[SAump]

"In 2005 twenty Minor League umpires worked as Major League fill-ins under PBUC's agreement with Major League Baseball, and they earned as much as $76,755, not including other benefits. PBUC had to terminate this agreement this year because Minor League umpires turned down spring training assignments despite the 42% increase in compensation that PBUC negotiated for them. Nevertheless, some striking umpires are currently working at the Major League level as independent contractors without contract benefits."

NOT what I heard. Not what was printed in the papers. Not what was discussed on this website previously.

"despite the 42% increase in compensation that PBUC negotiated for them."
---> Calling the bad guy the good guy. Certainly entertaining.

"Nevertheless, some striking umpires are currently working at the Major League level as independent contractors without contract benefits."
---> Independent from PBUC's meager CONTRACT salary and benefits OFFER.

I didn't have to sit at the table. Public actions speak for themselves.