Why is MLB starting the 2020 season on March 26?

[Ohiogal]

From the Cleveland Plain Dealer,

“You can blame the early start of the season on politics. MLB wanted the World Series over before the U.S. Presidential election on Nov. 3. In the last basic agreement the players were granted four more off days in a season, which factors into the early start as well.”

My Cleveland Indians are scheduled to play 13 home games before April 17.

I have been to exactly one home game in Cleveland in April in my entire life. Found it way too freaking cold to be watching a baseball game outdoors.

Why can’t MLB schedule more (but not all.... for reasons of home openers, obviously) games played in Southern locations during the month of April? They used to do that years ago, as I recall. Eh, I guess that made too much sense.

[beachbumbob]

1. scheduling is not rocket science, having "northern" teams with outside stadiums

playing home games the first 2 weeks of the season is ridiculous. The chance of injury is way higher in cold temps as well. Players association needs to bring back the good old fashion doubleheaders again.

[world wide wally]

2. When I was a kid growing up..they used to play a lot of doubleheaders...

They were built into the schedule and not just to make up rain outs.

[Recursion]

3. There are some rule changes this year that will dramatically impact bullpen schedules

A pitcher now has to face at least 3 batters before he can be switched out. This is going to drastically change the rest schedule for bullpen specialists.

[unc70]

4. College baseball started over a week ago

Even in the sunny south that can cause problems. Friday's UNC home game was postponed because of snow on the field. Today's games will be rather cold.