One of Alabama’s most storied sports franchises has new ownership.

The Birmingham Barons, who have been in the Magic City in one form or another since 1885, have been sold to Diamond Baseball Holdings. The New York-based company owns and operates several Minor League Baseball teams that are affiliated with Major League Baseball, including the Mississippi Braves, like the Barons, a member of the Southern League.

“Our family is deeply grateful for the passionate support of Barons fans and the greater Birmingham community. We are so proud of what we’ve all been able to build here together,” Don, Jeff, and Stan Logan, the previous owners of the Barons, said in a joint statement. “It’s the right time for us to pass the baton to Pat, Peter, and the rest of the DBH team, who we know will preserve and celebrate the fan experience and community connection that defines the Barons.”

CEO Peter Freund and Executive Chairman Pat Battle of Diamond Baseball said they plan to extend the “legendary history of the Birmingham Barons.”

“As longtime fans of the club, and particularly with Pat being an Alabama native, we recognize how special this opportunity is and are committed to continuing the cultivate the relationship to Birmingham and partnership with the Chicago White Sox,” they said.

Barons President and General Manager Jonathan Nelson said Diamond Baseball will make a fitting new owner.

“Since first joining the club in 1993, I’ve seen it’s incredible history continue and extend into what we all know and love today,” he said. “The Logan family has been central to creating today’s Barons experience and helping drive the evolution of our city. We will always appreciate their impact.

“The Logans have selected new owners who truly understand what the Barons mean to Birmingham, and we could not be more excited to continue under DBH’s leadership.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.