The baseball world is buzzing as the Minnesota Twins, owned by the Pohlad family since 1984, have announced they are up for sale. This event is significant for a few reasons. Firstly, it’s a rare occurrence in the MLB, making this sale a potential game-changer for team valuations. Secondly, the sale could be a major boost for the Atlanta Braves, a team in which billionaire Warren Buffett owns a stake.
The Twins, valued at $1.7 billion by Sportico, are the 19th most valuable MLB team. While they’ve had some success in recent years, including World Series wins in 1987 and 1991, they’ve struggled to maintain consistent success. The team also faces challenges with their television rights, as their deal with Bally Sports North expired after the 2023 season.
The sale of the Twins comes at a time when baseball ownership is becoming increasingly attractive to investors. The sale of other MLB teams in recent years, including the Baltimore Orioles, New York Mets, and Los Angeles Dodgers, has demonstrated the potential for significant returns on investment.
While the Twins’ sale might not directly impact Buffett’s bottom line, it could positively impact the Atlanta Braves. The Braves, currently valued at $3.4 billion, could see their value increase if the Twins sell for a premium price. Buffett, known for his keen eye for value, holds a 233,645 share stake in the publicly traded Braves through his Berkshire Hathaway investment company.
This news is sure to spark interest among potential buyers, with many seeing sports teams as a strong investment opportunity. The Twins’ sale could set a new benchmark for MLB team valuations, potentially benefiting other teams and their investors. The sale is sure to be a closely watched event in the baseball and investment world.
