MLB expansion is “not imminent -- and in fact is unlikely to happen until the early 2030s,” as it "isn't MLB's immediate priority,” according to sources cited by Jeff Passan of ESPN.com. While "no current plans to expand exist," the potential of a nine-figure financial windfall for every existing MLB team reaping its piece of a combined $4B-plus in expansion fees for two new franchises -- and the "emergence of viable candidates whose merits appeal to owners and the league -- has left the game preparing for a 32-team league as an inevitability.” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has “broached the topic of expansion multiple times publicly” but has “not formed the committee necessary to formalize the process.” Nashville and Salt Lake City have “positioned themselves to be at the front of the line when MLB finally decides to expand.” Sources said that since the formation of the Music City Baseball group five years ago, Nashville's status as the "most favorable East Coast expansion opportunity has been treated by owners as almost a fait accompli.” Salt Lake City has emerged as a "viable candidate in only the past six months, during which the Big League Utah consortium has made a distinct-enough impression that Salt Lake City has leapfrogged" Portland as the "top West Coast opportunity." Nashville's and Salt Lake City's reputations as “front-runners is in large part due to their preparation and planning,” though sources also suggested Charlotte; Portland; San Jose; Austin; Vancouver; and Mexico City as "potential expansion candidates." But the "first order of business" before considering expansion is “ensuring that the A's and Rays' stadium deals are done” (ESPN.com, 2/20).
