Joe Gagliardi, who had operated the Missions under a lease agreement, led a group that would place a California League team in San Jose.
Seeking an even ten team circuit, Gagliardi convinced Vallejo cardiologist Dr. Thomas Leonard to back another expansion club.
The California Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland A’s, St. Louis Cardinals, Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres provided players.
[1] The club initially sought Vallejo and Santa Rosa as their home, but were turned away when it was evident that facility upgrades would not be ready in time for the season.
[2] The franchise settled in Santa Clara, which coincidentally neighbors San Jose were their expansion counterpart was located.