Tony Clark had to go as the head of the players union with the combo of a federal investigation hanging over his head and an “inappropriate” relationship with his sister-in-law/employee.

But here’s what’s concerning for fans: The chances for a protracted lockout and missed games may have increased with Clark’s departure.

Key people on both sides viewed Clark as an enthusiastic player supporter while his replacement (at least on an interim basis), Bruce Meyer, is seen as a very tough/difficult negotiator.

Some MLB people probably would have preferred Meyer be the one swept out. But unlike Clark, he didn’t have either issue that triggered Clark’s departure.