Lachey part of Rainiers ownership group
Lachey was in Tacoma on Wednesday morning with representatives from the Schlegel Sports Group, who were introduced to a group of civic leaders, business people and season-ticket holders.
"When I was given the opportunity to purchase the Rainiers with Kirby Schlegel I jumped on it," Lachey said in a statement. "Baseball is a true passion of mine, Tacoma is a growing city and I have every intention of playing an active ownership role in the Rainiers as we continue to grow."
The Schlegel Group, headed by Kirby Schlegel of Dallas, purchased the Rainiers in July.
"We hope our energy, enthusiasm and commitment to fan entertainment will greatly increase community interest in the Rainiers and result in a special bond with the fans of the franchise and the city of Tacoma," Schlegel said.
The Rainiers have been for sale for six years and were previously owned by George and Sue Foster. George Foster is the co-owner of Foster Farms, the California-based chicken empire.
"I am thrilled to welcome Schlegel Sports and Nick Lachey to the Pacific Coast League," said PCL president Branch B. Rickey. "Their involvement is a major asset to the league and to the city of Tacoma, and I look forward to working with them to take the Rainiers franchise to new heights."
Tacoma opens its Pacific Coast League season on April 5 at Sacramento.
Corey Brock is a reporter for MLB.com.