As Dodgers File For Bankruptcy, Questions Remain
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:05 AM PDT
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In the umpteenth chapter of a story nobody wants to read, it appears Frank McCourt may have found a way to make payroll this Thursday. The Dodgers owner has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which will allow him to keep control of the team, at least through the bankruptcy proceedings. Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times has the relevant details.
Still, questions remain. McCourt got his $150 million in interim financing from "a unit of JP Morgan Chase," per Shaikin, who notes that JP Morgan Chase also works with MLB on club sales. Another question is what will MLB do next? Per Shaikin:
Under the Major League Baseball constitution, the act of filing for bankruptcy enables the commissioner to strip McCourt of ownership. However, bankruptcy court proceedings generally override MLB rules.
The list of unsecured creditors is long, and includes mostly players, even pre-McCourt acquisitions Marquis Grissom ($2,719,146) and Kazushisa Ishii ($3,300,000). Chad Billingsley's last name is spelled "Billingsly" in the court document; I hope he gets his money, anyway.
In a statement, McCourt said, "I simply cannot allow the Commissioner to knowingly and intentionally be in a position to expose the Dodgers to financial risk any longer." Yes, Frank, because it was all Bud Selig's fault. For someone fighting desperately to retain ownership of the team, Frank McCourt does not seem to take any ownership of his own actions.
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From Dodger Divorce:
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
by mleadman on Jun 27, 2011 9:07 AM PDT reply actions 2 recs
also, this tweet
DodgerDivorce Federal law > MLB rules. But MLB will say its rules best protect creditors. RT @doane I thought MLB can take over if teams files BK.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:12 AM PDT up reply actions
Here is my question
If bankruptcy court is primarily concerned with getting creditors their money, couldn’t MLB argue that they will make sure that the creditors get paid thus negating the need for bankruptcy?
i believe that's what Josh is saying
MLB will argue that it’s own rules will work to pay the creditors in such a way that the bankruptcy court doesn’t need to get so involved.
at least that’s what i’m gleaning from this.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:26 AM PDT up reply actions
A couple of threads back
Phil, Sands blew away the field in Week 8, hitting .467/.556/.867. That was the best week for LF so far.
For more good news, if the Dodgers news doesn’t kill you by increasing your blood pressure one of these other four things will.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Frank McBankruptcyCourt
Now I’m getting mad, he’s like a despot taking his whole fiefdom down with him.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
we’ll be fine until he creates an artificial drought. Then we’ll need James Bond
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 9:15 AM PDT up reply actions
will he play a virtual game
with Bud Selig for world domination?
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
You didn’t expect this? It was the natural next step.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:19 AM PDT up reply actions
maybe it was the next step
for a sick, pathological mind. Nothing much natural about it to me. Not surprised of course, but it doesn’t mean I like seeing it play out.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
Really?
A business that is in trouble filing for bankruptcy is surprising? It shouldn’t be. The hyperbole around this thing is getting rediculous.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
maybe it was the next step
for a sick, pathological mind
That statement is stupid. Sorry. It was a natural next step for anyone who doesn’t want to lose their business.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
it's not stupid
what’s wrong with being upset with Frank’s scorched earth policy with the Dodgers? I’m supposed to treat this like the CEO of Tyco holding onto his business?
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
Feel free to be upset, just don’t be surprised it happened.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 9:26 AM PDT up reply actions
nothing wrong with being upset
calling him pathological for filing bankruptcy is.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Okay
he’s not a pathological creep, just a lying ,greedy, self centered, amoral ,lame, stupid ,pampered ,thieving, delusional jacked up moron who married a philandering face-lifted Marie Antoinette clone who buys cabana boys with the money owed Kaz Ishii, but couldn’t get the dog to play with her if she tied a porkchop around her neck……other than that, he’s probably a wonderful human being.
by preacher roe on Jun 27, 2011 9:43 AM PDT up reply actions
In other words, and incredibly rich person.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 9:44 AM PDT up reply actions
Im not sure he is as rich as you think
He may have a high lifestyle, but when all his debt and deferred taxes are paid, he may not be very rich at all.
by silverlakebruin on Jun 27, 2011 10:04 AM PDT up reply actions
So you’re saying we shouldn’t be looking for the next Jack Ruby?
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:26 AM PDT up reply actions
Aren’t we still at the Lee Harvey stage?
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:28 AM PDT up reply actions
I want to read a story about
how cool Kershaw, Ethier, Kemp, Gordon, Sands, and Gywnn all are, but I guess this story will do to. It’s a little dark though
I hope there's no sequel :-/
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
For a laugh
(and a cry), tweet from Albert Brooks
Dodgers file for bankruptcy. Frank McCourt changes name to Metta World Bank.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
by underdog on Jun 27, 2011 9:14 AM PDT reply actions 6 recs
lol
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:15 AM PDT up reply actions
“The state of Vermont will NOT apologize for it’s cheese!!”
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:17 AM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
Rec'd
for Thank You for Smoking reference
by StolenMonkey86 on Jun 27, 2011 12:11 PM PDT up reply actions
Delaware exists solely for Corporations to incorporate.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
I want to see Wilmington!
“I wanna visit a screen door factory!” — Bart
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
LOL
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:17 AM PDT up reply actions
another tidbid from DodgerDivorce (emphasis mine)
The most interesting part of the filings, to me, is that all five Dodger entities which are now in bankruptcy list between $500 million and $1 billion in assets. Just one, however, shows any significant debt. That one: the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:16 AM PDT reply actions
That is not interesting, how could the other entities incur debt? they are strictly setup for funneling cash to Frank.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Let Ned run the parking lots and you’ll start to see some debt. And some healthy deferred comp!
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:20 AM PDT up reply actions
Is this the year where all my sports teams embarrass me? It feels like it.
The Broncos shit the bed last year. The Lakers overall had a good year but ended in embarrassing fashion. The Dodgers’ on field and even more so off the field saga is really a sorry state of affairs. Seriously depressing. Tired of being embarrassed to be a fan of my teams. At least the other two have great ownership situations. Hope the bad mojo breaks soon.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
I don't think they will actually.
Not sure they’ll leap to playoff contender, mind you… but they have a lot of young pieces in place now. Of course, before free agency, so who knows what else to expect.
Anyway, thanks for the encouraging words :-P
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Most of you who told me Bud had all his bullets in in order before he sent his man over to run the team. In which case he knew this was an option and a big one for Frank to take when pushed into a corner. You seemed assured that Bud would be able to handle the Dodgers going into bankruptcy court. If the court approves the 150 Financing and does not let MLB take over the team while in court then what?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Frank McCourt becomes Buds favorite owner when by 2017 he makes the highest paid player Livan Hernandez and offers ticket vouchers as signing bonuses. (vouchers good Monday-Thursday)
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 9:24 AM PDT up reply actions
An auction, similar to what happened with the Rangers last year? My question is what about the other companies that Frank set up with the parking lot do those go to in the auction as well?
