"The Tampa Bay Rays announced that the team has recently commenced exclusive discussions with a group led by Patrick Zalupski, Bill Cosgrove, Ken Babby and prominent Tampa Bay investors concerning a possible sale of the team," the Rays said in a statement. "Neither the Rays nor the group will have further comment during the discussions."

Sportico reported the Tampa Bay Rays are in advanced talks to be sold to a Jacksonville group headed by Patrick Zalupski.

Sure, the new prospective ownership group has some ties to the Jacksonville area, but they also have deep Tampa roots, strengthening the position of the team in the only market its ever known.