MLB Players Union Director Resigns Amid Alleged Relationship Scandal

Tony Clark steps down after internal investigation revealed inappropriate ties with sister-in-law

Feb. 19, 2026 at 9:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Tony Clark, the executive director of Major League Baseball's Players Association (MLBPA), has resigned following an internal investigation that revealed an alleged inappropriate relationship with his sister-in-law, who the union had hired in 2023. Clark's exit comes at a crucial time for MLB players as a federal investigation into the MLBPA continues and their current collective bargaining agreement expires in a year.

Why it matters

Clark's resignation is a significant development for the MLBPA, as he has led the union since 2013 and his departure comes amid ongoing federal scrutiny and looming labor negotiations with MLB team owners. The scandal raises questions about the MLBPA's leadership and governance, potentially complicating the players' efforts to secure a favorable new CBA.

The details

According to reports, the MLBPA conducted an internal investigation that uncovered Clark's alleged inappropriate relationship with his sister-in-law, who had been hired by the union in 2023. Clark, who is married with three children, has two brothers named Greg and Vince. The MLBPA has also been the subject of a federal investigation for over a year, with officials examining the union's alleged use of licensing money or equity to enrich themselves.

  • Clark took over as MLBPA executive director in 2013 following a 15-year playing career.
  • The MLBPA has been under federal investigation for more than a year.
  • Clark's resignation comes as the current MLB collective bargaining agreement is set to expire in a year.
  • Clark was prepared to embark on a Spring Training facility tour this week, but that trip has been canceled.

The players

Tony Clark

The former executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), who resigned amid an internal investigation into an alleged inappropriate relationship with his sister-in-law.

Marcus Semien

A New York Mets second baseman and member of the MLBPA's eight-player subcommittee, who expressed disappointment over Clark's resignation and a desire for the player group to move forward with new leadership.

Bruce Meyer

The MLBPA's deputy executive director, who is a candidate to replace Clark as the union's executive director.

Ian Happ

A Chicago Cubs outfielder and former MLBPA player representative, who said the players have been through a lot and are confident the union will find a good leader to replace Clark.

Jameson Taillon

A Chicago Cubs pitcher and former MLBPA player representative, who stated that the strength of the union is not dependent on one person and that the players will find someone good to lead them.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The MLBPA players are scheduled to meet at 4:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday to discuss the fallout of Clark's resignation and the process of finding a new executive director.

The takeaway

Clark's resignation comes at a critical juncture for the MLBPA, as the union faces a federal investigation and prepares to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement with MLB team owners. The scandal has the potential to disrupt the players' efforts to secure favorable terms, underscoring the importance of the MLBPA maintaining strong, ethical leadership during this pivotal period.