Quick Read
- With Commissioner Rob Manfred openly discussing possible new markets and stadium deals being finalised across North America, the idea of MLB expansion has become one of the most talked-about topics in global sport — and yes, even UK fans are paying attention.
- Commissioner Manfred confirmed in 2024 that once the Oakland Athletics’ relocation to Las Vegas and the Tampa Bay Rays’ stadium plans are settled, the league will turn its focus to adding two new franchises.
- In 2024, the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies played a thrilling two-game series in London, drawing more than 120,000 fans over the weekend.
Major League Baseball (MLB) is at a crossroads. After more than two decades without adding a new team, the league is once again turning its attention to expansion. With Commissioner Rob Manfred openly discussing possible new markets and stadium deals being finalised across North America, the idea of MLB expansion has become one of the most talked-about topics in global sport — and yes, even UK fans are paying attention.
While baseball remains a niche sport in Britain, growing coverage on UK sports networks and social media has stirred fresh interest. As the MLB continues its push for international reach — from London Series matchups to expansion debates — the sport’s next big chapter could have global implications.
The History of MLB Expansion
MLB’s last major expansion came in 1998 when the Tampa Bay Devil Rays (now Rays) and the Arizona Diamondbacks joined the league. That brought the total to 30 teams, evenly split between the American and National Leagues.
Since then, talk of expansion has surfaced repeatedly, often tied to relocation threats or new stadium negotiations. But in recent years, the conversation has shifted from speculation to serious consideration. Commissioner Manfred confirmed in 2024 that once the Oakland Athletics’ relocation to Las Vegas and the Tampa Bay Rays’ stadium plans are settled, the league will turn its focus to adding two new franchises.
This would take MLB from 30 to 32 teams, aligning with other major sports leagues such as the NFL and NHL.
Why MLB Expansion Is Back on the Agenda
Several factors are driving renewed interest in expansion. The first is financial stability. Following the challenges of the pandemic years, MLB revenues have rebounded strongly. According to Forbes, league-wide revenue surpassed $11 billion in 2024, bolstered by record media rights deals and international games.
Second, the success of the MLB London Series — which saw record attendances at London Stadium in 2024 — demonstrated the sport’s growing global potential. The league’s goal is not just to add teams, but to expand its footprint into untapped markets, including internationally.
Lastly, a new wave of talented young players and data-driven fan engagement has reinvigorated the sport’s image. MLB no longer feels like an American-only pastime; it’s part of a broader global sports conversation that now includes British, European, and Asian audiences.
Potential Expansion Cities
Commissioner Manfred has hinted that multiple cities are under consideration, both within the United States and abroad. The leading candidates include:
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville has emerged as a frontrunner thanks to strong investor interest and a booming metropolitan economy. The proposed “Nashville Stars” project, backed by former MLB players, would honour the city’s rich Negro Leagues history.
Portland, Oregon
Portland has been pursuing an MLB team for years. The Portland Diamond Project already has stadium blueprints and a strong fan base. Its proximity to Seattle could create an instant regional rivalry.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte’s population growth and corporate presence make it an appealing market. The city has successfully supported NBA and NFL franchises, showing it can sustain major-league sports.
Montreal, Canada
Baseball fans in Canada have long called for a return of the Montreal Expos, who relocated to Washington, D.C., in 2005. With improved economic conditions and strong nostalgia, Montreal remains a leading international candidate.
Mexico City
In line with MLB’s international ambitions, Mexico City could be a bold move. Its huge market, passionate sports culture, and proximity to the U.S. make it a realistic contender — though infrastructure and altitude challenges remain.
What About the UK?
It may sound ambitious, but the UK is slowly becoming part of MLB’s global picture. The London Series, launched in 2019 and reignited post-pandemic, has drawn sell-out crowds at London Stadium.
In 2024, the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies played a thrilling two-game series in London, drawing more than 120,000 fans over the weekend. The event’s success proved the UK’s appetite for baseball, prompting Manfred to confirm more games through 2026.
While London may not be ready for an MLB franchise, these series are a clear sign that the league sees Britain as a key market for growth. The UK’s love for American sports — evident through strong NFL and NBA followings — suggests that baseball could be next in line.
For context, the UK has also shown strong engagement with other American leagues. Injuries and performances of athletes such as Alvin Kamara and Bam Adebayo have been trending among UK readers, showing clear crossover interest in U.S. sports news.
Economic and Sporting Impact of Expansion
Adding two new MLB teams would not just change the standings; it would transform local economies. Each expansion franchise is expected to come with a franchise fee of around $2 billion, making it a multi-billion-dollar boost for the league.
