Introducing the "International Baseball Association"

OOTPRealTime · 04-18-2014, 12:36 PM

First of all, I want to be very clear with my intent on this project/idea. I have no idea what my role will be. I like to think of myself as an "idea guy" and I've created this idea over some time. I've waited until '15 came out to announce it. I have played in "real" MLB-style leagues with real teams, real players and real financials. I've played in completely fictional leagues as well. I wanted to combine the two and this is what I've come up with. I'd like to create a hierarchical system in which we will have 16 team "Presidents" who will then hire "partners" to play the role of General Manager. Then, have the General Manager "hire" a Farm Director. Since I am the "idea guy" - I'll handle the back story, sponsorship evolution, expansion, association with MLB and basically play the role of "Creative Director" behind the scenes. This prologue will make much more sense after reading the story behind the creation of the IBL. I hope to create some buzz behind this thing and then have dedicated OOTP'ers apply to be charter members of this league...

So...here goes:

THE INTERNATIONAL BASEBALL ASSOCIATION REALIZED
By: Tom House, New York Times | April 18, 2014

On January 15th, 2011 the baseball landscape as we know it began to change. This was the day that three visionaries (who also happened to be billionaires and baseball enthusiasts) met to discuss starting a new league that took on a new model that focused on competitive franchises and affordable entertainment to baseball-starved areas throughout North America. Yes, that’s right, North America.

Over the past three years, these “Founders” have leveraged relationships with Fortune 500 companies (sponsors), leadership on the city, state, national and international levels, and secretly began building the framework for the International Baseball Association (IBA).

In a press conference held yesterday the rumors that have been circulating were realized as this outline was released to the public for the first time and executives at Major League Baseball could do nothing but gulp. Not that the IBA is going to challenge MLB for baseball supremacy - in fact, the leadership of the IBA was very clear in their intentions to co-exist and possibly work with them in the future. What does that mean? They didn’t know. Another point that was made very clear - this is still a work in progress. The exact rules and initial constitution have not been ratified. However, there have been years of meetings, arguments and conversations that have led to the framework detailed in this article.

Opening Day of the IBA is set for May 1st, 2016 with 16 franchises spanning the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The Founders have established agreements with 16 cities to build the charter organizations of the Association. There are future plans to expand into the Far East (Japan & China), Europe and even Australia. This would make it a true “International” affair.
The heart and soul of the IBA will focus on the most important clientele, the players and the fans. This will be explained as we go along also.

THE FOUNDERS

Three billionaires that share a love for the game of baseball and sports in general have joined forces to create this new league to challenge the current structure and to provide an optimal experience for fans that is both entertaining and affordable. The bulk of the funding needed to exist will come from corporate sponsorships, television deals and merchandising. These three men have already, behind-the-scenes created a structure of corporate sponsorship and even their own money to announce the league and the first round of franchises. The “Founders” are:

Larry Ellison - Ellison, 69, has already shown the willingness to fork up his own money to fund a sporting event. His “Team Oracle” has won back-to-back America’s Cup sailing competitions in San Francisco bay. He owns Oracle and is No. 3 on Forbes “Richest Men in America” list. He will oversee the corporate partnerships (he has a few contacts) and also the development of the franchises in the U.S. cities.

Michael Bloomberg - The former Mayor of New York has relinquished control of the city and now remains the 16th richest person in the world. His new efforts include philanthropic works, anti-gun programs in the US and even a new baseball league. His role will focus on the IBA getting proper coverage in print media, social media and television partnerships.

Carlos Slim - Once deemed the richest man in the world, the Mexican magnate is still the CEO of both America Movil and Telmex. He’ll be overseeing the development of the IBA in Mexico, Puerto Rico and non-U.S. expansion in the future.

FRANCHISE OWNERSHIP

Perhaps the biggest difference between the IBA and MLB is that the cities will actually own the franchises - creating an even greater sense of pride in the hometown team. The revenues will actually be used to improve these cities, and the fans won’t be charged exorbitant prices to make an already extremely wealthy owner, that much more so. Fans won’t have to worry about a money-hungry businessman running their club and keeping the profits - instead of improving their favorite team - one that the fans support through thick and thin.

We introduced the “Founders” of the IBA. These visionaries have come together to establish this league and fund the initial set-up. They will spend their own money to help cities take on the responsibility of building a stadium, or in some cases, rehab an existing structure to accommodate the necessary fans to support these teams. When it comes time for the city to ask taxpayers to help fund stadium improvements and/or new construction, one would believe the constituents will be more willing to participate if they know that this team actually contributes back to the community in which they live. “It becomes more of an investment for taxpayers to put their trust in the teams board of directors and management. Instead of just pumping their hard-earned money to make another man rich - they will actually see improvements to their parks, streets and development of other community projects,” said Ellison, during the press conference announcing this landscape-changing formation of the IBA.

STRUCTURE

The initial structure of the Association will feature two eight team leagues, to make up the total of 16 founding franchises. The “Oracle” division will feature eight teams in the northern areas - including teams in the U.S. and Canada. The second league, deemed “TelMex” will feature teams from the southern part of North America and will include franchises in the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico.

