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Excellent question — and one that’s very relevant given how MLB labor agreements and player development systems are structured. Here’s how it works, based on precedent and MLB’s current structure:

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If there is an MLB lockout (e.g., in 2027)
• A lockout is an action by the owners — it applies only to MLB players covered by the Major League Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

That means:
• Players on the 40-man roster are members of the MLBPA (the union).
• Players not on the 40-man roster (i.e., minor leaguers) are not members of the MLBPA.

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What happens to play in the minor leagues?

1. Minor League games (MiLB) continue.
During the 2021–22 MLB lockout, for example:
• The minor league season proceeded as normal.
• Player development, team operations, and games for non-40-man players continued.

So, if there’s a lockout in 2027, MiLB teams will still operate and play games — but without players who are on the 40-man roster.

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What about players on the 40-man roster?
• They cannot play, train at team facilities, or participate in team activities during a lockout.
• They are barred from minor league assignments, spring training, and rehab work with team staff.

So, for example, a top prospect who’s already been added to the 40-man roster would be frozen out until the lockout ends.

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What about players off the 40-man roster?
• These players are not in the MLBPA.
• They can continue to play, train, and develop in the minors normally.
• Team facilities, coaches, and minor league spring training all remain active for them.

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Summary

Player Type During MLB Lockout Can Play in MiLB? Notes
40-man roster Locked out No Barred from all team activities
Not on 40-man roster Not covered by lockout Yes MiLB continues as normal


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So, in short:
Yes, minor leagues will play during a 2027 lockout.
No, 40-man players cannot participate.
Yes, non-40-man players will continue developing.

Would you like me to include how this would affect spring training or development programs like the Arizona Fall League too?

Buschleaguer wrote: ↑24 Oct 2025 19:48 pm Thanks, that’s very helpful. So, if a lockout seems a strong possibility, teams may be reluctant to add certain prospects to the 40 man roster.