MLB just softening the blow. With declining offense in the wake of better PED testing, daily interleague play, and a players’ association desire to add an extra above-minimum salary to NL teams, the decision has already been made. They’re hoping enough talk ahead of time will soften the blow when it’s officially implemented.
The money interests, especially the TV people want it and so it will be. The real fight is going to be over the reduction of the length of the season, something needed to reduce injuries. The money people don't like that idea.