Overview

• Speaking on ESPN’s Little League Classic broadcast, Rob Manfred said expansion would be paired with regional realignment to reduce travel and create East/West postseason windows more attractive to broadcasters.
• He reiterated a goal of identifying two new franchises before his planned 2029 departure, while offering no specifics on structure or timing and noting no formal process is underway.
• Reporting across outlets indicates MLB is unlikely to advance expansion until the Rays and the Athletics resolve their ballpark situations.
• Media coverage continues to cite Nashville and Salt Lake City as leading candidate markets for potential teams, though no selections have been approved.
• The proposal drew swift pushback from fans and figures including Howie Rose and Cameron Maybin, who warned it could end AL/NL traditions and affect competitive balance.