Could another major sports franchise be headed out of Arizona?
As Arizona hockey fans are left wondering what to do about their fandom, is it possible an owner of another major franchise in the state is having second thoughts about his own relocation threats?
Just two months after openly talking about the possibility of his MLB franchise relocating out of Arizona, Diamondbacks managing general partner Ken Kendrick weighed in on news of the Coyotes' move to Utah via the club's X page. And Kendrick's comments about the Coyotes raise some eyebrows based on what he has said in not too distant past about the Diamondbacks.
Back in February at the start of MLB spring training, Kendrick discussed the opportunities available to him and his partners when the Diamondbacks' lease with Chase Field expires in 2027.
"There are opportunities available,” Kendrick said. “There are other cities that would covet having Major League Baseball… we’re not in dialogue with those cities, but we are aware."
Kendrick – also known for being a major donor to WVU sports, so much so West Virginia's baseball stadium was renamed in his honor – clearly feels strongly about professional sports in Arizona. However, the lease with Chase Field is set to expire and the club is pushing for between $400 and $500 million in renovations to the facility. This means the negotiations are likely to become heated, even if it’s just for the purpose of brokering a favorable deal.
The most prominent city names that are often floated regarding any potential MLB expansion include Las Vegas – where the Oakland A’s are planning to move – and Montreal, where the franchise now known as the Washington Nationals spent the first 35 years of its life. Charlotte, Nashville and Portland, Ore. also come up frequently.
While Kendrick has acknowledged that the Diamondbacks are not part of any expansion discussions yet, he has also made it clear the franchise will keep its options open and make the best business decision for its future.
"We may run out of time in Phoenix,” Kendrick said. “We hope that won’t happen."
How can any Arizona sports fan reeling from the loss of one team trust Kendrick is truly dedicated to the state?
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