The next round of MLS expansion has two spots open, with two more openings to be made available at an unknown time in the future. The bids focus on key ares such as financial support, fan bases, TV market standings, existing franchises, in some cases, and the always popular stadium proposal.
For Tampa Bay the strengths are that the city has supported major league sports franchises for years, and that they have an existing NASL franchise in the Rowdies. However, their current stadium, a former baseball field, would required a much needed face lift to be MLS ready.