March 12, 2020

Rep. Correa's Statement On MLB Postponing Start of 2020 Season

Washington, DC - Today Senior House Homeland Security Committee Democrat and Subcommittee Chairman Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA-46) released this statement regarding Major League Baseball’s decision to postpone the start of the 2020 Season. This comes after Congressman Correa sent a letter to Arte Moreno, Chairman of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, inquiring into how the organization plans to protect attendees from coronavirus.

Rep. Correa said, “As this disease spreads, it is important that all precautions be taken, including suspending all large gatherings. That is why I support MLB’s decision to postpone the start of the season. Here in Orange County, this means postponing the return of our favorite rivalry, the Angels verses Dodgers. The danger posed by coronavirus is far too great to be ignored. I look forward to the return of another great season of baseball.”

The letter can be read here. The text is below.

Arte Moreno
Chairman
Los Angeles Angels

Dear Mr. Moreno:

As Members of the Orange County Congressional Delegation, we write to inquire about the Los Angeles Angels’ protocols to mitigate or address the potential spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), particularly with the team’s home opener scheduled for Thursday, March 26, at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California.

With more than 50 confirmed coronavirus cases in our home state, and an average attendance of 37,321 people per game in 2019, we want to ensure the health and safety of team employees, players, and fans while they enjoy America’s pastime.

According to news reports, Major League Baseball (MLB) officials are in contact with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services about coronavirus. Reports also indicate that while MLB does not have plans to cancel or postpone regular season baseball games, an internal task force has been established to address the situation and the Office of the Commissioner has provided recommended measures on how to address coronavirus to front offices. Among the recommendations, teams are advised to maintain lines of communication with local public health agencies and consult with a local infectious-disease specialist.

To that end, we respectfully request an update on how the Los Angeles Angels will prepare for coronavirus during the upcoming season.

We thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

J. Luis Correa
Member of Congress

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Rep. Lou Correa represents California’s 46th Congressional District. He serves as Chair of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, and as the Vice Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet. Read more here.