MLB Expansion: Who’s In and Who’s Out

Summary

In this video, the speaker explores the topic of MLB expansion and which cities are likely to secure new teams. The two frontrunners, Nashville and Salt Lake City, are discussed, alongside other potential cities like Charlotte, San Antonio, and Vancouver. The video delves into population growth, stadium plans, and local enthusiasm, evaluating each city's chances based on various factors. While Nashville and Salt Lake City currently lead the pack, the speaker suggests other cities could still make a strong case, with a focus on the strategic importance of expanding MLB into both the Southeast and the West.

Takeaways

• 😀 Nashville and Salt Lake City are the current frontrunners for MLB expansion in 2024.
• 😀 MLB isn't committed to any specific city for expansion and will consider any city that meets the criteria.
• 😀 Mexico City is unlikely to be an MLB expansion city due to concerns about altitude and MLB's focus on U.S. and Canada markets.
• 😀 Orlando is not a contender for MLB expansion unless the Rays relocate there, but this scenario is unlikely.
• 😀 Montreal is out of the running for expansion because they prefer the cheaper option of relocating a team rather than starting a new franchise.
• 😀 Oakland, despite losing its team to Las Vegas, is not a likely candidate for an MLB expansion team.
• 😀 Portland is no longer considered a strong candidate due to declining population growth, despite its historical interest in MLB.
• 😀 Vancouver could potentially host an MLB team in the future but lacks any organized efforts to bring one to the city.
• 😀 Charlotte and San Antonio are key competitors for the final MLB expansion spots, with Charlotte having a slight edge in population and market size.
• 😀 While Texas already has two MLB teams, San Antonio could support a third team due to its large and growing population, especially when combined with nearby Austin.
• 😀 The MLB expansion decision is influenced by regional balance, with one team likely to be placed in the Southeast (Charlotte or Nashville) and the other in the West (Salt Lake City or San Antonio).

Q & A

Why is the topic of MLB expansion relevant in 2024?

In 2024, MLB expansion is a hot topic because Major League Baseball is preparing to add two more teams, making the total number of teams 32. This has sparked discussions on which cities will be chosen for these new franchises.

What are the current front-runner cities for MLB expansion?

Nashville and Salt Lake City are considered the front-runners for MLB expansion in 2024 due to their population growth, plans for new stadiums, and strong interest in hosting a franchise.

What makes Nashville and Salt Lake City strong candidates for MLB expansion?

Both cities have strong population growth, existing plans for new stadiums, and dedicated efforts to land an MLB franchise, which makes them attractive candidates. Additionally, their locations and growing economies give them a solid base for future success.

Why is Mexico City unlikely to receive an MLB team?

Mexico City is not a serious candidate due to its high altitude, which could affect players' performance, and MLB's reluctance to expand into Mexico. Monterrey is suggested as a better option due to its proximity to Texas and large population.

Why is Orlando not a viable expansion option for MLB?

Orlando's only chance for an MLB team would be if the Tampa Bay Rays relocated there, but MLB is hesitant to try a third team in Florida due to attendance issues with the existing franchises.

Why is Montreal considered out of the expansion race?

Montreal is not interested in landing a new MLB franchise. The city prefers the cheaper option of having an existing team relocate to their stadium, rather than building a new one for an expansion team.

What is the situation with Oakland and why is it not a candidate for MLB expansion?

Oakland is losing its MLB team (the A's), and while there's a small chance the city might get another team in the future, it's unlikely. The A's are moving to Las Vegas, marking the end of MLB in Oakland.

Why is Portland not a good choice for MLB expansion?

Portland is facing population decline, and despite its ranking in metro population, it lacks the growth needed to support a Major League team. The city has struggled with population shrinkage since 2020, making it less attractive as an expansion location.

How does Vancouver's candidacy for MLB expansion compare to other cities?

Vancouver could be a strong contender for a second Canadian MLB team, but there is no active movement or organized effort to bring MLB to the city at this time. The city would need to show interest and develop a plan to challenge Salt Lake City and Nashville.

Which cities are competing for the two MLB expansion spots?

The final competition for the MLB expansion includes Nashville, Salt Lake City, Charlotte, and San Antonio. These cities are vying for one spot each in the Southeast and out West, respectively.