Portland’s future in Major League Baseball looks promising, according to Mayor-Elect Keith Wilson.
During a local TV show, Wilson expressed confidence that Portland is very close to securing a team, stating, “I’d say this is as close as we’ve come,” and mentioned it’s between Portland and one other city. The mystery city could be Nashville, but Portland’s baseball dreams are not new. Back in 2019, the Portland Diamond Project (PDP) started its quest for a team and recently announced plans to buy land at Zidell Yards for a stadium.
Craig Cheek from PDP shared his vision five years ago: “With the trends that we’re seeing, like with the Battery in Atlanta, these ballparks can truly be transformational for a bigger idea than just baseball.”
Expansion Hopes:
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has hinted at expansion before his term ends in 2029 but wants to resolve issues with the Athletics and Tampa Bay Rays first. The A’s are on their way to Las Vegas after moving from Oakland to Sacramento this winter. However, the Rays’ situation remains tricky.
Fans might wonder if Portland will finally get its team or if another city will take the spotlight.
MLB hasn’t added any teams since 1998 when the Rays and Arizona Diamondbacks joined, making it an even 30 teams.
What do you think about Portland’s chances?
