LIDOM and Fenapepro extend collective bargaining agreement to strengthen winter baseball
The Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) and the National Federation of Professional Baseball Players (Fenapepro) have formalized a strategic agreement to extend the validity of their collective bargaining agreement. This extension, signed on October 14th, ensures the continuity of operations and guarantees for the athletes while both institutions work on the signing of a new definitive agreement.
The original agreement, which had ended on August 31, will remain in effect until February 15, 2027. During this period, the parties have committed to maintaining an open and good-faith dialogue to reach a consensus on the pending points that will govern the future of professional baseball in the country.
Key points of the transitional agreement
As part of this extension, transitional measures have been incorporated that seek to improve conditions for both teams and players. Among the most notable aspects are:
- International Events: Joint collaboration in exhibition tournaments and official games, both inside and outside Dominican territory.
- Asian Market: Establishment of protocols to regulate the signing of LIDOM players by organizations in Asian leagues.
- Social Security: The league’s commitment to expanding insurance policy coverage, ensuring greater protection against potential player injuries.
News in the Free Agency process
One of the most significant changes in this extension is the structuring of free agency. It has been determined that the exclusive negotiation period for teams with players on their reserve lists will be extended until February 15. Starting from that date, players will be eligible to negotiate and sign freely with any franchise in the league.
This extension allows for guaranteeing the continuity of the players’ rights during the upcoming season and to advance in the conversations to establish a new collective bargaining agreement.
Erick Almonte, president of Fenapepro
Vitelio Mejía Ortiz, president of LIDOM, highlighted the spirit of collaboration that has prevailed in the working groups, underscoring the commitment of both entities to safeguard the interests of their respective memberships and ensure the stability of the sporting spectacle enjoyed by Dominican fans.
