What happened: MLB proposed opening free agency at the Winter Meetings and closing the initial signing window Dec. 21. A transaction freeze would follow until the first Monday in February.
Why it matters: The calendar changes were contingent on a salary cap-and-floor system the players oppose. The compressed window could reshape how clubs and free agents negotiate offseason contracts.
By the numbers: MLB also proposed weekly 26-man rosters, four in-season minor-league options instead of five and a 14-pitcher limit instead of 13.
What to watch: Watch whether MLB separates the transaction changes from its cap-and-floor demand in the next bargaining round.