The Los Angeles Clippers have one of the most unusual histories in the NBA. The franchise began in 1970 as the Buffalo Braves, moved to San Diego in 1978 and became the San Diego Clippers, and finally moved to Los Angeles in 1984 to become the Los Angeles Clippers. For much of their history, the Clippers struggled for respect and success. That changed dramatically in the 2010s, when San Diego Clippers. Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan created the spectacular “Lob City” era. The franchise eventually reached its first Western Conference Finals in 2021 and moved into its own new home, Intuit Dome, in 2024. The Beginning: The Buffalo Braves The franchise entered the NBA for the 1970-71 season as an expansion team called the Buffalo Braves, joining the Cleveland Cavaliers and Portland Trail Blazers as new NBA franchises. Paul Snyder became the principal owner of the young franchise. The Braves played their home games primarily at Buffalo Memorial Auditorium. They also played a number of home games at Toronto’s Maple Leaf Gardens during the early years, making the franchise’s history unusual even before it left Buffalo. The early Braves struggled, but the franchise changed direction when it selected Bob McAdoo with the second pick of the 1972 NBA Draft. McAdoo immediately became the centerpiece of the franchise. He won the 1972-73 NBA Rookie of the Year Award, became a five-time All-Star, won three consecutive scoring titles and was named NBA MVP for the 1974-75 season. That MVP remains the only regular-season MVP won by a player in the history of the Clippers franchise. The Braves made the playoffs three consecutive times from 1974 through 1976. Ownership Problems and the Move to San Diego Despite the emergence of McAdoo, ownership and arena problems eventually disrupted the Braves. John Y. Brown Jr. acquired a controlling interest in the franchise during the 1970s, with Harry T. Mangurian Jr. also becoming a minority owner. Brown’s ownership period was marked by major roster changes, including the departure of McAdoo. In 1978, Brown and Harry T. Mangurian Jr. owner Irv Levin completed a highly unusual franchise exchange. Brown took control of the Celtics, while Levin and his partner Harold Lipton acquired the Braves franchise. Levin then moved the team to California. The Buffalo Braves became the San Diego Clippers in 1978. The name Clippers was chosen because of San Diego’s connection with sailing ships and the city’s waterfront. The San Diego Clippers The Clippers played at the San Diego Sports Arena from 1978 through 1984. The San Diego years were not particularly successful on the court. The team failed to make the playoffs during its six seasons in San Diego. One of the most important developments of the period came in 1981, when Los Angeles-area businessman Donald Sterling purchased the franchise from Irv Levin and Harold Lipton for approximately $12.5 million. Sterling wanted to move the team to Los Angeles. After disputes with the NBA, the franchise eventually relocated in 1984. The San Diego Clippers became the Los Angeles Clippers. The Los Angeles Clippers Arrive The Clippers began their Los Angeles era in 1984 at the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena. The move put the Clippers in the same market as the highly successful Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers were already one of the NBA’s dominant franchises, making it difficult for the Clippers to establish their own identity. For the next 15 seasons, the Clippers called the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena home. During the 1990s, the franchise also played occasional home games at the Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim. The Clippers considered a permanent move to Anaheim but ultimately remained in Los Angeles. The Staples Center Era In 1999, the Clippers moved into the newly constructed Staples Center, sharing the downtown Los Angeles facility with the Lakers. The arena was later renamed Crypto.com Arena. The Clippers remained there for 25 seasons, from 1999 through 2024. The arena became the setting for some of the greatest years in modern Clippers history, including the rise of the “Lob City” team. The Lob City Era The Clippers began to change their image after acquiring Chris Paul in 2011. Paul joined Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, creating one of the NBA’s most entertaining teams. The combination of Paul’s passing, Griffin’s athleticism and Jordan’s ability to finish above the rim produced the famous “Lob City” style. Paul was named to three consecutive All-NBA First Teams as a Clipper from 2012 through 2014. He also became the franchise’s all-time leader in assists. The Clippers won their first Pacific Division titles in 2013 and 2014. Blake Griffin — Rookie of the Year Blake Griffin is the most important Clippers player to win the NBA Rookie of the Year Award while actually playing for the Los Angeles Clippers. Griffin was the unanimous winner of the 2010-11 Rookie of the Year Award after averaging 22.5 points and 12.1 rebounds per game. He became the first Clipper to win the award since Terry Cummings won it with the San Diego Clippers in 1983. Griffin went on to become a five-time All-Star and four-time All-NBA selection as a Clipper. Chris Paul — The Face of Lob City Chris Paul became the floor leader of the greatest sustained winning period to that point in Clippers history. During his Clippers career, Paul: Made five All-Star teams as a Clipper Earned three All-NBA First Team selections Became the franchise’s all-time assists leader Helped lead the Clippers to six consecutive winning seasons from 2011-12 through 2016-17 Helped the franchise win its first two Pacific Division championships Paul finished his Clippers career with 4,076 assists, the franchise record. DeAndre Jordan DeAndre Jordan became another essential part of the Lob City era. Jordan developed into one of the NBA’s premier rebounders and shot blockers. He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in rebounds and blocked shots. His partnership with Griffin produced countless spectacular alley-oop plays and helped define the Clippers’ identity during the 2010s. The First Western Conference Finals The Clippers finally… Continue reading Los Angeles Clippers History: From the Buffalo Braves to Intuit Dome
Tag: All-Star
Chicago Sky: The History, Heroes and Legacy of Chicago’s WNBA Franchise
The Chicago Sky have traveled a remarkable road since becoming a WNBA expansion franchise in 2006. From their early years at the UIC Pavilion, through their seasons at Allstate Arena in Rosemont, and finally to their current home at Wintrust Arena, the Sky have developed from a new franchise searching for an identity into a WNBA championship organization. The Sky have produced some of the greatest players in women’s basketball, including Elena Delle Donne, Sylvia Fowles, and Candace Parker They have also developed stars such as Courtney Vandersloot, Kahleah Copper and others who helped establish Chicago as an important destination in women’s professional basketball. The defining moment came in 2021, when the Sky captured their first WNBA championship. The Birth of the Chicago Sky Chicago was awarded a WNBA expansion franchise in February 2005, with the team beginning play during the 2006 season. The Sky were unusual from the beginning because they were independently owned rather than operated by the NBA’s Chicago Bulls. Michael J. Alter was the lead investor in the group that brought professional women’s basketball back to Chicago. Margaret Stender became the franchise’s first employee and served as its founding president and CEO during its formative years. The name “Chicago Sky” was chosen to connect the franchise with Chicago’s famous skyline and architecture. The original identity featured sky blue and yellow, colors that became closely associated with the franchise. The team played its first season in 2006. The beginning was difficult. The inaugural Sky team won only five games, but the organization began building the foundation for a much more successful future. Chicago Sky Ownership Because the Sky began as an independently owned franchise, ownership has included a group of Chicago-area investors rather than a single traditional sports conglomerate. Michael J. Alter Michael J. Alter has been the principal owner and central figure in the franchise from its beginning. He led the investment group that established the Sky and remains principal owner today. Margaret Stender Margaret Stender was one of the original investors and served as the Sky’s founding president and CEO. The Sky’s current media guide continues to identify her as a minority owner. John W. Rogers Jr. John Rogers, founder of Ariel Investments, has been part of the Sky ownership group and is listed by the team as an owner. Harvey Alter Harvey Alter is also listed as an owner in the current Sky organization. Nadia Rawlinson Nadia Rawlinson joined the ownership group in 2023 and became co-owner and operating chairman. She remains in that position. Other Original Investors: The original ownership group was larger than the individuals normally identified as the team’s principal owners. Contemporary reporting has identified investors including Michelle Williams, Juanita Vanoy Jordan, Sue Wellington, Linda Friedman and Steven Rogers, among others. The complete original investor list was not publicly released. That is an important distinction: there is a difference between every original investor in the franchise and the individuals publicly identified as owners in the team’s official records. Every Arena the Chicago Sky Have Called Home The Sky have had three principal home arenas during their history. UIC Pavilion — 2006–2009 The UIC Pavilion was the Sky’s original home. The franchise played its inaugural season there in 2006 and remained at the University of Illinois Chicago facility through the 2009 season. This was where Chicago fans first watched the Sky become a WNBA franchise. Allstate Arena — 2010–2017 For the 2010 season, the Sky moved north to Allstate Arena in Rosemont. The move gave the Sky access to a much larger building, and the team remained there for eight seasons. The Sky reached the million-fan attendance milestone during their time at Allstate Arena. Wintrust Arena — 2018–Present The Sky returned to the city of Chicago in 2018 when they moved into Wintrust Arena at McCormick Square. The move was significant because the team once again had a permanent home inside Chicago proper. The Sky have played their home games at Wintrust Arena since 2018. Wintrust Arena also became the home court for the greatest achievement in franchise history: the 2021 WNBA championship season. The Early Years The Sky’s first several seasons were a period of building. The franchise went through several coaches and roster changes while attempting to establish itself. The early head coaches were Dave Cowens, Bo Overton and Steven Key. One of the first major building blocks arrived in the 2006 draft when Chicago selected Candice Dupree with the sixth overall pick. Another important early breakthrough came in 2007. Armintie Price Becomes Chicago’s First Rookie of the Year In the 2007 WNBA Draft, the Sky selected Armintie Price with the third overall pick. Price immediately made an impact. She became the 2007 WNBA Rookie of the Year, giving Chicago its first major individual league award. This was an important moment because the Sky were no longer simply an expansion franchise trying to survive. They were beginning to develop players capable of becoming major figures in the league. Elena Delle Donne Changes the Franchise The most important draft in Sky history came in 2013. Chicago selected Delaware star Elena Delle Donne with the second overall pick. She immediately became one of the WNBA’s most recognizable players. Delle Donne won the 2013 WNBA Rookie of the Year Award as a member of the Sky. Two years later she reached an even greater level. 2015 WNBA MVP — Elena Delle Donne In 2015, Elena Delle Donne became the first Chicago Sky player to win the WNBA Most Valuable Player Award. This is an especially important distinction because Delle Donne won the award as a Sky player, rather than receiving an MVP award for accomplishments with another franchise. Delle Donne’s time in Chicago established her as one of the greatest players in franchise… Continue reading Chicago Sky: The History, Heroes and Legacy of Chicago’s WNBA Franchise
Philadelphia 76ers History:
Philadelphia 76ers History: From the Syracuse Nationals to Three NBA Championships The Philadelphia 76ers are one of the NBA’s oldest and most historically important franchises. Their story actually begins in Syracuse, New York, in 1946, when Danny Biasone founded the Syracuse Nationals. The franchise joined the NBA in 1949, won a championship in Syracuse in 1955, moved to Philadelphia in 1963, and became the 76ers. Since then, Philadelphia has been home to Wilt Chamberlain, Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Moses Malone, Charles Barkley, Allen Iverson and Joel Embiid. The franchise has won three NBA championships: 1955, 1967 and 1983. From the Syracuse Nationals to the Philadelphia 76ers Danny Biasone Builds the Franchise On November 14, 1946, Danny Biasone founded the Syracuse Nationals, sending a $5,000 check to the National Basketball League. Biasone wasn’t merely an owner. He became one of basketball’s most important innovators. He and general manager Leo Ferris developed the concept of the 24-second shot clock, which transformed professional basketball from a slow, possession-oriented game into the faster sport fans recognize today. The Nationals joined the NBA in 1949 when the NBL and Basketball Association of America merged. The franchise reached the NBA Finals several times before finally winning its first championship in 1955, defeating the Fort Wayne Pistons in seven games. The Franchise’s Ownership History The 76ers’ ownership history is unusual because the franchise has had relatively few ownership changes over more than 75 years. Danny Biasone — 1946-1963 Biasone founded and owned the Syracuse Nationals. He remained the franchise’s principal owner until the team was sold and moved to Philadelphia. Ike Richman and Irv Kosloff — 1963-1976 In 1963, Philadelphia businessmen Ike Richman and Irv Kosloff purchased the Nationals from Biasone. They moved the franchise to Philadelphia and renamed it the 76ers. Their ownership produced one of the greatest teams in NBA history. The 1966-67 76ers went 68-13, then defeated the San Francisco Warriors in the NBA Finals. Fitz Eugene Dixon Jr. — 1976-1981 Fitz Dixon purchased the 76ers from Kosloff in 1976. One of his first major moves was acquiring Julius Erving from the New York Nets. That transaction changed the franchise. Harold Katz — 1981-1996 Katz purchased the team from Dixon in 1981. He was the owner when Philadelphia acquired Moses Malone and won the 1983 NBA championship. Comcast Spectacor — 1996-2011 Comcast Spectacor purchased the 76ers from Katz in 1996. The company was led by Philadelphia sports executive Ed Snider. The organization owned the club during the early Allen Iverson years, including Philadelphia’s run to the 2001 NBA Finals. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment — 2011-present In 2011, an investment group led by Josh Harris and David Blitzer purchased the 76ers from Comcast Spectacor. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment remains the controlling ownership group. Every Major 76ers Home Arena Because the franchise began as the Syracuse Nationals, its home-arena history stretches back to the 1940s. State Fair Coliseum — Syracuse The Nationals played some of their earliest games at the State Fair Coliseum. War Memorial Arena — Syracuse The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, originally the War Memorial, became an important Nationals home. It was the setting for the franchise’s first NBA championship in 1955. Philadelphia Civic Center / Convention Hall After moving to Philadelphia in 1963, the new 76ers initially played at Philadelphia’s Civic Center and Convention Hall. The building hosted the team’s early Philadelphia years, including the beginning of the Wilt Chamberlain era. The Spectrum — 1967-1996 The 76ers moved into the Spectrum in 1967. This became the home of the greatest team in franchise history up to that point. The 1967 championship team played its first Spectrum season immediately after winning the title. The Spectrum later became home to the Julius Erving and Moses Malone era. The Center — 1996-1997 The new South Philadelphia arena opened in 1996 as the CoreStates Center. It subsequently became the First Union Center and then the Wachovia Center. The 76ers played there during the beginning of the Allen Iverson era. Wells Fargo Center — 2010-2025 The arena eventually became the Wells Fargo Center. It was the home of the 76ers through the 2024-25 season. Xfinity Mobile Arena — 2025-present The arena was renamed Xfinity Mobile Arena effective September 1, 2025. It remains the 76ers’ home in the 2026-27 season. A new arena is currently planned for Philadelphia’s South Philadelphia sports complex, with the project currently scheduled to open in 2030 according to the latest announcement. The Greatest 76ers Draft Picks Philadelphia has had some spectacular drafts, although some of its most important players — Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving and Moses Malone — arrived through other means. Here are several of the franchise’s most important draft selections. Dolph Schayes Schayes was selected by the Syracuse Nationals in 1948. He became the foundation of the franchise’s first great era. He played 15 seasons with the franchise, made 12 All-Star teams and eventually became a Hall of Famer. His No. 4 is retired by Philadelphia. Verdict: Outstanding success. Schayes was the first true superstar in franchise history. Billy Cunningham — 1965 Philadelphia selected Cunningham fifth overall in the 1965 NBA Draft. “The Kangaroo Kid” became one of the most important players in franchise history. He made four All-NBA teams, became an All-Star and eventually coached the 76ers to the 1983 championship. Verdict Outstanding success. He succeeded both as a player and coach. Darryl Dawkins — 1975 Philadelphia selected Darryl Dawkins fifth overall in 1975. He was also one of the first major players to… Continue reading Philadelphia 76ers History:
TEXAS RANGERS: COMPLETE HISTORY
The Texas Rangers have one of the more fascinating histories in Major League Baseball. The franchise began in Washington, D.C., as the expansion Washington Senators in 1961, moved to Washington Senators, for the 1972 season and became the Texas Rangers. For decades, the franchise struggled to reach the postseason. That changed in the 1990s, when Texas developed into an American League West contender. The Rangers eventually reached their first World Series in 2010, returned in 2011, and finally captured their first championship in 2023, defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks in five games. The Beginning: Washington Senators The modern Rangers franchise began in 1961 as an expansion version of the Washington Senators. The original Washington Senators had moved to Minnesota after the 1960 season and became the Minnesota Twins. MLB then awarded Washington another expansion club for 1961. The New Senators Played their first season at Griffith Stadium before moving into the newly constructed D.C. Stadium in 1962. The franchise remained in Washington through the 1971 season. Washington owner Bob Short eventually received permission to move the club to Arlington, Texas. The move was completed after the 1971 season, and the club became the Texas Rangers in 1972. The first Texas Rangers game was played on April 15, 1972, against the California Angels. Texas lost that game 1-0, but the move established Major League Baseball permanently in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. All Texas Rangers Principal Owners MLB’s official ownership history lists six principal ownership periods. Robert E. “Bob” Short 1968–1974 Bob Short purchased the Washington Senators in 1968. His most important decision came in 1971 when he received approval to move the franchise to Arlington. The team became the Texas Rangers beginning with the 1972 season. Short sold the franchise to Bradford G. Corbett in 1974. Bradford G. Corbett 1974–1980 Corbett purchased the Rangers in 1974. His ownership period included the emergence of some important Rangers players, including Jeff Burroughs and Toby Harrah, while future Hall of Fame pitchers Ferguson Jenkins, Gaylord Perry and Bert Blyleven also passed through the organization. The Rangers won 84 games in 1974, their first winning season in Texas, and Jeff Burroughs won the American League MVP Award. Corbett sold the team to H.E. “Eddie” Chiles in 1980. H.E. “Eddie” Chiles 1980–1989 Chiles was a Fort Worth businessman and became the Rangers’ principal owner in 1980. During his ownership the Rangers signed one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history. In December 1988, Nolan Ryan signed with Texas as a free agent at age 41. Ryan’s arrival would eventually become one of the most important events in Rangers history. George W. Bush / Edward W. “Rusty” Rose Partnership 1989–1998 An ownership group led by George W. Bush and Edward W. “Rusty” Rose purchased controlling interest in the Rangers in March 1989. Bush eventually became the club’s managing general partner before becoming Governor of Texas and later President of the United States. The ownership group oversaw one of the most important periods in Rangers history, including the construction of a new ballpark and the emergence of Nolan Ryan, Juan González and Ivan Rodriguez. Thomas O. Hicks 1998–2010 Thomas O. Hicks purchased the Rangers in 1998 for approximately $250 million. His ownership included some of the greatest offensive players in franchise history, including: Ivan Rodriguez, Juan González, Alex Rodriguez, Rafael Palmeiro, and Mark Teixeira The Rangers won three American League West titles during this period, in 1998, 1999 and 2010. The 2010 season ended with Texas reaching its first World Series. Rangers Baseball Express 2010–Present A group led initially by Rangers Baseball Express Bob Simpson and Nolan Ryan purchased the Rangers in 2010. The ownership group was later led by Ray Davis and Bob Simpson. Davis became the controlling owner in 2013 after Nolan Ryan stepped down from that role. Under the Davis-Simpson ownership, the Rangers eventually won the first World Series championship in franchise history in 2023. MLB officially continues to list Rangers Baseball Express as the ownership entity. Every Ballpark the Rangers Have Called Home The Rangers franchise has played regular-season home games in five primary stadiums. Griffith Stadium Washington, D.C. — 1961 The expansion Washington Senators played their first season at historic Griffith Stadium. The ballpark had been home to the original Washington Senators and was also associated with the Washington baseball history of the early 20th century. After the 1961 season, the new Senators moved to D.C. Stadium. D.C. Stadium / Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Washington, D.C. — 1962–1971 The Senators moved into D.C. Stadium in 1962. The facility was renamed Robert F. Kennedy Stadium in 1969. The franchise remained there until moving to Arlington following the 1971 season. Arlington Stadium Arlington, Texas — 1972–1993 Arlington Stadium originally operated as Turnpike Stadium, a minor-league facility. When Major League Baseball arrived, the stadium was expanded and renamed Arlington Stadium. The Rangers played there from 1972 through 1993. The final Rangers game at Arlington Stadium was played in October 1993. The Ballpark in Arlington / Ameriquest Field / Rangers Ballpark / Globe Life Park Arlington, Texas — 1994–2019 The Rangers opened their new ballpark in 1994. The facility went through several names: The Ballpark in Arlington — 1994–2004 Ameriquest Field in Arlington — 2004–2007 Rangers Ballpark in Arlington — 2007–2014 Globe Life Park in Arlington — 2014–2019 It became the backdrop for some of the greatest moments in Rangers history, including the club’s first two World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011. Globe Life Field Arlington, Texas — 2020–present The Rangers moved into Globe Life Field in 2020. The stadium features a retractable roof and climate-controlled environment, a particularly important feature in the Texas summer. The Rangers’ current lease agreement with Arlington extends through the end of 2053. Globe Life Field became the site of the Rangers’ first World Series championship celebration in 2023. Cooperstown Hall of Famers Who Entered the Hall as Rangers One distinction is important when discussing Rangers Hall of Famers. Several Cooperstown Hall of Famers played for the franchise, including Nolan… Continue reading TEXAS RANGERS: COMPLETE HISTORY
Colorado Rockies Complete History
From Expansion Team to the 2007 World Series The Colorado Rockies are one of Major League Baseball’s youngest franchises. The National League awarded Denver an expansion franchise in 1991, and the Rockies played their first game in 1993. Although Colorado has never won a World Series, the franchise has produced some extraordinary players, including Hall of Famers Larry Walker and Todd Helton, National League MVP Larry Walker, Rookie of the Year Jason Jennings, batting champions, Gold Glove winners and one of baseball’s most explosive offenses. The Rockies have also become closely associated with one of baseball’s most unique environments: Coors Field, where Denver’s altitude has dramatically influenced the way baseball is played. The Birth of the Colorado Rockies Denver as one of its two expansion franchises on July 5, 1991. The original ownership group experienced major problems before the Rockies ever played a game. John Antonucci and Michael I. Monus were initially major figures in the ownership effort, but Monus became embroiled in the Phar-Mor accounting scandal. The ownership group was reorganized before the franchise took the field. Jerry McMorris became the principal public face of the organization, and Charlie Monfort and Oren Benton joined the ownership group. The reorganized group completed the acquisition of the franchise by paying the $95 million expansion fee. That group ultimately gave Denver a Major League Baseball team. Colorado Rockies Ownership History Because the Rockies began with a large partnership rather than a single individual owner, their ownership history is somewhat complicated. Original ownership group — 1991-1992 Important figures in the original effort included: John Antonucci, Michael I. Monus, Peter Coors, Linda Alvarado, Other Colorado investors and business interests The original ownership arrangement changed dramatically following the Monus scandal. Jerry McMorris era — 1992-2005 Jerry McMorris became the principal owner and leading executive of the reorganized Rockies ownership group. Charlie Monfort became part of the controlling group in 1992, along with McMorris and Oren Benton. Dick Monfort later joined his brother in the ownership group. McMorris eventually sold his remaining interest to the Monfort brothers. Monfort family — 2005-present In 2005, Dick and Charlie Monfort completed the purchase of McMorris’ remaining interest and became the controlling owners of the Rockies. Dick Monfort eventually became chairman and CEO, while Charlie Monfort remained an owner and general partner. The Rockies’ official front office currently lists: Dick Monfort — Owner, Chairman & CEO Charlie Monfort — Owner/General Partner Walker Monfort — President Penner Sports Group — 2026 Penner Sports Group, representing Denver Broncos owners Greg Penner and Carrie Walton Penner, purchased approximately a 40% minority stake in the Rockies. MLB approved the transaction. The Monfort family remains the controlling ownership group, while Penner Sports Group became the largest minority partner. The investment was also used to retire the franchise’s outstanding debt and provide additional capital. As of September 2026, the Rockies therefore remain controlled by the Monfort family, with the Penner group holding a substantial minority interest. The First Rockies Season — 1993 The Rockies played their first regular-season game on April 5, 1993, against the New York Mets at Shea Stadium. Colorado lost that game 3-0, with David Nied serving as the first starting pitcher in franchise history. The first home game came April 9, 1993, at Mile High Stadium. The Rockies defeated the Montreal Expos 11-4 in front of a massive crowd. Colorado immediately became one of baseball’s biggest attendance attractions. The inaugural season drew 4,483,350 fans, an MLB attendance record at the time. Rockies Home Ballparks 1. Mile High Stadium — 1993-1994 The Rockies played their first two seasons at Mile High Stadium. The stadium had originally been built primarily for football, but baseball fans quickly made it one of the loudest venues in the National League. During their two seasons there, the Rockies drew more than 7.7 million fans. In 1993 alone, 4,483,350 fans attended Rockies games. The baseball configuration could accommodate enormous crowds, helping establish the Rockies’ reputation as one of baseball’s best-supported expansion teams. The Early Rockies The early Rockies became known as the Blake Street Bombers, a nickname inspired by the team’s powerful lineup and the location of Coors Field. Among the early stars were: Andrés Galarraga, Dante Bichette, Larry Walker, Vinny Castilla, Ellis Burks, Eric Young, Walt Weiss The Rockies became one of the National League’s most entertaining offensive clubs. In 1995, Colorado reached the postseason for the first time. The Rockies won the National League Wild Card and faced the Atlanta Braves in the Division Series. Atlanta defeated Colorado three games to one. Larry Walker Arrives One of the most important moments in Rockies history came when Colorado signed Larry Walker before the 1995 season. Walker had already established himself as an excellent player with the Montreal Expos, but Denver transformed his career into something historic. Walker spent 1995 through 2004 with Colorado. During his Rockies career he hit: .334 258 home runs 848 RBI 1,361 hits 297 doubles 44 triples 126 stolen bases Walker remains the only player in Rockies history to win the National League MVP Award. Larry Walker Wins the 1997 MVP The greatest individual season in early Rockies history came in 1997. Walker hit: .366 — 49 HR — 143 RBI He led the majors in slugging percentage, OPS and total bases and became the first—and still only—Rockies player to win the National League MVP Award. Walker was also a five-tool player, combining power, hitting, speed and outstanding defense. His 1997 season remains one of the greatest seasons in franchise history. Todd Helton Becomes the Face of the Franchise Todd Helton arrived in the late 1990s and eventually became the defining player of the franchise. Colorado selected Helton with the eighth overall pick in the 1995 MLB Draft. He made his Major League debut in 1997. Helton spent his entire 17-year MLB career with the Rockies from 1997 through 2013.… Continue reading Colorado Rockies Complete History
Washington Nationals: The Complete History of the Expos and Nationals
I’m treating the Montreal Expos and Washington Nationals as one continuous MLB franchise, because MLB recognizes the Nationals’ franchise history as beginning with the Expos in 1969. The franchise moved to Washington after the 2004 season. The Washington Nationals have one of the most unusual histories in Major League Baseball. The franchise began not in Washington, D.C., but in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, as the Montreal Expos in 1969. After 36 seasons in Montreal, the franchise moved to Washington for the 2005 season and became the Washington Nationals. Although the Nationals are a relatively young Washington club, their franchise history stretches back to 1969 and includes Hall of Famers, Cy Young winners, MVPs, Rookie of the Year winners, legendary trades and, finally, a World Series championship. The franchise has played under two names: Montreal Expos — 1969–2004 Washington Nationals — 2005–present MLB’s official history treats the Expos and Nationals as one franchise. The Beginning: Montreal Gets Major League Baseball Montreal was awarded a National League expansion franchise in 1968, and the Expos began play in 1969. They became the first Major League Baseball team located outside the United States. The franchise’s founding principal owner was Charles Bronfman, the Canadian businessman and Seagram executive who helped bring Major League Baseball to Montreal. The Expos played their first game on April 8, 1969, at Shea Stadium against the New York Mets and won 11–10. Six days later, Montreal hosted its first home game at Jarry Park. The early Expos struggled to win consistently, but the organization developed a remarkable collection of young talent. Franchise Ownership Montreal Expos Charles Bronfman — 1969–1991 Bronfman was the founding principal owner and the man most responsible for bringing Major League Baseball to Montreal. He remained in control of the club until 1991. He was later inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame. Claude Brochu — 1991–1999 Brochu led a consortium of Canadian investors that purchased the club from Bronfman. He became the Expos’ managing general partner and attempted to keep the franchise in Montreal despite serious financial and stadium problems. Jeffrey Loria — 1999–2002 Loria acquired control of the Expos in 1999. His ownership became controversial, particularly as the club struggled financially and attempts to secure a new Montreal stadium failed. Major League Baseball — 2002–2006 MLB took control of the Expos in 2002. The franchise remained under league ownership through its final Montreal seasons and its first season in Washington. Washington Nationals Ownership Major League Baseball — 2004–2006 MLB owned and operated the franchise during the transition from Montreal to Washington. Ted Lerner and the Lerner Family — 2006–2023 In July 2006, the Lerner family officially purchased the Nationals from MLB for $450 million. Ted Lerner became the managing principal owner. The Lerners oversaw the construction and opening of Nationals Park and eventually celebrated the greatest moment in franchise history: the 2019 World Series championship. Mark Lerner — 2018–present as Managing Principal Owner Ted Lerner transferred the managing principal-owner position to his son Mark Lerner in 2018, although the Lerner family has continued to own the franchise. As of 2026, the Lerner family remains the owner of the Nationals. Every Major League Home Ballpark Montreal Expos Jarry Park — 1969–1976 Jarry Park was the original home of the Montreal Expos. It was a converted minor-league facility expanded to Major League standards. It hosted the franchise’s first home game in 1969. Olympic Stadium — 1977–2004 The Expos moved into Olympic Stadium in 1977. The stadium had been built for the 1976 Summer Olympics. It remained Montreal’s primary Major League home until the franchise moved to Washington. Hiram Bithorn Stadium — San Juan, Puerto Rico — 2003–2004 The Expos played portions of their home schedule in San Juan during their final two Montreal seasons as MLB searched for a permanent solution to the franchise’s problems. Washington Ballparks RFK Stadium — 2005–2007 When baseball returned to Washington in 2005, the Nationals initially played at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium. The club played three seasons there before moving into its new ballpark. Nationals Park — 2008–present Nationals Park opened on March 30, 2008. The Nationals defeated Atlanta 3–2 in the first regular-season game at the new stadium, with Ryan Zimmerman hitting a walk-off home run. Nationals Park finally gave Washington a permanent baseball-only home and became the setting for the 2019 World Series championship celebration. The Greatest Hall of Famers in Franchise History The franchise has produced or developed an extraordinary number of Hall of Fame players. Because Hall of Fame plaques are based on a player’s career and may use a different team logo, this list includes Hall of Famers who played for the Expos/Nationals franchise rather than suggesting that all entered Cooperstown representing Montreal or Washington. Gary Carter Position: Catcher Born: Culver City, California Hall of Fame: 2003 Carter became one of the greatest catchers in baseball history and remains the most iconic Hall of Famer associated with the Montreal Expos. He played for Montreal from 1974–1984 and again in 1992. Carter was a seven-time All-Star and helped the New York Mets win the 1986 World Series after leaving Montreal. Tim Raines Position: Left Field Born: Sanford, Florida Hall of Fame: 2017 Raines was one of the greatest leadoff hitters and base stealers in baseball history. He spent the majority of his career with Montreal and became the face of the Expos during the 1980s. He was… Continue reading Washington Nationals: The Complete History of the Expos and Nationals
Milwaukee Brewers Complete History
The Milwaukee Brewers have one of the most unusual histories in Major League Baseball. The franchise began not in Milwaukee, but in Seattle as the Seattle Pilots in 1969. After only one season, the financially troubled Pilots were purchased by a Milwaukee-based group led by Allan H. “Bud” Selig and moved to Milwaukee for the 1970 season. Since then, the Brewers have played in both the American League and National League, won an American League pennant, captured multiple division championships and produced some of baseball’s greatest players. There is, however, one major championship still missing from the franchise history: the Brewers have never won a World Series. The Beginning: The Seattle Pilots Major League Baseball expanded in 1969, creating four new franchises. One of those teams was the Seattle Pilots, who played in the American League West. The Pilots played their home games at Sick’s Stadium, which was not considered adequate for a modern Major League team. The franchise struggled financially and finished its only season with a 64–98 record. After the 1969 season, the franchise went bankrupt. Milwaukee businessman Bud Selig led a group that purchased the Pilots out of bankruptcy on March 31, 1970. Seven days later, the newly relocated Milwaukee Brewers began the 1970 season. The Brewers therefore have a unique distinction: their franchise history includes both the 1969 Seattle Pilots and the Milwaukee Brewers beginning in 1970. Milwaukee Brewers Owners The Brewers have had four principal ownership eras. William R. Daley and Dewey & Max Soriano 1969. The original ownership group controlled the Seattle Pilots during their one season. The Pilots were owned by a group headed by William R. Daley, with Dewey and Max Soriano among the principal owners. The franchise was in severe financial trouble by the end of the 1969 season. Bud Selig 1970–1997 Allan H. “Bud” Selig led the group that purchased the bankrupt Seattle Pilots and moved them to Milwaukee. Selig became the defining owner of the early Brewers. Under his ownership, Milwaukee eventually became one of the American League’s strongest teams. The 1982 Brewers won the American League pennant and reached the World Series. The team featured future Hall of Famers including: Robin Yount, Paul Molitor, Rollie Fingers, Ted Simmons, Don Sutton. Selig later became Commissioner of Major League Baseball. The Baseball Hall of Fame elected Selig in 2017. Wendy Selig-Prieb 1998–2004 When Bud Selig became commissioner, his ownership interest was transferred to a blind trust and ultimately to his daughter Wendy Selig-Prieb. She became the Brewers’ principal owner and president/CEO. The team struggled during much of this period, including a long stretch of losing seasons. The Selig family eventually agreed to sell the franchise. Mark Attanasio 2005–Present Mark Attanasio became principal owner after MLB approved the sale in January 2005. Attanasio purchased the club for approximately $223 million. His ownership group has included investors such as John Canning Jr., David Uihlein, Harris Turer and Stephen Marcus, among others. Under Attanasio, Milwaukee ended its long run of losing seasons and returned to postseason baseball. The Brewers reached the postseason in 2008, the NLCS in 2011, the NLCS again in 2018, and established themselves as one of the National League’s most consistently competitive clubs. Brewers Home Ballparks Sick’s Stadium Seattle Pilots — 1969 The franchise’s original home was Sick’s Stadium in Seattle. The Pilots played there for only one season. Milwaukee County Stadium 1970–2000 When the franchise moved to Milwaukee, the Brewers played at Milwaukee County Stadium. The stadium had originally been built for the Milwaukee Braves and became the home of the Brewers beginning in 1970. It hosted some of the greatest moments of the early Brewers era, including the 1982 American League pennant-winning season. County Stadium also hosted the 1975 All-Star Game. The Brewers remained there through the 2000 season. Miller Park 2001–2020 The Brewers moved into the new Miller Park in 2001. The stadium featured a retractable roof, allowing games to be played despite Milwaukee’s unpredictable weather. Miller Park became famous for its retractable roof, Bernie Brewer, the sausage races and the distinctive fan atmosphere. American Family Field 2021–Present Miller Park was renamed American Family Field beginning in 2021. It remains the home of the Milwaukee Brewers. The ballpark has continued the tradition of the famous retractable roof and has become one of the most recognizable stadiums in Major League Baseball. The Brewers Change Leagues The Brewers spent most of their history in the American League. They moved from the AL West to the AL East in 1972. In 1994, MLB realigned the divisions, placing Milwaukee in the new American League Central. Then came one of the biggest changes in franchise history. In 1998, the Brewers moved from the American League to the National League Central. Milwaukee therefore became only the second modern MLB franchise, along with Houston, to play in both leagues. The 1982 Milwaukee Brewers The greatest team of the early Brewers era was the 1982 club. Known for their powerful offense, the Brewers became known as “Harvey’s Wallbangers”, named after manager Harvey Kuenn. The lineup included: Paul Molitor, Robin Yount, Cecil Cooper, Ben Oglivie, Gorman, Thomas, Ted Simmons, Jim Gantner, Charlie Moore, The pitching staff included: Don Sutton, Pete Vuckovich, Rollie Fingers, Moose Haas The Brewers finished the regular season 95–67 and won the American League East. They defeated the California Angels in the AL Championship Series. Milwaukee then faced the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. 1982 World Series The Brewers lost the World Series to St. Louis. St. Louis Cardinals 4 Milwaukee Brewers 3 The Series became famous for its dramatic back-and-forth nature. Milwaukee won three games, but St. Louis captured the championship in seven games. The 1982 World Series remains the only World Series appearance in Brewers franchise history. Have the Brewers Ever Won the World Series? No. … Continue reading Milwaukee Brewers Complete History
