Tony Clark, the longtime executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), has stepped down from his position after 12 years at the helm, creating uncertainty for the players’ union at a critical time for the sport, the New York Post reported.
Clark’s resignation, confirmed Tuesday, comes as the MLBPA enters the final year of its current collective bargaining agreement with Major League Baseball, with industry observers widely expecting a possible lockout after the 2026 season.
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Initial reports linked Clark’s departure to an ongoing federal investigation, but subsequent reports revealed that an internal investigation uncovered reports of an inappropriate relationship involving a union employee, prompting renewed scrutiny of his management.
Clark, 52, joined the MLBPA after retiring from professional baseball and became one of the most influential figures in labor relations in North American sports. His sudden departure now leaves the union floundering in legal uncertainty and looming negotiations.
Alleged relationship with sister-in-law
According to reports by the New York Post and The Athletic, Clark was involved in an inappropriate relationship with his sister-in-law, who was employed by the MLBPA. The matter reportedly came to light during an internal investigation that looked into workplace communications.
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Clark was informed of the findings late last week and the players were notified over the weekend. The revelations reportedly increased pressure on Clark to step down, leading to his resignation earlier this week. Neither Clark nor the MLBPA issued a public statement addressing the allegations.
Who is the sister-in-law?
The woman at the center of the news was said to be a union employee with professional ties to Clark through marriage. While her identity has not been released, media reports note that the relationship has raised serious concerns about workplace ethics and power dynamics within the players’ association.
The MLBPA has not commented on her current employment status.
Federal probe and financial issues
The Eastern District of New York (EDNY) is separately investigating allegations related to possible misappropriation of funds related to a licensing agreement involving the MLBPA. ESPN said the probe has expanded to include potential obstruction-related concerns.
Former NFL Players Association attorney Heather McPhee alleged that Clark and former NFLPA chief Lloyd Howell tried to block a deeper review of the bonus structure associated with OneTeam, the licensing company co-owned by the MLBPA and Players Way.
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Questions have also been raised about Players Way’s spending of nearly $10 million on a limited number of low-attendance events — significantly more than figures previously released by ESPN.
The MLBPA has since hired outside counsel, with attorney Adam Braverman briefing the eight-member executive subcommittee on the investigation and possible legal exposure.
What happens next for the MLBPA?
Union officials met Tuesday but did not immediately name an interim replacement, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported. A vote on the appointment of an interim executive director is expected soon.
Deputy CEO Bruce Meyer is believed to be among the leading candidates. Subcommittee member and Los Angeles Angels pitcher Brent Suter said an interim appointment would be made soon, adding that the union remains stable.
Experienced players confirmed this confidence. New York Mets infielder Marcus Semien admitted to the uncertainty, but said the current development is better than a revelation closer to his contract’s expiration in December. Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal also played down the concerns, noting that Meyer has long led negotiations.
Tony Clark Background and Net Worth
Clark joined the MLBPA in 2010 after a 15-year career in Major League Baseball and became executive director in 2013 following the death of Michael Weiner. His family includes his wife Frances, their son, and brother Greg Clark, a former college basketball player.
Public records show Clark made $3.41 million in 2024 and $3.25 million in 2023. He signed a five-year deal through 2027, though it’s unclear how his resignation will affect its terms. His total net worth, including career earnings as a player, has not been publicly disclosed.