$600million federal grant unlocks door for 132-year-old MLB franchise to relocate under new owner

The train has officially left the station on the Chicago White Sox’s new ballpark.

Over $600 million in federal grants have been announced which will help Amtrak relocate its Chicago maintenance facility from the South Loop to Bridgeport.

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The 47-acre site on the Chicago River is reportedly future White Sox owner Justin Ishbia’s preferred location for a new stadium and surrounding real estate development.

Ishbia’s private equity firm, Shore Capital Partners, is under contract to purchase the land.

A mixed-use development including a medical campus has been announced, but it is believed that a ballpark is also on the agenda.

Jerry Reinsdorf purchased the Sox in 1981 but a succession plan is in place for Billionaire private equity investor Ishbia to take over at some point between 2029 and 2034.

The team’s lease is up at publicly owned Rate Field in 2029.

Ishbia has out over $125 million into the new $900 million Amtrak facility.

“Canal Edge is proud to partner with Amtrak and take responsibility for delivering this critical investment in Chicago’s rail infrastructure,” he said in a statement.

“By committing substantial private capital and standing behind the delivery of this project, we are investing in the South Side, creating union jobs, and building infrastructure that will strengthen Chicago and the national rail network for generations.”

When Ishbia does take control, a new ballpark will be high on the agenda.

“Whether a new stadium occurs in four years or 34 years, I don’t know, but I’m going to be involved in a stadium at some point with the White Sox,” he told the Sun-Times in 2025.

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White Sox top American League Central

The Sox enter a series against the crosstown Cubs sitting pretty in the American League Central.

A sweep of the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park took the club to 65-58.

“You call it whatever you want,” said White Sox manager Will Venable when asked if it was a statement win. “I’m just so proud of the group.

“These guys are tired and beat up and they just keep playing.”

If this is to be one of the last seasons at Rate Field, a World Series would be a good way to mark it.

There is a lot to be done before shovels hit dirt, but the South Siders have plenty to look forward to