Expert: Tony Hutchens - 8/7/2000

Question
Hi Tony!
   I am returning to following baseball after a ten year hiatus.  I was reviewing the standings, hoping to see the Mets sink further down and the Tigers break .500 (one can only hope), when I noticed that Baltimore is in the AL and the Brewers are in the NL.  Now, I am pretty certian that the Orioles were in the NL, but I KNOW the Brewers were in the AL.  Am I crazy or were there some changes?  Thanks for your help, I just am now understanding the whole wildcard thing.  Much has changed in ten years.  If I can ever be of help feel free to look me up under legislation and government!  Thanks,
                   Michael James

Answer
Hello Michael,

  Yes, things have definitely changed in the past decade on the diamond. The most recent expansion brought about these changes. The Tampa Bay Devil Rays and the Florida Marlins were both expansion teams that originally were slated for the National League. However, the American League adamently opposed their sister league acquiring two teams from the Sunshine State - they wanted one of these teams themselves. So it was decided that if an American League team would volunteer to go to the National League, that the American League could have the Devil Rays. You're absolutely right that the Milwaukee Brewers were in the American League. They volunteered to join the National League and everyone was happy.

  The Orioles however have belonged in the American League ever since the old St. Louis Browns moved to Baltimore following the 1953 season. Have a Great Day!

                                      Tony