Stu Sternberg, the principal owner of the Tampa Bay Rays, is in advanced negotiations to sell the team for approximately $1.7 billion to a group led by Florida real estate developers including Patrick Zalupski. The Rays confirmed the ongoing discussions but will not be commenting further. The team is expected to stay in the Tampa area, despite previous plans for a new stadium being halted due to Hurricane Milton's damage to Tropicana Field.

As the Rays play their home games at George M. Steinbrenner Field this season, the Tropicana Field is undergoing repairs expected to be completed by the 2026 season. The Rays, despite their competitive history, have struggled with attendance and have been pursuing new ballpark options for over a decade. Sternberg purchased the team for $200 million in 2004.

Oregon is stepping up its game in the race for an MLB expansion franchise, with lawmakers voting overwhelmingly in favor of a bill to allocate $800 million towards the construction of a stadium in Portland. This funding aims to attract Major League Baseball to the region, relying on tax revenues generated by the players and staff rather than current state resources.

The proposed stadium at the Zidell Yards site represents a significant commitment from the state to support a new franchise, as the total estimated cost for the facility will reach around $2 billion. The passage of this bill signals Oregon's serious intent to enter the MLB landscape.

In a competitive field for expansion, cities like Salt Lake City and Nashville are also vying for a franchise. As MLB prepares for potential expansion by 2028, a successful bid from Portland could redefine the baseball map in the U.S.

Tampa Bay Rays owner Stu Sternberg is in advanced negotiations to sell the team to a group led by Florida-based developer Patrick Zalupski, valuing the franchise at approximately $1.7 billion. Zalupski, who is the president and CEO of Dream Finders Homes, has signed a letter of intent, signaling serious interest. The franchise's management acknowledged these discussions and indicated further comments would be reserved until the talks are finalized.

The sale comes in the wake of a tumultuous year for the Rays, including Hurricane Milton damaging Tropicana Field. Plans for a new stadium were previously in place, but unforeseen costs have shifted focus. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has reportedly encouraged Sternberg to consider the sale, making the timing of the negotiations particularly intriguing for fans and analysts alike.

Stu Sternberg, principal owner of the Tampa Bay Rays, is in advanced negotiations to sell the team to a group headed by Florida developer Patrick Zalupski, valuing the team at $1.7 billion. Sternberg's decision comes after plans for a new ballpark were halted due to damages from Hurricane Milton, leading to speculation about a sale. The Rays are temporarily playing at George M. Steinbrenner Field and expect repairs to Tropicana Field to complete by 2026. Despite competitive performance, the Rays rank low in attendance.

The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly in advanced negotiations to sell the team for around $1.7 billion to a group led by Florida home developer Patrick Zalupski. This comes after owner Stu Sternberg faced pressure from the league to sell amid ongoing stadium issues. Sternberg purchased the Rays for $200 million in 2004 and has spent over a decade seeking a new stadium deal. Although a new agreement in St. Petersburg seemed close, the Rays backed out. Zalupski's financials indicate he has a net worth of $1.4 billion, making him a significant player in this acquisition.