Why No MLS Strike is a Good Thing

Photo: AP

The second extension of Major League Soccer's collective bargaining agreement expired last night at midnight and still no agreement has been reached.

When the player's union agreed to extend the current agreement back at the end of January, whisperings of a strike began to surface. While the previous CBA did not allow for a work stoppage or a lockout, when both sides let it expire last night, the possibility of a player's strike became a real possibility.

But when it came time to strike, the players were faced with two shocking facts: 1.) The centralized control of the league gives them little room to work with and 2.) The public did not widely support the desire for a strike.

What it all boils down to is that the MLS is at an important crossroads in its life and these negotiations are signs of unavoidable growing pains. The league is currently looking to divest its interests in club ownership and "One owner, one club" system. In this system, each team would have specific rights to developmental players and expansions would be made easier. All of this would contribute to an economically stronger league with teams in lucrative markets across the continent vying for a piece of the action.

With this in mind, it is not that hard to see why a player's strike would be foolish and potentially devastating for the league. Without the economics or the popular support backing them, the players could be shooting themselves in the foot. If the league succeeds, the players succeed and only then will they have the leverage they need to improve their CBA.

The best way to support the players' plight and help them improve their rights to self-determination? Buy season tickets. Buy their gear. Put your money where your mouth is and show the league that the players are worth every penny.