The worst-case scenario for Major League Baseball is if they lose the entire 162-game season to a work stoppage in 2027.

Negotiations between MLB and the Major League Baseball Players Association for the next collective bargaining agreement have already begun.

But the two sides are far apart on a wide range of topics, including the possible implementation of a salary cap, which the MLBPA vehemently opposes. Rumors indicate that it's likely there will be a lockout when the current CBA expires on Dec. 1.

But how long the lockout lasts is the main concern for baseball fans. If it extends into spring training, the start of the regular season may be in jeopardy.

Luckily, there will be baseball to watch next year. Minor league baseball has its own collective bargaining agreement that runs through Dec. 1, 2027.

Unfortunately for players on their organization's 40-man roster, they will be ineligible to participate in MiLB games. Each of MLB's 30 clubs surely considered that when they made their September call-ups last Tuesday.

Next season, many players would miss out on valuable development in the minors if they were added to their club's 40-man roster. San Diego Padres catcher Ethan Salas, a 20-year-old who was clearly ready for the next level, was promoted to the Majors last week by the NL West club.

Still, it's fair to wonder if Salas would have benefited from more playing time at Triple-A next year. Obviously, the Padres are hoping CBA negotiations move quickly, which would allow the youngster to continue his development as the organization's future starting backstop.

The Padres are in postseason contention, but clubs at the bottom of their respective league standings gain little to nothing by calling up their top prospects this year. Why risk it?

Players with previous MLB experience who are signed to minor League deals will also be eligible to participate, meaning fans unaccustomed to baseball’s top prospects may still recognize a few familiar names on lineup cards or pitching staffs.

While a lockout could lead to higher viewership for minor league games next season, losing a full season of MLB games is not what anyone wants.

Interest in minor league baseball could be on the rise in 2027, but for all the wrong reasons.