MLB Realignment and Expansion Under consideration by Commissioner Manfred
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Williamsport,PA – Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred revealed potential plans to restructure the league,including breaking up the American and National Leagues and realigning teams geographically. The discussion occured during an ESPN broadcast of a game between the seattle Mariners and New York Mets, played before Little League players on August 18, 2025.
Geographic Realignment as a Key Strategy
Manfred indicated that expansion could create an opportunity for a more balanced and efficient league structure. He specifically cited concerns about player travel and maximizing television viewership, notably in western markets. “In my mind, I think if we expand, it provides us with an opportunity to geographically realign,” Manfred stated. “I think we could see a lot of wear and tear on our players in terms of travel.”
He further explained that a realignment could enhance the appeal of postseason broadcasts for networks like ESPN. A geographically-based format could lead to more compelling matchups,especially during prime-time slots. “That 10 o’clock time slot where we sometimes get lost in Anaheim, would be two West Coast teams,” Manfred noted. “That 10 o’clock slot that’s a problem for us sometimes becomes a real opportunity for our West Coast audience.”
Did You Know? The current two-league system, with the American and National Leagues, has been in place since 1903, evolving from earlier iterations of professional baseball leagues.
Potential Expansion Cities
Manfred expressed confidence in the growing demand for Major League Baseball across the country. He hopes to identify and select two expansion cities before his planned retirement in 2029. According to a report in USA Today, Nashville, Tennessee, and Salt Lake City, Utah, are currently considered frontrunners for potential expansion franchises [3].
Proposed Conference Structure
Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden proposed a detailed realignment plan in February 2023, outlining a conference-based system. This plan, published in The Athletic, envisions two conferences - Eastern and Western – each comprised of four divisions with four teams apiece [3].
| Conference | Division | teams |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern | East | Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies |
| North | Cincinnati reds, Cleveland Guardians, Detroit Tigers, Toronto Blue jays | |
| Mid-Atlantic | Baltimore Orioles, Expansion Team, Pittsburgh Pirates, Washington Nationals | |
| Southeast | Atlanta Braves, Miami Marlins, Expansion Team, Tampa bay Rays | |
| Western | Midwest | Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins |
| Southwest | Houston Astros, Kansas City Royals, st. Louis Cardinals, Texas Rangers | |
| Pacific Coast | Colorado Rockies, Athletics, seattle Mariners, San Francisco Giants | |
| West | Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres |
Pro Tip: Geographic realignment in professional sports ofen aims to reduce travel costs, increase regional rivalries, and improve television ratings.
The prospect of realignment has sparked debate among baseball fans, many of whom value the historical significance of the existing league structure. The National League, founded in 1876, and the American League, established in 1901, represent a rich tradition within the sport.
What impact do you think a major league realignment would have on the fan experience? And how might it affect the competitive balance within MLB?
The Evolving Landscape of Major League Baseball
Major League Baseball has undergone numerous changes throughout its history, from the introduction of free agency to the implementation of the designated hitter rule. The current discussions surrounding realignment and expansion represent the latest chapter in the league’s ongoing evolution. Factors driving these changes include shifting demographics, evolving media consumption habits, and the desire to maximize revenue and fan engagement. The league continues to explore innovative strategies to ensure its long-term sustainability and appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions About MLB Realignment
- What is MLB realignment? MLB realignment refers to the potential restructuring of the league’s divisions and conferences based on geographic location.
- Why is MLB considering realignment? The league is exploring realignment to reduce player travel, improve television viewership, and capitalize on potential expansion opportunities.
- Which cities are being considered for MLB expansion? Nashville, Tennessee, and Salt Lake City, Utah, are currently considered leading candidates for expansion franchises.
- What are the potential benefits of a conference-based system? A conference system could create more competitive balance and enhance the appeal of postseason broadcasts.
- How long has the current league structure been in place? The two-league system (American and National Leagues) has been in place since 1903.
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