“We have agreements and stadium plans with sixteen cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico,” said Bloomberg. “We’re excited to announce these cities and all have done a great job keeping our conversations out of the media so we can make a grand announcement very soon,” he continued.

The Association will being revealing their Charter organizations here shortly, so there won’t be much time for speculation, but based on the chatter - we have some guesses. For one, we expect to see a team back in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. They have the stadium, the brand and the fans chomping at the bit to get a team back. We can also narrow down the cities in Puerto Rico to San Juan, Bayamon and Ponce as the leading candidates there. San Juan is almost a sure thing. However, Bayamon is so close, it may make sense to have a second franchise located in the country’s southern portion and Ponce is the clear choice. That’s assuming there will be more than one located in Puerto Rico - that wasn’t announced. In Mexico, you’d have to think that both Mexico City and Monterrey would be the clear choices. As for the U.S. - expect to see the next on the MLB list to grab franchises. We’ll soon find out.

FINANCIALS

Financially speaking, the IBA will be different than it’s counterpart in MLB. The IBA will feature corporate sponsorships for the league - established by the billionaire founders of the league. These league sponsors will actually divvie the money evenly to all clubs. The IBA will feature a 40% visitors gate share (up from MLB’s model of 20%) to help keep all teams on a level playing field, despite market size and attendance. This will help keep the league balanced and let parity exist. There will be a soft salary cap that each club must obey - but that cap will be determined by league earnings and will be adjusted each year to ensure the franchises aren’t handicapped in trying to lure bigger names to their organizations. The initial salary cap to build their first rosters is $25 Million. We will breakdown this number below. As the IBA grows, eventually, maybe they will be competing for the Robinson Cano’s of baseball free agency.

Breakdown:
Each city is responsible for preparing a stadium for play and to provide $5 Million to be used towards operating expenses. The National TV deal is in conjunction with Turner broadcasting and they will distribute games and the newly formed network called IBATV. This is worth $250 Million ($15,265,000/year to each club) on a 3-year deal. Bloomberg has worked with each market to develop a local TV deal which varies for each location. These deals will be announced with the revelation of each organization in the near future. Oracle (Ellison) and Telmex (Slim) have each ponied up $50 Million to become the official leagues sponsors - complete with namings rights - and top partners of the new league. In addition, the group has formed partnerships with major segments in the following categories (with buy-in amount):

Beer -- Samuel Adams -- $30 Million
Soft Drink -- Coca-Cola -- $30 Million
Automobile -- Nissan -- $30 Million
Airline -- Delta Airlines -- $15 Million - along with Charter flights for all teams.
Credit Card -- Visa -- $30 Million
Bank -- Wells Fargo -- $25 Million
Energy Drink -- Red Bull -- $10 Million

These amounts will cover the first five years of competition (seven years total) and will all be forwarded up-front to get the league started. After the 2020 IBA season, these will be re-negotiated as a yearly contribution - again, to be split evenly between the teams. Since the cities own the clubs, they will not have their own sponsorships - a key reason why these organizations were willing to fork over a large sum of cash to an unproven product. Their signage will be prevalent in some very highly marketable cities throughout North America. Some will even get naming rights on newly constructed stadiums to be built for Opening Day in 2016.

The IBA offices (located in Los Angeles, CA) will use 10% to get their “team” set-up and operate ($30.5 Million). Each franchise will be given $7.16 Million to make improvements to their stadiums (or put towards building a new one), hire front office staff and use at their discretion. This leaves $20 Million for player salaries, which will be the initial salary cap. Keeping in mind, each team will have a form of a minor league development team and an international complex to develop young players.

After the season, the IBA will determine the revenues of each club, take their 10% operating fee and then evenly distribute the earnings to the CITIES who earned them. They will then determine a new salary cap and announce it each off-season prior to free agency.

CLUB EXECUTIVES

The cities will hire and maintain a Board of Directors for each franchise. This board will be made up of local legislators, business owners and even fans. These boards will make decisions, along with an appointed President for each of the clubs. The President of the clubs will be responsible for hiring a General Manager to run the day-to-day operations of the club. The General Manager will be responsible for hiring a Farm Director to aide in the development of players in the minor league (which will be covered shortly). The President will also be in charge of convincing the board of all non-baseball activities - including stadium renovations, local television deals and anything else that comes up.

SCHEDULING

The IBA will feature a 120-game schedule. This leaves room for expansion of games in the future but could also serve as an incentive to join the IBA from MLB - less games puts more importance on each game and gives more time with family and less risk of injury. It will feature inter-league play so that the U.S.-based clubs will play in Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico on occasion. This also provides an even scheduling where each team will play two four-game series with each other team - one at home and one on the road.

ROSTER MAKEUP

The initial set-up of the IBA will be filled by aging veterans of MLB clubs and those who have paid their dues in the MLB minor league structure but haven’t seen the fruits of their labors realized. The IBA will also be heavily into international scouting and signings from all over the world. The IBA has made it clear that they are not in direct competition with Major League Baseball...at least not right away. The Founders will provide the start-up capital to sign their initial rosters - again, constructed from those players whose MLB contracts are up and they could make more money elsewhere. No longer will a veteran player have to “settle” for playing in Japan to make a few extra bucks. They can now choose to stay closer to home, make more money and even regain their status as a premier player and fan favorite in a new structure. Each club may want to go after players from their hometown’s to add another “hook” for fans.

