Tampa Bay Rays No More?

A Blog By Dean

News just broke that the Tampa Bay Rays will not be advancing with the plans on a new development in the Tampa Bay area.

Team President, Stuary Sternberg, put out a statement a few moments ago telling the fans. Immediately, thoughts go to selling the team and moving to a new city. So, lets see what would be the best match.

I would be lying if I said I didn’t use a combination of Chat GPT and Grok to quickly help with bullet points for each city. Sometimes you have to use technology to pump something out quick. This is an example of that. I won’t lie, it actually did a pretty good job with “What Makes Sense” and “Challenges,” so I am rolling with it.

Hey, at least I am honest about when I use it, unlike some websites………

Personally, I feel like Nashville is the best option for the team if they were to move.

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Why it makes sense:

• Nashville is MLB’s top target for expansion, with a strong ownership group (Music City Baseball) already lobbying for a team.

• A rapidly growing city with a booming economy and deep sports culture (Titans, Predators, and now an MLS team).

• Would solidify MLB’s footprint in the Southeast.

Challenges:

• Would require stadium funding (Tennessee is already investing heavily in a new Titans stadium).

• Could create market overlap with Atlanta Braves fans.

2. Charlotte, North Carolina

Why it makes sense:

• One of the largest U.S. markets without an MLB team.

• Charlotte has a strong corporate presence (Bank of America, NASCAR HQ).

• MLB wants to expand into North Carolina, and this would bring a natural rivalry with the Braves.

Challenges:

• No MLB-ready stadium, meaning they’d need a temporary home while a new park is built.

3. Portland, Oregon

Why it makes sense:

• A strong baseball culture with existing MLB investment interest (Portland Diamond Project).

• Would create a natural West Coast rivalry with Seattle.

• The city has a history of supporting its pro teams (Trail Blazers, Timbers).

Challenges:

• Political and economic concerns over publicly funding a stadium.

• Would require MLB realignment due to West Coast location.

4. Montreal, Canada

Why it makes sense:

• The Expos’ departure in 2004 left a huge baseball void.

• Strong nostalgia factor, and MLB has openly considered bringing baseball back.

• A proven sports market with a deep baseball history.

Challenges:

• Would require a new stadium, as Olympic Stadium is outdated.

• Currency exchange rates could be a financial hurdle.

5. Salt Lake City, Utah

Why it makes sense:

• Recently emerged as an MLB expansion candidate, led by the Big League Utah group.

• Strong regional sports culture (Jazz, University of Utah, and BYU sports).

• Rapid population and economic growth.

Challenges:

• Limited corporate presence compared to other candidates.

• Would need a new stadium.

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