Author: Bob Nightengale, USA TODAY

“If we don’t get an agreement real soon, this is going to be ugly,” one high-ranking baseball executive said of the impasse with the players.

While there are no hard deadlines in these negotiations between MLB and players, time is of the essence for baseball to play close to a half-season.

MLB offered a 76-game season, while guaranteeing players 50% of their prorated pay with opportunity to earn 75% of salaries if there is a postseason.

The players union sent their first counter-proposal to MLB on Sunday that did not reduce their prorated salary but offered several concessions.

MLB prepares for a potential season with the aim of finishing it in November before the US could be subjected to another coronavirus lockdown.

Agent Scott Boras says players are prepared to play and willing to squeeze in as many as 124 regular-season games. But they want prorated salaries.

MLB owners approved a revenue-sharing agreement that could help bring baseball back in July, but the proposal is expected to be rejected by players.

MLB umpires hardly thrilled with deal that cuts salaries 30% but considered it appropriate in light of the pandemic. They will keep health benefits.

MLB managers are getting revved up at the possibility of playing this year, even if the season is shortened and the rules drastically different.

Derek Jeter, Larry Walker and Class of 2020 will be inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown in July 2021, along with that year’s class.