For years, the Tampa Bay Rays’ stadium issue has been a headache. The $1.3 billion stadium plan in St. Petersburg is under doubt. Audience numbers tell the story: just 17,781 fans per game in 2023, ranking 27th in MLB. And so, with their relocation rumors comes the Orlando Dreamers.

The team, guided by Hall of Famer Barry Larkin, is making a move. Their pitch? A $1.7 billion stadium backed by public and private funding. And they need an MLB team – either through expansion or by luring the Rays if their stadium deal collapses. So, how real a contender is Orlando?

The Orlando Dreamers believe their city is more than ready for baseball, highlighting their rapid growth, ranking 17th among U.S. metro areas, ahead of other MLB markets like Milwaukee and Kansas City. Their tourism appeal is also unmatched, drawing approx 75 million visitors annually. Such a number could provide a steady ticket base while local fan support builds. However, unlike some competing cities, Orlando lacks its professional baseball history, putting a question on long-term sustainability.

Hall of Famer Barry Larkin has become the face of Orlando’s baseball push after Pat Williams‘ passing. This World Series champion and 12-time All-Star brings credibility and leadership to the bid. His involvement is crucial in gaining MLB’s attention and securing financial backing. The Dreamers’ $1.7 billion stadium proposal utilizes $975 million from a tourist tax fund. Barry Larkin has been actively working to lock in corporate sponsors and city support, however, political roadblocks remain.

So, officials must decide whether public funds need to go toward baseball, especially given the audience struggles of Florida-based teams like the Marlins and Rays. But amidst all these, Larkin remains optimistic, believing in Orlando’s economic strength and passionate sports culture.

Where does Orlando stand in the race?

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has highlighted that league expansion needs to wait until the Rays and A’s stadium issues are resolved. With Oakland’s move to Las Vegas getting secured, Tampa Bay’s stadium uncertainty takes center stage. The Rays’ lease at Tropicana Field expires in 2027, and if the proposed stadium deal in St. Petersburg falls apart, relocation talks would escalate. While Orlando hopes to capitalize on this uncertainty, competition for an MLB franchise remains fierce.

Other cities have established compelling situations. Nashville, guided by Dave Stewart, has a well-structured management group and created “Nashville Stars” branding. Salt Lake City’s Big League Utah coalition enhances powerful investor backing and government support. Charlotte, a booming sports hub, already sustains NFL and NBA teams, making MLB a logical next step. Portland’s Diamond Project has secured land and has been pursuing a team since 2017. And most importantly, there are only two potential expansion spots. So, Orlando needs to show it offers more than just a stadium plan to secure its place in MLB’s future.

The Orlando Dreamers’ fate relies on whether the Rays’ stadium deal collapses and if MLB prioritizes expansion. Barry Larkin is keeping the dream alive, using his influence to rally support and strengthen Orlando’s case. However, can Orlando beat out cities with strong baseball histories and established fan bases? What do you think?