Rob Manfred Talks About Future MLB Expansion and Realignment

Rob Manfred Talks About Future MLB Expansion and Realignment

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred recently spoke about the future of Major League Baseball and hinted at possible expansion and realignment. He explained that adding new teams could also mean reorganizing divisions in a way that makes travel easier for players and creates more exciting matchups for TV networks. Manfred said this could bring more regional rivalries and better schedules for fans. Manfred’s goal is to see MLB grow from 30 to 32 teams before he retires in 2029. Some of the cities being considered for new franchises include Nashville, Salt Lake City, Portland, Charlotte, Austin, and even Montreal or Mexico City. Nashville is currently viewed as one of the strongest candidates, but competition remains open. If expansion happens, MLB could move away from the traditional American and National Leagues and create eight divisions with four teams each. This system would focus on geography, similar to other sports leagues like the NBA and NHL. While some fans worry about losing classic rivalries such as Cubs vs. Cardinals or Dodgers vs. Giants, supporters argue that the change would modernize the league and bring more excitement to the postseason. Before any expansion is approved, MLB must first solve stadium issues for existing teams. The Tampa Bay Rays are still searching for a permanent ballpark, and the Oakland Athletics are working on building a new stadium in Las Vegas, set to open in 2028. If these problems are resolved, the league could move forward with expansion by the end of the decade, setting the stage for a new era of baseball.

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