Breaking: MLB to take over the Dodgers
Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times reports that Bud Selig will announce this afternoon that Major League Baseball is going to take over the financial operations of the Dodgers. UPDATE: Major League Baseball has just issued the following statement on behalf of Bud Selig:
“Pursuant to my authority as Commissioner, I informed Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt today that I will appoint a representative to oversee all aspects of the business and the day-to-day operations of the Club. I have taken this action because of my deep concerns regarding the finances and operations of the Dodgers and to protect the best interests of the Club, its great fans and all of Major League Baseball. My office will continue its thorough investigation into the operations and finances of the Dodgers and related entities during the period of Mr. McCourt’s ownership. I will announce the name of my representative in the next several days.
“The Dodgers have been one of the most prestigious franchises in all of sports, and we owe it to their legion of loyal fans to ensure that this club is being operated properly now and will be guided appropriately in the future.”
This statement suggests that this will me more than a mere receivership. McCourt is being pushed out. And not only that, he’s being “investigated.” This is a far more harsh oversight regime than Tom Hicks got in Texas. This is, I believe, unprecedented.