Brooklyn's front office has decided to petition the league's office in the off-season to do away with the 40 man roster. If a limit by the league is desired, then Caskey proposes a 35 man limit. The 35 roster would mean that only 35 players can contribute to the big league club. Anyone over 35 men would be kept for the keeper aspect of BARB. All players would still count against the $110 salary cap. The 35 man roster is sufficient to compensate for injuries, but doesn't hamper the keeper aspect that makes BARB so special. A major league organization has the majority of their players off of the 40 man roster, and only players on the 40 man roster can be placed on the 25 man roster.
The biggest reason is the injuries that Brooklyn has experienced this season. Despite being an atypical season, hopefully, the injuries have hampered BRooklyn's ability to compete. Having a half dozen or more prospects means that Brooklyn only has a couple of slots open. Consequently there was little the front office could do but sell for the future.
As for the 35 man roster, which is to be declared at the beginning of the season, it can be altered during the season. UNless a player is dealt or released, he must remain on the 35 man roster. Players not placed on the 35 man roster must only be prospects without a major league rating that qualifies them as eligible in BARB standards for both pitchers and hitters.
Example would be Cameron Maybin. He does not qualify for eligibility for Brooklyn despite brief experience in the majors; therefore, wouldn't be mandated to be placed on the 35 man roster. But, had he played with Florida since the All-Star break, he would have been eligible. In order for Brooklyn to utilize his talents, the front office would have to deal or cut a man on the 35 man roster. Maybin would need to be on the 35 man roster to be used on the 25 man roster.
The petition will occur at the League's Winter Meetings. It is a change that many owners have stated as necessary as a direct result of the 40 man roster.
