Birmingham Barons Delay Start To 2020 Season

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The Birmingham Barons were scheduled to open the 2020 season April 9, but that is not going to happen, according to an announcement from the team Thursday. Following the announcement from Major League Baseball Thursday afternoon regarding the suspension of spring training and the delay of the 2020 season, Minor League Baseball has decided to delay the start of the 2020 season.

"In light of the current coronavirus outbreak, and after consultation with medical professionals and our partners at Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball will delay the start of the 2020 Championship Season," MiLB said in a statement. "We will continue to monitor the developments and will announce additional information about the 2020 season at a later date. We will work with Major League Baseball and our community partners to resume play as soon as it is safe to do so. The health and safety of Minor League Baseball fans, players and executives is our top priority, and our thoughts are with those around the world who have been affected by this outbreak."

More information on the start of the Barons 2020 season will be announced at a later date, officials said.

"We are certainly in dialogue with local, state governments and agencies as well as Minor League Baseball/Major League Baseball and will work in concert with them accordingly," said Barons General Manager Jonathan Nelson. "Ensuring Regions Field is a safe environment for all our fans is the top priority."