Owners Slam Expansion: 'It Would Just Be Stupid'

Major League Baseball's potential expansion is facing significant skepticism from owners and executives, despite numerous cities expressing strong interest and preparing bids. Several insiders anonymously revealed their doubts, with one executive stating, "I don't think it's going to happen, I really don't," and an owner calling expansion "stupid." These sentiments contrast with Commissioner Rob Manfred's public desire to add two teams before his term ends in January 2029.

The primary obstacle appears to be financial. Owners question the economics of subsidizing two new, likely small-market teams, especially given the historical struggles of recent expansion franchises like the Marlins and Rays, which have required billions in revenue sharing. While expansion could create jobs for players and potentially simplify scheduling, the financial burden on existing teams is a major deterrent.

Manfred has advocated for all teams to share local TV revenue, with new national TV deals expected to be lucrative. However, owners are hesitant to dilute these revenues further by bringing in new franchises that would also benefit from these shared funds. The financial implications of expansion remain a contentious issue, with many owners unconvinced of its current strategic or economic value.