Melbourne
March 11th, 2030
Leaks out of ABL Meetings
A source close to the ABL commissioner said today that the ABL is approaching numerous decisions that could take place as soon as this winter. One key change will be the National Revenue contract. The ABL will see its first revenue contract on free to air tv and will have at least two national broadcasts per week. This could essentially double revenue from ABL coffers since their last deal in 2018. Expansion into new markets and increased regional rivalaries in Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales have been key components of this deal.
Our same source also said the ABL is close to reaching decision on two other issues. What has been termed the Auckland issue by writers is one of those being discussed. The ABL and Baseball Australia have reached terms with the Auckland Armada representation to put the license on hiatus, with players moving to an expansion franchise. Bids have been received from Fremantle, Hobart, Wollongong, and Gosford. Represenatives expect a decision later this week. Pundits believe Wollongong and Fremantle as realistic canidates with the loser pursing and pressing for future expansion.
Lastly, the ABL and MLB are expected to co-announce a MLB- Baseball Australia State League. Teams confirmed from our source include:
- Baseball Western Australia
- Baseball South Australia
- Baseball Northern Territory
- MLB Australia Academy - Gold Coast
- MLB New Zealand
- Baseball New Zealand
- Baseball Victoria
- Baseball New South Wales
- Baseball Queensland
These state backed teams will serve amatuer baseball and will feed into the ABL draft. With 9 teams confirmed, last second bids from Tasmania, the Capital Territory, and North Queensland are expected. The format of the competition has yet to be announced.
Any other news can be found at our website or through the ABL's at theabl.com