{"id":578777,"date":"2026-02-18T06:03:28","date_gmt":"2026-02-18T06:03:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/578777\/"},"modified":"2026-02-18T06:03:28","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T06:03:28","slug":"2-chicago-cubs-speak-on-untimely-tony-clark-resignation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/578777\/","title":{"rendered":"2 Chicago Cubs speak on untimely Tony Clark resignation"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Chicago Cubs,<\/a> along with teams across Major League Baseball, are grappling with the unexpected resignation of MLB Players Association executive director Tony Clark<\/a>. Reports indicate his departure stemmed from a mix of issues, including an investigation into alleged financial improprieties and an inappropriate relationship with his sister-in-law, who was also affiliated with the union.<\/p>\n

The timing is particularly striking, coming with less than a year remaining on the current collective bargaining agreement as crucial labor negotiations approach. Here\u2019s a look at how two Cubs players have responded to this sudden and untimely development.<\/p>\n

Ian Happ and Jameson Taillon speak on untimely Tony Clark resignation from MLB Players Association
\n\"ChicagoFeb 17, 2026; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Ian Happ (8) poses for photo day at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Cubs outfielder Ian Happ, who has served on the MLBPA\u2019s executive subcommittee, acknowledged the timing isn\u2019t ideal but expressed confidence in the strength of the players themselves. \u201cThe strength of the union is in the players,\u201d Happ said, stressing that leadership transitions, however unexpected, won\u2019t diminish the players\u2019 influence in talks with the league.<\/p>\n

Happ pointed to the union\u2019s resilience, noting that this group of players has weathered significant challenges,\u00a0 from pandemic disruptions to a lengthy lockout,\u00a0 and come through united. That experience, he believes, will help the union navigate Clark\u2019s exit and the negotiations ahead.<\/p>\n

Ian Happ on dealing with Clark news: \u201cWith this group of players, we\u2019ve been through a lot. We\u2019ve seen a ton. We\u2019ve been through a lockout, we\u2019ve been through 2020. That kept the players very informed and very aware. Having gone through those experiences will help in this one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2014 Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) February 17, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Another Cubs player, Jameson Taillon, voiced a similar sentiment. He emphasized to the Chicago Sun Times<\/a> that the union\u2019s focus will remain on stability and continuity as it names an interim leader and charts a path forward. While details of Clark\u2019s resignation continue to unfold, his departure has underscored deeper concerns about leadership at a pivotal moment.<\/p>\n

For the Cubs and their peers around the league, the consensus is clear: while Clark\u2019s exit is unexpected and poorly timed, players are prepared to keep negotiations on track.<\/p>\n

\"Chicago<\/p>\n

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