Grand Forks, ND could eventually land a franchise in the summer collegiate Expedition League, with circuit officials confirming their interest in the city.
The upstart Expedition League will begin its inaugural season later this month. The 2018 schedule will feature eight teams, but that total could grow down the road, with Grand Forks emerging as one possible expansion market for the Expedition League
Expedition League president Steve Wagner is confirming the circuit’s interest in Grand Forks. A Grand Forks entry would play its home games at Kraft Field, which would receive several upgrades–including improvements to fan amenities–to accommodate the team. However, a possible Grand Forks team still appears to be in the discussion phase and has not been finalized. More from the Grand Forks Herald:
“We really want to be there,” Wagner said. “Grand Forks would do well with an Expedition League team.”
The league plans to expand into Brandon, Manitoba, in 2019.
Wagner said he has been in talks with Grand Forks Park District executive director Bill Palmiscno and other members of the Grand Forks baseball community.
Local leaders, however, are still in the information-gathering stage of the prospect of summer college baseball returning to Grand Forks.
If added, Grand Forks could be the home of the third North Dakota-based team in the Expedition League, joining existing clubs in Dickinson and Minot. Along with Dickinson and Minot, other cities that will host teams during the Expedition League’s inaugural 2018 season include Gering and Hastings Nebraska; Aberdeen, Pierre, and Spearfish, South Dakota; and Casper, Wyoming. The league’s Opening Day 2018 is set for May 25.