As originally reported by ESPN, Major League Baseball has issued a new proposal to players seeking their return-to-play with an economic package that offers a higher potential salary than its previous plan but less guaranteed money over a 76-game season.

The new plan has been given a cold response by players and officials at the MLB Players Association who now face the prospect of a schedule of the league’s choosing if a deal cannot be agreed.

According to the ESPN report, MLB’s proposal includes potential earnings that would cover up to 75% of players’ salaries for a 76-game season, equal to circa $1.432bn in total compensation. Salaries would account for $989m of that figure, with $443m in money paid should the playoffs proceed.

The League has said it would like to end the regular season by the close of September because of concerns raised about the possibility of a second wave of the coronavirus. The post-season would also be affected with a desired finish no later than the end of October.

MLB’s initial proposal offered a similar proportion of salary over an 82-game season but added just $200m in potential playoff revenue in a deal worth $1.23bn. That was rejected by the union which proposed instead a 114-game season at full pro rata of $2.87bn in compensation and expanded playoffs from 10 to 14 teams for the next two seasons. The offer was rejected by the league.

The players and their union have reportedly been given until Wednesday this week to make a further response.