Tampa Bay Rays Sale Approved by MLB Owners

In a unanimous decision, Major League Baseball owners have approved the sale of the Tampa Bay Rays to a group led by real estate developer Patrick Zalupski. This transition marks the end of ownership under Stu Sternberg, who has been at the helm since November 2005, during which the team saw successes including four AL East titles and two World Series appearances. The sale is expected to close shortly, following the Rays' announcement on September 17.

Earlier this year, the Rays abandoned plans for a $1.3 billion new ballpark project due to cost concerns linked to hurricane damage and delays. Consequently, the team relocated their home games to Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, where they faced challenges including multiple rain delays. Despite these hurdles, the Rays maintained a winning record at home this season. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has indicated that under Zalupski's leadership, the team will initiate a new search for a potential ballpark site within the Tampa and St. Petersburg area.