That’s what the fight will ultimately be about.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:25 AM PDT up reply actions
Good point. Would you buy the Dodgers if you had McCourt as a landlord? I wouldn’t.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:26 AM PDT up reply actions
I never accused Bud of being the sharpest pencil in the drawer, and I think he misplayed this. If he’s not careful MLB will find itself in court exposing more financial docs than what was in discovery during the McCourt divorce. My guess is he doesn’t want any of this so he’ll back off a bit and see what the BK court comes up with. However, I’m no attorney (meaning, I still have a soul) so I really couldn’t tell you.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:25 AM PDT up reply actions
If the $150MM gets approved, the next fight is about the Fox deal. And as Marty says, there becomes a real possibility of this thing turning into a fight about MLB’s anti-trust exemption (along with every other sport.)
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:25 AM PDT up reply actions
which could definitely happen, and then also definitely take years to play out, no?
in which case this becomes a long drawn out mess for baseball, and for the Dodgers franchise which goes further and further away from being one of the most important and lucrative franchises in sports and basically everyone, from the team to McCourt to the fans to Selig and everyone connected in every direction, goes down with it. What is really to gain from all this? What does McCourt think will happen ultimately that will be a positive for him and for LA fans? I don’t blame him for this btw, I would probably do the same thing if at this point in his shoes, but I just wonder what is in his head right now, how delusional he is about fallout…
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
He keeps an asset that guarantees him a giant pile of money forever as long as he doesn’t steal hundreds of millions from it.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 9:31 AM PDT up reply actions
Right
and he certainly wouldn’t be the first asshole owner who just assumes they can set things right again (and maybe he could, by some miracle, if the team became not just good but a major player for top free agents again and starts winning again, maybe fans are even more fickle than I think they are and will eventually forgive him). But man, talk about burning bridges, and having a shitload of PR work to do to repair an image.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Assuming the fans come back
after he runs the team into the ground while going through bankruptcy?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
There’s enough die hard fans that will stick with the team no matter what so you can easily cut payroll enough to make the team profitable.
And hell if enough people stop showing up, time to collect revenue sharing payments.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 9:36 AM PDT up reply actions
Frank's hoping for
1) Get the $150MM DIP financing approved
2) Get the $3B Fox deal approved
He gets those two things and he can be the owner of the Dodgers for a long while (I’m guessing, I’m not crunching numbers)
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:32 AM PDT up reply actions
How could a bankruptcy judge
approve the taking on off more debt?
Wouldn’t they have to prove that there is a reasonable way to repay the debt?
by silverlakebruin on Jun 27, 2011 10:06 AM PDT up reply actions
When the team gets sold, the debt will be repaid.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:07 AM PDT up reply actions
That’s not an acceptable enough exit strategy to approve the DIP (in my opinion.) The DIP means an additional $150MM in debt will be on the books and they need to demonstrate that new money will provide at least equal value to the estate, if not more. If the $150MM is just burned then the bankruptcy judge failed badly.
If the judge believes ultimate end game is a sale then they’ll just reject the DIP so that the proceeds aren’t further diminished by additional $150MM.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 10:10 AM PDT up reply actions
Frank is in a huge losing streak, I’m betting he will have that losing streak intact come tomorrow.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:12 AM PDT up reply actions
No, Minnesota won’t stop until they reach at least 8! :)
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:16 AM PDT up reply actions
So, in your legal opinion, is this 50-50?
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 10:12 AM PDT up reply actions
I’m not a lawyer, but ya, I could see it going either way.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 10:14 AM PDT up reply actions
so the key could be McCourt convincing a judge that any new TV deal he could negotiate would generate at least $150 million (plus interest) more than the one already negotiated with Fox. It’s not out of the question, from that standpoint IMO.
I’d watch if the hearing was televised tomorrow.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:15 AM PDT up reply actions
Which he can
The more I’m reading into this, the more I think it will be approved.
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 10:19 AM PDT up reply actions
what leverage does he have
to get a better TV deal though? Regardless, MLB can far surpass any TV deal with regard to handling debt and paying creditors, right?
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
The leverage is allowing for a company other than Fox to bid on the business.
The other owners are willing to pay Frank’s debt?
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 10:33 AM PDT up reply actions
Wouldn’t they rather do that in the short term to protect their assets in the long run? Selig as the representative of the owners has made it clear (with actions rather than words) that he wants Frank gone, I assume he speaks for them.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
I don’t doubt they want Frank gone. Not sure they are willing to guarantee all of his obligations in an attempt to push him out. But ya, they can put their money where their mouth is if they really do want him out.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 10:40 AM PDT up reply actions
Hence the renegotiated TV deal
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:07 AM PDT up reply actions
That’s exactly what the discussion will be based on. LAD will argue the $150MM DIP will be a bridge loan to an ultimate financial windfall (the TV rights) which will leave all the creditors in a better position.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 10:08 AM PDT up reply actions
Selig can still force a sale..
Bankruptcy may screw up the sale price if creditors demand a higher price. However DIP financing is more of the borrowing from Paul to pay Peter ways that McCourt has been running the club. It just puts Morgan Stanley in front of the line with those with a tin cup in hand, and the DIP financing is secured financing..
The DIP financing has to be approved by the Bankruptcy Judge, and there is a chance it may not be approved. Second, filing for Bankruptcy just delays the inevitable for Frank, he has to sell the club.
By far one of the biggest unsecured creditors for the Dodgers isn’t Manny Ramirez or some private placement firm, it is Jamie McCourt. The Judge isn’t going to ignore her and her rights for 50% of the team.
Things are such a mess, with the divorce not even close to being settled, McCourt running out of cash to pay for basic bills, MLB demanding Frank sells.
Filing for Bankruptcy is just the regular pattern for Frank, he is living on borrowed time, because the borrowed money has run out.
by superferret on Jun 27, 2011 11:12 AM PDT up reply actions 4 recs
This is a great response
KCAL! FTMFW!
by robotmadeofnails on Jun 27, 2011 11:20 AM PDT up reply actions
For us non Baseball America subscribers
The filing and list of creditors gives us a list of some of the signing bonuses of several 2011 draftees:
2) Alex Santana: $499,500
5) Scott McGough $150,300
17) Jesus Valdez $75,000
18) Chris O’Brien $75,000
Also, international signees Raydel Sanchez ($125,000) and Francisco Villa ($80,000) are listed.
i mentioned it in the other thread but maybe you know
does this mean that none of these guys have been paid any of their bonus yet? that doesn’t make sense, but if that wasn’t the case I’m not sure how the dodgers could put the full amount in the document
by Brandon Lennox on Jun 27, 2011 9:29 AM PDT up reply actions
Yeah, definitely they are still owed that money. Maybe it was deferred until a date very soon, like the end of the month or something.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:32 AM PDT up reply actions
Couldn’t it just be a timing thing? When you start a job you don’t get paid until the first check run (end of month?) as opposed to immediately.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:33 AM PDT up reply actions
While these guys should still get paid with the $150M loan
I gotta think this will impact some of the unsigned players
by Brandon Lennox on Jun 27, 2011 9:42 AM PDT up reply actions
Edumacated Guess
What are the chances that Frankie will be able to pull out of this with the team? And someone with a good knowledge of this… How long until we will have a real owner?
I think anyone who gives you an answer to your 2nd question is strictly guessing.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Plus, it’ll be a new owner, not necessarily a real owner. Remember, he bought this from Fox and I, for one, was real happy to get it out of their hands.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:32 AM PDT up reply actions
What’s crazy is that i didn’t realize that McBroke almost had a chance to get the Red Sox instead. Can you imagine this going on in boston? He would have been out the door a year ago…
like the rules are simpler in Boston?
would be the same scenario
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
I am far from an expert...
I just follow bankruptcy stuff, like the Marx brothers type of slapstick that is Lenny Dykstra’s financial meltdown..
Frank isn’t going to pull this off in my opinion. If he had a business that wasn’t a franchise, he filed for bankruptcy as a way to get better settlement terms for his divorce, he didn’t have huge debts, and the banks, private placement groups, financial service companies, like who gave him the money to securitized the tickets, then he could probably pull something off..
As much as Frank sued and been very litigious in his most of his adult life, he also filed lawsuits to get better terms before himself, if he can before he settles. He did this with the Big Dig project, (in which he made a huge amount of money, like $50 million or more when he settled with the State of Mass for the use of his former Fort Point Channel property for a staging area for BIg dig project.
Major League Baseball is far from going to be shy about this bankruptcy. They have the legal documents to make Frank sell, they can stripped him from Dodgers, and he can’t control the sales of the Dodgers, or even agree to the price…
If Frank had money, or an outside income to finance a serious legal fight, it would be interesting. However Frank really only source of revenue are the Dodgers, and most of that revenue is going to financial groups to pay off his debt and the interest on that debt. He may “owned” the Dodgers, but he doesn’t control much at this moment.
It is up to MLB baseball to decide who will be the new owner group, but my guess it is going to take 1-2 years after a Bankruptcy judge’s rule that Franks is a deadbeat dumbass, and orders the Dodgers, including the stadium, ticket sales, parking lots be sold. MLB will probably run the club and send the bill to Frank to pay off after the sale of the Dodgers.
From Shaikin:
McCourt wants “competitive sale process” for TV rights and new deal within 180 days.
This seems reasonable to me. Frank sees the writing on the wall at least (unless I’m misinterpreting these 140 characters), and will be on his way out. Why not let the bidding process be competitive? I’m down with that.
But that says the competitive sale process is for the TV rights. I don’t read there that he’s feeling the writing on the wall.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:33 AM PDT up reply actions
Ah gotcha, I misread. At the very least, a competitive negotiation for the TV rights is a good thing IMO. But year, I totally misread that tweet.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:36 AM PDT up reply actions
Agree with the competitive negotiations piece. Fox has been making some back door comments that they won’t side w/McCourt if shit gets hairy. They just want the deal done ASAP. That leads me to believe that they understand that Frank has a gun to his head and negotiated accordingly. Fox doesn’t want to see the Dodgers go do a Laker type deal w/Time Warner or anyone else, but this opens that possibility.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:38 AM PDT up reply actions
this is really ambiguous
does he mean Frank wants a new process for a TV deal? Meaning the Fox deal is 100% dead and its time to start over?
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
I don’t read that the same way. The $150MM DIP buys him the time to renegotiate a Fox deal that would be approved by MLB and the bankruptcy court.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:35 AM PDT up reply actions
OK, my next question
What does a “competitive sale process” have to do with a new TV deal?
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:37 AM PDT up reply actions
competitive selling of TV rights. Open it up for bidding again is how I read it
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
Like Phil says above….he’d probably be opposed to fighting both Frank and a federal bankruptcy judge (assumign the court approves a new deal)
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:40 AM PDT up reply actions
Gotcha
and this tweet from Josh Fisher clarifies it:
Current Fox TV deal prohibits negotiating w/ anyone but Fox prior to 11/30/2012.
…and I’m back.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:39 AM PDT up reply actions
So bankruptcy would let him get around that?
somehow?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
If a judge approves competitive bidding as a way to pay more creditors, yes
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:41 AM PDT up reply actions
i've heard a few things
that if Fox won’t deal with McCourt, Time Warner will. Maybe get the judge to auction the TV rights?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:38 AM PDT up reply actions
See above. The Fox deal was done quickly and when you compare that to what the Lakers did w/Time Warner I think there are some broader options out there. McCourt didn’t have time to construct a broader piece. Remember, he wanted to build his own Dodger network according to the divorce.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:40 AM PDT up reply actions
So back to Nolanders’ question, will the Bankruptcy allow Frank to circumvent the 11/30/2012 exclusivity deal with Fox?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Yes. The court would consider allowing for an open negotiation to be for the good of the estate.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:42 AM PDT up reply actions
That could get McCourt out of this mess
if he gets a good enough deal how can MLB say no? I’m sure theres a way but…
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Because Frank still wanted 200 Million up front.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Which I think only matters if they can argue the deal is below market value
if its a bidding war he will get “market” value.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
I really really doubt that Bud would try to say no to a new broadcasting deal that was approved by the bankruptcy court.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:44 AM PDT up reply actions
You sure about that? That’s interesting.
by KellyStephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:43 AM PDT up reply actions
It is delusional....
Fox has a bombproof deal for the TV rights until Oct. 2013. The Dodgers can’t even talked to other companies until Nov. 2012. Frank is just being delusional, or really desperate…
Fox and Selig are to blame for much of this mess, given they should never do the crappy TV deal in 2003, and then okayed McCourt and his 99% leveraged purchase of the Dodgers.
Pimp rates
From Daniel Kaplan of the Sports Business Journal:
Rate on the loan the Dodgers are seeking is at least 10 percent, and also a $4.5 mln deferred commitment fee
This is from the Michael Jackson School of Finance...
