Is The MLB Thinking Of Expanding
In 2022, the MLB's labor deal allowed for the possibility of expansion to 32 teams. While the likelihood of this happening soon is thin, the MLB has expressed interest in this direction.
Major League Baseball (MLB), the most historic professional sports league in the United States and Canada, has been a staple of North American sports culture since its formation in 1903. With 30 member clubs representing the highest level of professional baseball, the MLB has seen significant growth and evolution over the years. However, recent developments suggest that the MLB might be considering further expansion.
A History of Expansion
The last time the MLB expanded was almost 25 years ago, with the addition of the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Tampa Bay Rays in 1998. This brought the total number of teams to 30, evenly divided between the National League (NL) and the American League (AL). However, recent reports indicate that the MLB is considering expanding to 32 teams.
The Possibility of Expansion
In 2022, the MLB's labor deal allowed for the possibility of expansion to 32 teams. While the likelihood of this happening soon is thin, the MLB has expressed interest in this direction. The 2023 baseball season introduced several changes, including pitch clocks, larger bases, a restriction on infield shifts, and a new schedule format where every team will play every other team for the first time in history. These changes have sparked discussions about further expansion.
Potential Expansion Cities
Several cities have been identified as potential locations for new MLB teams. These include Nashville, Las Vegas, Charlotte, New Orleans, San Antonio, Portland, Mexico City, and Tokyo. Other potential sites include Orlando and Salt Lake City. The CEO of the Charlotte Bats, an organization devoted to bringing a major league baseball team to Charlotte, has shown particular interest in this expansion.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Expansion
The primary benefit of MLB expansion is increased competition. With two additional teams, each club will have more opportunities to compete and gain recognition in the standings. This could significantly benefit small-market teams that may otherwise struggle against larger markets. However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider, such as the impact on player contracts, salary caps, and stadium facilities.