Rochester and Cleveland? What happened to San Diego? Also, if Rochester and Cleveland get expansion teams, does that mean Chicago and Columbus are moving back to the West?
Well, Chivas USA may still play in SD, so nothing's happened to it. Except we may get no official expansion plans at MLS Cup, which I think is what everone has been led to believe WOULD happen. Goes to show this is a very tough slog, and until it actually happens, no chickens should be hatched. (Am I mixing metaphors?)
Chivas USA is looking at San Diego , Houston or maybe LA. Then it's Cleveland vs Rochester. It looks like OKC, Philly and Seattle are not intestested in MLS teams for 2004 or 2005. Chivas USA + Rochester/Cleveland for 2004 or 2005
I am not against this, in fact I would be interested to see it. However, I see playoffs too much a part of the American sports landscape to lose the playoffs. Maybe a single table with seedings (ala the Final Four), but playoffs need to stay. Take a look at the increased amount of coverage since the playoffs started. Just say the word "playoffs" and the media will increase their coverage of it...baring a formation of a professional cricket league (which I still think is cool, but most others don't).
I agree with you on Philly, but Seattle and OKC would LOVE to come into the league in 2005 in my opinion (specifically Seattle since they already have a stadium ready to play in, an SSS would be in the future). They more than likely won't be here until either '06 or '07 though.
I've always thought the best time to bring in big markets like Philly and Seattle would be 2006. You'd have a lot of promotiom with the new franchise feel and a WC coming around. Throw in a couple WC warm-up DHs to these cities and the fan base has the potential to stick around for good. Bring the big markets in with a bang.
Expansion for 2004 is a bad idea. It will be hastily made, and the product will not be good. I would rather have two teams come on board for 2005, instead of next season. Rochester is the best "American" soccer market right now, because of what seems a very grass roots love of the Rhinos. Obviously, that has to be polished up a little bit (as I've repeatedly said before, please take the Ragin' out of the team name). Hopefully that will happen. Also, does their owner have the financial clout to keep up with the league or do we have another Horrowitz on our hands. I'm sure the league is looking at his. Also, I agree on the point for Seattle and Philly to come in lets say with a big bang with DHs (although I hate them for established teams...they have done nothing for the Metrostars).
I am very excited about the possibility of expansion. With Chivas-Rochester in 2004/2005, two more teams in 2006. The World Cup 06; ManU and Real tours; That US 50' movie coming out; The introduction of Adu; Top talent on top teams in Europe (Howard, Convey?, Mathis?, Boca?, Donovan? RunDMB); even more SSS; It would be an amazing time for MLS and the USA. Something is gonna F it up, I am getting too excited.