Getting high interest and huge fees to pay off previous loans that are already due, it is basically a financial death spiral…
So bottomline
is this is still a huge tangled-up clusterfuck
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
Didn’t Frank agree to the current TV rights deal when he purchased the team? So now that he has fucked up the finances of the team the current 2012 expiration date is no longer sufficient. Why would the bankruptcy court be inclined to change it?
the deal was in place when he bought the team, i believe
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:52 AM PDT up reply actions
I thought it was the condition of Fox loaning him the money on his parking lot to buy the team?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
i was speculating
i’m sure others know more about this than I do.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 9:53 AM PDT up reply actions
Clause might not actually be enforceable, especially since it was created when Fox owned the team.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 9:52 AM PDT up reply actions
Becomes the circustances have changed. In a real world example, the bankruptcy judge always cancels the leases that are in effect when they enter bankruptcy in a means to add value to the estate.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:53 AM PDT up reply actions
So basically all of Franks marbles are in the courts hand regarding approving his 150 DIP loan? If they approve it, then Frank is back in the ballgame and Bud might have outsmarted himself, if they don’t approve it, Bud should take over the team by Tuesday Night?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Interest on $150m
Shaikin tweets that Dodgers have to pay 10% interest ($15 million/year) plus a $4.5 million fee – fee deferred! – for that $150 million bankruptcy loan. More charges. Maybe the judge will refuse this if MLB can show they’d do the same thing with no charges?
They wouldn't do the same thing
MLB will give Frank $150MM with no charges?
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 9:55 AM PDT up reply actions
they would give the dodger estate $150M with no charges
Once you go into bankruptcy the priority is protecting creditors and getting them paid.
If MLB can show they can get all creditors paid, and McCourt is just going to go further and further into debt, I cant believe the court wouldn’t side with MLB.
I think what MLB offers is to assume all the debts, guarantee all the creditors, and make themselves whole with the proceeds from the sale. The remainder would go to McCourt.
by silverlakebruin on Jun 27, 2011 10:11 AM PDT up reply actions
I for one, would love for Time Warner to win the competitive bidding for the Dodgers. Can you imagine the deal the Clippers would get from Fox:)
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
different channel yes?
so less pressure on fox?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Does anyone know how this all went down with the Rangers? That might give us a better framework. Granted I know that there was not the hatred between Tom Hicks and Bud but it would still be interesting to see how MLB reacted to it.
The big difference is that the Rangers used bankruptcy to help expedite the sale of the team, while Frank is using bankruptcy to try to help keep the team.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 9:54 AM PDT up reply actions
Another Phiten necklace sheep.
Might as well charge a bear tax
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:22 AM PDT up reply actions
its a style thing at this point
I refuse to believe anything else. LALALALLALALA
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
James Baldwin is the most exciting offensive prospect the Dodgers have had since Matt Kemp emerged in 2004.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Not compared to Baldwin – CF, speed to burn, power, teen – ager. Sign me up
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:34 AM PDT up reply actions
Ah...
Toolsy guy. Yeah I hope he really fills out.
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 10:38 AM PDT up reply actions
same here
someone made the comparison of him being like Kemp, only Baldwin has been playing baseball for a lot longer.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:40 AM PDT up reply actions
we have some nice OF prospects
I hope the IF gets some love via Late Night, Kirkland, Santana, my kingdom for a first baseman.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
doesn't that bring us back
to Jerry Sands?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:46 AM PDT up reply actions
Maybe but for the first time in several decades the Dodgers have three teen – agers who are actual offensive prospects (Garcia, Baldwin, and Santana).
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:51 AM PDT up reply actions
you’re lumping Santana in there already?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:52 AM PDT up reply actions
I know Goldstein is a big Baldwin fan.
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 10:59 AM PDT up reply actions
For the record
If Frank plays his cards right, but I mean wins in everything that’s dealt, would that satisfy you as him continuing to become the Dodgers owner? If he gets a more lucrative TV deal, will people still be complaining?
will people still be complaining?
there is no outcome where people will stop complaining
by Hollywood Joe on Jun 27, 2011 10:02 AM PDT up reply actions
OK
but will it satisfy you, is what I’m more asking of.
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 10:04 AM PDT up reply actions
actions satisfy me not money. I’m not a whore
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions
The implication is that money will allow action
then again he gave colleti money to spend(at least in the short term, who knows if he put a years limit on the deals colleti was allowed) and colleti spent it poorly this offseason(and every offseason?)
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Colletti spent it decently.
The problem is that he didn’t have enough money to cover every hole the team had.
by Taylor Maricle on Jun 27, 2011 10:31 AM PDT up reply actions
If that is true
Why is Juan Uribe on this team?
by Mel Gibson's Liver on Jun 27, 2011 11:30 AM PDT up reply actions
this current model
for running the team, including Ned’s management style based on piecemeal thinking, doesn’t work in the long run, so no I wouldn’t be satisfied.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
I can't wait to get a new GM
for everyone to hate
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
I don't hate him FWIW
but only one guy gave Juan Pierre and Jason Schmidt $92 million.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
I would be able to live with it
most people will say they can’t, but will eventually get over it, or at least it won’t be any worse then other teams who hate their owner in the long run.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
the amount of nonsense we are able to live with
this is really nothing compared to the real stuff we endure
by Hollywood Joe on Jun 27, 2011 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions
Immediately signing Kemp and Kershaw to long-term deals will win favor from me, no matter who signs the checks.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:06 AM PDT up reply actions
If anyone wants a change of pace, and is slightly hungry, here is a behind the scenes look at breakfast in the D-Backs clubhouse. Mmmm, 10 pounds of bacon….
I wanna play for the D-Backs now….
Proud member of the TBLA drinkers club?
by Rihanna's Ex-Boyfriend on Jun 27, 2011 10:04 AM PDT up reply actions
Croissants, bacon, and eggs
How can anyone say no?!!
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions
How I imagine this went down
“Alright! I’m a reporter for MLB.com! What’s my first assignment boss?”
“We want you to cover the Diamondback’s kitchen.”
“You sure I can’t like cover BALCO or something?”
“It’s either that or a kitten fashion show”
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions
The Dodgers’ room is pretty small, with just a bunch of round tables, and usually one dude preparing food and/or making omelettes. It always smells good before day games.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:24 AM PDT up reply actions
That would be a great job if you liked to cook every day and hang out with ball players
KCAL! FTMFW!
by robotmadeofnails on Jun 27, 2011 10:44 AM PDT up reply actions
I wonder if Frank has a mole
kind of like Ned had when he came on here to tell us that Sands was getting sent down and that John Ely is not Ned’s guy.
