Portland Pitches to the MLB

We may be one step closer to getting an MLB team in Portland.

A recent DJCOregon article covered some of the latest developments. Portland’s bid for a Major League Baseball (MLB) team is gaining momentum, according to Mike Barrett, managing director of the Portland Diamond Project (PDP). The group has secured a site at Zidell Yards and is waiting for MLB to expand or relocate a team. Barrett highlighted MLB's interest in a West Coast team, especially if the Oakland A’s finalize their move to Las Vegas.

PDP is advancing ballpark designs and engaging corporate sponsors, including Anheuser-Busch. Ownership details remain confidential, though high-profile backers like Russell Wilson and Ciara are involved. Local officials are advocating for the project, citing its potential to elevate Portland’s profile and economy. 

The Portland Tribune also covered the news here:

https://www.portlandtribune.com/news/we-got-the-jewel-mlb-to-portland-forum-addresses-impact-and-next-steps-in-pro/article_768ff9e4-d45a-11ef-a645-27b4d18e70bc.html

While all of this progress is promising, it seems the realization of an MLB team in Portland depends on a few key external factors, including MLB’s expansion timeline and decision-making.

Related post: http://www.mysouthwaterfront.com/2024/11/take-me-out-to-ballgame.html

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

There has been a lot of chatter over the years about the potential for MLB in Portland and also about the future use of the land in the South Waterfront (Zidell Yards properties).

In September, the MLB discussion took off anew. According to Jay Zidell via OPB:

“There have been numerous proposals over the years on what should become of Zidell Yards,” Jay Zidell, president of Zidell Companies, said in a statement about the letter of intent. “I think the potential for a future professional baseball stadium is an ideal use of the land. Who wouldn’t want to watch baseball with the Willamette River as the backdrop?”

A rendering of a potential baseball stadium in the Portland metro area provided by the Portland Diamond Project. The investor group announced Tuesday it signed a letter of intent to purchase Zidell Yards on the city's South Waterfront.

Courtesy of Portland Diamond Project

On October 30, the City Council adopted a resolution in support of this effort.

City Council signals support for Portland Diamond Project, MLB in Rose City 

"WHEREAS, with its vibrant urban riverfront location, views of multiple cascade peaks, and excellent pedestrian, bicycle, and transit access, a Major League Baseball stadium built on the Zidell Yards site would instantly become one of the most scenic stadiums in the league;"

Now, the big question, are Splash Hits a possibility in Portland? 

• https://www.foxsports.com/stories/mlb/where-are-the-splash-hits-for-every-mlb-ballpark
• https://blogs.fangraphs.com/a-splash-of-history-looking-back-on-20-plus-years-of-mccovey-cove-homers/