Professional sports franchises are thought of as organizations distinct from their ownership. Apart from George Steinbrenner of the Yankees and Jerry Jones of the Cowboys, we do not associated owners with their teams at first thought. Still, it is the uncertain situations of owners that have two baseball clubs with indeterminate futures.
As I have previously discussed the New York Mets are in financial troubles following the Wilpon’s involvement in the Bernie Madoff scandal. The club is still looking to sell minority steak in the franchise. I feel that this is a horrible investment for anyone to make even though I am sure it will be made. The Mets are a terribly run franchise and minority ownership wouldn’t give the investor any say in the clubs direction.
Another internationally recognized franchise also has an uncertain future. This franchise, the Los Angeles Dodgers, fate seems even more uncertain. The MLB has seized control over the club’s business and day-to-day operations. This action was forced upon the league thanks to the owner, Frank McCourt’s, ugly divorce and debt-fueled history that the club has been dealing with for nearly two years.
The MLB has taken over clubs operations in the past. They did so for the Texas Rangers following the bankruptcy of former owner Tom Hicks. Different from that take over though, the MLB prompted this one and the Dodgers are one of the leagues most well respected franchises. It is unclear what the future holds for the Dodgers but it appears as if commissioner Bud Selig may make McCourt sell the franchise. For the time being though the MLB will continue to take control.
I think that it is extremely unfortunate that actions like this were necessary, but I give the MLB a lot of credit for intervening. It was evident that there was a problem, and rather than allowing this problem to continue and possibly worsen, the MLB mediated and quelled the crisis. It is great that the MLB understands the importance of a smooth running club and they ensure this level course continues. There are thousands of people who are affected by the fluidity of operations and it appears that the MLB has done a great job at guaranteeing their lives are altered as minimally as possible.