Orlando group eager to pursue MLB team after Rays’ stadium plans collapse

The Orlando Dreamers, led by MLB Hall of Famer Barry Larkin, have secured an anchor investor for the $1.7 billion domed stadium project near Aquatica water park in Orange County.

Following the Tampa Bay Rays backing out of a $1.3 billion ballpark agreement in St. Petersburg, the Orlando Dreamers’ progress has heightened the possibility of MLB games being hosted in Central Florida.

Jim Schnorf, co-founder of the Orlando Dreamers, reiterated the importance of having an anchor investor in the group.

Barry Larkin emphasized the importance of correctly managing the process of acquiring an MLB team for Orlando, whether through expansion or relocating an existing franchise. Local ownership is crucial to ensure the necessary enthusiasm and support from the Central Florida community.

“We now have a letter of intent towards financing our state-of-the-art, 45,000-capacity domed stadium right in the middle of the tourist corridor, where we will welcome approximately 80 million tourists this year. The financing structure will provide a minimum of approximately $1 billion towards stadium construction costs, under an arrangement that is highly attractive to Orange County government and citizens, team ownership, and Major League Baseball,” Schnorf said.

“Major League Baseball remains committed to finding a permanent home for the club in the Tampa Bay region for their fans and the local community,” MLB said in a statement. ”Commissioner (Rob) Manfred understands the disappointment of the St. Petersburg community from (Thursday’s) announcement, but he will continue to work with elected officials, community leaders, and Rays officials to secure the club’s future in the Tampa Bay region.”

Williams spoke with News 6’s Justin Warmoth in 2023 about the push to bring baseball to Orlando and how a team could transform Central Florida. Watch the full interview below: