The Norfolk Tides on Wednesday praised the newly created Save Minor League Baseball Task Force that has been organized by members of Congress to prevent Major League Baseball from eliminating 42 minor league franchises, nearly one quarter of all minor league teams around the country.

“We appreciate the support of Rep. Lori Trahan (D.-Massachusetts), David McKinley (R-W.Va.) and the members of the task force in standing up for Minor League Baseball and speaking out against MLB’s effort to cast off thousands of jobs, reduce affordable, family-friendly entertainment and undermine grassroots support for our great game,” said Tides General Manager Joe Gregory.

While the Norfolk Tides were not on the list of teams facing the possibility of elimination under the MLB proposal, the Tides will remain vigilant and united with all Minor League Baseball teams in opposition to the MLB plan, a Wednesday press release stated.

Minor league teams are vital to the social and economic lives of millions of Americans, the press release added. They support scores of local businesses and jobs, provide accessible entertainment, help promote tourism spending and donate tens of millions of dollars in charitable contributions.

“With this proposal, MLB is willing to break the hearts of dozens of communities across the country,” said Gregory. “We are going to resist this plan and are gratified that so many in Congress are willing to join with us.”