Salt Lake City Emerges as Frontrunner for MLB Expansion

Power District development project positions city as prime candidate for new baseball team

Mar. 3, 2026 at 4:47am

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Salt Lake City is rapidly gaining traction as a frontrunner in the Major League Baseball expansion race. Fueled by a $3.5 billion development project called the Power District, spearheaded by the Larry H. Miller Company, the city is presenting a compelling, 'shovel-ready' option for MLB's future expansion plans.

Why it matters

With Commissioner Rob Manfred aiming to finalize expansion plans before his 2029 retirement, Salt Lake City's Power District offers a significant advantage with its prepared site, strategic location near the airport and light-rail system, and plans for a vibrant, mixed-use development that could create a year-round destination beyond just game days.

The details

The Power District project is envisioned as a mixed-use development encompassing restaurants, residential spaces, businesses, and green areas, mirroring successful entertainment districts built around stadiums in other cities. A central element is the restoration of a half-mile stretch of the Jordan River, which could potentially allow for unique features like home runs landing in the water, reminiscent of McCovey Cove in San Francisco.

  • In February 2026, the Larry H. Miller Company announced plans for the $3.5 billion Power District development project.
  • Commissioner Rob Manfred aims to finalize MLB expansion plans before his 2029 retirement.

The players

Rob Manfred

The current Commissioner of Major League Baseball, who is aiming to finalize expansion plans before his 2029 retirement.

Steve Starks

The CEO of the Larry H. Miller Company, which is leading the $3.5 billion Power District development project in Salt Lake City.

Larry H. Miller Company

The real estate development company spearheading the $3.5 billion Power District project in Salt Lake City.

Field Operations

The renowned landscape architecture firm engaged by the Larry H. Miller Company to revitalize the Jordan River as part of the Power District project.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The momentum is building. With a clear vision, a substantial investment, and growing support from industry experts, Salt Lake City is making a strong case for its place in the future of Major League Baseball.

The takeaway

Salt Lake City's Power District development project, with its prepared site, strategic location, and plans for a vibrant, mixed-use district, positions the city as a prime candidate for MLB expansion, as the league looks to finalize its future growth plans in the coming years.