Who Did the Expos Become
The Montreal Expos became the Washington Nationals after the franchise relocated to Washington, D.C., ahead of the 2005 MLB season. The move ended 36 seasons in Montreal and created a new era for the Nationals as the capital’s Major League Baseball team.
Why the Expos Relocated
The Expos relocated because of weak attendance, stadium issues, and ownership challenges. MLB took over the team in 2002 and sought a new market, ultimately approving the move to Washington, D.C., where a new stadium and stronger fan support were expected.
What the Expos Became After Moving
After moving, the franchise was rebranded as the Washington Nationals. The team began play in the U.S. capital in 2005 and later won its first World Series title in 2019, establishing itself as a competitive National League club.
Key Facts About the Expos Becoming the Nationals
The Expos officially became the Nationals after MLB approved the relocation in 2004. The team retained its history and records, while Montreal received an expansion franchise, the Montreal Expos, which began play in 2025 as part of MLB’s new expansion plan.
