Major League Baseball

The Rays' new owners are talking about a "public-private partnership" being the only way a new stadium could be built in the Tampa Bay area. There are a few ways that could take shape.

Will the Rays consider an open-field stadium or a retractable roof? And will the new owners increase player payroll? They addressed these, and other issues, during their introductory news conference.

At an introductory news conference, Patrick Zalupski and top executives Ken Babby and Bill Cosgrove said there is a sense of urgency to get a ballpark built as part of a revenue-generating, mixed-use development.

Patrick Zalupski closed on the reported $1.7 billion purchase from Stuart Sternberg. And the first order of business for the new owner: Finding a place for his team to play.

With a sale of the team imminent, outgoing owner Stuart Sternberg says selling was hard but the right move for the Tampa Bay area: "My time had come."

The estimated $1.7 billion deal is anticipated to formally close later this week. MLB owners unanimously approved the sale Monday.

There were 12 weather delays totaling nearly 13 hours, but Tampa Bay did not lose a home date to rainouts this year. Even with the outdoor conditions, there were 61 sellouts in the 10,046-seat ballpark.

The Rays said more information about the sale and the new ownership group will be shared after the deal is completed. It is expected to close within two weeks.

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said he wants the team to stay in the Tampa Bay area and sees potential for a successful future there.

Authorities said Franco was admitted to a mental health clinic in the Dominican Republic after his family requested the move, which was not linked to legal issues.

It's an ambitious target, although roof repairs are well underway. St. Petersburg, which is responsible for repairs, says installation of the fabric roof panels is on track to finish in December.

The Orlando group said it has a lender for the largest and safest portion of the money needed to buy a baseball franchise. Known as senior debt, it makes it easier and cheaper for the Dreamers to borrow.