Things just keep getting crazier for the Los Angeles Dodgers and embattled owner Frank McCourt after MLB commissioner Bud Selig rejected a proposed TV deal between Fox and the Dodgers. The deal was for television rights to Dodgers games and totaled nearly $3 billion over 17 years, but Selig and the MLB decided too much of the money would personally benefit McCourt and not the team.
McCourt has been stuck in an ugly and very public divorce from his ex-wife/team president Jamie McCourt and has faced financial troubles for years. With the deal struck down, he will likely be unable to make payroll for the team on June 30th, meaning players wouldn’t get their checks. If it comes to that, many expect Selig and the league to step in and strip him of his ownership. Players not being paid is something that any league would scoff at since it could affect baseball and NFL schedules.
It would complete a stunning fall from grace for the Dodgers, one of baseball’s most storied franchises, but many fans in the city feel moving on from McCourt is necessary for the team to move forward. Along with the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, who sold out Fenway on a regular basis, the Dodgers have a marquee name and loyal fan base.
Aside from suing the league, it doesn’t seem like McCourt has many options left, meaning we’ll all soon see some changes in Los Angeles.
-Will.
Will R. is a journalist/writer who covers sports, news and music for several websites. His music work can be found on www.WestCoastRydaz.com
