Can Minor League Baseball Survive Its Real Estate Problems?

Ed Willson, a long-time fan of the minor league baseball team in Eugene, Oregon, is facing disappointment as the team’s future hangs in the balance. Willson has been a season-ticket holder for 22 seasons and was devastated when the team’s longtime home, Civic Stadium, burned down in 2015. In an act of devotion, he collected dirt from the scorched pitcher’s mound to give to the team when it builds a new stadium. However, nine years later, the team still doesn’t have a permanent home, and there are concerns they may have to leave the town altogether. The situation highlights the challenges faced by affordable, in-person sports in the current era. Additionally, other minor league baseball teams are also facing crises related to expensive ballpark upgrades required by Major League Baseball.