MLB to Consider Floating Realignment

A recent article from The Big Lead describes an on-going topic discussed on talk radio shows covering MLB discussion. The idea is to potentially try to create divisions that are more competitive based on the markets that they play in. This is called Floating Realignment.

Many fans of lower market teams are upset that they're teams don't have the economic ability to compete with teams such as the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox who have payrolls around $200 million, and even above for the Yankees. Markets like the Twins, Orioles and Blue Jays don't have these funds and consequently don't have the ability to place the higher paid, and typically more talented, players on the field of competition.

On the WFAN radio, the San Diego Padre coach was asked to comment on this topic. The Padres would be moved to the lower level market, and thus would be seen as having an easier schedule if this move was made. The coach felt that he didn't like this move. He felt that the game has been set up relatively the same for over 100 years and shouldn't be changed now. Every player is of major league talent, and money doesn't necessarily compute directly with win total. Through lower-level scouting and development any team can compete, as seen with the Colorado Rockies of late.

I personally don't like the idea to rearrange the divisions based on the markets that they play in. I believe that a salary cap should be put in place to put a ceiling at how much money can be spent on a roster.