Joliet Slammers finalize sale to Veeck-Murray group

The Joliet Slammers this week announced the completion of the sale of the team, providing more insight into the baseball group headed by Mike Veeck, Night Train Veeck and actor Bill Murray.

The group acquired majority ownership of the team from Nick Semaca, the majority owner since 2013, according to a news release from the Slammers. Semaca is staying with the organization as a minority shareholder.

The deal became public in November, when the new owners went to the Joliet City Council for approval. The city owns Duly Health and Care Field, where the Slammers play. The city contracts with the Slammers to manage the stadium.

Father and son Mike and Night Train Veeck are part of a baseball family that included William Veeck Sr., president of the Chicago Cubs when they won two pennants in 1929 anf 1932, and his son, William Veeck Jr., owner of the Chicago White Sox when they won the American League pennant in 1959. Mike is the son of the late Willam Veeck Jr.

Murray, known for a film career that has included the movies “Ghostbusters” and “Caddyshack,” has been involved with Mike Veeck in minor league baseball ventures, including part ownership of the St. Paul Saints and the Charleston RiverDogs.

Mike Veeck, son of Bill Veeck, “is a nationally renowned speaker; entrepreneur; college professor; philanthropist; [and] marketing, promotions and customer care expert,” according to the release from the Slammers.

Night Train Veeck, who will be part of Slammers management and involved in day-to-day operations, has 15 seasons with independent and minor league baseball along with seven years with the White Sox in Major League Baseball, according to the Slammers.

His recent sports ventures include “leading fan engagement” for Cricket Australia’s Big Bash League in Melbourne, Australia, and co-founding a Division III pro soccer team in Chicago, according to the release.

Night Train Veeck also is an owner and board member for Larne FC, a soccer club in Northern Ireland.