MLBPA Interim Head Bruce Meyer Known for Tough Negotiating Style

Meyer faces pivotal labor negotiations as union head after Tony Clark's sudden resignation

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Bruce Meyer, a longtime labor attorney, has been named the interim head of the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) after Tony Clark's sudden resignation. Meyer is known for his unwavering conviction and tough negotiating style, which has impressed some but also drawn criticism from some players who feel he is too close to powerful agent Scott Boras. As the MLBPA prepares for pivotal labor negotiations with MLB, Meyer's leadership will be crucial in navigating the union through a potentially contentious process.

Why it matters

The MLBPA is facing a critical juncture as it prepares to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement with MLB, with the current deal expiring in December. Meyer's reputation for hardline negotiations could prove beneficial in securing gains for players, but his perceived ties to Boras and past conflicts with some players have raised concerns about his ability to unite the union during this pivotal time.

The details

Meyer joined the MLBPA eight years ago and has developed a reputation for unwavering conviction and limited interpersonal charisma. He has impressed some with his refusal to bend during negotiations, helping the union make gains in the 2022-26 CBA. However, a 2024 uprising against Meyer and then-MLBPA head Tony Clark highlighted a sense of distrust among some players. Meyer has been accused of being a "puppet" of agent Scott Boras, a charge both have denied.

  • In April 2024, Meyer wrote a letter to union members calling for caution about "easy fixes".
  • In 2021, the owners voted unanimously to lock out the players, leading to a 99-day labor stoppage.
  • On Tuesday, February 18, 2026, Tony Clark suddenly resigned as MLBPA executive director.

The players

Bruce Meyer

A longtime labor attorney who has served as the MLBPA's chief negotiator for the past eight years. He is known for his unwavering conviction and tough negotiating style.

Tony Clark

The former executive director of the MLBPA who resigned suddenly on Tuesday due to an internal investigation uncovering an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.

Scott Boras

A powerful baseball agent who has been accused of having undue influence over the MLBPA and its leadership, a charge both he and Meyer have denied.

Harry Marino

An ambitious young lawyer who was instrumental in the creation of the minor league players union in 2022 and was briefly considered as a potential replacement for Meyer in 2024.

Tarik Skubal

A Detroit Tigers pitcher and member of the MLBPA executive board who expressed confidence in Meyer's ability to lead the union through the upcoming labor negotiations.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Bruce has been our lead negotiator. He's done it in the past. Although Tony has been the face of the PA in terms of negotiating, I'm still as confident as ever in Bruce and everyone else that we've got behind him.”

— Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers pitcher and MLBPA executive board member

“My confidence in Bruce is extremely high. I think he's fabulous at his job. He has a great understanding of how to help the players navigate these types of negotiations. He's proven that over his career.”

— Lance McCullers, Houston Astros pitcher and former MLBPA board member

“The players who sought me out want a union that represents the will of the majority. Scott Boras is rich because he makes — or used to make — the richest players in the game richer. That he is running to the defense of Tony Clark and Bruce Meyer this morning is genuinely alarming.”

— Harry Marino

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.