Don Mattingly, a former New York Yankees player, and current Toronto Blue Jays bench coach, has joined the Nashville Stars. The Stars are reportedly the favorites to become the next expansion team in MLB. Mattingly joins the group, led by Dave Stewart, as a baseball advisor. It is likely he will use his wealth of baseball experience to help owners make informed decisions.
It is also important to note that this new position will not take Don Mattingly away from the Blue Jays. Since the Nashville Stars are not yet an MLB franchise, there is no conflict of interest. However, if the Stars do eventually join the MLB, Mattingly would be forced to choose between the two teams.
Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported this news to Twitter, along with a comment from Mattingly and some clarification.
The idea of a new team in the MLB is tantalizing for many fans. Hearing that they are reportedly the favorite and employing Don Mattingly has served to stoke the fires further. It shows that they are serious about this and are willing to bring in a New York Yankees legend and current Blue Jays coach to help.
As many fans pointed out, this would likely require a realignment for both leagues. Due to the changes that would be needed, it would also be simpler for two teams to be added, bringing the total to 32. Having an odd number of teams could lead to a scheduling nightmare.
A large group of fans is totally against the idea of adding more teams. This is due to teams that are either unwilling or unable to spend the money necessary to field competitive teams. The Oakland Athletics and Cincinnati Reds would be an example of this. If the teams coming in aren’t vying for a championship, why even bother?
Don Mattingly is going to have a busy 2023 with all these responsibilities, but it could be for the good of the MLB.
Don Mattingly brings the perfect perspective to the Nashville Stars
