Question from a reader:
I think it’s strange that in Japanese professional baseball, even after a contract expires, players do not become free agents and the team retains their rights. Is this legally acceptable? Isn’t it a disadvantageous situation for the players, and why hasn’t the players’ association raised any concerns?
The Issue of Player Contracts and Free Agency in Japanese
Professional Baseball
In the world of Japanese professional baseball, it is common for teams to retain the rights to players even after their contracts have expired. Many people may feel that this system is “strange.” Especially for players, it is natural to feel that having their future influenced by the team’s intentions puts them at a significant disadvantage. Let me share a bit of my own thoughts. Since moving from California to Osaka, I have been observing various aspects of entertainment. In sports as well, it is important for players to be able to carve out their own careers. I believe it is especially crucial for young players to have a space for self-realization. This time, let’s take a closer look at the structure of contracts in Japanese professional baseball, the legal perspectives, and the role of the players’ association.
Contract Structure in Professional Baseball
In Japanese professional baseball, players’ “rights” belong to the team. This right continues even after the player’s contract period ends. As a result, players do not become free agents, and the team retains the right to decide whether to release the player or re-sign them. For example, suppose a player reaches the end of their contract. However, if that player wants to transfer to another team, they cannot move freely unless the original team relinquishes their rights to that player. This system imposes many restrictions on players when they wish to transfer. Here, the legal perspective becomes important. Japanese labor law has provisions in place to protect workers’ rights even after their employment contracts have ended. However, professional baseball players are treated as “workers in a specific position,” which means different regulations apply compared to regular workers.
Players’ Rights from a Legal Perspective
Article 27 of the Japanese Constitution guarantees the “right to work,” but in the case of professional baseball players, their “rights” are more restricted compared to other professions. Players are expected to enhance their performance and contribute to the team during their contract period, but it is unfair that their subsequent careers depend on the team’s intentions. I believe a system is needed that allows players to choose their own careers within a legal framework. For instance, Major League Baseball (MLB) in the United States has established a free agency system that provides an environment where players can choose their teams based on their own will. Shouldn’t Japanese professional baseball also move in the direction of strengthening players’ rights by referencing such a system?
The Role and Limitations of the Players’ Association
Now, the “players’ association” plays an important role in protecting players’ rights. There is a players’ association in Japanese professional baseball, and players unite to engage in activities to protect their rights. However, many people may question why the players’ association has not raised its voice. In fact, the players’ association has negotiated in the past to seek improvements in players’ wages and treatment, but there has yet to be any concrete movement regarding the introduction of a free agency system. This may be partly due to the limited authority and influence of the players’ association. Additionally, some players desire the stability of being part of a team, and not all players wish for a free agency system. I have had the opportunity to speak with members of the players’ association several times, and I have seen the reality that it is difficult to fully understand the circumstances and feelings of the players. While many players seriously consider their careers and wish to break the current situation, there are also voices that fear the risks involved.
Prospects for the Future
I am also paying attention to how Japanese professional baseball will evolve in the future. Establishing an environment where players can freely choose their own careers will also contribute to revitalizing the entire entertainment industry. When players can choose their transfer destinations based on their own will, competition among teams will arise, which should improve the overall level of the league. Moreover, strengthening players’ rights will also excite fans more. When star players transfer to other teams, the changes in the season’s dynamics become one of the joys for viewers. Of course, revising contracts is not an easy path. It will require gathering opinions from players, teams, and fans to strike a balance. Nevertheless, I sincerely hope that the future of professional baseball will provide a better environment for players.
Conclusion
Whether the continuation of players’ rights poses a legal issue or why the players’ association has not raised its voice is complex, and simple answers cannot be found. However, creating an environment where players can protect their rights and choose their own careers is essential for the future of Japanese professional baseball. As a fan, I will continue to support the players’ efforts while looking forward to future developments. I dream of a bright professional baseball world where each player can choose their own future.
