The 1968 MLB National League Expansion Draft: A New Era for Baseball

The Dawn of a New Baseball Era

1968 Expansion Draft Overview

The 1968 MLB National League Expansion Draft marked a significant event in Major League Baseball history as it introduced two new teams, the San Diego Padres and the Montreal Expos, into the league. This pivotal draft took place on October 10, 1968, allowing each new team to select 30 players from existing teams to build their rosters. The excitement surrounding this event was palpable, with many fans eager to see how the new franchises would shape the future of baseball.

Key Picks: Downtown Ollie Brown and Manny Mota

As the draft commenced, the San Diego Padres made headlines by selecting 'Downtown' Ollie Brown, a talented outfielder from the San Francisco Giants. Brown's selection was a bold move, intended to attract fans with his dynamic playing style. Meanwhile, the Montreal Expos chose Manny Mota, an outfielder from the Pittsburgh Pirates, as their first pick. Both players were expected to play crucial roles in establishing their teams in the competitive National League.

Impact of the 1968 Expansion Draft

Building the Foundation of New Teams

The 1968 Expansion Draft was not just about selecting players; it was about laying the foundational stone for two franchises. With each team needing a solid starting roster, the choices made during the draft determined the future competitiveness of the Padres and Expos. This event allowed the new teams to start from a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, setting them up for success in the years to come.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

The excitement for the two new franchises was immense. Fans were eager to see how players like Brown and Mota would impact their respective teams. The Padres and Expos drew a lot of attention from local media and baseball fans, instigating a new rivalry filled with excitement and hope for the future of the franchises.

Fun Fact

Ollie Brown's Unique Nickname

Did you know that 'Downtown' Ollie Brown earned his nickname due to his powerful swing and impressive hits that would often clear the outfield? His charismatic presence on the field made him a fan favorite even before joining the San Diego Padres.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Baseball's Expansion Drafts

If you want to delve deeper into the history of baseball's expansion drafts, consider reading "Baseball's Expansion Era: 1961-1975" and "The Historic 1968 Major League Baseball Expansion Draft: How the Padres and Expos Built Their Teams". These books offer extensive insights into the players, teams, and monumental shifts in baseball during that era.