Lol
Joe Torre and Kim Ng!
"Fast just got Faster"
I always wondered
in my Columbo mind, if MLB had been tipped off about something (from an inside source)when they took the sudden action to take over the Dodgers. I could easily see the Dodgers (McCourt) situation taking the form of a made for TV mini series. Of course nobody would watch – just like the games.
This must really be pissing off the folks at Fox
"Fast just got Faster"
They should have thought twice before cancelling Arrested Development.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:22 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
and
Firefly
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:29 AM PDT up reply actions
and now I do this
Peter: Everybody, I’ve got bad news. We’ve been cancelled.
Lois: Oh, no! Peter, how could they do that?
Peter: Well, unfortunately, Lois, there’s just no more room on the schedule. We’ve just got to accept the fact that Fox has to make room for terrific shows like Dark Angel, Titus, Undeclared, Action, That 80’s Show, Wonderfalls, Fastlane, Andy Richter Controls the Universe, Skin, Girls Club, Cracking Up, The Pitts, Firefly, Get Real, FreakyLinks, Wanda at Large, Costello, The Lone Gunmen, A Minute With Stan Hooper, Normal, Ohio, Pasadena, Harsh Realm, Keen Eddie, The $treet, American Embassy, Cedric The Entertainer, The Tick, Luis and Greg the Bunny.
Lois: Is there no hope?
Peter: Well, I suppose if all those shows go down the tubes, we might have a shot.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:34 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
The Tick
:-/
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Jim Rome is looking for Dodger fans to call in now
Yep, guess what he’s been talking about. How are you reacting to the McCourt Dodger bankruptcy filing. call in and cut down on number of looneys calling.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Tim Brown is on right now
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
wow
they spelled brox’s name on the court document wrong too.
Chukwudiebere Maduabum FTW!!!!!!!
twitter
oops
Forgot to write the vent…. I really despise the McCourts because they really are grifters. They apparently have absolutely no respect for the Dodger tradition. We grew up with Chavez Ravine being our field of dreams and they’ve turned it into a nightmare. All the Dodgers have been to Frank and Jamey is a cash cow. They are Bernie Madoff, but
instead of stealing folks’’ pensions they stole our team to feed the lifestyles of the rich and craven. I hope they lose everything. They ought to put them in stocks and let us throw rotten tomatoes at them.
I think its naive to expect anything different from any other owner
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
I think it is naive to expect every owner to act like the McCourts did. If this was not unique this scenario would not be playing out.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:46 AM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
But Paul Newman was the grifter of all grifters in The Sting, and he was awesome.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:45 AM PDT up reply actions
Paul Newman=Awesome
it’s Math!
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:48 AM PDT up reply actions
True
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:50 AM PDT up reply actions
Grifters are awesome when they nail the bad guys, when they steal money from good folk they get keel hauled. A practice that really should make a comeback instead of prison.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:48 AM PDT up reply actions
I don’t know what this tweet by Bill Shaikin means:
McCourt asks bankruptcy judge to let #Dodgers honor outstanding Dodger Dollars — about $500,000, in increments of $5 and $10
Dodger Dollars – how can you not laugh when you read that?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:49 AM PDT up reply actions
My Spanish teacher in high school, Mr. Lugo, used to give out colored construction paper with his face and various amounts on them. They were Lugo Bucks, and redeemable for extra credit.
I imagine Dodger Dollars are similar.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:51 AM PDT up reply actions
Julio Lugo was your Spanish teacher? Awesome.
Part of Pech's Posse since 2007.
by OleksiyPecherovsHomeboy on Jun 27, 2011 11:25 AM PDT up reply actions
Bankruptcy judge must have sharted when Frank approached him with the question.
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 10:52 AM PDT up reply actions
sharted?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:52 AM PDT up reply actions
sorry I asked
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:53 AM PDT up reply actions
Your boy Phillip Seymour Hoffman popularized the term in Along Came Polly.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 10:54 AM PDT up reply actions
We use to call that
drawing mud
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
Angels fans still think Gordon never touched the plate.
by Taylor Maricle on Jun 27, 2011 10:50 AM PDT reply actions
unless they lose the division by one game
they should let it go
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:51 AM PDT up reply actions
quick green
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:54 AM PDT up reply actions
rec'd
with the speed of Dee
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 10:54 AM PDT up reply actions
I wonder what the tip was like
KCAL! FTMFW!
by robotmadeofnails on Jun 27, 2011 11:22 AM PDT up reply actions
what bums me out
is that baseball was my escape from business and contracts at work
baseball bankruptcy is not an escape, more of the flipping same
They still haven't explored
using Indian players yet though.
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
Come on, this is exciting shit.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:54 AM PDT up reply actions
BillShaikin
#Dodgers say they owe almost $40m this week alone: $20m in current and deferred salaries, $18.7m to fund future deferments, per MLB CBA.
one thing all this does
is let us see the real books. That alone makes it fascinating
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
They pay Nancy how much!!!!!!!!!!
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:57 AM PDT up reply actions
I was told it was no big deal, these deferred salaries. I’m just loving Frank getting nailed by them.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 10:56 AM PDT up reply actions
just a question
if he didn’t defer them, wouldn’t this have come to a head a lot sooner though? Like 2009?
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
If I am to believe the little actual
tidbits out of Frank’s mouth, I will believe that the plan all along was to go for a new TV deal around this time. The thing that really put this out of his hands was the divorce. The divorce opened up their personal finances and gave him no more cover. Had they remained a couple (even one who lived separately), he might have been able to pull this off by now.
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 11:01 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yes.
Divorce has ruined many a good financial plan.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions
Another owner vs. McCourt
Things/Actions they could/would do the same:
1. Raise ticket prices.
2. Keep payroll withing 90-110M
3. Not sign multi-year deals
4. Not sign expensive international free agents
5. Put family members on payroll
Would not do the same:
1. Pay lease monies to another owned entity.
2. Take out personal loans
3. Do everything in his or her power to avoid being accountable for their actions
Why wouldn’t a new owner spend more money since they wouldn’t have 100s of millions of missing revenue.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 11:00 AM PDT up reply actions
Close – but we have signed many multi – year deals starting with Pierre and Schmidt.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:00 AM PDT up reply actions
I assumed BH meant more than 3 years, which hasn’t been done since Pierre
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:00 AM PDT up reply actions
Sure, but three years is still a multi year deal no matter how you try to define it.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:01 AM PDT up reply actions
2. Keep payroll withing 90-110M
3. Not sign multi-year deals
4. Not sign expensive international free agents
Speculation.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:00 AM PDT up reply actions
Well until this year
you could count on a certain number of fans to show up, get a couple of good names to market and there you go.
