In 2017, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed that Portland was on the short-list to receive a team if the league expanded to 32 teams. Manfred took the stance that Portland was a strong possibility as the league needs another Western time zone team. Portland is currently home to the Boston Red Sox Eastern League Double-A affiliate Sea Dogs.
Darwin Barney is joining a Portland leadership group that features NFL Football Player Russell Wilson and his wife Ciara Wilson who are tabbed as investors and co-owners. Joining them is former Nike VP/GM Craig Cheek as the Founder and President and former Trail Blazers television play by play broadcaster Mike Barrett as the Managing Director.