Updates on the "New" Ocala Yankees

The city of Ocala recently revealed the proposed location for the Yankee stadium.  Behind Market Street of Heath Brook, raises some interesting questions.

"Market Street at Heath Brook, a shopping mall that has recently gone through a foreclosure, bankruptcy and auction, is in the area being proposed for the stadium. Mondell said the city believes Market Street will do well in the future and it and other area businesses could benefit from having the stadium."

This has raised some local concern already about SR200 in the area, already one of the most congested highways in Marion County.

Proposed Yankees complex might include commercial development

 But nevertheless, the City seems to be pushing forward:

City sends tax for baseball stadium to county

Another interesting twist on why the Yankees may be coming to Ocala:

"Ownership, of course, is the Steinbrenner family, which owns the Yankees and have long-held ties to Ocala through their hotel business and the Kinsman Farm they own in Marion County."

Now Yankee officials seem to be pushing more publicly to the City and County to proceed.

Yankees official: “Brand” would be stimulus

But will this be a first for Ocala?  Is baseball new to Marion County??

Not quite!

Ocala's long flirtation with baseball

describes Ocala mayor J.J. Gerig or "Mr. Baseball" who was instrumental in Ocala' fist sports complex completed in the late 1930s through the WPA (Works Projects Administration).

 Although, obviously not successful then at attracting a major league team, let's hope this time it works out for Ocala!