McCourt fucked up the model and now some new owner will probably have to expend a lot more cash to get what Frank had.
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions
If it's a billionaire type
like Cuban, it’s inevitable that we’ll be on the major free agents every year with competitive bids.
by silverwidow on Jun 27, 2011 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions
I see your point
but don’t necessarily agree with #s 2 – 5.
"Fast just got Faster"
As anyone would do.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:01 AM PDT up reply actions
I would
but I would also make them work like dogs
by Hollywood Joe on Jun 27, 2011 11:02 AM PDT up reply actions
and…
1. dick around with the fantasy camps
2. Triple the fees HJ’s league used to pay to play one day in Dodger stadium every year
by Hollywood Joe on Jun 27, 2011 11:02 AM PDT up reply actions
new owner would probably operate more under the Fox model
which was to spend the money to make the dodgers a NL powerhouse (didn’t work) and try to make the money on the backside through media rights and/or their own network.
The dodgers have the built in media advantages where spending money can pay off. Not every team is like that, but the dodgers are. If you can build a consistantly excellent club, your money will come back in buckets.
You forgot some other things McCourt did that others probably won’t do:
1) Give up valuable prospects to avoid paying additional salary to mid level vets acquired in trades
2) Gut the farm system
3) Destroy international scouting and player development.
by silverlakebruin on Jun 27, 2011 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions
It really depends on the owner/owner group and their background..
If they are self made, they may pretend they know about baseball and be very hands on. If they made their money in a corporate environment, they will probably delegate much of the roles and put some competent people in charge. The key is allowing sports professional to make the moves and keep in the hired professionals in their jobs..
I think a very big key to how an ownership group will operate the Dodgers is who they hire. Do they hire many people in Southern California, whether PR people, sport professionals, like those working in sports/entertainment agencies, etc. Who do they keep or hired for player development.. Most importantly, there isn’t the crazy turnover as in the McCourt era.
Frank McCourt hired many top notch professionals to help him run the Dodgers, however he fired them or they left in disqust after a year or two. I think the last straw for MLB and Bud Selig was the firing of Dennis Mannion.
Any new owners will get some slack and a honeymoon period after the nightmare years of the McCourts, but the Dodgers are a business, and they will make some business decisions like raising parking prices and ticket prices, but they should have patience and some background in professional baseball like Arte Morteno.
by superferret on Jun 27, 2011 10:42 PM PDT up reply actions
Don't worry, Buster Olney will keep a level head
The Dodgers file for bankruptcy, a moment that ranks among the most embarrassing in the history of Major League Baseball.
a condition of employment
in modern media is to be saying something all the time
by Hollywood Joe on Jun 27, 2011 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions
He might not be wrong
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Shoeless Joe, Pete Rose, Frank McCourt.
One of those names is not like the others.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions
Under ownership he might stand alone since the Marvin Miller showed up to keep them in line. Even Marge has to sit in the backseat to this shitfest.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:05 AM PDT up reply actions
Babe Ruth was sold to finance a broadway play.
Owners have been doing really stupid shit for a long time.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 11:06 AM PDT up reply actions
I'm disappointed, you usually read a comment before responding
Under ownership he might stand alone since the Marvin Miller showed up to keep them in line.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:07 AM PDT up reply actions
Shoeless Joe gets the benefit of the doubt way too much by historians.
by Michael White on Jun 27, 2011 11:10 AM PDT up reply actions
well are you going to argue against Field of Dreams? : )
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 11:11 AM PDT up reply actions
Too stupid to know better?
He was the Pedro Guerrero of his time
Do the chair know we gonna look like some punk-ass bitches out there?
Or was he the Kevin Spacey of his time?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:13 AM PDT up reply actions
Bill James wrote
in his Historical Abstract that Jackson should get into the HOF after every person professional or not, who had played the game honestly, is inducted. (paraphrased)
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 11:14 AM PDT up reply actions
so never?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 11:15 AM PDT up reply actions
Seems like overkill considering how many probably did not play the game honestly before the shit hit the fan. Owners kind of deserved gamblers being part of the game given how they treated the players. Ever wonder where baseball would be if Babe Ruth had not shown up?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:16 AM PDT up reply actions
I wonder if
I played the game honestly enough for Mr. James to get inclusion in the hall under this logic
by Hollywood Joe on Jun 27, 2011 11:21 AM PDT up reply actions
McCourt Bankrupcy
Juan Marchial beats man with bat
Red Soxs refuse to sign black player for 13 years.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 11:03 AM PDT up reply actions
one of these things is not like the others, one of these things just doesn’t belong
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 11:04 AM PDT up reply actions
how the owners treated the players up until Curt Flood
What happened to curt flood
ty cobb
by Hollywood Joe on Jun 27, 2011 11:04 AM PDT up reply actions
Jose Canseco writing a book on who used steroids
Barry Bonds’ head growing like he drank too much nerve tonic
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 11:05 AM PDT up reply actions
Last two commissioners named Bud and Fay.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 11:05 AM PDT up reply actions 3 recs
Non-serious question
Would Paul Giamatti be as accomplished an actor as he became without pops dying early?
Pete Rose, hero?!
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:07 AM PDT up reply actions
Seems like a silly question that Silverwidow would ask
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:08 AM PDT up reply actions
I don’t think you fully appreciate the movie The Dead Zone, and how Christopher Walken saved the world from horrible future President Martin Sheen.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:12 AM PDT up reply actions
I withdraw my comment, I had no idea you had gone there.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:14 AM PDT up reply actions
just means
that the echo chamber is putting the screws to Frank, so I’m good with it.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
I wonder where he ranks the Rangers bankruptcy
"Fast just got Faster"
The final pitch of the 2010 World Series was worse.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:05 AM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
JAERFES
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 11:07 AM PDT up reply actions
Did he not see John Wall throw out the first pitch!?
by Julio Nievas on Jun 27, 2011 11:08 AM PDT up reply actions
If you think you can make a movie about this, its either pretty embarrassing or inspiring. This is not inspiring, unless you want to grow up to be a greedy son of a bitch who knows your life will end up in a ditch somewhere.
Don’t see how Frank is going to end up in a ditch somewhere. Is someone going to kill him?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:09 AM PDT up reply actions
or wait, winos hang out in the gutter, not a ditch
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 11:10 AM PDT up reply actions
he won't choke on his own vomit
only cool people do that
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
He might only be able to afford two houses.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 11:10 AM PDT up reply actions
That’s the ending I have in my head at the moment.
