The Montreal Expos hold a unique place in Major League Baseball history as the first franchise located outside the United States. Their journey began with the 1968 MLB expansion draft, a pivotal event that marked the league's growth and the introduction of new teams. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding the Expos' creation and their early years in the league.
The Expansion Draft of 1968
The 1968 Major League Baseball expansion draft was a significant event aimed
at populating the rosters of four new teams. Held on October 14, 1968, the draft was split between the National League and the American League, with the Montreal Expos and San Diego Padres joining the National League. The draft allowed these new franchises to select players from existing teams, providing them with the foundation needed to compete in the upcoming 1969 season.
The Expos' first selection was Manny Mota, a utility player from the Pittsburgh Pirates. This choice was part of a broader strategy to build a competitive team from the ground up. The draft was a crucial step in establishing the Expos, as it provided them with experienced players who could help the team navigate its inaugural season.
Montreal's Bid for a Franchise
The journey to bring Major League Baseball to Montreal began in earnest in December 1967, when Gerry Snyder presented a bid for a franchise at the MLB winter meetings in Mexico City. The bid was bolstered by the support of influential figures like Walter O'Malley, the Los Angeles Dodgers president, who had ties to Montreal through the minor league Montreal Royals.
On May 27, 1968, the National League officially announced that Montreal would be awarded a franchise, alongside San Diego. This decision was met with mixed reactions, particularly from U.S. Congress members who condemned the move. Nonetheless, the Expos were set to begin play in the 1969 season, marking a new era for baseball in Canada.
Naming the Team and Early Challenges
With the franchise secured, the Expos faced the task of establishing their identity. The name "Expos" was chosen in honor of Expo 67, a World's Fair held in Montreal that had captured the city's spirit. The name was fitting, as it resonated in both English and French, reflecting Montreal's bilingual nature.
The Expos' early years were marked by struggles typical of expansion teams. They finished their inaugural season with a record of 52-110, tied with the San Diego Padres for the worst in the National League. Despite these challenges, the Expos laid the groundwork for future success, gradually building a team that would become competitive in the years to come.
