Frank McCourt’s attorney Steve Susman has released a statement in response to commissioner Bud Selig’s rejection of the proposed television deal between the Dodgers and FOX.
And predictably, they aren’t very happy.
Here’s part of the statement, courtesy of the Los Angeles Times:“We are extremely disappointed with the Commissioner’s rejection of the proposed FOX transaction which would inject $235 million into the Los Angeles Dodgers. As Commissioner Selig well knows, this transaction would make the Dodgers financially secure for the long term and one of the best capitalized teams in Major League Baseball.
“...Commissioner Selig’s letter of rejection is not only a disappointment, but worse, is potentially destructive to the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Major League Baseball. Accordingly, we plan to explore vigorously our options and remedies with respect to Commissioner Selig’s rejection of the proposed FOX transaction and our commitment to protect the long-term best interests of the Los Angeles Dodgers.”
Of course, it was reported last week that the loan from FOX is actually worth $385 million, so roughly $150 million will go directly to the McCourts and their lawyers. Sweet deal. Who is Frank looking out for, exactly? Somehow I don’t think the Dodgers and MLB, or the fans, are high on his list of priorities.
This agreement simply never had a chance. Unfortunately today’s events are probably only the beginning of an ugly and protracted legal battle.