The Los Angeles Dodgers will now be under the control of Major League Baseball after months of being plagued by an ongoing divorce battle and widespread financial difficulties.
MLB Commissioner Bud Selig said in a release today he will select a representative to manage the “business and the day-to-day operations of the Club.”
Selig claims he made the decision “because of my deep concerns regarding the finances and operations of the Dodgers.”
ATVN's Alex Wilk speaks with Los Angeles Times reporter Bill Shaikin about breaking the MLB takeover story, as well as the current state of the Dodgers.
The Los Angeles Times reported last weekend Frank McCourt was set to receive a $30 million loan from Fox, the Dodgers’ television partner. In February, Selig rejected a proposal that would have allowed Fox to loan $200 million to Frank McCourt.
Dr. Daniel Durbin, the director of the Annenberg Institute for Sports, Media, & Society, discusses what prompted the league to take action and how this decision will affect the Dodgers in the future. (Alex Wilk)
Selig released the following statement:
“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 interest 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.”
Jamie McCourt said in a statement:
“As 50 percent owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, I welcome and support the commissioner’s actions to provide the necessary transparency, guidance and direction for the franchise and for Dodgers fans everywhere.”
Frank McCourt did not express support for the league’s decision and could file legal action against Major League Baseball.
“Major League Baseball sets strict financial guidelines which all 30 teams must follow,” McCourt said in a statement. “The Dodgers are in compliance. … On this basis, it is hard to understand the commissioner’s decision.”
