The Wilmington Blue Rocks have been acquired by OnDeck Partners, led by billionaire Marc Lasry, marking a significant shift in ownership for the Minor League Baseball team. The Riverfront Development Corp. approved this sale, with OnDeck aiming to build on a legacy of community involvement and stadium enhancements initiated by previous owners Dave Heller and Clark Minker. As the Blue Rocks become OnDeck’s first High-A affiliate and continue their affiliation with the Washington Nationals, the new ownership emphasizes continuity while planning future investments in the team's community engagement and overall success.

By the Numbers
  • Blue Rocks attendance rose from 2,630 fans per game in 2024 to 2,666 in 2025, but it's still down from 4,316 a decade ago.
  • The Montgomery Biscuits saw attendance drop by 357 fans, averaging 2,272 compared to 2,629 in 2025.
Yes, But

While OnDeck intends to uphold the Blue Rocks' community legacy, there is a broader concern about declining attendance across minor league teams, indicating challenges that extend beyond local ownership changes.

State of Play
  • OnDeck is committed to enhancing community ties and fan experiences as part of their ownership strategy.
  • The team’s lease with the city is set to expire in 2030, following a recent extension in 2023.
What's Next

Future developments will likely focus on upgrades to Frawley Stadium and community programming, capitalizing on recent investments in the Riverfront area to boost attendance and engagement.

Bottom Line

The acquisition of the Blue Rocks by OnDeck Partners signals a renewed commitment to community involvement and revitalization efforts, positioning the team as a key player in the regional entertainment landscape while addressing ongoing attendance challenges.