Salt Lake City takes lead in MLB expansion race

A new CBA must precede the league's formal process.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 81 min read

What happened: Commissioner Rob Manfred wants to add two clubs, including one in the West. Raleigh has financial backing from Tom Dundon and a stadium concept, strengthening its case in the East.

Why it matters: Growing from 30 to 32 clubs would prompt MLB to reconsider its divisional alignment and playoff structure. Ownership strength, ballpark plans and government support will determine which bids advance.

By the numbers: MLB has operated with 30 clubs since Arizona and Tampa Bay joined in 1998; the expected two-team expansion would raise the total to 32.

What to watch: Nashville must secure ownership, a ballpark plan and public backing before MLB forms an expansion committee.

Sources

ESPN 2026-09-08T12:55:29.914858+00:00

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