A couple of days ago, the city of Sacramento unveiled a plan to bring a Major League Baseball team to the city. Sacramento leaders announced plans to pursue a Major League Baseball expansion team, saying that $1.8 billion in funding has been secured as part of “The Sacramento Pitch.”
They aim to build a new ballpark on a 50-acre site in West Sacramento’s Bridge District for a team once the Oakland A’s depart for Las Vegas in the 2028 season. With MLB expansion fees expected to exceed $2 billion, any successful bid will require deep-pocketed investors capable of financing a new franchise and stadium project. Several names have emerged as potential candidates, ranging from local sports leaders to billionaire investors with previous MLB ambitions.
Vivek Ranadivé Could Play a Major Role
No name is more closely tied to Sacramento sports than Vivek Ranadivé. As the owner of the NBA’s Sacramento Kings and a stakeholder in the Sacramento River Cats, Ranadivé has already demonstrated his commitment to the region’s sports landscape. His experience operating major sports franchises would make him a valuable asset to any MLB ownership group.
While reports suggest he may not serve as the controlling owner, Ranadivé could be a key investor and ambassador for the city’s expansion effort. His local connections and business experience would provide credibility as Sacramento competes against other markets for a franchise.
Former Padres Bidders Could Enter the Picture
Sacramento may ultimately need an outside billionaire to lead the ownership group. Two names frequently mentioned are Tom Gores and Dan Friedkin. Both were involved in unsuccessful bids to purchase the San Diego Padres and possess the financial resources necessary to meet MLB’s ownership requirements.
Because they have already expressed interest in owning a baseball franchise, they could be logical targets for Sacramento’s expansion committee as it searches for a lead investor.
Local Business Leaders Could Help Build the Ownership Group
While a billionaire lead owner may be necessary, local investors will likely be essential to the effort as well. Developer Mark Friedman has been one of the driving forces behind Sacramento’s MLB campaign. Friedman has advocated for a downtown ballpark and has helped organize the city’s expansion push. Former MLB All-Star Derrek Lee has also expressed interest in participating in the ownership group. Having a former player involved could provide additional baseball credibility as the franchise takes shape.
Joe Lacob Appears Unlikely
For years, many baseball fans viewed Joe Lacob as a dream candidate. Lacob has previously explored MLB ownership opportunities and has the financial resources necessary to lead an expansion franchise. However, recent reports indicate he is not currently involved in the expansion efforts. That doesn’t completely close the door on future involvement, but for now, Sacramento appears focused on other potential ownership groups.
What MLB Will Be Looking For
Beyond wealth, MLB will want ownership that can provide long-term stability and support stadium development. The league will likely favor a group that combines local involvement with national financial strength. A structure featuring an outside billionaire majority owner alongside local investors such as Ranadivé and Friedman may be Sacramento’s strongest path forward.
