The crises in front of a commissioner can shift at any time. At the moment, Rob Manfred is closely monitoring a federal investigation into allegations that the St. Louis Cardinals illegally infiltrated the database of the Houston Astros. Of lesser concern, but still a potential embarrassment, is the possibility that eight Kansas City Royals will be voted to start the All-Star Game next month.
But Manfred’s overarching agenda never changes. His first public appearance after being elected last August was at the Little League World Series. And last January, just before taking over for Bud Selig, Manfred said his top priority would be growing baseball through youth participation — in or out of organized leagues.