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Major League Baseball is considering the possibility of radical realignment for the 2020 season. As reported by Bob Nightengale, MLB has discussed a plan that would eliminate the National and American League formats. The plan would have all 30 teams return to their Spring Training sites in Florida and Arizona.
There would be six divisions. The divisions would be aligned based on geography of their Spring Training homes. The Brewers would play in the Northwest category of the Cactus League. Their division would include the San Diego Padres, Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and Kansas City Royals.
MLB considering radical realignment as one of their options for 2020 season: Grapefruit and Cactus leagues https://t.co/vLQTG4ezgu
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) April 10, 2020
The other divisions in the Cactus League would include the Northeast and West Divisions. The Northeast Division would include the Cubs, Giants, Diamondbacks, Rockies, and Athletics. The West Division would include the Dodgers, White Sox, Reds, Cleveland, and Angels.
The Grapefruit League in Florida would include a North, South, and East Division. The North Division would include the Yankees, Phillies, Blue Jays, Tigers, and Pirates. The South Division would include the Red Sox, Twins, Braves, Rays, and Orioles. The East Division would include the Nationals, Astros, Mets, Cardinals, and Marlins.
If this alignment format was to be adopted, the Brewers would be in a favorable division competitively speaking. This also means an increased likelihood that the designated hitter would be universally adopted. This is one of multiple ideas being discussed. Whatever is adopted this proposal is indicative of a very different game than the one we are used to for 2020.