The Doubleday Baseball League would like to remind all organizations that the Franchise Contract system remains scheduled to be phased out following the 2001 season.

As previously announced, teams may continue to apply Franchise Contracts through the 2000 season only. Any Franchise Contract applied during the 2000 season will cover the 2000 and 2001 seasons before the system is officially retired.

Beginning after the 2000 season, clubs will no longer be permitted to issue new Franchise Contracts.

Remaining Franchise Contract eligibility is as follows:

• Applied in 1997: Covers 1997–2001
• Applied in 1998: Covers 1998–2001
• Applied in 1999: Covers 1999–2001
• Applied in 2000: Covers 2000–2001

Following the completion of the 2001 season, all Franchise Contracts will expire and the system will be fully removed from the DBL contract structure.

Teams are encouraged to keep these timelines in mind as they continue long-term roster and financial planning.