Miami Marlins first British team in Major League Baseball
By David Hill
The Miami Marlins have not relocated to a new home, but they are still the first major league team from England. Or, at least, so they claim.
The past few months have been filled with turmoil for the Miami Marlins. The team was sold by Jeffrey Loria to Derek Jeter and Company. The All Star Outfield of Giancarlo Stanton, Christian Yelich, and Marcell Ozuna were traded away, along with second baseman Dee Gordon. Long time fan favorites, such as Jeff Conine, were forced out the door. Even Marlins Man is no more, as the new regime refuse to acquiesce to his demands.
However, there was one move that flew under the radar. Somehow, perhaps under the cover of night, much like the Baltimore Colts of old, the Marlins moved. No longer do they call Miami home, regardless of what the jerseys may say, or where the team physically plays. Instead, major League Baseball has become the first of the four major American sports to extend into Europe.
How is this possible? Well, the Marlins are claiming to hail from the British Virgin Islands. Or, at the very least, the corporation that owns the Marlins is claiming to be from there, as they seek to avoid being dragged into a court of law as Miami-Dade County attempt to recover profits from the sale of the franchise last year. In doing so, the Marlins are seeking to have a federal appointed arbitrator to take over the lawsuit.
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It is always great to see a team reach a level previously unseen. Typically, that involves a winning season, a championship, or some great performance by one of their players. Instead, Jeter is finding lower and lower levels to descend to, as this action is truly a baffling move, depriving the city of Miami and Miami-Dade County from a payout that they are rightfully entitled to receive. Way to build up that rapport with the local community.
It remains to be seen how the first European team in the majors will show their loyalty to the motherland. Perhaps the Union Jack can fly proudly at Marlins Park. Tea and crumpets can be had at concession stands. And Queen Elizabeth can have her own private box down at field level. The Marlins will just need to make sure Reggie Jackson is not around.
Of course, this opens up all kinds of marketing and branding ideas. Sir Jeets of Short can become a true global ambassador of the game, helping expand the league’s reach into Europe. Perhaps, in time, baseball can even overtake cricket and soccer as a pastime in England. Maybe he can even adopt a fake accent, like the vocalist of The Killers. Although, we may need to wait for centuries for the Marlins to become England’s Team, since the Marlins AA team outdrew the major league club…
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The Miami Marlins of the British Virgin Islands are claiming international privilege to avoid the courts. In doing so, it is just another horrific misplay by a former Gold Glove winner. Re2pect.