With the league set to start in May of 2016, the IBA franchises will start signing players in the off-season following the 2015 Major League Baseball season. Clubs can start signing International free agents right away and developing them in their established International complex. That complex will feature no more than 50 players at a time and must be under the age of 18 years old at the beginning of the IBA regular season. If a player is above that age, he must either be placed on the big club or on the minor-league team.

Like MLB, the IBA will feature an active 25-man roster throughout the season. Their “expanded” rosters for the final 25 games of the season will consist of 30 players (rather than the 40 imposed by MLB rules).

PLAYOFFS

This is an exciting feature. Learning from what MLB has done over the past few years in expanding the playoffs - the IBA will feature ten (10) teams making the playoffs. The top three from each league will make it, as well as two wild-card teams. The wild-card teams will play a one-game playoff for the right to play the #1 seed in the first round of the playoffs. That first round is a 5-game series, however, the higher seed will play four games at home, and the lower seed will only get one. That places an added incentive on finishing higher in the regular season standings. Whichever teams make it out of their League Championship Series will play in the coined “International World Championship Series” (IWCS) to crown a champion.

MINOR LEAGUES (DRL)

We’ve been using the term “minor league” throughout this article to this point. The IBA will feature one “DRL” team for each organization - Development & Rehab League. These teams will be limited to 30 players and the “DRL” will play 80 games against other DRL teams (one for each franchise) and a Champion will be crowned. One player-friendly aspect to the IBA is that after three years from being drafted by an IBA franchise, the player will become a free agent if the organization does not commit to them.

This format has been said to be fan- and player-friendly. So, how is it fan-friendly? Well, for one, we mentioned that each team is owned by the city who hosts them. The IBA Founders will work with each city’s B.O.D. to ensure all is well. If a team can no longer handle the IBA structure, the franchise may be moved to another market. In addition, as eluded to earlier, the Founders will work to expand the Association into Europe and the Asian market. This would add to the overall revenue sharing and make the entire IBA, and it’s participating cities/organizations that much stronger. The revenue share is set at 50% of proceeds and 40% of gate revenue to be shared amongst all teams. The soft salary cap will ensure that no team becomes too large and is granted an unfair advantage. The fans will enjoy a lower cost for tickets because of the incremental revenue brought in by big sponsorship deals that go to the teams - not the Association.

This is the structure. Next up will be the revealing of the cities who will be included in the 16-member charter of the International Baseball Association. Stay tuned.

--------------

Again, I know my limitations. I know I likely won't have the time to dedicate to be the full blown Commissioner. I'll need to have somebody handle the website and scheduling and simming (preferably a non-participant). That can all work itself out. I wanted to put the idea out there and see where it goes.

Next up, I'll be revealing the 16 cities/organizations that will up for grabs!

baseballonly · 04-18-2014, 12:44 PM

I haven't read the whole article but I'm very interested. Please save a spot for me, either GM or team Pres. I could help on the board maybe, but I've never done anything like that before. You can reach me at sepcno@gmail.com

EDIT: I forgot to say, I play in real leagues, but I have been looking for a fictional one to join (but haven't found the perfect one) and this seems like the one I want to play in.

OOTPRealTime · 04-18-2014, 01:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by baseballonly

I haven't read the whole article but I'm very interested. Please save a spot for me, either GM or team Pres. I could help on the board maybe, but I've never done anything like that before. You can reach me at sepcno@gmail.com

EDIT: I forgot to say, I play in real leagues, but I have been looking for a fictional one to join (but haven't found the perfect one) and this seems like the one I want to play in.

Sounds good. I'll add you to the list. I think the way we're going to play this is anybody who is interested can join the list. We'll work out some kinks as we announce the franchises. Then, we'll basically choose our team Presidents. The "Board of Directors" for each city will actually be in the hands of the "Creative Director" and if a President is slacking (or stinking) - they could be let go. Then, a GM or Farm Director could be promoted to President. Again, once we get the 16 Presidents, they can start hiring GM's and Farm Directors to create a "team". Obviously, everybody is going to have a say in the best route to take - but each can have their own.

baseballonly · 04-18-2014, 02:01 PM

Wondering--Who decides what the team does? President or GM? Who ever that is is who I want to be.

OOTPRealTime · 04-18-2014, 02:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by baseballonly

Wondering--Who decides what the team does? President or GM? Who ever that is is who I want to be.

That would most likely be a collaborate effort between the two. However, the President would have more responsibilities - like requesting a stadium upgrade to allow for more seats (and more ticket sales) as well as, negotiating a local television deal. The President is also the GM's boss and would have final say in most personnel decisions. If things aren't working out - he can fire the GM and put him on the streets. He may get pressure from the board to do so if things aren't working out. Worst case scenario is that a President AND GM could be canned by the board and they may start fresh.

