The demise of the Montreal Expos, Canada’s first MLB team, is a captivating story explored in the new Netflix documentary ‘Who Killed the Montreal Expos?’. The Expos, who arrived in Canada in 1969, preceding the Toronto Blue Jays by eight years, were a cherished franchise that symbolized the pride and identity of Montreal for over three decades. However, in 2004, the team bid farewell with their final game at Olympic Stadium, leaving behind a legacy that still resonates with their devoted fan base.
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The documentary poses intriguing questions about the factors that led to the extinction of the Expos. Was it a matter of financial challenges, mismanagement, or perhaps something more sinister? Director Jean-François Poisson delves into the 91-minute film, featuring interviews with iconic Expos players like Pedro Martinez, Larry Walker, and Vladimir Guerrero Sr., offering insights into the team’s rise and fall. Former manager Felipe Alou and past team owners also contribute their perspectives on the Expos’ tumultuous journey.
David Samson, a former executive vice president of the Expos, reflects on the team’s struggles during the ownership of his stepfather, Jeffrey Loria. Samson describes the franchise as a “fixer-upper,” highlighting the challenges faced by the team both on and off the field. The narrative paints a picture of a beloved team that faced obstacles, including a major setback during the strike-shortened 1994 season when the Expos had the best record in baseball but were denied a chance at a World Series title.
Financial woes and the inability to address critical stadium issues plagued the Expos during their final years. The constant leaking roof at Olympic Stadium became a symbol of the team’s deteriorating circumstances, as ownership struggled to find solutions or secure a new venue. Samson’s blunt assessment that “baseball in Montreal doesn’t work” reflects a harsh reality that ultimately led to the team’s departure from the city.
In contrast to the Expos’ fate, the Toronto Blue Jays have enjoyed recent success, reaching the World Series and capturing the attention of baseball fans across Canada. The juxtaposition of the two franchises’ trajectories serves as a poignant reminder of what once was for Montreal baseball enthusiasts. Players like Pedro Martinez express a sense of nostalgia and sadness at the absence of a team in Montreal, underscoring the enduring impact of the Expos on the city and its people.
‘Who Killed the Montreal Expos?’ offers a poignant reflection on the rise and fall of a storied baseball franchise that remains etched in the memories of fans and players alike. The documentary serves as a tribute to the Expos’ legacy and a reminder of the challenges faced by sports teams in a competitive and ever-evolving landscape. As baseball fans reflect on the fate of the Montreal Expos, the documentary invites viewers to explore the complex factors that contributed to the end of an era in Canadian baseball history.
The documentary ‘Who Killed the Montreal Expos?’ is now available for streaming on Netflix, providing audiences with a compelling narrative that sheds light on the untold story behind the demise of Canada’s first MLB team. As viewers immerse themselves in the tale of the Expos, they gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and dynamics that shape the world of professional sports.