MLB and the MLBPA started talking again on Thursday:

The conversations involved several noncore economic issues such as scheduling, grievance procedures, special events, and/or the drug and domestic violence policies.

Negotiations regarding the major obstacles to a new agreement won’t take place until after New Year’s, but there’s a chance to build momentum on some of the smaller issues between now and then.

ESPN.com

Good negotiators make headway on the little issues so when the final big issue is on the table, the sides risk throwing away all the other work they accomplished.