Again, to be clear, the "Board of Directors" will be the "creative director" for the league (a role I could see myself in) and would basically be improving the cohesion of the league with decisions made by each cities "BOD".

baseballonly · 04-18-2014, 02:20 PM

Ok, thanks. I actually almost did something like this when I played fantasy baseball. Great idea, count me in.

skalepp · 04-18-2014, 03:04 PM

Add me to the list! skalepp@gmail.com I'd be interested as a Team President or GM. I'm currently in a "real" time league right now. I've actually started our own radio show

OOTPRealTime · 04-18-2014, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by skalepp

Add me to the list! skalepp@gmail.com I'd be interested as a Team President. I'm currently in a "real" time league right now. I've actually started our own radio show

Love it. You're added to the list.

memphisonfire · 04-18-2014, 04:01 PM

I like the idea behind this and I've wanted to get involved in an online league so go ahead and count me in as a GM. My email is cj.sandmann2@gmail.com in case you need it.

huskerfan4life · 04-18-2014, 04:35 PM

you can count me in as GM or Team Pres and I can help out in any way possible by maybe being part of the board, please let me know here or through pm

baseballonly · 04-18-2014, 04:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by skalepp

Add me to the list! skalepp@gmail.com I'd be interested as a Team President or GM. I'm currently in a "real" time league right now. I've actually started our own radio show

I am in this league, and I can tell you Shane is a great owner.

Doylecan · 04-18-2014, 09:16 PM

Montreal, Quebec, Canada not Montreal, Ontario. Quebec and Ontario are Provinces (like States) in the country of Canada. Ontario boasts the city of Toronto for the few Americans who can't look outside your county or state without getting scared.

It would be like me saying Boston, NY to you.

zmiko · 04-18-2014, 09:24 PM

You can put me on the list for Pres/GM, probably board if needed

Brnwsbucksfannc · 04-18-2014, 09:42 PM

I would like to start as a Farm Director and move my way up. I would like to work with basballonly please

skalepp · 04-18-2014, 09:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doylecan

Montreal, Quebec, Canada not Montreal, Ontario. Quebec and Ontario are Provinces (like States) in the country of Canada. Ontario boasts the city of Toronto for the few Americans who can't look outside your county or state without getting scared.

It would be like me saying Boston, NY to you.

Where is Canada?

Doylecan · 04-18-2014, 10:34 PM

I think your ideas are fantastic for the creation of this league, good luck to all initially involved getting it off the ground.

OOTPRealTime · 04-19-2014, 08:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brnwsbucksfannc

I would like to start as a Farm Director and move my way up. I would like to work with basballonly please

To be clear, I won't be assigning those roles. I'll only be choosing the 16 Presidents. Those 16 Presidents will "hire" their GM's and Farm Directors. So, hopefully you're friends with baseballonly!

skalepp · 04-19-2014, 10:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OOTPRealTime

To be clear, I won't be assigning those roles. I'll only be choosing the 16 Presidents. Those 16 Presidents will "hire" their GM's and Farm Directors. So, hopefully you're friends with baseballonly!

They are. We come from the same online league. Max Modern Baseball

skalepp · 04-19-2014, 11:23 AM

When do you foresee the league actually being created? Some what of a timetable... Also, I've got a buddy who would be really interested as my farm director. knickmatt@gmail.com

OOTPRealTime · 04-19-2014, 01:56 PM

Here is a look at the first round (of four) of the Franchises in the IBA.

MONTREAL EXPOS
City: Montreal, Quebec, Canada (thanks Doylecan)
Market Size: Small
Fan Loyalty: Very Good
Current Fan Interest: 75
Stadium: Olympic Stadium (existing)
Capacity: 66,000
Local TV deal: $2,500,000

Baseball is back in Montreal! The fan base is there and ready to revive Olympic Stadium. The Expos have one of the smallest TV deals in the IBA but have the largest existing structure which could mean major growth if the team performs.

Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director)

Logos/Jerseys:

The following teams are currently in existence in the MLB minor leagues and will officially break their affiliation with their clubs after the 2015 season and join the IBA.

CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS
City: Charlotte, North Carolina
Market Size: Small
Fan Loyalty: Average
Current Fan Interest: 70
Stadium: BB&T Stadium (new construction)
Capacity: 25,000
Local TV deal: $6,000,000

The fans in Charlotte are about to get a new look at baseball. They will break their ties with the Chicago White Sox and join the IBA in 2016. They have a beautiful newly constructed 25,000 seat stadium that will debut in their first year in the IBA.

Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director)

Stadium (rendering):

Logo:

Jerseys:
TBA

INDIANAPOLIS INDIANS
City: Indianapolis, Indiana
Market Size: Small
Fan Loyalty: Great
Current Fan Interest: 75
Stadium: Victory Field
Capacity: 15,500
Local TV deal: $5,000,000

The Indianapolis team will break ties with the Pittsburgh Pirates and become a charter member of the IBA! They have a beautiful downtown ballpark in Victory Field, but it will have one of the smallest capacities - capping their attendance. However, with the right leadership there is room for expansion.

Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director)

Stadium:

Logo:

Jerseys:

NORFOLK TIDES
City: Norfolk, Virginia
Market Size: Small
Fan Loyalty: Very Good
Current Fan Interest: 80
Stadium: Harbor Park
Capacity: 12,067
Local TV deal: $5,000,000

No longer will the Tides be the AAA affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. Instead, they’ll be in a competing league in the IBA. They’ll have some challenges - especially with the smallest stadium in the league to start. However, that can change and new construction could be the answer. They do have a very loyal fan base.

Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director)

Stadium:

Logo:

Jerseys:

[IMG] http://www.ootpdevelopments.com/boar...ides_away1.png[IMG]

04-18-2014, 12:44 PM	#2
baseballonly All Star Reserve Join Date: Jan 2014 Posts: 806	I haven't read the whole article but I'm very interested. Please save a spot for me, either GM or team Pres. I could help on the board maybe, but I've never done anything like that before. You can reach me at sepcno@gmail.com EDIT: I forgot to say, I play in real leagues, but I have been looking for a fictional one to join (but haven't found the perfect one) and this seems like the one I want to play in. __________________ Former OOTP Leagues: CBL-Admirals (2016-17 Champs) MMB-Phillies Last edited by baseballonly; 04-18-2014 at 12:46 PM.

04-18-2014, 02:01 PM	#4
baseballonly All Star Reserve Join Date: Jan 2014 Posts: 806	Wondering--Who decides what the team does? President or GM? Who ever that is is who I want to be. __________________ Former OOTP Leagues: CBL-Admirals (2016-17 Champs) MMB-Phillies

04-18-2014, 02:20 PM	#6
baseballonly All Star Reserve Join Date: Jan 2014 Posts: 806	Ok, thanks. I actually almost did something like this when I played fantasy baseball. Great idea, count me in. __________________ Former OOTP Leagues: CBL-Admirals (2016-17 Champs) MMB-Phillies

04-18-2014, 03:04 PM	#7
skalepp Minors (Double A) Join Date: Nov 2013 Posts: 119	Add me to the list! skalepp@gmail.com I'd be interested as a Team President or GM. I'm currently in a "real" time league right now. I've actually started our own radio show Last edited by skalepp; 04-18-2014 at 03:06 PM.

04-18-2014, 09:16 PM	#12
Doylecan Bat Boy Join Date: Apr 2014 Location: St. Albert, Alberta, Canada Posts: 10	Montreal, Quebec, Canada not Montreal, Ontario. Quebec and Ontario are Provinces (like States) in the country of Canada. Ontario boasts the city of Toronto for the few Americans who can't look outside your county or state without getting scared. It would be like me saying Boston, NY to you. Last edited by Doylecan; 04-18-2014 at 09:17 PM.

