"Major League Baseball and its related economic impacts are critical to the State of New York and to our pandemic recovery. New York is not only home to the league, but also to thousands of New Yorkers, including many in the Bronx and Queens, whose livelihoods depend on games happening at our stadiums as scheduled.
"There is nothing more powerful than when Americans are united around a common purpose. I'm heartened by how united our country has become in support of democracy and the people of Ukraine fighting for freedom against heinous attacks from Russia. I know that baseball is also a uniting force in our country, and a symbol to the world of optimism, teamwork and American values. As we continue to build back from this pandemic and help our communities recover from the pain and suffering over the past two years, New Yorkers, and all Americans, deserve the joy and hope that baseball brings us each spring. I spoke with the involved parties recently and urged them to come to the bargaining table with solutions and work toward getting the season started. Play ball."