Overview

• Speaking on ESPN during the Little League Classic, Rob Manfred said expansion would open the door to reorganizing teams by geography to cut travel and bolster late-night TV windows.
• The approach could effectively replace the American and National Leagues with regional conferences or divisions, though no specific model has been presented.
• Manfred reiterated his goal to have two new markets selected by 2029, noting MLB has not expanded since adding Arizona and Tampa Bay in 1998.
• League planning remains contingent on the Rays’ and A’s ballpark outcomes, including the A’s Las Vegas stadium build and the Rays’ uncertain path after Tropicana Field damage and scrapped plans.
• Media coverage often cites Nashville and Salt Lake City as leading candidates, while reactions range from traditionalist pushback by Howie Rose to criticism from Cameron Maybin and cautious openness from Michael Kay.