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MLB, MLBPA discuss changes to extra-inning games for 2020 season

Lachlan Cunningham / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Major League Baseball could look very different in 2020 if there's a season.

MLB and the players' association already agreed to implement the designated hitter in the National League for 2020 and 2021, and the two sides have also had conversations about a number of other changes.

The union accepted Thursday in its 70-game proposal to allow a runner to start on second base during extra innings for the 2020 season, according to Ronald Blum of The Associated Press.

MLB hopes to extend the rule into the 2021 season to try to speed up games that require extra frames. The rule has already been in place in the minors and at the World Baseball Classic.

The MLBPA wants to also discuss allowing games to end in a tie after a certain number of innings and more flexible substitution rules in extras, potentially opening the door for players to return to play after being removed from the game.

Both sides have spent the week trying to negotiate a framework for the 2020 season. Players are expected to vote this weekend on a 60-game campaign beginning July 19.

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