Tampa Bay Rays New Ownership Group Completes Purchase

New Ownership for the Tampa Bay Rays

• 🤝 The Tampa Bay Rays have officially been purchased by a new ownership group led by Jacksonville developer Patrick Zalupski.
• 💡 This marks a significant shift for the franchise after months of speculation.

The New Ownership Group

• 👨‍💼 Zalupski, CEO of Dreamfinders Homes, has strong ties to the Tampa Bay region.
• ⚾ The group includes Ken Babby, who also owns the successful minor league team, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp.
• 📈 Babby is expected to implement a different marketing strategy for the Rays.

Future of the Team and Stadium

• 📍 There are ongoing discussions about the Rays potentially moving to Tampa after their current contract in St. Petersburg ends in 2028.
• 🏟️ While the current focus is on Ybor City and Waterfront Harbor for a new stadium location in Tampa, other sites are also being considered.
• 🗓️ The new ownership intends to embrace St. Petersburg and surrounding counties over the next three years.

Acquisition of Tampa Bay Rowdies

• ⚽ The sale also includes the Tampa Bay Rowdies, a United Soccer League Championship team.
• 🏟️ The Rowdies may potentially move to a new soccer-only stadium in the future, possibly shared with the Tampa Bay Sun.
• 📍 The Rowdies are expected to play at least one more year at Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg.