The Orlando Dreamers have been gaining significant attention as they aim to bring Major League Baseball (MLB) to Orlando for the first time in history. Here’s all you need to know about their plans:
What is Orlando Dreamers?
Currently, MLB consists of 30 teams divided between the American League and the National League. Some of the most recognized teams worldwide include the New York Yankees, LA Dodgers, and Boston Red Sox. In 2025, the average revenue for each MLB franchise was about $407 million from various sources. The players, such as Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto, rank among the highest-paid athletes in sports, earning over $50 million annually.
The Orlando Dreamers first emerged in 2019 when officials announced their goal to introduce professional baseball to Central Florida. Pat Williams—who famously helped bring the NBA to Orlando in 1989—initiated the effort to establish an MLB franchise called the Orlando Dreamers and has been a strong advocate ever since. MLB has indicated plans to expand by adding two new cities, and Williams pushed for Orlando to be one of them, gathering local support. Sadly, Williams passed away in July 2024, but his campaign garnered 15,000 signatures within just a month.
What are the plans for the Orlando Dreamers?
The main objective of the Orlando Dreamers is to bring top-tier Major League Baseball to the city. To achieve this, the team must either acquire an existing MLB franchise or secure an expansion slot within the league. Currently, acquiring a franchise seems more plausible, with early discussions involving the Tampa Bay Rays relocating to Orlando. The Dreamers also plan to build a state-of-the-art stadium near International Drive, featuring a capacity of 45,000 seats. The new stadium is expected to host the MLB team and create over 25,000 jobs while contributing around $40 billion to the economy over the next 30 years.
Who is investing in the Orlando Dreamers plan?
To date, the Orlando Dreamers have raised approximately $1.5 billion from wealthy investors and local supporters. Several notable figures in the baseball world have backed the project. Dr. Rick Workman, who founded Heartland Dental—the largest dental management organization in the U.S.—is considered the lead investor. Additionally, John Morgan has invested $250 million, with his wealth originating from the Morgan & Morgan law firm.
Has Orlando ever had an MLB team?
No, Orlando has never hosted a Major League Baseball team. Florida currently has two MLB franchises: the Tampa Bay Rays and the Miami Marlins. Although the Marlins boast two World Series titles (1997 and 2003) and a richer history, the Rays have been recognized for their stronger performance in recent years.
Fan Take: The potential arrival of the Orlando Dreamers marks an exciting chapter for baseball enthusiasts, promising to expand the sport’s footprint in a new, passionate market. This move could invigorate the MLB with fresh fan energy and economic growth, further solidifying baseball’s place as America’s pastime.
