When the new owners take control of the Tampa Bay Rays, they will have more to do than just search for a new stadium site. They will also be looking to replace part of the leadership team on the baseball operations side.
The Rays announced late Wednesday afternoon that presidents Matt Silverman and Brian Auld had resigned. This is all in connection with the Rays’ pending sale, which is expected to be approved in the next two weeks by a group headed by developer Patrick Zalupki.
Silverman started as an intern with the Rays and was promoted to team president in 2007, at the age of 29. He then served as President of Baseball Operations from 2015 to 2017 before returning to his former role. Silverman is wrapping up his 22nd season with the Rays and his 17th as president. Kevin Cash was hired under Silverman’s watch during his three-year baseball operations tenure. Silverman will represent current principal owner Stuart Sternberg and his partners on an executive advisory board, which the new ownership group is establishing.
Brian Auld is also stepping down as president, but will stay with the Rays as a senior advisor to the new ownership group and the leadership team. Auld is in his 21st season with the Rays and 11th as team president. Auld, who started as an intern with the Rays, issued a statement about his tenure in Tampa.
“This organization has never only been about the wins and losses, it’s been about heart, purpose, and community. I’m deeply proud of all we’ve built together, and that pride comes from sharing this journey with some of the most dedicated, talented, and creative people I’ve ever known. As I prepare to step down as president, I’m thankful to remain part of the Rays as a senior advisor, continuing to support the incredible team that makes this place so special.”
Silverman also looked back, expressing pride and gratitude for his tenure with the Rays.
“It has been one of the greatest joys of my life to serve the Rays and help make a lasting impact on the Tampa Bay region. What makes me proudest is seeing how the Rays have become woven into the region’s identity, with a true generational fan base taking shape.”
No decision has been made regarding GM Erik Neander and his staff of assistants.