World Series champion John Smoltz warns MLB 'cannot afford' a work stoppage with CBA set to expire

Hall of Fame pitcher and World Series champion John Smoltz has issued a warning that MLB cannot afford a work stoppage as the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) approaches its expiration date. Smoltz cited competitive-balance issues and spending disparity among teams as key concerns driving his warning. A failure to reach a new CBA agreement could result in a labor dispute that Smoltz believes would be damaging to the sport.