When does Rob Manfred want MLB to expand?

Commissioner Rob Manfred aims to have two expansion teams selected before his term expires in January 2029.

How would MLB realign with 32 teams?

With 32 teams, MLB could shift from American and National Leagues to East and West leagues, aligning teams geographically.

What are the benefits of MLB realignment?

Geographic realignment could significantly reduce player travel burden and improve playoff scheduling logistics.

Home / Sports / MLB Eyes 32 Teams: A Geographic Revolution

MLB Eyes 32 Teams: A Geographic Revolution

9 Jan

•

Summary

Commissioner desires 32 Major League Baseball teams by 2029.
Proposes leagues split by East and West, not leagues.
Geographic realignment aims to reduce player travel burden.

MLB Eyes 32 Teams: A Geographic Revolution

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has indicated a strong interest in expanding the league to 32 teams, a goal he hopes to achieve before his term concludes in January 2029. This potential expansion would enable a more logical structural realignment, moving away from the current American and National League setup towards divisions based on East and West geography. Such a shift is anticipated to greatly alleviate the considerable travel demands placed upon MLB players throughout the grueling 162-game season.

Manfred highlighted that a 32-team structure would create 16 teams per league and eight divisions of four, optimizing scheduling and format. The proposed geographic alignment could also address logistical challenges with early-round playoff games, which can be inconvenient for fans on opposite coasts. This move reflects a broader trend in sports toward more geographically sensible league structures, potentially benefiting both players and fans alike.