The group behind Vancouver’s MLB bid is credible and connected enough to give Canada a second pro franchise
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim has initiated a formal process to explore a Major League Baseball expansion bid led by Zack Ross of the Cape Group, with support from high-profile sports and entertainment figures. The proposal includes plans for a new open-air stadium designed by Populous, the firm behind numerous MLB ballparks, potentially located on a prime waterfront site. While the bid has credible backing and early investor interest, including from owners of the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Kraken, significant challenges remain before a franchise can be secured.
- ▪Zack Ross, president of the Vancouver-based Cape Group, is leading the MLB expansion bid for Vancouver.
- ▪The bid has enlisted Jac Sperling, a well-connected U.S. sports executive, to help recruit investors and build a credible proposal.
- ▪Potential investors include the owners of the San Francisco 49ers and the Seattle Kraken, as well as actor Ryan Reynolds.
- ▪The proposed stadium, designed by Populous, would be open-air and located on a prime waterfront site near downtown Vancouver.
- ▪Vancouver’s current stadium configuration presents challenges, and the bid is still in early stages with no guarantees of success.
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Open this photo in gallery:Vancouver’s mayor says he will bring forward a motion aimed at exploring a Major League Baseball expansion bid, though the stadium’s current configuration presents challenges for the sport.DARRYL DYCK/The Canadian PressShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountImagine a grand baseball stadium on a prime piece of waterfront property near downtown Vancouver surrounded by a thriving purpose-built entertainment district.Envision, too, this being the home of a new Major League Baseball franchise.That is the dream of the group behind the MLB expansion bid recently revealed by Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim.
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