Judge: MLB violated the labor law with young athletes

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

Therefore, the Major League violated the minimum wage law in Arizona and must pay triple compensation.

Federal District Judge Joseph Spero ruled in San Francisco that the major league was fined $1,882,650 for failing to meet California's salary notice requirements.

On Tuesday night, Spero unveiled a 181-page ruling related to a lawsuit filed eight years ago. He decided that minor league players should pay for the time they spend in 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 practical training required for the competition and obtaining a license”, - Spero said.

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

He spoke in favor of the players under the laws of Arizona. Only the amount of compensation should be determined.

“For decades, minor league players worked long hours throughout the year in exchange for a salary for poverty,” the Young Lawyers Steering Committee said in a statement. “Being a professional baseball player requires hours of training, practice and preparation throughout the year.

“We are very happy with today's decision. This is a big step towards making the major leagues responsible for the old abuse of underage players.”

The major leagues did not immediately comment on this decision.

The lawsuit was filed by Aaron Senn, the first baseman and outfielder to be picked by the Florida Marlins in the 10th round of the draft in 2009; Sen, who resigned in 2013.

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

The plaintiffs claim to have violated the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act and the state's minimum wage and overtime allowance requirements for alleged working weeks from 50 to 60 hours.