Cities that secure a team can expect increased tourism, job creation, and urban development around new stadiums. In Las Vegas, for example, projections show that the Athletics’ move could generate over $1.5 billion in local economic impact.
Sporting-wise, expansion would necessitate realignment of divisions. With 32 teams, MLB could shift to eight divisions of four teams each, streamlining scheduling and travel. It could also bring fresh rivalries and balance to the playoff structure.
Challenges Facing MLB Expansion
While the prospects are exciting, expansion is not without hurdles. Stadium financing remains a contentious issue. Public funding for sports arenas is increasingly scrutinised in the U.S., and cities must balance economic benefits with taxpayer concerns.
Market saturation is another challenge. With 30 teams already competing for fans and media attention, adding two more could dilute existing markets unless carefully managed.
Finally, the league must ensure competitive balance. The luxury tax system already aims to curb overspending, but new franchises could struggle initially without sufficient player talent or financial backing.
The Global Angle: Why International Growth Matters
MLB’s global vision extends far beyond North America. The league has hosted games in Mexico, Japan, and the UK, while scouting and youth development programmes continue to expand across Europe and Asia.
The goal is to transform MLB from a domestic powerhouse into a truly global brand. As streaming services and digital coverage make sports more accessible worldwide, fans in London, Tokyo, or Mexico City can follow their favourite teams in real time.
That international push mirrors trends seen in other U.S. leagues. The NFL’s London Games and the NBA’s Paris fixtures have demonstrated that global expansion can boost both revenue and brand prestige.
Similarly, MLB’s analytics-driven approach — including access to advanced stats such as those seen in tournaments like the CONCACAF Champions League stats — appeals to new-age sports fans who crave data and storytelling.
What Experts Are Saying
In a recent interview, Commissioner Manfred stated:
“Expansion is a priority once our current stadium situations are resolved. The interest from new cities is unprecedented.”
Economists and analysts largely agree. According to sports economist Victor Matheson, expansion could “add around £4 billion to the league’s overall valuation,” making it one of the most lucrative moves in MLB history.
However, former players have urged caution. They argue that MLB should prioritise competitive integrity and player development over financial gain. The debate reflects a broader question: should expansion be driven by business or by the spirit of the game?
UK Perspective: Growing Baseball Culture
Baseball’s slow but steady rise in the UK is supported by organisations like BaseballSoftballUK, which promotes grassroots development. Youth participation has increased, and schools are beginning to include baseball as part of sports programmes.
Coverage by British media outlets such as BBC Sport and The Guardian has also grown, particularly around major events like the London Series. The appeal of global stars, from Shohei Ohtani to Aaron Judge, has helped baseball reach younger UK audiences accustomed to global sports fandom.
With more international games scheduled and possible collaborations between MLB and UK broadcasters, the groundwork for a long-term baseball culture in Britain is being laid.
Even the 2025 Reds schedule has generated interest among British fans keen to follow U.S. teams across time zones.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 32 Teams
The expansion process will not happen overnight. MLB officials have indicated that formal plans could begin in late 2025 or 2026, once existing relocations are completed.
The timeline includes city selection, franchise approval by the owners, stadium construction, and player drafts — all of which could take several years. If everything proceeds smoothly, the first pitch for the new franchises might not be thrown until 2030.
Still, for fans and investors, the mere possibility of expansion has injected fresh energy into the sport. From Nashville to Montreal — and perhaps one day London — baseball’s future feels more open and international than ever.
FAQs About MLB Expansion
1. When will MLB officially expand?
The league is expected to begin formal expansion talks after the Oakland Athletics’ move to Las Vegas and the Tampa Bay Rays’ stadium deal are finalised, likely in 2025.
2. Which cities are most likely to get new teams?
Nashville and Portland lead the domestic race, while Montreal and Mexico City are strong international candidates.
3. Could London ever host an MLB team?
While it’s unlikely in the near future, the success of the London Series proves there’s potential for a long-term UK presence.
4. How much will it cost to buy an expansion franchise?
The expansion fee is expected to be around $2 billion per team, reflecting MLB’s booming valuation.
5. How will expansion affect the MLB schedule?
A 32-team league could lead to realignment into eight divisions, making travel easier and creating new rivalries.
Final Thoughts
MLB expansion represents more than just adding teams — it’s about redefining the sport for a global era. As the league explores new cities and new audiences, including a growing UK fanbase, baseball’s transformation is underway.
Whether in Nashville or London, the story of MLB’s next chapter will be one of innovation, diversity, and ambition. For British sports fans who’ve embraced the NFL and NBA, baseball could soon become the next big American import to win hearts on this side of the Atlantic.
And as international interest in American sports continues to grow — from Tee Higgins’ injury updates to Bam Adebayo’s performances — it’s clear that global audiences are ready for more.