Frank McCourt, age 60, having lost everything gets into a bar fight near Phillipes, one hand with a dip sandwich, the other holding a beer bottle as he bleeds into the gutter while an airplane flies overhead to land in LAX.
The after credits scene would be Mark Cuban getting off the plane to check out his new asset.
cool
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Scary Names Above Him
For the similar best K/9 in first four seasons
Mark Prior, Kerry Wood, Dick Radatz, Tim Lincecum, Hideo Nomo, Oliver Perez, Scott Kazmir, Herb Score
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 11:17 AM PDT up reply actions
That is what I was afraid of
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:17 AM PDT up reply actions
His arm is going to explode
wonderful
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
or he could just smoke some pot and grow his hair long
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 11:21 AM PDT up reply actions
2nd – but it won’t be enjoyable to see him go in as an Astro
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:25 AM PDT up reply actions
Only Hall of Famers in the top 25 are Randy Johnson and Bob Feller.
Bills is 22 FWIW
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 11:27 AM PDT up reply actions
Clemens 26, Luis Tiant 28, Frank Tanana 37
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 11:31 AM PDT up reply actions
I heard comps to Tanana
when Clayton was drafted/coming up. I just remember Tanana when he was old.
Overqualified in an underqualified world since 2008.
Your brothers would remember
Tananna and Ryan and two days of crying
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 11:38 AM PDT up reply actions
always said Frank was the best young Lefthander I ever saw pitch. Clayton is making me think about modifying this.
No comp between Frank and Clayton, by the time Frank was 23 the Angels had totally shredded his arm.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:56 AM PDT up reply actions
Link – just would like to see the other eight.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:17 AM PDT up reply actions
Anyway, Frank McCourt is going down fighting. I don't think he'll settle for anything other than owning the team.
This is his only valuable asset, he doesn’t own anything else, and if he was going to cut his losses and sell, he would have done so already. I actually do think Frank McCourt thinks he’s doing the right thing by doing this. This is his team, and he’ll make sure everyone understands that.
When he wins he is going to remove the Press Box and replace it with a Luxury Suite.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 11:20 AM PDT up reply actions
I don’t necessarily think this is true. McCourt has proved himself to be a greedy, yet crafty businessman if nothing else. I wouldn’t be that surprised if his backup plan with the bankruptcy is simply to reorganize some things and open up the tv contract discussions to increase the potential profit and viability of a sale. He might see the writing on the wall, but the bankruptcy could provide for a better exit for him.
"Fast just got Faster"
Of course he thinks he is doing the right thing.
By definition to Frank, whatever provides him the most immediate gratification is the right thing. How that effects other people has no bearing on his decision making.
by silverlakebruin on Jun 27, 2011 2:17 PM PDT up reply actions
So it comes to this
is it the end of the beginning or the beginning of the end of the McCourt rein.
Either way if it ends up with the team on a full time cable/satilite station and KCAL is out as of 2013 I will be happy watching Clayton, Bills, Lee, Rubby, Kemp, Sands Dee and Co!
What me worry?
sorry
but only looking out for number 1. Actually the best thing would be for MLB to get out of the dark ages on blackout rules, but i will not be holding my breath for that.
What me worry?
by MammothDodger on Jun 27, 2011 11:45 AM PDT up reply actions
Exactly. I would be happy to pay for MLB.TV
KCAL! FTMFW!
by robotmadeofnails on Jun 27, 2011 11:53 AM PDT up reply actions
I have to believe it’s in the best interest of MLB to convert as many people as possible to be fans of the local team
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 11:55 AM PDT up reply actions
but it really makes no sense in my case
to Black me out on MLB.tv from watching the Dodgers, Angels and Giants (but not the As) live. The way TV markets work is insane.
What me worry?
by MammothDodger on Jun 27, 2011 11:58 AM PDT up reply actions
One reason rights fee are able to be so high
is because local fans are locked into what entity gets to show them the game. If other alternatives were available to local fans because to watch those games live, it would by definition, make those rights less valuable, especially in a time of DVRs, etc.
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 12:01 PM PDT up reply actions
this is making me wonder
if part of the reason cable networks have started making their own programming is because netflix/redbox have so devalued the right to replay old TV series’ and movies.
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions
It's more
its cheaper in the long run for them to do that plus they get the back end rights.
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 12:14 PM PDT up reply actions
The winner for best new show is “Starsky and Hutch” reruns
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions
so show the commercials on the internet feed
and count them as eyeballs watching the game. I gotta believe the total in the end is larger, then the fractions are now. most people in a local market will watch on TV, those outside that range will watch however they can. And it definitely makes no sense to have me, who every other outlet says I am in Reno’s market, be blacked out from a pay to watch source of the LA market.
What me worry?
by MammothDodger on Jun 27, 2011 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions
as long as my dog can swim in it before it flows south no worries...
and some day I will bring a few loafs of Schats Cheese Bread to a TBLA function
What me worry?
by MammothDodger on Jun 27, 2011 12:13 PM PDT up reply actions
Exactly. I would be fine with the same commercials
KCAL! FTMFW!
by robotmadeofnails on Jun 27, 2011 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions
should be....IMHO
either we have new owner that has to keep him or more fans run away
or
we still have frank and he has to keep him in attempt to draw fans back
What me worry?
by MammothDodger on Jun 27, 2011 11:49 AM PDT up reply actions
When I was a kid, the Dodgers were on TV about four times a month.
/could be slightly exaggerating
by silverwidow on Jun 27, 2011 11:37 AM PDT up reply actions
Not far off
In the late 1980s, it was basically just road games (and not all road games) on TV, and a televised home game was rare, until ESPN came along.
I have the 1988 media guide at home. I’ll check just how many TV games they had that year. Should be interesting.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:39 AM PDT up reply actions
So for me I just need to get CBS to buy the Dodgers?
KCAL! FTMFW!
by robotmadeofnails on Jun 27, 2011 11:42 AM PDT up reply actions
those who do not learn from the past...
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Ha!
Yes I’m sure they will scrap their prime time schedule :)
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:42 AM PDT up reply actions
KCAL will just take over…it will only interrupt Dr. Phil and the news, so no worries
KCAL! FTMFW!
by robotmadeofnails on Jun 27, 2011 11:44 AM PDT up reply actions
Oh yeah, I forgot about the partnership.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:45 AM PDT up reply actions
It didn't work when
CBS owned the Yankees
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions
I was a fan of Joe Torre as an announcer. I thought he was great.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 11:42 AM PDT up reply actions
Heard this yet?
Saddest part of #Dodgers bankruptcy story: “Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully is owed $152,778.”
