What Team Did the Expos Become
The Montreal Expos became the Washington Nationals. The franchise relocated from Montreal to Washington, D.C., and officially adopted the Nationals name for the 2005 MLB season.
Why the Expos Moved to Washington
Declining attendance, an aging stadium, and ownership challenges made it difficult for the team to remain in Montreal. MLB sought a larger market, and Washington, D.C. offered a new stadium plan and a growing fan base.
When the Expos Officially Became the Nationals
On September 29, 2004, the Expos played their final game as the Montreal Expos. In 2005, the team began play in Washington, D.C. as the Washington Nationals, marking the first Major League Baseball team in the capital since the Washington Senators.
How the Expos Became the Nationals
MLB owned the franchise during the transition and worked with local officials to secure a new ballpark. The move was finalized after the 2004 season, and the Nationals inherited the Expos' history and records while starting fresh as Washington's team.
