The MLBPA would be “better served with leadership more reflective of its Latino membership,” according to sources cited by Jorge Castillo of ESPN.com. Twins P Pablo López is the “only Latin American among the 38 players in union leadership roles.” Dodgers SS Miguel Rojas was “one of two Latin Americans in union leadership,” serving as the Marlins’ player representative during the last round of labor negotiations. Rojas sees the “continued lack of seats at the table as an issue that must be addressed.” The MLBPA “contends that the voices of Latin American players are being heard.” Officials noted that the union “employs several retired Latino players in player services roles.” The officials acknowledge that the union “would benefit from more Latin American players in those roles.” But they “insist progress must happen organically, since it is illegal for the union to set quotas for representation.” Rojas said that a “lack of education among the majority of players who sign out of Latin America restricts participation in the MLBPA.” He agreed that “anyone without a strong command of English could not serve in a leadership role within the MLBPA.” López “did not rule out one day seeking to join the executive subcommittee, if he determines that is the best way to push for education for Latin American prospects.” For now, he “hopes more Latin American players will rise to leadership roles within the union” (ESPN.com, 7/20).
