Josh Norris of Baseball America reports Major League Baseball will officially provide housing for Minor League players. The biggest provision of the new rule is no player will have to sign a lease or take responsibility for utility payments. The housing provided will begin in Spring Training, and it will carry throughout the season. The housing must be in “reasonable proximity” to the ballpark, and in the event that cannot be found, hotels for players are an option.

The Major League approved living conditions for players are as follows:

• One bed per player
• No more than two players per room
• Bathroom
• Kitchen
• Shared living space
• Typical appliances
• Furnishings
• Basic utilities (includes WiFi)

While a television and WiFi are provided, players will not be provided with cable or streaming services. The typical appliances is a yet undefined term.

These rules only apply to players making under $20,000 per month. Players are permitted to opt out of the housing. Those who opt out most pay for housing at their own expense.

In the event a player damages the property, a club can set standards for repayment. However, clubs may not charge players to keep housing up to standard.

Host families may continue hosting players provided they pass a background check. While not specifically delineated, it would seem the host families must provide living conditions as set forth above.

While this is a clear step forward, there is still a potential issue for married players. The policy as written does not seem to provide special housing for a married couple and/or their children. As noted, if they opt out, there are no stipends.

Certainly, there are other open items like what happens in the event of a player being released and assumed moving costs upon a trade or promotion. That said, this is a clear step forward for minor leaguers.