With a labor stoppage looking very likely for 2027, what steps should fantasy managers take today in order to be prepared?

For managers in dynasty and keeper leagues, Major League Baseball's 2026-27 offseason might prove to be its most challenging in over a generation. MLB's current labor agreement expires on Dec. 1 at 11:59 p.m. ET, and the sides aren't reportedly close on terms. There's a very real possibility of a work stoppage.

Many might have forgotten, but MLB endured a work stoppage the last time the labor agreement expired following the 2021 season -- one that lasted 99 days and delayed the start of the 2022 campaign by a week. Nevertheless, the league still played a full 162-game schedule and fantasy leagues drafted and proceeded without a hitch.

Make a draft day contingency plan. The 2022 season began exactly four weeks after agreement on March 10. Beginning conversations now will prove advantageous. Of the 30 series currently scheduled for opening week, 20 involve divisional rivals. Only the Atlanta Braves, Athletics, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers are scheduled to play entirely outside their division during opening week.