Greek-American Billionaire John Catsimatidis Expands Portfolio with Atlantic League Role
On a crisp April afternoon in Staten Island, the crack of a bat echoes across Richmond County Bank Ballpark—not just from the players on the field, but from the dugout, where a billionaire grocer-turned-media-mogul is calling the shots. John Catsimatidis, the Greek-American entrepreneur whose empire spans supermarkets, oil refineries, and radio stations, has added a new title to his resume: managing partner of the Staten Island FerryHawks, the borough’s Atlantic League baseball team. For a community that’s long played second fiddle to Manhattan’s skyline in the city’s cultural imagination, this isn’t just another business deal. It’s a statement—one that could reshape how Staten Islanders see themselves, how outsiders perceive the borough, and how local businesses capitalize on the ripple effects of minor-league baseball’s resurgence.
Catsimatidis’ move is more than a vanity project for a man who already owns the New York grocery chain Gristedes and the WABC radio station. It’s a calculated bet on Staten Island’s untapped potential, a borough where the ferry ride to Manhattan is both a daily commute and a metaphor for its historical underdog status. The FerryHawks, named after the iconic Staten Island Ferry, are part of the Atlantic League, an independent professional baseball circuit that’s become a proving ground for innovation in the sport—from robot umpires to experimental rules designed to speed up games. For Catsimatidis, the team is a platform to merge his business acumen with his passion for baseball, but for Staten Islanders, it’s an opportunity to redefine their place in New York City’s sports landscape.
The Billionaire’s Playbook: Why Staten Island?
Catsimatidis isn’t the first wealthy New Yorker to dip his toes into minor-league baseball, but his timing is notable. The Atlantic League has positioned itself as a laboratory for Major League Baseball (MLB), testing rule changes like larger bases, automated strike zones, and even a “double-hook” DH rule that could eventually trickle up to the big leagues. For a team like the FerryHawks, this means playing a role in shaping the future of the sport—while also giving Staten Island a seat at the table in conversations usually dominated by the Yankees and Mets.
But why Staten Island? The borough has long been the city’s forgotten fifth wheel, often overshadowed by Brooklyn’s hipster cred, Queens’ diversity, the Bronx’s cultural legacy, and Manhattan’s global dominance. Yet, it’s also a place with deep roots in baseball history. The Staten Island Yankees, a minor-league affiliate of the New York Yankees, called the borough home for nearly two decades before relocating in 2020, leaving a void in the local sports scene. The FerryHawks, which began play in 2022, filled that gap—but with a twist. Unlike the Staten Island Yankees, which were tethered to the MLB farm system, the FerryHawks operate independently, giving Catsimatidis and his team more creative control over everything from ticket pricing to community engagement.
For Catsimatidis, the appeal is clear: Staten Island is a market ripe for investment. The borough’s population of nearly 500,000 is younger and more diverse than it’s ever been, with a median age of 38 and a growing number of families looking for affordable entertainment options. The FerryHawks’ home, Richmond County Bank Ballpark, sits along the waterfront in St. George, just steps from the ferry terminal—a location that’s both a logistical advantage (easy access for fans from Manhattan and Brooklyn) and a symbolic one (a reminder that Staten Island is, quite literally, the gateway to the city).
The Economic Ripple Effect: Beyond the Ballpark
Minor-league baseball isn’t just about the game; it’s about the ecosystem that surrounds it. For Staten Island, the FerryHawks represent a potential economic catalyst, one that could inject life into local businesses, create jobs, and even boost tourism. The team’s first season in 2022 drew an average of 2,500 fans per game—a respectable number for an independent league team—but Catsimatidis has made it clear he’s aiming higher. His involvement could mean upgraded facilities, more high-profile events, and partnerships with local institutions like the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce or the College of Staten Island, which already has a strong baseball program.
Take, for example, the impact of the Staten Island Yankees during their tenure. The team generated an estimated $10 million annually for the local economy, according to a 2019 report by the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC). While the FerryHawks are still finding their footing, Catsimatidis’ deep pockets and business savvy could accelerate that growth. Already, the team has partnered with local restaurants like Denino’s Pizzeria, a Staten Island institution, to offer game-day specials, and with breweries like Flagship Brewing Co. To host post-game events. These collaborations aren’t just decent PR; they’re a lifeline for small businesses still recovering from the pandemic.
But the economic impact extends beyond game days. The FerryHawks’ presence has already spurred interest in real estate development near the ballpark, with developers eyeing the area for mixed-use projects that could include retail, dining, and even residential units. The SIEDC has identified the St. George waterfront as a key area for revitalization, and the team’s success could be the tipping point that attracts more investment. For a borough that’s often been overlooked by developers, Here’s a rare opportunity to rebrand itself as a destination—not just for baseball fans, but for anyone looking for a slice of New York City that’s still affordable and full of character.
The Cultural Shift: Baseball as a Unifying Force
Staten Island’s identity has always been a bit of a paradox. It’s the most suburban of the five boroughs, with tree-lined streets and single-family homes, but it’s also home to some of the city’s most vibrant immigrant communities, from Sri Lankans in Tompkinsville to Liberians in Park Hill. The FerryHawks, with their emphasis on affordability and community engagement, have the potential to bridge these divides, offering a shared space where Staten Islanders of all backgrounds can come together.