04-18-2014, 12:36 PM	#1
OOTPRealTime Minors (Double A) Join Date: Nov 2013 Posts: 147	Introducing the "International Baseball Association" First of all, I want to be very clear with my intent on this project/idea. I have no idea what my role will be. I like to think of myself as an "idea guy" and I've created this idea over some time. I've waited until '15 came out to announce it. I have played in "real" MLB-style leagues with real teams, real players and real financials. I've played in completely fictional leagues as well. I wanted to combine the two and this is what I've come up with. I'd like to create a hierarchical system in which we will have 16 team "Presidents" who will then hire "partners" to play the role of General Manager. Then, have the General Manager "hire" a Farm Director. Since I am the "idea guy" - I'll handle the back story, sponsorship evolution, expansion, association with MLB and basically play the role of "Creative Director" behind the scenes. This prologue will make much more sense after reading the story behind the creation of the IBL. I hope to create some buzz behind this thing and then have dedicated OOTP'ers apply to be charter members of this league... So...here goes: THE INTERNATIONAL BASEBALL ASSOCIATION REALIZED By: Tom House, New York Times \| April 18, 2014 On January 15th, 2011 the baseball landscape as we know it began to change. This was the day that three visionaries (who also happened to be billionaires and baseball enthusiasts) met to discuss starting a new league that took on a new model that focused on competitive franchises and affordable entertainment to baseball-starved areas throughout North America. Yes, that’s right, North America. Over the past three years, these “Founders” have leveraged relationships with Fortune 500 companies (sponsors), leadership on the city, state, national and international levels, and secretly began building the framework for the International Baseball Association (IBA). In a press conference held yesterday the rumors that have been circulating were realized as this outline was released to the public for the first time and executives at Major League Baseball could do nothing but gulp. Not that the IBA is going to challenge MLB for baseball supremacy - in fact, the leadership of the IBA was very clear in their intentions to co-exist and possibly work with them in the future. What does that mean? They didn’t know. Another point that was made very clear - this is still a work in progress. The exact rules and initial constitution have not been ratified. However, there have been years of meetings, arguments and conversations that have led to the framework detailed in this article. Opening Day of the IBA is set for May 1st, 2016 with 16 franchises spanning the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The Founders have established agreements with 16 cities to build the charter organizations of the Association. There are future plans to expand into the Far East (Japan & China), Europe and even Australia. This would make it a true “International” affair. The heart and soul of the IBA will focus on the most important clientele, the players and the fans. This will be explained as we go along also. THE FOUNDERS Three billionaires that share a love for the game of baseball and sports in general have joined forces to create this new league to challenge the current structure and to provide an optimal experience for fans that is both entertaining and affordable. The bulk of the funding needed to exist will come from corporate sponsorships, television deals and merchandising. These three men have already, behind-the-scenes created a structure of corporate sponsorship and even their own money to announce the league and the first round of franchises. The “Founders” are: Larry Ellison - Ellison, 69, has already shown the willingness to fork up his own money to fund a sporting event. His “Team Oracle” has won back-to-back America’s Cup sailing competitions in San Francisco bay. He owns Oracle and is No. 3 on Forbes “Richest Men in America” list. He will oversee the corporate partnerships (he has a few contacts) and also the development of the franchises in the U.S. cities. Michael Bloomberg - The former Mayor of New York has relinquished control of the city and now remains the 16th richest person in the world. His new efforts include philanthropic works, anti-gun programs in the US and even a new baseball league. His role will focus on the IBA getting proper coverage in print media, social media and television partnerships. Carlos Slim - Once deemed the richest man in the world, the Mexican magnate is still the CEO of both America Movil and Telmex. He’ll be overseeing the development of the IBA in Mexico, Puerto Rico and non-U.S. expansion in the future. FRANCHISE OWNERSHIP Perhaps the biggest difference between the IBA and MLB is that the cities will actually own the franchises - creating an even greater sense of pride in the hometown team. The revenues will actually be used to improve these cities, and the fans won’t be charged exorbitant prices to make an already extremely wealthy owner, that much more so. Fans won’t have to worry about a money-hungry businessman running their club and keeping the profits - instead of improving their favorite team - one that the fans support through thick and thin. We introduced the “Founders” of the IBA. These visionaries have come together to establish this league and fund the initial set-up. They will spend their own money to help cities take on the responsibility of building a stadium, or in some cases, rehab an existing structure to accommodate the necessary fans to support these teams. When it comes time for the city to ask taxpayers to help fund stadium improvements and/or new construction, one would believe the constituents will be more willing to participate if they know that this team actually contributes back to the community in which they live. “It becomes more of an investment for taxpayers to put their trust in the teams board of directors and management. Instead of just pumping their hard-earned money to make another man rich - they will actually see improvements to their parks, streets and development of other community projects,” said Ellison, during the press conference announcing this landscape-changing formation of the IBA. STRUCTURE The initial structure of the Association will feature two eight team leagues, to make up the total of 16 founding franchises. The “Oracle” division will feature eight teams in the northern areas - including teams in the U.S. and Canada. The second league, deemed “TelMex” will feature teams from the southern part of North America and will include franchises in the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico. “We have agreements and stadium plans with sixteen cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico,” said Bloomberg. “We’re excited to announce these cities and all have done a great job keeping our conversations out of the media so we can make a grand announcement very soon,” he continued. The Association will being revealing their Charter organizations here shortly, so there won’t be much time for speculation, but based on the chatter - we have some guesses. For one, we expect to see a team back in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. They have the stadium, the brand and the fans chomping at the bit to get a team back. We can also narrow down the cities in Puerto Rico to San Juan, Bayamon and Ponce as the leading candidates there. San Juan is almost a sure thing. However, Bayamon is so close, it may make sense to have a second franchise located in the country’s southern portion and Ponce is the clear choice. That’s assuming there will be more than one located in Puerto Rico - that wasn’t announced. In Mexico, you’d have to think that both Mexico City and Monterrey would be the clear choices. As for the U.S. - expect to see the next on the MLB list to grab franchises. We’ll soon find out. FINANCIALS Financially speaking, the IBA will be different than it’s counterpart in MLB. The IBA will feature corporate sponsorships for the league - established by the billionaire founders of the league. These league sponsors will actually divvie the money evenly to all clubs. The IBA will feature a 40% visitors gate share (up from MLB’s model of 20%) to help keep all teams on a level playing field, despite market size and attendance. This will help keep the league balanced and let parity exist. There will be a soft salary cap that each club must obey - but that cap will be determined by league earnings and will be adjusted each year to ensure the franchises aren’t handicapped in trying to