MLB back in Montreal?

Photo: Wayne Moore illustration

A plan, believed to be the first of its kind in professional sports, could be in the works to bring Major League Baseball back to Montreal. Albeit, on a part-time basis.

Various reports have surfaced indicating the Tampa Bay Rays have been given permission by MLB to explore splitting home games between Tampa and Montreal.

The Montreal Expos became Canada's first Major League Baseball franchise in 1969. However, failing attendance forced the team to move to Washington, D.C., following the 2004 season.

There has been serious interest of late to bring the sport back to Montreal. Exhibition series featuring the Toronto Blue Jays in recent years have attracted enthusiastic, sellout crowds.

The plan being considered could see the Rays play early season games in central Florida, with the balance of the schedule in Montreal.

Both cities would require new stadiums for the deal to work.

There are plans in the works for a new stadium in the Point-Saint-Charles region of Montreal.