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RedHawks purchased by Mandalay

Mandalay Baseball Properties makes announcement
September 15, 2010
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK --- Mandalay Baseball Properties, LLC (MBP) is pleased to announce the acquisition of the Oklahoma City RedHawks franchise in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) from OKC Athletic Club, LP, principally owned by Robert Funk Sr. and Scott Pruitt. Major League Baseball, the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues, and the Pacific Coast League have all approved the transaction.

"We are very excited about this transaction and the opportunity to bring MBP's quality family entertainment experience to the vibrant Oklahoma City market," stated Peter Guber, Chairman of MBP. "Working with the principals of OKC Athletic Club, LP has been a pleasure and we are looking forward to working closely with city leadership on what we believe is an exciting future for the RedHawks, their fans and corporate partners," said Art Matin, Chief Executive Officer of MBP. "Adding the Oklahoma City RedHawks strengthens our portfolio of teams and we're looking forward to leveraging our capabilities developed though operating teams such as the Dayton Dragons, Frisco RoughRiders and the Staten Island Yankees in delivering an outstanding fan experience.

Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett noted that "we are very familiar with MBP's brand of family entertainment and track record of success in operating Minor League Baseball franchises and we are looking forward to what we expect will be a long and mutually rewarding partnership with them."

SpiritBank, a community bank based in Oklahoma, played a key role in facilitating MBP's purchase of the RedHawks by providing acquisition financing. Brian Peterson, Vice President of Commercial Lending stated "This continues SpiritBank's long-standing relationship with the RedHawks baseball franchise. Mandalay Baseball Properties brings a tremendous background in minor league baseball to the Oklahoma City community and we look forward to supporting them."

"The PCL is delighted to welcome Mandalay Baseball Properties as the owner of the Oklahoma City club," added Branch Rickey III, President of the PCL. Their experience as an owner/operator across multiple leagues in Minor League Baseball will prove to be beneficial for the franchise"

"It has been a great run since we first owned the team in the 2004 season", said Bob Funk, Jr. "We are proud to have been part of the great Oklahoma professional baseball history. We are also happy to welcome Mandalay Baseball Properties to Oklahoma City. Mandalay are great operators and we know we are leaving the team in good hands."

Individuals and companies with inquiries about season tickets, stadium suites, corporate sponsorship opportunities, or other information are encouraged to contact MBP via the Oklahoma City RedHawks offices at (405) 218-1000, or via email at [email protected].