lure bigger names to their organizations. The initial salary cap to build their first rosters is $25 Million. We will breakdown this number below. As the IBA grows, eventually, maybe they will be competing for the Robinson Cano’s of baseball free agency. Breakdown: Each city is responsible for preparing a stadium for play and to provide $5 Million to be used towards operating expenses. The National TV deal is in conjunction with Turner broadcasting and they will distribute games and the newly formed network called IBATV. This is worth $250 Million ($15,265,000/year to each club) on a 3-year deal. Bloomberg has worked with each market to develop a local TV deal which varies for each location. These deals will be announced with the revelation of each organization in the near future. Oracle (Ellison) and Telmex (Slim) have each ponied up $50 Million to become the official leagues sponsors - complete with namings rights - and top partners of the new league. In addition, the group has formed partnerships with major segments in the following categories (with buy-in amount): Beer -- Samuel Adams -- $30 Million Soft Drink -- Coca-Cola -- $30 Million Automobile -- Nissan -- $30 Million Airline -- Delta Airlines -- $15 Million - along with Charter flights for all teams. Credit Card -- Visa -- $30 Million Bank -- Wells Fargo -- $25 Million Energy Drink -- Red Bull -- $10 Million These amounts will cover the first five years of competition (seven years total) and will all be forwarded up-front to get the league started. After the 2020 IBA season, these will be re-negotiated as a yearly contribution - again, to be split evenly between the teams. Since the cities own the clubs, they will not have their own sponsorships - a key reason why these organizations were willing to fork over a large sum of cash to an unproven product. Their signage will be prevalent in some very highly marketable cities throughout North America. Some will even get naming rights on newly constructed stadiums to be built for Opening Day in 2016. The IBA offices (located in Los Angeles, CA) will use 10% to get their “team” set-up and operate ($30.5 Million). Each franchise will be given $7.16 Million to make improvements to their stadiums (or put towards building a new one), hire front office staff and use at their discretion. This leaves $20 Million for player salaries, which will be the initial salary cap. Keeping in mind, each team will have a form of a minor league development team and an international complex to develop young players. After the season, the IBA will determine the revenues of each club, take their 10% operating fee and then evenly distribute the earnings to the CITIES who earned them. They will then determine a new salary cap and announce it each off-season prior to free agency. CLUB EXECUTIVES The cities will hire and maintain a Board of Directors for each franchise. This board will be made up of local legislators, business owners and even fans. These boards will make decisions, along with an appointed President for each of the clubs. The President of the clubs will be responsible for hiring a General Manager to run the day-to-day operations of the club. The General Manager will be responsible for hiring a Farm Director to aide in the development of players in the minor league (which will be covered shortly). The President will also be in charge of convincing the board of all non-baseball activities - including stadium renovations, local television deals and anything else that comes up. SCHEDULING The IBA will feature a 120-game schedule. This leaves room for expansion of games in the future but could also serve as an incentive to join the IBA from MLB - less games puts more importance on each game and gives more time with family and less risk of injury. It will feature inter-league play so that the U.S.-based clubs will play in Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico on occasion. This also provides an even scheduling where each team will play two four-game series with each other team - one at home and one on the road. ROSTER MAKEUP The initial set-up of the IBA will be filled by aging veterans of MLB clubs and those who have paid their dues in the MLB minor league structure but haven’t seen the fruits of their labors realized. The IBA will also be heavily into international scouting and signings from all over the world. The IBA has made it clear that they are not in direct competition with Major League Baseball...at least not right away. The Founders will provide the start-up capital to sign their initial rosters - again, constructed from those players whose MLB contracts are up and they could make more money elsewhere. No longer will a veteran player have to “settle” for playing in Japan to make a few extra bucks. They can now choose to stay closer to home, make more money and even regain their status as a premier player and fan favorite in a new structure. Each club may want to go after players from their hometown’s to add another “hook” for fans. With the league set to start in May of 2016, the IBA franchises will start signing players in the off-season following the 2015 Major League Baseball season. Clubs can start signing International free agents right away and developing them in their established International complex. That complex will feature no more than 50 players at a time and must be under the age of 18 years old at the beginning of the IBA regular season. If a player is above that age, he must either be placed on the big club or on the minor-league team. Like MLB, the IBA will feature an active 25-man roster throughout the season. Their “expanded” rosters for the final 25 games of the season will consist of 30 players (rather than the 40 imposed by MLB rules). PLAYOFFS This is an exciting feature. Learning from what MLB has done over the past few years in expanding the playoffs - the IBA will feature ten (10) teams making the playoffs. The top three from each league will make it, as well as two wild-card teams. The wild-card teams will play a one-game playoff for the right to play the #1 seed in the first round of the playoffs. That first round is a 5-game series, however, the higher seed will play four games at home, and the lower seed will only get one. That places an added incentive on finishing higher in the regular season standings. Whichever teams make it out of their League Championship Series will play in the coined “International World Championship Series” (IWCS) to crown a champion. MINOR LEAGUES (DRL) We’ve been using the term “minor league” throughout this article to this point. The IBA will feature one “DRL” team for each organization - Development & Rehab League. These teams will be limited to 30 players and the “DRL” will play 80 games against other DRL teams (one for each franchise) and a Champion will be crowned. One player-friendly aspect to the IBA is that after three years from being drafted by an IBA franchise, the player will become a free agent if the organization does not commit to them. This format has been said to be fan- and player-friendly. So, how is it fan-friendly? Well, for one, we mentioned that each team is owned by the city who hosts them. The IBA Founders will work with each city’s B.O.D. to ensure all is well. If a team can no longer handle the IBA structure, the franchise may be moved to another market. In addition, as eluded to earlier, the Founders will work to expand the Association into Europe and the Asian market. This would add to the overall revenue sharing and make the entire IBA, and it’s participating cities/organizations that much stronger. The revenue share is set at 50% of proceeds and 40% of gate revenue to be shared amongst all teams. The soft salary cap will ensure that no team becomes too large and is granted an unfair advantage. The fans will enjoy a lower cost for tickets because of the incremental revenue brought in by big sponsorship deals that go to the teams - not the Association. This is the structure. Next up will be the revealing of the cities who will be included in the 16-member charter of the International Baseball Association. Stay tuned. -------------- Again, I know my limitations. I know I likely won't have the time to dedicate to be the full blown Commissioner. I'll need to have somebody handle the website and scheduling and simming (preferably a non-participant). That can all work itself out. I wanted to put the idea out there and see where it goes. Next up, I'll be revealing the 16 cities/organizations that will up for grabs! __________________ OOTP in Real-Time - St. Louis Cardinals View Current Organizational Depth Chart (dynamic) Last edited by OOTPRealTime; 04-19-2014 at 08:20 AM.

