Rob Manfred hints at MLB expansion and realignment plans
- Rob Manfred discussed the possibility of MLB expansion and geographical realignment during an ESPN broadcast.
- The last expansion in the league was in 1998, and current discussions prioritize resolving stadium issues for the Athletics and Rays.
- This potential realignment could transform the league’s structure and format, aiming to enhance player travel and postseason appeal.
In August 2023, during an ESPN broadcast of a Little League Classic baseball game, Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred discussed the potential for geographical realignment in MLB divisions alongside the prospect of expanding the league. Manfred indicated that if the league expands, it could significantly reduce travel wear on players and enhance the appeal of the postseason format, which could be advantageous for broadcasters like ESPN. He noted the ongoing discussions about MLB expansion have been fueled by the need for the Oakland Athletics and Tampa Bay Rays to resolve their stadium situations. Despite the hesitation from some baseball fans about changing the traditional structure of the American and National Leagues, Manfred emphasized that there is substantial demand for MLB in various cities. Nashville has emerged as a possible candidate for a new franchise, as have Salt Lake City and other locations. The last major expansion in MLB occurred in 1998 with the inclusion of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Manfred expressed his intention to add at least two teams to the league before his term as commissioner ends in 2029. He is considering a complete overhaul of league alignment, potentially moving away from the traditional league structure in favor of a conference system similar to that of the NBA and NHL, which would consist of Eastern and Western Conferences with four divisions each. This would present a significant shift in how teams are organized and compete. Furthermore, the commissioner believes that aligning divisions geographically could create better match-ups during the postseason, particularly by concentrating teams along the East and West Coasts. This new alignment is being evaluated as a way to cater to a broader audience while expanding interest in the game as a whole. As MLB looks to modernize its image and adapt to changing market demands, this proposed realignment could represent one of the most substantial transformations in its history.