3.

Angels players are aware of the challenges associated with the spreading virus, while also practical in their approach to the media and fans.

Angels newly-signed third baseman Anthony Rendon says he is hesitant and aware of the risk players face in signing autographs, while understanding it’s unlikely he gets sick. Players have to consider the safety of fans, as well as their family members. Mike Trout recently announced his wife’s pregnancy. Everyone has reason to be cautious.

"“We don’t want to get anybody ill, because we don’t want this place shut down for 14 days,” says manager Joe Maddon. “So, you gotta play by the rules.”"

For more information about COVID-19, visit the CDC’s website or the website for your state’s Department of Health.