The Orlando Dreamers have taken a significant step forward in their pursuit of bringing Major League Baseball to Central Florida, announcing two high-profile investors joining the effort.

John Morgan, founder of the nationally recognized law firm Morgan & Morgan, and Rick Workman, founder of Heartland Dental, have committed to financially backing the proposed team. Workman has been named the group’s “anchor investor,” solidifying his central role in the initiative.

Both investors maintain strong ties to Central Florida and are expected to play pivotal roles in forming the control ownership group, which is crucial in the campaign to establish an MLB franchise in the Orlando area.

Jim Schnorf, co-founder of the Orlando Dreamers, emphasized that the involvement of Morgan and Workman enhances the group’s credibility and ability to attract additional financial support. “Their leadership gives us a better opportunity to build the necessary investment base for both the team and the stadium,” Schnorf said.

Proposed Stadium Near I-Drive

The Dreamers’ vision includes a domed stadium to be built on a 35.5-acre site near Aquatica Orlando, adjacent to International Drive and in proximity to the Orange County Convention Center. The location is being touted as ideal due to its accessibility for both residents and the millions of tourists who visit the area annually.

An independent economic impact study conducted in 2023 found that the stadium project could create approximately 25,000 permanent jobs. Over 30 years, it is projected to contribute more than $40 billion in economic impact to Orange County and generate an estimated $26 million annually in tourist development tax revenue.

Building a Strong Case for MLB

The group is already supported by Baseball Hall of Famer Barry Larkin, who is serving as an ambassador for the initiative. With the addition of Morgan and Workman, the Dreamers believe they are in a stronger position to attract further investors and present a compelling case to Major League Baseball.

As part of its next phase, the organization plans to establish a downtown Orlando office to enhance community engagement and raise visibility among fans and local stakeholders. Schnorf noted that this move aims to further demonstrate to MLB decision-makers that Orlando is fully prepared to host a major league franchise.

The campaign to bring professional baseball to the city was initially proposed in 2023 by Pat Williams, a former executive with the Orlando Magic and longtime advocate for sports expansion in the region.

As the Orlando Dreamers continue to gain traction, the combination of local investment, strategic planning, and a growing network of influential backers is helping to position the city as a serious contender for MLB expansion or relocation.

Report