From Bats To Boots, Jose Bautista Bets Boldly On Soccer In Vegas

Former MLB slugger Jose Bautista is principal owner of USL soccer team, Las Vegas Lights FC. credit: Las Vegas Lights FC While Major League Baseball enters high gear, legendary slugger Jose Bautista is as locked into the sports world as ever. But the 15-year veteran has swapped the diamond for the pitch; since early 2024, the man affectionately known as "Joey Bats" has been immersed in professional soccer.

In January 2024, Bautista made his formal entry into the world of professional sports ownership by acquiring Las Vegas Lights FC. As the primary owner of the USL Championship club, Bautista translates his veteran leadership and competitive drive into one of the country’s most electric sports markets. Since his arrival, the franchise has seen a surge in momentum.

The two-time American League home run leader sees a perfect storm of opportunity on the horizon, fueled by the 2026 FIFA World Cup’s arrival in North America and the continued explosion of the Las Vegas sports market. "Being a lifelong baseball player definitely gave me insight into the business of professional sports in North America," Bautista shared during our late March Zoom interview. Investing in a sports team is “a function of multiple things,” Bautista added.

“When I was growing up, interest in soccer, or fútbol, was very minimal. But seeing the growth of the sport within North America was an opportunity. ” Bautista also highlighted the transformative impact of global star power on emerging soccer leagues.