Vancouver selects preferred partner for MLB expansion pursuit

The City of Vancouver has chosen The Show Vancouver, led by real estate developer Zack Ross, as its preferred partner to pursue a possible Major League Baseball expansion franchise.

The group proposes a new ballpark and mixed-use development, but has not announced a site, cost, financing plan or projected economic impact. Council has directed staff to negotiate a memorandum of understanding setting out collaboration and due diligence on possible ballpark sites.

The city says The Show Vancouver will bear all costs and financial risks of preparing and advancing its MLB bid. Any future agreements, including land-use and site decisions, would still require council approval.

MLB has not announced expansion plans, though commissioner Rob Manfred has said he hopes the league can grow from 30 to 32 teams before his planned 2029 retirement. Vancouver is home to the Blue Jays’ single-A affiliate, the Vancouver Canadians, which plays at the 6,500-seat Nat Bailey Stadium.