Washington D.C. Major League Baseball Franchise Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
Upon the pending relocation of the Montreal Expos, Washington, DC could once again have a Major League Baseball Franchise. The deal hinges on a ballpark deal to be finalized by December 31, 2004. The initial ballpark estimate signed by Mayor Anthony Williams in September 2004 was for $435 million. However, a later estimate for the chosen site (along the Anacostia River waterfront in southeast Washington) put the price tag at $600 million. To keep the costs closer to $435 million, Linda Cropp, the chair of the District of Columbia Council, proposed on November 5 that the new ballpark be built next to RFK Stadium.The ballpark proposal is controversial for many city residents, who would prefer the land and money to focus on schools rather than a ballpark. Three Council members who supported Williams' plan were ousted in September's Democratic primary.
If the deal succeeds, the team would remain collectively owned by the 29 ownership groups until such a time as it can be sold off to new local partnership. RFK Stadium would serve as the team's ballpark for at least the first three years of operation.
Washington has twice before had failed baseball franchises, both known as the Washington Senators. (The name "Washington Senators" is presently the property of the Texas Rangers, who had previously operated under that name from 1961 to 1971. The original Senators were renamed the Minnesota Twins in 1961.) No name has been announced for the new team as of yet, although there has been much speculation and anticipation. Aside from Senators, another popular movement is in naming the team the Washington Grays after the Homestead Grays, a legendary Negro League team that played in Washington. The names Washington Nationals—the original name of the first Senators— and Washington Monuments have been suggested as well.
It is anticipated that the team will continue to play in the East Division of the National League, as opposed to the American League, where the nearby Baltimore Orioles currently reside.
A September 2004 article on prospective names for the franchise
This is an Article on Washington D.C. Major League Baseball Franchise. Page Contains Information, Facts Details or Explanation Guide About Washington D.C. Major League Baseball Franchise External links