04-18-2014, 04:01 PM	#9
memphisonfire Bat Boy Join Date: Apr 2014 Location: Frankfort, IL Posts: 6	I like the idea behind this and I've wanted to get involved in an online league so go ahead and count me in as a GM. My email is cj.sandmann2@gmail.com in case you need it.

04-18-2014, 04:35 PM	#10
huskerfan4life Bat Boy Join Date: Apr 2014 Location: omaha nebraska Posts: 19	you can count me in as GM or Team Pres and I can help out in any way possible by maybe being part of the board, please let me know here or through pm

04-18-2014, 09:24 PM	#13
zmiko Bat Boy Join Date: Dec 2011 Posts: 3	You can put me on the list for Pres/GM, probably board if needed

04-18-2014, 09:42 PM	#14
Brnwsbucksfannc Minors (Rookie Ball) Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Hickory, NC Posts: 49	I would like to start as a Farm Director and move my way up. I would like to work with basballonly please Last edited by Brnwsbucksfannc; 04-18-2014 at 10:16 PM.

04-18-2014, 10:34 PM	#16
Doylecan Bat Boy Join Date: Apr 2014 Location: St. Albert, Alberta, Canada Posts: 10	I think your ideas are fantastic for the creation of this league, good luck to all initially involved getting it off the ground.

04-19-2014, 11:23 AM	#19
skalepp Minors (Double A) Join Date: Nov 2013 Posts: 119	When do you foresee the league actually being created? Some what of a timetable... Also, I've got a buddy who would be really interested as my farm director. knickmatt@gmail.com

04-19-2014, 01:56 PM	#20
OOTPRealTime Minors (Double A) Join Date: Nov 2013 Posts: 147	First Round of Franchise reveals Here is a look at the first round (of four) of the Franchises in the IBA. MONTREAL EXPOS City: Montreal, Quebec, Canada (thanks Doylecan) Market Size: Small Fan Loyalty: Very Good Current Fan Interest: 75 Stadium: Olympic Stadium (existing) Capacity: 66,000 Local TV deal: $2,500,000 Baseball is back in Montreal! The fan base is there and ready to revive Olympic Stadium. The Expos have one of the smallest TV deals in the IBA but have the largest existing structure which could mean major growth if the team performs. Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director) Logos/Jerseys: The following teams are currently in existence in the MLB minor leagues and will officially break their affiliation with their clubs after the 2015 season and join the IBA. CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS City: Charlotte, North Carolina Market Size: Small Fan Loyalty: Average Current Fan Interest: 70 Stadium: BB&T Stadium (new construction) Capacity: 25,000 Local TV deal: $6,000,000 The fans in Charlotte are about to get a new look at baseball. They will break their ties with the Chicago White Sox and join the IBA in 2016. They have a beautiful newly constructed 25,000 seat stadium that will debut in their first year in the IBA. Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director) Stadium (rendering): Logo: Jerseys: TBA INDIANAPOLIS INDIANS City: Indianapolis, Indiana Market Size: Small Fan Loyalty: Great Current Fan Interest: 75 Stadium: Victory Field Capacity: 15,500 Local TV deal: $5,000,000 The Indianapolis team will break ties with the Pittsburgh Pirates and become a charter member of the IBA! They have a beautiful downtown ballpark in Victory Field, but it will have one of the smallest capacities - capping their attendance. However, with the right leadership there is room for expansion. Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director) Stadium: Logo: Jerseys: NORFOLK TIDES City: Norfolk, Virginia Market Size: Small Fan Loyalty: Very Good Current Fan Interest: 80 Stadium: Harbor Park Capacity: 12,067 Local TV deal: $5,000,000 No longer will the Tides be the AAA affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. Instead, they’ll be in a competing league in the IBA. They’ll have some challenges - especially with the smallest stadium in the league to start. However, that can change and new construction could be the answer. They do have a very loyal fan base. Available positions: Team President (President will hire a GM and Farm Director) Stadium: Logo: Jerseys: [IMG] http://www.ootpdevelopments.com/boar...ides_away1.png[IMG] __________________ OOTP in Real-Time - St. Louis Cardinals View Current Organizational Depth Chart (dynamic)