Tampa Businessman Joe Molloy Leading Efforts to Acquire Tampa Bay Rays
Tampa businessman Joe Molloy is currently spearheading a Tampa-based group that is seeking to purchase the Tampa Bay Rays and move forward with the proposed St. Petersburg stadium deal. Molloy confirmed his group’s interest in an interview with the Tampa Bay Times on Sunday night.
“Yes, I’m leading a group of prominent Tampa Bay-based investors who are keen on acquiring the Tampa Bay Rays. We have put together a remarkable team that is aligned with our vision,” Molloy stated.
Molloy’s Group Interested in St. Petersburg Stadium Deal
Although Molloy did not disclose the names of the members in his group due to non-disclosure agreements, it has been reported by The Athletic that the group includes a member of the Tampa-based DeBartolo family, known for their involvement in sports and commercial development. Molloy’s group is also looking to pursue the current planned downtown St. Petersburg stadium deal as part of the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District.
“The team has intentions to remain in St. Petersburg, and we are fully committed to building on the progress that the city and county have made so far. We are thrilled about this opportunity,” Molloy added.
Interest From Different Ownership Groups
St. Petersburg City Council chairperson Copley Gerdes expressed his appreciation for the resources of Molloy’s group and mentioned that there are rumblings about a second ownership group interested in relocating the team to Tampa. “The Rays’ success has attracted interest both locally and beyond,” Gerdes stated. “That’s expected given their accomplishments.”
Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg has not publicly stated a desire to sell the team, but rumors have been circulating within Tampa Bay business and Major League Baseball circles. The Athletic reported that Sternberg is facing pressure from MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and other owners to sell the team by March 31.
Molloy’s Background and Experience
Joe Molloy, who is turning 64 this week, brings previous MLB experience to the table. He served as an executive with the Yankees for 10 years, including a two-year stint as the managing general partner. Molloy’s ties to the Steinbrenner family, through his marriage to Jessica Steinbrenner, have solidified his position in the baseball world. Apart from his sports background, Molloy has been a dedicated educator in the Tampa Bay area for years.
Times sports columnist John Romano contributed to this report.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the future ownership of the Tampa Bay Rays seems to be a topic of interest and speculation within the baseball community. With multiple groups expressing interest in the team, it will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds in the coming months.
FAQs
Q: Is Stuart Sternberg looking to sell the Tampa Bay Rays?
A: While there are rumors circulating about a potential sale, Sternberg has not made any public statements regarding selling the team.
Q: What is the deadline for Stuart Sternberg to decide on the new stadium deal?
A: March 31 is the deadline for Sternberg to make a decision on proceeding with the new stadium deal.
