I understand why people ask this, and it’s a fair question. Fan ownership has worked in very specific circumstances, most famously with the Green Bay Packers. But the reality is that this situation is fundamentally different, and starting with a fan fundraiser would actually hurt the effort rather than help it.
1. The Packers Are the Exception, Not the Model
The Packers’ structure is:
- historic,
- non-transferable,
- non-dividend-paying,
- and grandfathered under rules that no longer apply.
Modern MLB expansion or relocation does not work this way. What was possible decades ago is not how leagues evaluate ownership groups today.
2. MLB Is Looking for Institutional-Grade Ownership
In today’s environment and era of sports ownership, MLB expects:
- a credible local operator-owner,
- institutional capital (often PE or fund capital) with deep pockets,
- and at least one long-term HNWI or family office anchor.
Which is the model I outlined, and one that scales over time.
That mix signals:
- financial durability,
- governance discipline,
- and the ability to absorb shocks over decades.
A fan-funded structure does not meet those criteria at the outset.
3. Fundraising from Fans Creates the Wrong Optics
Starting with fan money would:
- create false expectations about influence or control,
- expose people to risk they shouldn’t bear,
- and invite skepticism about seriousness.
I don’t want anyone to think this effort is a gimmick, a publicity exercise, or an attempt to monetize fandom. This is about building something durable, not tapping emotion.
4. Sequence Matters More Than Sentiment
There is a right order to doing this well:
- Align credible ownership and capital.
- Establish governance and long-term stability.
- Secure league confidence.
- Only then, explore ways for fans to participate meaningfully – if it makes sense.
Doing this backwards undermines the entire effort.
5. Fan Participation Can Come Later — Done Properly
Once:
- ownership is in place,
- the structure is stable,
- and expectations are clear,
there may be thoughtful ways for fans to participate that are symbolic, inclusive, and appropriate — without financial risk or false promises.
But that conversation belongs much later, not at the starting line.
Bottom Line
This isn’t about doubting the passion of fans – this latest movement is spawned by fans… it’s about respecting fans, MLB and the process.
If I’m going to ask people to believe in this, I owe them:
- seriousness,
- credibility,
- and discipline.
That means building the foundation the right way first.