1990 NL Expansion Announcement

Major Announcement: The 1990 NL Expansion

The 1990 Announcement

The year 1990 marked a significant development in Major League Baseball as the National League (NL) announced the cities of Buffalo, Denver, Miami, Orlando, Tampa-St Petersburg, and Washington, D.C. as the final contenders for expansion teams to be added in 1993. This announcement opened a new chapter in baseball history and generated excitement among fans and prospective team owners alike.

Finalists and Their Potential

Each of the six finalist cities brought unique characteristics and potential fan bases to the table. Cities like Miami and Denver were particularly noteworthy for their vibrant local culture and growing populations, making them prime candidates for hosting a new team. Buffalo was famous for its sports engagement, and both Tampa-St Petersburg and Orlando were rapidly developing metropolitan areas, indicating strong potential for future growth.

Outcome of the Expansion Bid

Miami and Denver Win the Bid

After extensive evaluation and deliberation, the NL ultimately chose Miami and Denver as the expansion cities. This decision was celebrated as it expanded the league into new markets, allowing baseball to gain significant traction in these regions. Miami would go on to become the Florida Marlins (now Miami Marlins), while Denver welcomed the Colorado Rockies.

The Impact on Major League Baseball

The addition of Miami and Denver not only transformed the league’s landscape but also enhanced fan engagement and improved regional rivalries. This expansion reflected the growing popularity of baseball in the United States and set the stage for further developments in the following decades.

Fun Fact

The Origin of the Florida Marlins

When the Florida Marlins entered the league, they made an immediate impact, famously winning the World Series just five years later in 1997, showcasing the potential of newly introduced franchises in Major League Baseball.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on MLB Expansion

For those interested in learning more about Major League Baseball expansion, consider reading “The Baseball Expansion: The Official History of MLB Expansion in 1993” and “Nine Innings: The Anatomy of a Baseball Game”. These books provide deeper insights into the growth of the game and its evolution over the years.