Manfred Proposes East-West Realignment Through Future MLB Expansion
MLB plans to add two teams and shift to East-West divisions to reduce player travel and update the league, with no expansion since 1998, Commissioner Manfred said.
- MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred proposed expanding the league beyond 30 teams with a geographic realignment by 2029.
- This proposal builds on the last time MLB grew its roster of teams four decades ago, when franchises in Arizona and Tampa Bay were introduced, and it addresses growing interest from several cities as well as stadium challenges faced by existing clubs.
- Manfred said adding two teams would help realign divisions east and west, reduce player travel wear, and improve the postseason format.
- Rumored expansion candidates include Nashville and Salt Lake City, which MLB considers among the strongest markets for new franchises.
- This expansion and realignment could end the American and National League structure and reshape baseball’s landscape for players and fans.
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Rob Manfred didn't detail which cities might be open to a major league team.
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