In a bold move intertwining sports with business, billionaire John Catsimatidis is stepping up to helm a minor-league baseball team as they prepare for their opening weekend.
Known for his ownership of Gristedes supermarkets and the conservative radio network WABC, Catsimatidis is now adding another feather to his cap: Atlantic League managing partner. This new role aligns perfectly with the Staten Island FerryHawks’ first games of the season.
“It’s just a wonderful day,” Catsimatidis shared with The Post, reflecting on his long-standing passion for the sport. His history with baseball runs deep, having been a steadfast supporter of the Yankees-affiliated team for years.
“When the Yankees approached me about four years ago to partner with them, I immediately agreed. I’ve always loved baseball. My grandfather took me to my first Yankee game when I was about six or eight years old,” he fondly recalled.
A notable figure in both New York’s business and conservative political circles, Catsimatidis played a crucial role as a primary investor when the team was established in 2022. This venture came as a revival of sorts, filling the void left by the Staten Island Yankees after they ceased operations in 2020.
The FerryHawks call Staten Island University Hospital Community Park their home, a conveniently located venue just off the Staten Island Ferry stop, making it accessible for fans traveling from across the region.
The stadium was built in 1990 under Mayor Rudy Giuliani and went through a renovation after its ownership change in 2022.
Catsimatidis said he hopes to eventually name it the WABC stadium after his radio station, and plans to expand the site’s offerings to include concerts, festivals and a soccer team.
“We want to make it a full entertainment facility,” he said.
He even floated the idea of a minor league spinoff of the MLB’s Yankees and Mets Subway Series.
“You have the Mets minor league team the Coney Island Cyclones and you have the FerryHawks, which is a Yankee associated team,” he said.
“We should have a a series of a competition between the Cyclones and the FerryHawks.”
The new owner added that if it rains for Saturday’s game, they will implement a double header for Sunday.
“You get two for the price of one on Sunday!”