Catsimatidis, who grew up in Harlem and has never shied away from his immigrant roots, seems to understand this dynamic. In interviews, he’s emphasized the team’s role in giving back to the community, whether through youth baseball clinics, partnerships with local schools, or initiatives to support veterans. The FerryHawks’ mascot, a seagull named “Squawk,” is a nod to the borough’s maritime heritage, and the team’s branding—with its navy blue and orange colors—pays homage to the Staten Island Ferry. These details might seem small, but they’re part of a larger effort to create the team sense authentically Staten Island, rather than a transplant from another borough.
There’s also the question of pride. Staten Islanders have long bristled at the stereotype of their borough as New York’s “forgotten child,” and the FerryHawks offer a chance to flip that narrative. The team’s success could help shift perceptions, both within the borough and beyond, positioning Staten Island as a place where things are happening—where innovation, culture, and community intersect. For a borough that’s often been defined by what it lacks (subway access, nightlife, cultural institutions), this is a chance to redefine itself on its own terms.
The Challenges Ahead: Can Catsimatidis Deliver?
Of course, not everyone is convinced that Catsimatidis’ involvement will be a game-changer. Minor-league baseball is a notoriously tough business, with teams relying on a mix of ticket sales, sponsorships, and local government support to stay afloat. The Staten Island Yankees, despite their affiliation with the most valuable franchise in baseball, struggled with attendance in their later years, and the FerryHawks will necessitate to work hard to avoid a similar fate.
There’s also the question of Catsimatidis’ other commitments. As the CEO of the Red Apple Group, which owns Gristedes and United Refining Company, he’s already juggling a vast business empire. Will he have the time and energy to devote to the FerryHawks, or will the team become just another line item on his resume? So far, Catsimatidis has been hands-on, attending games and even stepping into the dugout during the team’s first weekend as managing partner. But sustaining that level of engagement will be key to the team’s long-term success.
Then there’s the challenge of competing with New York’s other sports teams. The Yankees and Mets dominate the local sports conversation, and even the Brooklyn Cyclones, a minor-league affiliate of the Mets, have a built-in fan base. The FerryHawks will need to carve out their own niche, offering something that the bigger teams can’t—whether that’s a more intimate fan experience, lower ticket prices, or a stronger connection to the local community.
What This Means for Staten Islanders: A Local Resource Guide
Given my background in urban economics and community development, I’ve seen firsthand how sports teams can serve as catalysts for local growth—if the right pieces are in place. If you’re a Staten Island resident or business owner looking to capitalize on the FerryHawks’ momentum, here are the three types of local professionals you’ll seek to connect with:
- Economic Development Consultants
- What they do: These experts specialize in helping businesses and municipalities leverage opportunities like the FerryHawks’ expansion to attract investment, secure grants, and create jobs. They can assist with everything from feasibility studies to grant writing, ensuring that the economic benefits of the team are maximized for the community.
What to look for: Look for consultants with experience in sports-related economic development, particularly in minor-league markets. They should have a track record of working with local government agencies like the SIEDC or the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). Request for case studies or references from similar projects, and prioritize those who understand the unique challenges of Staten Island’s market. - Event and Hospitality Specialists
- What they do: With the FerryHawks drawing more fans to St. George, there’s a growing need for professionals who can help local businesses—restaurants, bars, hotels, and retail shops—capitalize on the increased foot traffic. These specialists can assist with everything from event planning (e.g., pre- and post-game activities) to marketing strategies that target both locals and tourists.
What to look for: Seek out professionals with experience in the New York City hospitality industry, particularly those who’ve worked with sports teams or large-scale events. They should have a deep understanding of the borough’s dining and nightlife scene, as well as connections to local vendors and suppliers. Look for those who can offer data-driven insights, such as foot traffic analytics or customer demographic studies, to help businesses tailor their offerings. - Community Engagement Coordinators
- What they do: The FerryHawks’ success hinges on their ability to connect with Staten Islanders, and that’s where community engagement coordinators come in. These professionals help bridge the gap between the team and the community, organizing youth programs, charity events, and partnerships with local schools and nonprofits. They can also assist with grassroots marketing efforts, ensuring that the team’s message resonates with residents across the borough.
What to look for: Prioritize coordinators with a background in sports marketing or nonprofit work, particularly those who’ve worked with youth or immigrant communities. They should have strong ties to local organizations like the Staten Island Urban Center or the Staten Island LGBT Community Center, and a proven ability to mobilize volunteers and community leaders. Ask for examples of past initiatives they’ve led, and look for those who can demonstrate measurable impact, such as increased participation in youth programs or higher attendance at community events.
Staten Island is at a crossroads, and the FerryHawks’ success could be the spark that ignites a new era of growth and opportunity. Whether you’re a business owner looking to tap into the team’s fan base, a resident eager to get involved, or simply someone who wants to see the borough thrive, now is the time to act. The pieces are in place—it’s up to the community to make the most of them.
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