Orlando Dreamers Secure $1.5 Billion in Investments to Lure Tampa Bay Rays, Stadium Proposal Located Near SeaWorld


ORLANDO, FLORIDA – The Orlando Dreamers, a group leading efforts to bring a Major League Baseball team to Central Florida, announced they have secured nearly $1.5 billion in investor commitments to fund the acquisition of a franchise. The group is also working to raise an additional $1 billion to finance the construction of a proposed stadium near SeaWorld.
Although the Dreamers have not yet secured a team, co-founder Jim Schnorf called the financing a significant milestone in the group’s ongoing campaign.
“We are confident that Orlando’s time for Major League Baseball is coming,” Schnorf said.
The Dreamers have not disclosed whether they intend to pursue an expansion franchise or relocate an existing team, such as the Tampa Bay Rays, whose long-term stadium situation remains uncertain. Specifics regarding a timeline for stadium construction have also not been finalized.
The Dreamers’ efforts are part of a broader movement to expand Major League Baseball’s presence in growing markets. Central Florida, a region with a strong sports fanbase, has long been seen as a potential home for a professional baseball team. Landing an MLB franchise would significantly elevate Orlando’s national sports profile.
The proposed stadium near SeaWorld is expected to cost approximately $1 billion, with the group seeking additional investor support to complete the project.
Orlando’s bid comes amid ongoing discussions within MLB about future expansion, as well as uncertainty surrounding the future home of the Rays, who have faced challenges securing a long-term stadium deal in the Tampa Bay area.
Schnorf said the Dreamers remain optimistic that either an expansion opportunity or a relocation scenario will eventually bring Major League Baseball to Orlando.