Hall of Famer Barry Larkin Joins the Movement to Bring MLB to Orlando
The global tourism center Orlando remains a vast unexploited opportunity for Major League Baseball due to its everlasting sunny climate. Minor league and spring training games occasionally visit Daytona Beach and Lakeland but Orlando remains without professional baseball.
The Orlando Dreamers under late leader Pat Williams validate the potential expansion of MLB to Orlando following his role in getting the NBA to establish its operations in the city. A major development for the Orlando MLB team initiative occurred when Barry Larkin joined the Orlando Dreamers.
Barry Larkin Joins the Orlando Dreamers
Barry Larkin the renowned shortstop for Cincinnati Reds has officially became the MLB ambassador for the Orlando Dreamers baseball organization. His membership adds both weight and speed to the group effort.
The team and I will commit endless effort together to achieve the success of this project. The prospect of implementing their plan brings Larkin tremendous pride which he expressed to Fox 35 Orlando during his interview.
The Tampa Bay Rays: A Potential Relocation Candidate
The Tampa Bay Rays represent the most practical opportunity for Orlando to obtain an MLB team through franchise relocation. The Rays continue to deal with on-going problems at their stadium Tropicana Field after the facility took damage from a recent hurricane event. The timing becomes critical because the organization needs to find stadium funding before March arrives.
Recognizing this opportunity, Orlando Dreamers co-founder Jim Schnorf has emphasized their commitment to funding a stadium that could lure the Rays or an expansion team.
“Looking at our situation, we’re prepared to match privately whatever funding is put up by Orange County or other government sources,” Schnorf stated. “This is a terrific arrangement for taxpayers, for the community, for county government.”
A Long Road Ahead, But Strong Support
While there are still significant hurdles to clear before MLB arrives in Orlando, the Dreamers appear to have a well-structured plan in place. The addition of a respected figure like Barry Larkin only strengthens their case.
As the MLB considers expansion and relocation opportunities, Orlando is positioning itself as a prime contender. With strong leadership, financial backing, and growing support from the baseball community, the dream of bringing professional baseball to Central Florida is closer than ever.
