Jeb Bush, Derek Jeter among groups in mix to buy Miami Marlins, reports say
George W. Bush owned the Texas Rangers before he ever became U.S. president. Now his brother, Jeb, could be stepping up to the plate to buy his own Major League team — the Marlins.
He’s not the only one.
Retired New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter is also showing interest in the club, according to Fox Business Network.
Marlins officials would neither confirm nor deny the reports.
“I have no comment,” said Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria, who is in Washington to watch his team.
The former Florida governor expressed interest in ownership of the Marlins in 2013. But that was before team officials announced the franchise was for sale.
Jeb Bush in the mix to buy the Florida Marlins. Made run at team in 2013
— daniel kaplan (@dkaplanSBJ) April 5, 2017
Meant Miami Marlins of course not Fla Marlins
— daniel kaplan (@dkaplanSBJ) April 5, 2017
Now the club is talking to a handful of suitors about buying the franchise from Loria, who has owned the team since 2002.
Marlins president David Samson confirmed in February that the team was for sale and a number of suitors have come forward expressing interest.
“Talks are ongoing with other groups who are interested in purchasing the team,” Samson said. “The difference now is, those other offers are being looked at very seriously."
According to a Fox Business Network story, Jeter is heading a separate group. The story states Jeter is represented in negotiations with Samson by veteran Wall Street executive and former Morgan Stanley brokerage chief Gregory Fleming.
Marlins manager Don Mattingly said he thought Jeter would make a fine owner.
“He’s always talked about it,” said Mattingly, who was Jeter’s hitting coach at one time with the Yankees. “Jete seems to be good at everything he tries to do.”
This story was originally published April 5, 2017 at 4:35 PM with the headline "Jeb Bush, Derek Jeter among groups in mix to buy Miami Marlins, reports say."