Since its last expansion in 1998, Major League Baseball (MLB) has maintained a stable structure of 30 franchises. However, as the league approaches the end of the decade, discussions surrounding the potential addition of two new teams have gained momentum.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has indicated that expansion could offer opportunities for geographical realignment, which may reduce player travel and enhance the postseason format. This report delves into the implications of potential expansion, highlighting key candidates and the challenges that lie ahead.
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The case for expansion
The prospect of expanding MLB to 32 teams is not merely about increasing the number of franchises; it also encompasses a realignment of divisions. Manfred’s proposal to restructure the league into four divisions of four teams each could foster enhanced regional rivalries, thereby increasing television ratings and gate revenues as teams face off more frequently.
This realignment could also improve the postseason experience for fans and broadcasters alike, creating a more compelling narrative around the playoffs.
Nashville: A prime contender
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By GlobalDataNashville, Tennessee, emerges as a leading candidate for MLB expansion. The city’s rapid economic growth, youthful and diverse population, and established sports infrastructure make it an attractive market for MLB.
Nashville’s economy, bolstered by sectors such as healthcare and tourism, supports a fan base with disposable income for tickets and merchandise. The city already has in place an existing sports culture that has embraced local professional franchises including the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and NHL’s Nashville Predators. This existing enthusiasm for sports indicates that the city is ready for an MLB franchise.
The Nashville Stars, a proposed team named after a historic Negro League franchise, is actively being pursued by Music City Baseball, a Nashville-based organization dedicated to bringing an MLB franchise to the city.
In 2024, Music City Baseball conducted a site and market analysis with the construction company Mortenson, which included an evaluation of five potential ballpark sites in the Nashville area for the new home of the Nashville Stars. This analysis encompassed infrastructure assessments and market studies. In March 2025, Music City Baseball partnered with Lincoln Property Company to secure real estate for a site that would serve as the ideal location for a Nashville MLB franchise.
A poll conducted by The Athletic revealed that 69% of MLB players support Nashville as the ideal city for a new franchise, further solidifying its candidacy. Despite concerns about competing with existing fan bases from nearby teams, many believe Nashville’s unique cultural identity and community engagement will foster a loyal fan base.
Nashville Professional Sports Teams– Sponsorship Portfolio Sponsorship Value (US$M)
| Team | Sport | Deal Count | Annual Value (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Titans (2024 season) | American Football | 47 | $51,680,000 |
| Nashville Predators (2024 season) | Ice Hockey | 69 | $30,770,000 |
| Nashville SC (2025 season) | Soccer | 56 | $13,350,000 |
Salt Lake City: A growing market
Salt Lake City, Utah, presents a compelling case for MLB expansion. As one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, the city boasts a diverse population and a robust economy characterized by low unemployment rates and a growing tech sector.
This economic landscape suggests that residents possess the disposable income necessary to support a new professional team in their community. Geographically, Salt Lake City sits in the western U.S. market, with the nearest MLB teams located in Denver and San Francisco. This advantageous location enables the city to attract fans from neighboring states, enhancing its potential as a vibrant baseball hub.
The city also has a rich history of minor league baseball, dating back to the early 20th century. Currently, Salt Lake City is home to the Salt Lake Bees, a Triple-A Minor League Baseball team. Following the 2024 season, the Bees relocated from Smith’s Ballpark in Salt Lake City to a new facility, The Ballpark at America First Square, in South Jordan, Utah. However, since the move, the team has experienced a decline in attendance, attributed to the smaller capacity of the new stadium.
Despite these challenges, concerns about the metropolitan area’s population size—approximately 1.26 million—raise questions about the long-term sustainability of an MLB franchise in Salt Lake City. While the city has the resources to develop a state-of-the-art stadium, the viability of a major league team remains uncertain.
Salt Lake City Professional Sports Teams– 2024 Current Sponsorship Portfolio Sponsorship Value (US$M)
| Team | Sport | Deal Count | Annual Value (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utah Jazz (2024 season) | Basketball | 60 | $30,650,000 |
| Utah Mammoth* (2024 season) | Ice Hockey | 41 | $9,860,000 |
| Real Salt Lake (2025 season) | Soccer | 47 | $18,420,000 |
*formerly Utah Hockey Club
Implications for future franchises in Las Vegas and Florida
The impending relocation of the Oakland Athletics to Las Vegas in January 2028 marks a significant shift in the MLB landscape. The new $2 billion stadium, featuring the largest jumbotron in MLB history, is backed by $380 million in public funding from the Nevada government. This move diminishes the likelihood of new franchises establishing themselves in Las Vegas, as the city will soon host an established team.
Similarly, the MLB landscape in Florida is changing. The recent acquisition of the Tampa Bay Rays by a consortium led by Jacksonville developer Patrick Zalupski, valued at $1.7 billion, indicates that the team is likely to remain in Florida for the long term. This reduces the chances of new franchises establishing themselves in the state.
Collective Bargaining Agreement challenges
As MLB contemplates expansion, the upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations present significant challenges. Central to these discussions is the contentious issue of a salary cap, which the MLB Players Association (MLBPA) opposes. With the current CBA set to expire in December 2026, the potential for a lockout in 2027 looms large, which could delay or halt expansion plans.
The existing CBA includes a provision allowing for league expansion to 32 teams, but the MLBPA retains the right to reopen negotiations regarding the implications for players should expansion occur. This ongoing tension underscores the uncertainty surrounding the future of MLB expansion.
Conclusion
The potential expansion of MLB presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. Cities like Nashville and Salt Lake City are emerging as prime candidates, each with unique strengths and concerns.
However, the complexities of relocation, economic viability, and labor negotiations will play crucial roles in shaping the future of the league. As MLB navigates these waters, the decisions made in the coming years will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the sport and its fans.
