MLB won't mandate vaccinations, negative tests from fans

Major League Baseball doesn't plan to ask fans to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test or vaccination before entering a ballpark in 2021, according to a league memo obtained by Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times.

However, MLB will allow teams to decide if they want spectators to provide proof or undergo a temperature check before entering, the memo adds.

"Mass testing of this kind is not practical with the existing rapid testing options, and testing is of limited utility when done days in advance of an event," the league explained.

MLB will mandate the following:

• Fans must wear masks at all times, except when eating or drinking at their seats
• Social distancing will be enforced when entering and leaving ballparks and while waiting for concessions and merchandise
• Hand sanitizer and hand-washing stations will be widely available
• Buffer zone of at least 6 feet will be established between fans and playing field

This could change if state and local authorities mandate their own, more-restrictive procedures.

The league expects "pod seating" to be enforced by state and local authorities for at least the beginning of the season. This would require tickets to be purchased in groups, which would be situated 6 feet apart from each other.

MLB played the entire 2020 regular season without fans in attendance but did allow a limited number of people to attend the National League Championship Series and World Series. Temperature checks were not required to attend those games, which took place in Texas.

Commissioner Rob Manfred said in November that the league "will be more aggressive" about fans attending games in 2021 as long as municipalities allow them to attend.