Long-stalled searches for new ballparks for the Rays and A's remain in a stalemate. But MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed hope that elected officials in both the Tampa/St. Petersburg and Oakland areas are actively engaged in seeking a solution, calling recent dialogue with both markets “encouraging.” Manfred: "I find encouraging the fact that it seems in the area -- broadly defined -- are interested in getting something done and keeping the Rays in St. Petersburg-Tampa or Tampa-St. Petersburg, whichever way you want to say it" (Eric Fisher, Staff Writer). Manfred said that MLB "will not consider moving the Rays out of the area until all efforts are exhausted." He added that it is "clear to MLB that the Tampa Bay market 'absolutely' is viable and that the Rays' attendance issues -- a major-league-low average of 14,730 -- are 'facility-related,' specifically the location of Tropicana Field." In Tampa, Marc Topkin writes Manfred "cooled what has been mostly media and fan chatter about the Rays potentially moving to Montreal, or elsewhere." Manfred said, "We will not get to the point of exploring relocation unless and until [Rays Owner Stu] Sternberg and I, in consultation or together, reach the conclusion that it is not possible to get something done in the market where he exists now. We are not at that stage." Manfred "did not offer any specific timetable or agenda for how the stadium issue will be addressed." Sternberg in an e-mail wrote, "The commissioner and I have consistent contact in regards to our franchise and my desire to see things through in the Tampa Bay region." Sternberg has said that he "would prefer not to negotiate during the season, and it may benefit the Rays to wait until after the upcoming City Council elections to see if they have a better chance to get a deal approved" (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 7/15).
LONG STAY ON THE EAST BAY? In S.F., John Shea reports amid "further recent buzz" that Warriors Owner Joe Lacob expressed interest in buying the A’s, Manfred said that the team's ownership group "is remaining in place." Manfred said of A's co-Owners John Fisher and Lew Wolff, "I have never heard one word that made me think the Fishers and Lew Wolff are not in this for the long haul. I think they are in for the long haul. ... I’m encouraged by the attitude of the new mayor in Oakland (Libby Schaaf) and the county officials that also serve on the JPA, and I am hopeful that the process is moving towards giving the A’s a concrete alternative for a new stadium in Oakland." Manfred added, "I want to be as supportive as I possibly can of the efforts of Lew Wolff and the Fishers ... to get a new facility in Oakland. I’m going to work closely with them. I’m going to be engaged with the process because I think Major League Baseball needs a new facility for the A’s" (S.F. CHRONICLE, 7/15).
