After months of uncertainty due to COVID-19, a restructuring of league operations and the addition of 4 new teams, the Florida League Board of Directors has officially voted to proceed with the 2020 summer season!
The board considered Governor DeSantis’ recent order to allow sports to resume as well as current health metrics related to COVID-19 in Seminole, Lake, Orange, and Volusia counties. They also considered special new policies and procedures that will be implemented specifically for the safety and well-being of all participants this summer.
This decision means that more than 400 college baseball players will have the opportunity to return to baseball diamonds in Central Florida approximately three months after their seasons were halted abruptly by the coronavirus pandemic. This summer will be a critical step in their development.
After such a long break from action, players will report for a two-week preseason beginning June 15. This build-up time will be essential to gauge player fitness and provide an opportunity to get back into game shape. The league will institute a regimented pitch count policy geared toward safely rebuilding pitcher arm strength and endurance. Teams are also equipped with expanded rosters that will help coaches achieve the build-up period safely.
With some fields remaining closed into late July, most games are expected to be played in DeLand, Sanford and Leesburg. There are two new Central Florida fields that are under consideration at this time.
The Florida League will continue to closely monitor health data daily and follow any new direction from State and local Government. We continue to coordinate with city officials and seek continued guidance from county health departments. Under the current phase of re-opening orders in the State of Florida, fans will not be permitted to attend games. When these orders change, we will be prepared for our fans to return as soon as possible.
A new 10 team schedule is under development and will be announced in the very near future. Each team will play 30 games and the season will run from June 29-August 14. Stay tuned for team previews and other exciting new developments!
