A manufacturer of amusement rides known for its cooperation with large theme parks is now located on the premises of the headquarters of Minor League Baseball in St. Petersburg.
Minor League Baseball, formally known as the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues Inc., sold its St. Pete headquarters to Premier Rides Inc., based in Baltimore, according to public records.
The deal follows recent reports that MiLB, based in north St. Pete for several decades, is planning to leave the city.
There are five minor league teams in the Tampa Bay area: the Dunedin Blue Jays, Clearwater Threshers, Tampa Tarpons, Lakeland Flying Tigers, and Bradenton Marauders. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the MiLB suffered a significant loss of revenue due to the cancellation of the 2020 MiLB season. Recent reports suggest that the 55-strong MiLB would be leaving its headquarters and operating out of the Major League Baseball office in New York.
The MiLB has initially not commented on the sale of the property and its future.
The property at 9550 16th St. N. has two existing buildings. One structure is a 10,285 square foot building built in 1998 and the other is a 3,600 square foot building built in 2009.
Premier Rides, a well-known, well-known amusement ride manufacturer in the attraction and entertainment industry, has not returned any calls regarding its plans for the property. However, the group has an existing presence in Florida.
Premier has partnered with popular Florida theme parks like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for the Tigris, Florida’s tallest launch coaster; the Ice Breaker Ride at SeaWorld Orlando; and Revenge of the Mummy Ride at Universal Studios Orlando.
It is also widely known for creating multiple rides and experiences for Six Flags parks in Texas and California.
Premier Rides is headquartered in Baltimore but has overseas offices in Europe and Asia.
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