These are the baseball players sitting out the 2020 MLB season
When the 2020 MLB season starts this week, these players will opt not to play.
Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals
With three kids at home, Zimmerman didn't want to risk their health as he explained in a message that was tweeted.
Ian Desmond, Rockies
Desmond announced in an Instagram post his intention to sit out, citing a desire to be with his family and touching on on racism, homophobia and sexism he has witnessed in baseball.
Joe Ross, Nationals
Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo told the Washington Post Ross based his decision on "the personal health and safety of themselves and their loved ones."
Mike Leake, Diamondbacks
Leake's agent Danny Horwitz said in a statement, per USA Today: "During this global pandemic, Mike had many discussions about playing this season. They took countless factors into consideration, many of which are personal to him and his family. After thorough consideration, he has chosen to opt out of playing in 2020. This was not an easy decision for Mike. He wishes the best of luck and health for his Diamondbacks teammates this season and he's looking forward to 2021."
David Price, Dodgers
Price will not play this season because of concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, delaying his Los Angeles debut until next year.
Tyson Ross, Giants
The free agent will sit out 2020 due to coronavirus concerns.
Félix Hernández, Braves
Former Cy Young winner Félix Hernández has opted out of the 2020 season, at least temporarily ending his bid to revive his career with the Atlanta Braves. Braves manager Brian Snitker says the 34-year-old Hernández chose to skip the season due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Buster Posey, Giants
Posey plans to skip this season because of concerns over the coronavirus pandemic. He says his family finalized the adoption of identical twin girls recently. The babies were born prematurely and Posey said after consultations with his wife and doctor he decided to opt out of the season.
Nick Markakis, Braves
Markakis said he was uneasy about playing the season without fans and then was swayed by his telephone conversation with teammate Freddie Freeman, who has tested positive for COVID-19 and has fever and other symptoms.
Michael Kopech, White Sox
Kopech informed the team he would opt out of the 2020 season.
Jordan Hicks, Cardinals
Hicks has opted out of the 2020 season, citing pre-existing health concerns.
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