Austin’s Big League Dream: The Pitch to Bring MLB to Texas’s Capital
Published | Posted by Brandon Holley
Austin’s Big League Dream: The Pitch to Bring MLB to Texas’s Capital
Austin is setting its sights on Major League Baseball. A group of local entrepreneurs is working to bring a new MLB franchise—tentatively called the "Austin Bats"—to the capital city by 2031. Spearheaded by the Austin Baseball Commission, the initiative has already raised over $435,000 in seed funding and is exploring stadium sites across eastern Travis County.
What’s Driving This Effort?
- Population & Economy: Austin is one of the largest U.S. markets without a major league sports franchise. The city’s booming population, strong corporate community, and growing sports culture make it a compelling candidate.
- Perfect Timing: MLB plans to expand from 30 to 32 teams by 2029, and Austin aims to be on that shortlist.
Who’s Leading the Charge?
A dynamic trio:
- Matt Mackowiak (CEO), public affairs expert
- Derrik Fox (COO), seasoned sports marketing strategist
- Dustin Byington (President), financial consultant and startup pro
They've converted the Austin Baseball Commission into a general partnership, established an advisory board, and are planning a $1.5 billion, 40,000-seat retractable-roof stadium.
Challenges & Roadblocks
- Funding: The group aims to raise $2 million by the end of the year to remain competitive.
- Territorial Friction:Questions remain about how a new team might affect existing franchises like the Rangers and Astros.
What’s Next?
- Expansion Timeline: In the best-case scenario, MLB expansion is set to kick off in 2029, with Austin debuting in 2030 or 2031.
- Relocation Option: Austin is also being considered as a potential relocation city due to infrastructure issues in other markets.
Why Austin Has the Momentum
Factor | Why it Matters |
Growth | One of the fastest-growing metros in the U.S. |
Infrastructure | Support from the local minor league team, Round Rock Express |
No Competition | No competing major league teams |
Community Support | Business and civic leaders are rallying behind the vision |
Final Word
With big money, big plans, and big community buzz, Austin is making a bold move toward major-league status. Whether through expansion or relocation, the vision is clear: bring MLB to the Live Music Capital.
Stay tuned—because soon, you might just be buying peanuts and Cracker Jack right here in ATX.
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