Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has proposed realigning divisions and conferences, sparking heated debate among fans and analysts. The plan would see teams like the Yankees, Mets, Phillies, and Red Sox grouped together in the same division due to their proximity, potentially disrupting decades-long rivalries.
MLB analyst Cameron Maybin is a vocal opponent of realignment, arguing that it would compromise competitive integrity by “manufacturing shakeups.” He fears that this change could lead to an imbalance in playoff chances, as teams with stronger records and higher payrolls might be overrepresented. The proposed South Division would feature an expansion team from Nashville, while the Central Division would include struggling teams like the Cardinals, Reds, and White Sox.
Baseball has undergone significant changes in recent years, including the introduction of the designated hitter and expanded postseasons. However, some, like Mets broadcaster Howie Rose, believe that realignment could “destroy” the league if it leads to the demise of traditional divisions. Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay remains open-minded about the proposal, suggesting it’s worth exploring further.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/08/19/sports/cameron-maybin-doesnt-want-the-manufactured-shakeups-mlb-realignment