Salt Lake City MLB Readiness: Former Big Leaguers Weigh In

The buzz around Salt Lake City as a possible Major League Baseball expansion hub got louder this week. Former MLB stars showed up in South Jordan for the Home Run Derby X finale.

While the event focused on entertaining fans, it also felt like an unofficial showcase for why Utah’s capital could handle the big leagues. Visiting players seemed genuinely optimistic about the city’s chances—and they shared their thoughts on what makes a good MLB market nowadays.

Salt Lake City Making Its Case for MLB Expansion

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred keeps talking about his long-term goal: adding two new franchises. There’s no official timeline, but insiders say Salt Lake City stands out as an “early favorite.”

The Home Run Derby X brought a group of former big leaguers to town, letting them see firsthand what the area’s all about. According to the players, a successful MLB city needs more than just a fancy stadium.

Lifestyle, culture, and community matter just as much—they attract both players and fans. That point kept coming up throughout the event.

Beyond the Ballpark: What Players Value Most

Former All-Star Ryan Zimmerman and shortstop Jose Reyes raved about Salt Lake’s restaurant scene and outdoor spaces. They said these kinds of amenities really help make a city appealing for players who spend so much time away from home.

Mike Moustakas talked about the importance of family-friendly activities and attractions. Players with kids, he said, want to enjoy life off the field, too.

Ian Desmond added that great schools, low crime, and a strong community vibe are just as crucial as the fun stuff. It’s not just about what you do—it’s about where you live.

Fan Passion and Market Potential

For Rick Ankiel, it really comes down to fan passion. “Some markets already in Major League Baseball struggle with attendance,” he said, suggesting a loyal and excited fan base is vital for a new market.

Players paid close attention to the energy of Utah’s baseball crowd during the Home Run Derby X. There’s something about the enthusiasm here that’s hard to ignore.

Utah’s Competitive Advantage

Several MLB alumni—like Nick Swisher and former Home Run Derby champion Todd Frazier—couldn’t stop talking about Salt Lake’s mountain views and outdoor fun. They liked the balance between city life and natural beauty.

They think those qualities could help Salt Lake stand out from other cities hoping for expansion. Logistical readiness played a role, too.

Organizers picked Utah for the Home Run Derby X finale partly because it can handle big events. There’s plenty of hotel space and stadium infrastructure, so Salt Lake checked the practical boxes for hosting a major baseball showcase.

Memories and Momentum

Former Dodgers slugger Adrián González felt a bit nostalgic during his trip to Utah. He remembered a Triple-A rehab stint in Salt Lake and praised the city’s restaurants and natural scenery.

His memories echoed what others said at the event: Salt Lake City isn’t just modern—it leaves a real impression on visitors.

Does Salt Lake “Check the Boxes” for MLB?

The league hasn’t announced official expansion plans yet. Still, most visiting players seemed to agree on one thing: Salt Lake City checks a lot of boxes.

When it comes to quality of life, fan engagement, and logistical readiness, Salt Lake City looks like a strong contender for a major league franchise. The Wasatch Mountains set a striking backdrop, and you can really feel the city’s hunger for top-tier baseball.

Rob Manfred has some big decisions ahead. Events like the Home Run Derby X aren’t just for show—they give the league a chance to test the waters and see how fans respond.

Salt Lake City isn’t shy about making its case for the big leagues. The city keeps showing up, hoping to turn its baseball dreams into reality.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Is Salt Lake ready for MLB? Here’s what these former big leaguers have to say