Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
Messaging from the Los Angeles Dodgers has been about projecting order amid a somewhat chaotic situation following last week’s bombshell of Mark Walter deciding to sell the Los Angeles Lakers.
Walter is the subject of a federal investigation, which appears to have influenced his shocking and sudden decision to sell the Lakers less than one year after becoming the franchise’s majority owner.
New York Mets owner Steve Cohen said he hopes Walter can move on from the investigation when asked about the developing situation in L.A., via SportsNet New York.
“Listen, I read what you read. It’s an investigation, we don’t really know exactly where it’s going. I hope Mark can figure it out and put it behind him. Dodgers are still a strong team, they have strong revenues, solid process. I think the Dodgers are going to continue to be a good team.”
Not long after news of the Lakers’ deal broke, it was also reported that Walter and business partner Todd Boehly are exploring the sale of their stakes in Chelsea Football Club.
Dodgers president and CEO Stan Kasten said Walter’s position and commitment with the Dodgers is unchanged. Kasten also assured the Guggenheim group did not have plans to part with the team, and it has been reported that selling the Dodgers is not in Walter’s plans.
But as seen with the Lakers, things can change quickly, as the deal came together in just a few days.
Cohen submitted a significant bid to purchase the Dodgers back in 2012 before the sale was ultimately awarded to the Guggenheim Baseball Management group, headed by Walter and Kasten.
Walter has not publicly commented since news of selling the Lakers, though he did issue a statement.
Shohei Ohtani decision if Mark Walter sells Dodgers
Back when Shohei Ohtani signed with the Dodgers in 2023, his 10-year contract included a key-man clause that tied his future to that of owner Mark Walter and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman.
Part of the worry about Walter selling the team is the risk that Ohtani could walk away afterward. However, it has been reported that the two-way superstar is not expected to opt out of his contract should Walter eventually decide to sell the Dodgers.
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