30 Years Since MLB's Historic 1994 Strike

March 31, 2025, marks the 30th anniversary of the end of Major League Baseball's longest strike, which lasted 232 days and led to the cancellation of 948 games, including the 1994 World Series. The strike began on August 12, 1994, after escalating tensions over salary caps and broadcasting rights distribution, ultimately leading to a decision by Commissioner Bud Selig to cancel the remainder of the season. The Players Association, under Norman Miller, fought for better conditions, but negotiations broke down, prompting federal mediator Sonia Sotomayor to intervene and rule on the unlawful termination of free agency. The strike notably impacted the Montreal Expos, who had the league's best record at the time. When play resumed on April 25, 1995, the league controversially introduced replacement players, raising concerns among traditionalists. This pivotal moment in MLB history reshaped the relationship between players and owners moving forward.