The MLB and MLBPA met for their first official negotiating session ahead of the expiration of their current deal in six months on December 1st. 

Relations between the league and players have grown combative in recent years, with both sides accusing the other of operating in bad faith amid multiple failed efforts to reach deals. Owners and players both understand that the $10 billion-a-year industry could be gravely harmed by a labor dispute.

It was the first negotiating session between the sides since the union turned down MLB's offer for a paused-and-shortened season with full pay that included expanded playoffs.

While the top players in the games have seen their salaries increase, the MLB's middle class has had their pay contract significantly.

An overhaul of baseball's core economic system is highly unlikely.