Leaked MLB memo provides blueprint for owners’ behavior during lockout

As MLB fans enjoy October baseball and the forthcoming World Series, owners are already putting plans in place to deal with the pending lockout effective December 2.
The owners perhaps have learned from the last lockout in 2021-2022 how to do things better, or in some cases be more petty.
The Atlantic obtained a copy of a MLB memo that outlines how owners should behave and what to expect when the lockout occurs.
MORE: Big Papi, Tampa Bay Rays roast Yankees after ALDS loss
Weddings are allowed with conditions
Oct 7, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil riles up the team before game three between the Cleveland Guardians and the White Sox in the ALDS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)The two sides can co-mingle at offseason weddings; however, no one can talk about baseball or the lockout.
Presumably, the two parties are allowed to be photographed together at these events, but that detail was not divulged.
MORE: Brewers’ Garrett Mitchell robs Padres’ Manny Machado with all-time catch
Christmas cards after December 2 are forbidden
If owners and teams want to send players’ Christmas cards, they must be mailed before the lockout goes into effect on December 2.
This seems like a minute detail that someone thought was important, but in the scheme of things, seems like a silly and unnecessary rule.
MLB websites will remove players’ images
Player images will disappear from MLB websites on December 2 with one noteworthy exception. MLB stores will continue to be allowed to display and sell players’ jerseys on team websites.
None of these behaviors seem helpful in problem solving and getting the two sides to an agreement to avoid a delayed start to the 2027 MLB season. It seems like things are bound to get worse before they get better. Everyone needs to enjoy October baseball to its fullest because with these plans in place, it is unclear when we will see MLB baseball again in the future.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —