Part 5/12:
While both cities are vying for the same prize, their situations differ slightly. Salt Lake City has a well-established ownership group and a more straightforward public funding model, giving it a slight edge. Meanwhile, Portland has garnered attention for its attractive riverfront site and the visual appeal of its conceptual stadiums.
However, both locales check many of the boxes that MLB seeks: burgeoning sports markets with passionate fan bases that consistently fill their arenas—Utah’s Jazz and Real Salt Lake, Oregon’s college programs—demonstrate strong local support for sports franchises. Both are also prepared (or nearly so) to secure sizable public investments.