MLBPA rejects MLB offer of federal mediator to help with lockout

Almost immediately after the report surfaced Thursday that MLB had asked for a federal mediator to get involved with the ongoing lockout that seemingly has no end in sight, knowledgeable individuals explained the MLB Players Association would likely reject the offer and that the players viewed the mediation request as "a publicity stunt." 

The union confirmed the expected on Friday afternoon. 

"Two months after implementing their lockout, and just two days after committing to Players that a counterproposal would be made, the owners refused to make a counter, and instead requested mediation," the MLBPA said in a released press statement. 

"After consultation with our Executive Board, and taking into account a variety of factors, we have declined this request. The clearest path to a fair and timely agreement is to get back to the table. Players stand ready to negotiate." 

Per Evan Drellich of The Athletic, no future meeting "on the big-dollar issues" has yet been scheduled between the owners and players. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred is expected to hold a press conference during the quarterly owners meetings next week.