What will MLB do with the 2003 Expos?

[TimmyB]

As of this morning, the Expos' record (32-19; 2 back) is better than any division leader in the AL and better than the leaders in the NL West and Central. The only team better is the Braves.

There is no question this team can compete if given the chance. Will they get one?

[sweaver]

The Expos will be allowed to go as far as they can with the current group. If Minaya wants to add a veteran, he will have to do the same dance as last year, adding and subtracting payroll.

[Gosfgiants]

Gammons most recent column addresses this question:

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/gammons/story?id=1558853

I don't think MLB is going to let Les Expos add one penny more of payroll. It's a shame, too. I'd love to see them beat out the Braves.

[satchel]

Originally posted by Gosfgiants
I don't think MLB is going to let Les Expos add one penny more of payroll. It's a shame, too.

I agree completely, and when I voted and saw the results of the poll I found I was not alone ...

[JamesI]

I have a feeling that no matter what, some of the big Expos are moving this July. Vlad, Vidro, and Vasquez probably. Unless a new owner steps up to the plate with a ton of dough.

I've read some theories (mostly from people in the DC/northern Va area who are sick of Peter Angelos) that they belive the only reason the Expos haven't moved to the area is Selig would rather they flounder until 2007, then contract the team.

[Craig S.]

I'll cast the first vote for the possibility of adding payroll. I don't think MLB wants to do that, but it would be an absolute PR nightmare if they sat on their hands and let the team fail. I don't think their hemming and hawing will cut it this time around.

Of course, you're all probably right, and this is wishful thinking!

[LeGrandOrange]

I don't know which vote this is for, but I want MLB to do absolutely nothing because at least once in my lifetime, I want the Montreal Expos to be a playoff team. Bud Selig better not f*** this up...

But of course you know I'm an Expos fan, would you expect me to vote some other way?

[SmedIndy]

Can you imagine the look on Selig's face if there is a Minnesota / Montreal WS?

I don't think there will be a fire sale, but they need to be in contention near the deadline, or it'll be bloody.

[TimmyB]

My guess is if the team is still either a) leading the East or b) leading in the wild-card (especially if they're sporting the best or second best record in either league as they are right now), MLB will let Minya squeak up payroll just a bit. Not a lot, but a bit. (Hence, my vote for "add payroll" because I think they'll still be lurking at the All-Star break). They will not want to take the flak for not letting the team be competitive.

On the other other hand, if they drop from contention (ie. more than 5 games out), before the ASB, there will be a post-'97 Marlins-esque fire sale.