The following protocols will take effect Thursday and remain in place for the rest of the season:
Players and staff must wear face coverings over their nose and mouth at all times anywhere inside a ballpark - including the dugout and bullpen - except for players who are on the field.
Home teams are required to provide outdoor, covered spaces for visiting teams.
Players and staff must wear masks at all times while inside hotels except when alone in their rooms.
Traveling parties must be limited to essential personnel.
Players and staff must notify their club compliance officer any time they leave the hotel while on the road.
Players and staff are prohibited from visiting bars, lounges, restaurants, and malls.
Anyone found to be in violation of these new protocols may face significant punishments including a potential ban for the remainder of the season, Diamond notes.