Seemingly spurred on by the questions yet to be answered, the Cardinals dominated the opposition during April, registered a 16-7 won-lost record, and entered May in first place in the Earl Weaver Division. Baseball analysts and fans alike fully expect the team to fall from our lofty perch as the season progresses, but the positive start has fueled optimism throughout New England.
In early May, both the GM and franchise questions were answered.
First, McAllister introduced Tim Ackley as the new GM of the Cardinals. In his remarks to the press, Ackley vowed to apply the knowledge accumulated through several years of experience to the best of his ability. "We have an excellent team of managers, coaches, and trainers in place," he said. "My goal is to guide the Cardinals back to the playoffs by using existing expertise and augmenting it with a strengthened management team."
Second, McAllister shocked the region when he announced firm plans to relocate the franchise. He entered into an agreement with officials representing the city of Portland, Oregon and Multnomah County to operate the franchise in Portland for an undisclosed number of seasons. In addition, several businesses with significant presence in the area have entered into sponsorship agreements. They include Intel, Nike, Columbia Sportswear, and more.
Fans of the national pastime living in the Northwest have long been clamoring for the ABL to expand operations into the region. The Seattle Sasquatch are located a few hours from Portland, and the close proximity of the two teams undoubtedly will result in a rivalry over time, but fans want more options available throughout the region.
To this end, McAllister announced that the entire Cardinals organization will relocate to the Northwest and commence operations beginning in 2021. Operating agreements have been negotiated with several cities each located a reasonable distance from Portland. In 2021 the organization will be structured as follows:
- Portland Beavers (ML) - formerly the Boston Cardinals
- Vancouver Canadians (AAA) - formerly the Springfield Reformers
- Boise Hawks (AA) - formerly the Murfreesboro Deacons
- Eugene Emeralds (A) - formerly the Las Vegas Lost
The new organization structure will enable the franchise to consolidate operations within one region of the country - and Canada. The working agreement with Vancouver will inject an international flavor into the organization and enable baseball enthusiasts in British Columbia to enjoy quality, professional baseball. The Boise, Idaho area also has long been known as a baseball stronghold. Finally, the Eugene franchise will expand professional baseball into southern Oregon.
What about the fueled optimism in New England, reporters asked? "As a native of Ipswich and a life-long resident of New England, I can feel what fans are feeling," McAllister responded. "Fans are knowledgable and loyal. I am confident that baseball will return to Boston. Be patient and it will happen. Throughout the remainder of this season, we plan to treat fans to a series of fan appreciation events that we hope will soften the blow. We hope the fan base will continue to support the team as we progress through our final campaign in Boston."
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