As Arizona hockey followers are left questioning what to do about their fandom, is it potential an proprietor of one other main franchise within the state is having second ideas about his personal relocation threats?
Simply two months after brazenly speaking about the potential for his MLB franchise relocating out of Arizona, Diamondbacks managing basic associate Ken Kendrick weighed in on information of the Coyotes’ transfer to Utah through the membership’s X web page. And Kendrick’s feedback in regards to the Coyotes increase some eyebrows based mostly on what he has stated in not too distant previous in regards to the Diamondbacks.
Again in February at first of MLB spring coaching, Kendrick mentioned the alternatives obtainable to him and his companions when the Diamondbacks’ lease with Chase Area expires in 2027.
“There are alternatives obtainable,” Kendrick stated. “There are different cities that will covet having Main League Baseball… we’re not in dialogue with these cities, however we’re conscious.”
Kendric – additionally recognized for being a significant donor to WVU sports activities, a lot so West Virginia’s baseball stadium was renamed in his honor – clearly feels strongly about skilled sports activities in Arizona. Nonetheless, the lease with Chase Area is about to run out and the membership is pushing for between $400 and $500 million in renovations to the ability. This implies the negotiations are prone to change into heated, even when it’s only for the aim of brokering a good deal.
Essentially the most distinguished metropolis names which can be typically floated concerning any potential MLB enlargement embrace Las Vegas – the place the Oakland A’s are planning to maneuver – and Montreal, the place the franchise now often known as the Washington Nationals spent the primary 35 years of its life. Charlotte, Nashville and Portland, Ore. additionally come up regularly.
Whereas Kendrick has acknowledged that the Diamondbacks are usually not a part of any enlargement discussions but, he has additionally made it clear the franchise will preserve its choices open and make one of the best enterprise resolution for its future.
“We might run out of time in Phoenix,” Kendrick stated. “We hope that received’t occur.”
How can any Arizona sports activities fan reeling from the lack of one staff belief Kendrick is really devoted to the state?
