Los Angeles Dodgers owner Mark Walter has declared that he will keep the team "no matter what," aiming to maintain a long-term commitment to winning and success for the franchise. Walter's firm declaration comes amidst ongoing speculation about his ownership status, fueled by a federal investigation into potentially fraudulent loans made by insurance companies under his control.
In an exclusive interview with the California Post, Walter stated, “We’re going to keep the team no matter what. We’re going to be winning for 10 years or more.” He expressed confidence in the Dodgers' ability to compete consistently, adding, “I think our commitment to do so will be just like it has been in the past. And, you know, we don’t win every year, but we’re going to try to.”
This assertion follows a period of significant activity surrounding Walter's business interests. In July, the Justice Department and Securities and Exchange Commission launched investigations into his Guggenheim Partners investment firm. Weeks later, Walter sold his stake in the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for a reported $12.5 billion. In late August, he also initiated the process to sell his stake in Chelsea FC, the English Premier League soccer club.
These transactions occurred as reports surfaced that Walter's firm was seeking to raise capital and address issues related to the scrutinized "affiliated" loans. TWG Global, Walter's holding company, issued a statement in late August denying any wrongdoing and reiterating his intention to remain the owner of the Dodgers.
Walter declined to comment on the ongoing federal investigation, citing its ongoing nature. However, he was firm in stating that the sale of the Lakers was unrelated to the Dodgers and was prompted by a record offer. He also declined to comment on reports about potentially selling the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, reiterating that it would not impact his ownership of the Dodgers.
Despite the external pressures, Walter emphasized his commitment to strengthening the Dodgers, even with potential new spending rules that may arise from the league's collective bargaining agreement negotiations. He pointed to the team's strong farm system and player development as key components of its sustained success.
“It’s not just spending,” Walter said. “Our farm system is pretty strong, and that and player development are really big things for us. So I think on any playing field, we’ll still be among the elite teams.”
Andrew Friedman, president of baseball operations for the Dodgers, echoed Walter's sentiment, highlighting the owner's consistent financial backing and aggressive approach. “At every turn since I’ve been with the Dodgers, the financial backing and aggressiveness [from Walter] has been seemingly unmatched,” Friedman stated. “I think all of us being in lockstep on that has contributed to the success we’ve had looking back, and I think keeps us well-positioned for future success.”
Walter expressed appreciation for the Dodgers fans and conveyed his hope for their continued support, acknowledging the team's recent playoff exit but focusing on their long-term performance. "I really hope that the fans feel how much we appreciate them, because we’re all fans too," he said. "And this [year] was a kind of bad end to the season for us. But you’ve got to look at how we’ve done every year and really realize they’re gonna come back and support us again next year, because we’re going to be out there fighting again for a World Series."