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Man, it’s finally happened — the Tampa Bay Rays have new owners, and honestly, it feels like a fresh start. Patrick Zalupski, the CEO of Dream Finders Homes, is now leading the group that took over from Stu Sternberg, who still kept a little 10% stake. I’m actually hopeful this new team — with Ken Babby stepping in as CEO — will finally bring some energy back to the Rays and reconnect with fans who’ve been waiting for real change.
Posted by Jordan
Man, it’s about time the Tampa Bay Rays got some new ownership! The deal is officially done Patrick Zalupski, who’s the CEO of Dream Finders Homes, is now leading the new group that owns the team. The sale closed on September 30, 2025, and Major League Baseball owners gave it their unanimous approval. So yeah, it’s official Stu Sternberg is no longer in control (thank God), but he’s still hanging around with a small 10% stake. I guess he couldn’t completely let go.
This new group has some big names too Bill Cosgrove, Ken Babby (who’s stepping in as the new CEO), and Dan Doyle. I’m hoping they’re ready to shake things up because the Rays have had potential for years, but something always feels… off. Maybe new leadership can finally bring some energy and a sense of pride to the team and the city.
Patrick Zalupski seems like a solid guy a Florida-based developer who’s made a name for himself through real estate, not just someone buying a team for clout. That already feels different from the usual corporate ownership vibe. I just hope he keeps the Rays in Tampa Bay and doesn’t start talking about moving the team again. Fans here have been through enough rumors about splitting games or relocating. We want our team right here at home. Period.
I’m also curious what Ken Babby will bring as CEO. He’s got experience in sports ownership with minor league teams, so maybe he knows what it takes to build a real fan experience, not just a winning record. That’s what’s been missing lately — that real connection with the fans. The Rays have talent, they’ve had great seasons, but the community side always felt like an afterthought.
So yeah, I’m actually optimistic this time. Maybe this group will finally do what Sternberg never could make people in Tampa feel proud to be Rays fans again. Build a better stadium deal, keep ticket prices fair, bring in some excitement, and actually talk to the fans. That’s not too much to ask, right?
Here’s hoping Zalupski and his crew can deliver. Because if they do it right, the Rays could become one of the best-run teams in baseball not just on the field, but off it too.
