Trick or Treat? Bud and Frank Close to Settlement

For Dodger fans, a bright future might be on the horizon.

Bill Shaikin of the LA Times reports that Frank McCourt is nearing a deal with Bud Selig and Major League Baseball in which McCourt would sell the team.

Before you start uncorking the champagne, understand that Shaikin points out talks are “fluid” and “could fall apart.”

Still, it’s big news that negotiations would reach this point in the first place, considering it was only a few months ago that we heard Frank say he would pass ownership on to his sons.

Talks of a settlement sparked last week after a judge postponed McCourt’s bankruptcy trial, which would have begun today. If no agreement can be met, the trial would resume on November 29th.

A potential settlement became especially attractive to Frank after it was clear a courtroom victory could still keep him from making any profit.

A new owner would probably not enter the fold in time to hold significant impact on free agent signings, but it could aid possible contract extensions with Matt Kemp and Clayton Kershaw.

Shaikin says the team, as well as Dodger Stadium and its surrounding property, could sell for as much as $1 billion.