Majority of British Columbians want to see an MLB team established in Vancouver

A recent survey from BC-based Research Co. has found that an overwhelming majority of British Columbians would like to see a Major League Baseball (MLB) team established in Vancouver.

This poll found that 72% of BC respondents thought having a Vancouver MLB team would be a good idea, while 9% thought negatively about it and 19% said they did not know. 

When asked how they would support a Vancouver team, 54% responded that they would be likely to attend at least one home game and 29% said they would likely buy season tickets. 

These statistics were markedly higher for those living in the metro Vancouver area, as those in other regions of BC would face more challenges getting to and from the games. However, despite the distance, 40% of Vancouver Islander respondents said they would likely attend one game and 18% said they would consider season tickets. 

Furthermore, 48% of BC respondents said they would watch the team’s games at home or at a bar or pub and 50% said they would likely buy the team’s merchandise. 

As per the poll’s results, 49% of BC respondents are currently supporters of the Toronto Blue Jays, 7% support the Seattle Mariners and just 4% root for another team in the league. 

Research Co. asked respondents if they would abandon their current favourite team if Vancouver established an MLB franchise, and 67% said they likely would. 

Last week, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim launched a bid through city council to bring an MLB team to the coastal Canadian city as the league eyes an expansion from 30 teams to 32. 

Sim’s motion will be discussed in a council meeting on Wednesday, April 22nd. 

In past interviews, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has stated that a Vancouver team could work, and that he is determined to see an expansion through before his planned retirement in 2029. 

Currently, the highest level of baseball played in Vancouver is done by the Vancouver Canadians. The Canadians are an affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays playing in the High-A league, representing professional baseball’s third-highest minor league classification. 

If a Vancouver MLB team was established, would you go to their games or support them over your current favourite team? 

What would you name a Vancouver team if they were to get one? 

Let us know in the comments.