Judge: MLB violated labor laws with young athletes

NEW YORK (AP) — A federal judge on Tuesday ruled that minor league players were hired throughout the year to work during training hours.

Therefore, major leagues have violated Arizona's minimum wage law and must pay triple compensation.

Federal District Judge Joseph C. Spero ruled that he was fined $1,882,650 for major leagues for failing to comply with San Francisco's salary notice requirements.

Spero revealed a decision on page 181 on Tuesday night in connection with a lawsuit filed eight years ago.He decided that minor league players should pay for the time spent on California League away games and training in Arizona and Florida.

“These are not students enrolled in vocational schools with the understanding that they will work for free as part of the hands-on training required to participate in the competition and obtain a license,” said Spero.

By denying the consent of many majors to the summary ruling, Spero allowed these claims to continue the process scheduled for June 1.

He said that the laws of the state of Arizona favor the players. Only the amount of compensation should be determined.

The Young Lawyer Steering Committee said in a statement: “For decades, Little League players have been working for a long time for a year in exchange for receiving poverty benefits. “Being a professional baseball player requires hours of training, practice, and preparation throughout the year.

“I am very happy with today's decision. This is a big step towards major leagues being held accountable for harassing underage players.”

Major leagues did not immediately comment on this decision.

The lawsuit was filed by Aaron Sen, the first baseman and outfielder selected by the Florida Marlins in the 10th round of the 2009 draft; a senator who resigned in 2013.

Senne joined a team consisting of two relegated players who were selected in the lower round: Michael Liberto from Kansas City and Oliver Odle from San Francisco.

The plaintiff claims that he violated the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act and the state's minimum wage and overtime pay for a calculated service period of 50 to 60 hours.