Jean-François Poisson’s Netflix documentary, “Who Killed the Montreal Expos?”, delves into the compelling history of Canada’s first major league baseball team. It investigates the factors leading to the franchise’s unfortunate demise in 2004, when the Expos were relocated to Washington, D.C., and reborn as the Nationals. For nearly two decades, Montreal has lacked major league baseball, sparking a sense of loss among fans.
The Rise of the Montreal Expos
The Expos were established in 1969, coinciding with an era of optimism in Montreal, following Expo 67, a highly successful world’s fair. This period was characterized by Quebec’s Quiet Revolution, highlighting a burgeoning French-speaking identity. The franchise captivated locals, demonstrated by a strong fanbase and a unique baseball lexicon developed by French broadcasters.
Key Players and Early Success
The team boasted remarkable talent, including Hall of Famers like Larry Walker, Vladimir Guerrero, Andre Dawson, and Pedro Martinez. Fans experienced a thrilling decade in the late 70s and early 80s when the Expos fielded competitive teams, even ranking third in National League attendance in 1981, when they came within one game of reaching the World Series.
The Downturn Begins
However, a series of unfortunate events began to unwind the team’s success. The tumult of October 1970, marked by the kidnapping and murder of Pierre Laporte, deeply affected the province. This event triggered an exodus of anglophones and exacerbated the already challenging business environment in Quebec.
Challenges Faced by the Franchise
- The opening of the Olympic Stadium in 1976, which suffered from severe budget overruns and inadequacies as a baseball venue.
- Management decisions that prioritized financial savings over team development led to the loss of key players.
- A players’ strike in 1994 cancelled the season, resulting in a devastating fire sale of talent.
- Another independence referendum in 1995 hindered plans for a new ballpark, causing further disillusionment among fans.
The End of an Era
The Expos’ decline accelerated, culminating in their relocation to Washington. Factors contributing to the franchise’s end included ineffective ownership and a city grappling with political and economic instability. As narrated in Poisson’s documentary, the local fan support remained strong during competitive periods.
The Legacy of the Expos
“Who Killed the Montreal Expos?” not only examines the reasons behind the team’s fall but also illustrates a broader reflection on Quebec society during turbulent times. The film suggests that the franchise’s failure stemmed not from a lack of fans, but from the challenges the city faced. With the possibility of re-establishing a major league team in a more stable Montreal today, fans are eager to reconnect with their beloved Expos, known affectionate as Nos Amours.
