KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) – Smokies Baseball owner Randy Boyd said its no secret he’s been exploring different options for the Smokies, but conversations are still in early stages.

“It’s also no secret that I’ve had conversations with officials in both Sevierville and Sevier County, as well as in Knoxville, about the different options the Smokies could explore down the road, because ultimately, it is the communities that build and support stadiums.  But those conversations are in the earliest stages of looking for a long term  ‘win-win’ plan,” said Boyd in a statement.

Boyd said he has had his eye on the Knox Rail Salvage property, located at 400 E. Jackson, for some time. Mike Frazier, owner of the property confirmed on Tuesday that RR Land LLC bought the property for six million dollars. Boyd is a managing member of the company. Property records show RR Land LLC has also purchased six other adjacent properties on Willow Avenue and Patten Street.Previous story:Will Knoxville get a baseball stadium? Knox Rail Salvage sells land to Smokies Baseball owner

Knox Rail salvage will continue to operate on the site through 2017, according to Boyd. He said there are no immediate plans for the site.

“Eventually, whether the Knox Rail Salvage site becomes a new commercial or residential development, a public park for Old City residents and pet lovers, or a new sports complex, I hope it will be a terrific new addition to Knoxville and the Old City,” said Boyd.

Friday, Sevier County Mayor Larry Water said Boyd had approached him about moving the team. He said he hopes the Smokies do not move, but if they do they would have to pay back millions of dollars.

According to city leaders, the city and county paid around $19 million to build the Smokies Stadium in 2000. In the lease, to protect the investment, the team would have to pay the remaining balance if they left, which is around $10 million.Previous story:Sevier County mayor, Smokies baseball owner discuss possible team move

Full statement from Randy Boyd on Knox Rail Salvage property:

I regret I am traveling out of the country and have not been readily available for comment about my recent purchase of the Knox Rail Salvage property in downtown Knoxville.

Given my investments in and love for the Old City and for Knoxville, that’s a parcel I have had my eyes on for some time.

It’s also no secret that I’ve had conversations with officials in both Sevierville and Sevier County, as well as in Knoxville, about the different options the Smokies could explore down the road, because ultimately, it is the communities that build and support stadiums. But those conversations are in the earliest stages of looking for a long term “win-win” plan.

I have the highest regard for our many fans and community partners in Sevierville and Sevier County. The Smokies have enjoyed a great working relationship there for nearly 20 years and we will continue to invest in Smokies Stadium and look for ways to create the best possible experience for our fans in the years to come.

In the meantime, Knox Rail Salvage will continue to operate on the downtown Knoxville site through 2017, so there are definitely no plans in place or immediate news to announce about that site.

And eventually, whether the Knox Rail Salvage site becomes a new commercial or residential development, a public park for Old City residents and pet lovers, or a new sports complex, I hope it will be a terrific new addition to Knoxville and the Old City.