The Orlando Dreamers are generating significant buzz as they aim to introduce Major League Baseball (MLB) to Orlando for the first time ever. Below is an overview of their vision and progress.
What Are the Orlando Dreamers?
MLB currently features 30 teams spread between two main leagues: the American League and the National League. Globally recognized teams like the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Boston Red Sox represent some of the biggest names in sports. In 2025, MLB teams are anticipated to earn an average revenue of around $407 million from diverse sources, reflecting continual annual growth that Orlando hopes to capitalize on. MLB players rank among the highest-paid athletes, with stars like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto earning over $50 million each year.
The Orlando Dreamers gained attention in 2019 when officials expressed interest in bringing professional baseball to Central Florida. Pat Williams, who was instrumental in launching the NBA’s Orlando Magic in 1989, spearheaded efforts to create an MLB franchise for Orlando. MLB confirmed plans to add two new cities in the future, and Williams positioned Orlando as one of the top contenders, building a coalition of support across the city. Sadly, Williams passed away in July 2024, but the petition he started quickly gathered 15,000 signatures, underscoring Orlando’s strong desire for MLB.
What’s the Orlando Dreamers’ Strategy?
The primary aim of the Orlando Dreamers is to introduce MLB to the city and offer fans access to top-tier baseball. To achieve this, they would need to either purchase an existing MLB franchise or secure an expansion slot to establish a new team. Currently, negotiations seem to favor acquiring an existing franchise, with talks underway with the Tampa Bay Rays about potentially relocating the team to Orlando.
Simultaneously, the Dreamers plan to construct a state-of-the-art 45,000-seat stadium near International Drive. Initially estimated to cost $1.6 billion, recent assessments suggest the price could rise to nearly $2 billion. This venue could host MLB games, create over 25,000 jobs, and is projected to generate an economic impact exceeding $40 billion over the next 30 years.
Who’s Backing the Orlando Dreamers?
So far, the Orlando Dreamers have secured approximately $1.5 billion from wealthy investors and community supporters, alongside an additional $1 billion earmarked for the stadium. Notable baseball figures have invested in the venture, with Dr. Rick Workman acting as the “anchor investor.” Workman built much of his fortune through Heartland Dental, America’s largest dental management firm. Alongside him, John Morgan has contributed $250 million, with financial support coming from the Morgan & Morgan law firm.
Has Orlando Ever Hosted an MLB Team?
No, Orlando has never been home to an MLB team. Florida currently hosts two franchises: the Tampa Bay Rays and Miami Marlins. The Marlins have a richer history, having won the World Series twice (1997 and 2003), but in recent years, the Rays have been more successful on the field.
Fan Take: The arrival of the Orlando Dreamers could mark a historic moment for MLB by tapping into a fresh, passionate fanbase in Central Florida. This move could invigorate the sport with new energy and economic growth while expanding baseball’s footprint in a region eager for top-level professional competition.
