Maryland U.S. Senator calls out MLB over “scheme” for minor league affiliates

Maryland U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) issued a scathing statement critcizing Major League Baseball (MLB), calling their new plan for minor league affiliates a “scheme” after they listed the Frederick Keys as one of 42 minor league baseball teams that could come to an end next season.

MLB announced a proposal to disconnect the minor league teams and their “parent” major league clubs that supply the players and coaches for the teams, according to an editorial in the Frederick News Post. The Frederick Keys have been a Class A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles since 1989.

Sen. Cardin, a member of the Senate Finance Committee and lifelong Orioles fan, said he was opposed to the new “scheme” for MLB’s minor league baseball affiliates.

“I am opposed to this new scheme for minor league baseball. Frederick has had a professional baseball team since 1989,” Sen. Cardin said. “Salisbury first hosted a team in 1922, and Hagerstown’s professional baseball history predates the original Baltimore Orioles, going back to 1896. Each of these communities has embraced their teams with a fervor matching any major league team’s fans.”

Sen. Cardin was vehemently opposed to measure, saying “they deserve to be treated fairly and with respect.” He urged MLB officials to negotiate in good faith with the owners of these and other minor league teams.