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Unsigned free agents to hold their own spring camp at IMG in Bradenton next week

With so many players unsigned, players union is taking action
Former Rays starter Alex Cobb is among the 100-plus unsigned free agents. [Times files 2017]
Former Rays starter Alex Cobb is among the 100-plus unsigned free agents. [Times files 2017]
Published Feb. 8, 2018|Updated Feb. 8, 2018

With more than 100 free agents still unsigned as teams are set to start spring training next week, the union has arranged for players to work out in their own camp at the IMG Academy in Bradenton.

Players can report to the camp starting Tuesday and begin workouts on Wednesday. Players will be housed and transported by the union, will receive meal money and will be covered by insurance. The camp will run through March 4, but if enough players are still there it can be  extended.

Former Astros manager Bo Porter will run the camp, and the union said "major-league caliber coaches and trainers will be available" to support and assist them.

Also, the union said it “will continue to identify ways to generally support, provide ongoing information, and increase the visibility of unsigned Players in advance of the upcoming season.”

There is no word yet on whether the workouts will be open to fans or the media.

Among those unsigned free agents are former Rays RHP Alex Cobb and 1B Logan Morrison and Lucas Duda.