I hope that is just his pay for June 2011
What me worry?
by MammothDodger on Jun 27, 2011 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions
That’s likely just his next payroll payment, much like the current players listed in the top 40 unsecured.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 12:00 PM PDT up reply actions
Any reason why the Grissom and Ishii haven’t been paid yet? You should think the MLBPA would make sure payments are made on time.
Likely just deferrals that were previously agreed upon. Nothing to suggest they haven’t been getting paid on time.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 12:03 PM PDT up reply actions
Dodgers need to play .639 (53-30) ball the rest of the way to win 88 games.
The last Dodger team to have a better 83 game stretch than that was in 1985. The 2009 Dodgers tied that mark from game 4-86.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 12:11 PM PDT up reply actions
my dog killed a bird. That was crazy go nuts. Pounced like a cat
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions
my dog killed a mouse last night
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
having a dog or a cat in your house is like inviting a cold blooded killer to dinner, then patting him or her on the head
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 12:07 PM PDT up reply actions
My dad
just showed me a little video on the mud they use to condition baseballs. Pretty neat, I’ll see if I can find it online
this is an older version
which means maybe some of y’all haven’t seen it. The one I just saw was dirty jobs on the history channel.
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 12:18 PM PDT up reply actions
i think i saw it before…it comes from a swamp and they pack it in little white containers?
by sec305LFP LAD on Jun 27, 2011 12:19 PM PDT up reply actions
yup, kinda crazy. Here’s another one made just before the last world series.
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions
The mud comes from a secret location on the Delaware River
In high school we usually just use spit and infield dirt to rub up the baseballs, but the leather on the balls they use in MLB isn’t as tough as the balls we use, so they have to use a better substance to rub up the balls
the guys interviewed were saying that’s how it used to be in MLB too, and that’s why you go around the horn with a new baseball, so guys could scuff up the ball
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 12:31 PM PDT up reply actions
Don’t they sell it for some absurdly low amount too?
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 12:37 PM PDT up reply actions
It’s $25-$50 depending on how big a bucket you get. It’s one of those tiny family businesses that MLB contracts with, one guy with a van, a bucket, and knowledge of the secret location
by Josie Becker on Jun 27, 2011 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions
This is the site of the official rubbing mud, and yes, you can buy it, doesn’t seem like an absurdly low amount though
Considering that they have a monopoly on a resource a multi billion dollar industry needs, I’m shocked they aren’t charging three bucks a ball.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions
Doesn’t a team only need one big bucket a year?
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions
Kemp getting closer
NL OF votes (voting ends Thursday night)
Ryan Braun 3,923,100
Lance Berkman 3,208,183
Matt Holliday 2,935,965
Matt Kemp 2,743,927
Andre Ethier 2,264,640
Jay Bruce 2,119,267
Dodger All-Stars
Kemp, Kershaw and gritty Jamey Carroll
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 12:34 PM PDT up reply actions
Closing fast, the MLB headline story might the impetus he needed.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions
I think it's 4 right?
Voting ends Thursday at midnight eastern
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 12:44 PM PDT up reply actions
Crazy that Andre is still fifth
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions
Just a reminder...
They say you can vote a max of 25 times but thats wrong! You can vote as many tomes as you want! After voting 25 times and it says you voted max times, just go to change selection keep the guys you already have and scroll down to click the button that takes you to the sign up page and re type the encryption. Then do it all over againuntill you max ur votes then again and again and again!
by funkyjam on Jun 27, 2011 1:15 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
who votes for all-star pitchers again?
"They say The Jet's lost a step or two... but I wouldn't be surprised to see some fireworks here."
If the Dodgers are getting 10% interest on this $150m loan
Can we assume a similar interest rate for the $385 million upfront payment? That would be about 47m over 17 yrs at 10%. The $173.5 mil going to the McCourts and their lawyers has the same NPV as $21.6mil over 17 yrs.
by StolenMonkey86 on Jun 27, 2011 12:35 PM PDT reply actions
er, 47m and 21.6 m per year those numbers are per year
by StolenMonkey86 on Jun 27, 2011 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions
10% is a lot for a loan of that magnitude.
McCourt is getting railed over like all those sub prime customers from 6 years ago.
these loans
to credit worthy people, are typically 1/2 points above prime. That is a lot of interest money to repay. McCourt sucks.
god damnit.
Without interest, it woudl be $10.2mil per year. At 5%, it’s about $15mil/yr.
by StolenMonkey86 on Jun 27, 2011 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions
No real interest rate on the $385m
without knowing the amount of the TV deal that the Dodgers could have received without needing the upfront money.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 12:37 PM PDT up reply actions
Its actually LIBOR plus 700 basis points
with a minimum LIBOR of 300. So 10% is your minimum interest rate, but it could go up, and most likely will if the loan is for longer than 2 years.
But even if it isn’t , when you add in the fee, the intererst rates and cost for year 1 are almost 14%, and 12% over 2 years.
by silverlakebruin on Jun 27, 2011 2:21 PM PDT up reply actions
Will the current Dodgers listed as creditors get paid?
What a joke…
Matt Kemp, Kuroda, Billingsley…all owed money.
The amounts listed for the players are specifically their next payroll payment.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions
Are we sure
That adds up to over $50m on the first page – I think it’s all forthcoming payments. If I recall, Manny was to be paid for the next 3-4 yrs
by StolenMonkey86 on Jun 27, 2011 12:38 PM PDT up reply actions
The amounts listed are any unpaid signing bonuses (or deferred salary, in the case of Manny and others), plus the next payroll payment.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm going to probably do a post about this tomorrow
But among other things we learn that Juan Uribe had a signing bonus as part of his deal, of which $3 million is unpaid (likely $1 million in each of 2012-2014, 2014 we already knew about); trying to confirm some details.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions
As part of this proceeding, will they have to divulge every single expense?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 12:46 PM PDT up reply actions
I always bring a hard wire to the PB in case wireless fails, did anyone else?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions
They will, just not by McCourt necessarily.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions
Shakin tweeted
that the MLB has assured the players they will be paid on time
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on Jun 27, 2011 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions
So is every Dodger currently under contract.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Jun 27, 2011 12:38 PM PDT up reply actions
I offered my services as an assistant GM for free, but have not heard back
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jun 27, 2011 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions
Tim K
of ESPN (ESPN.com) was cited in their last update as they will get paid (either through the 150M financing or MLB).
by bhsportsguy on Jun 27, 2011 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions
NPUT
http://www.truebluela.com/2011/6/27/2246946/m-m-meltdown-twin-preview
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Eric just read your comment on the hard wire. So the only access is wireless? That is surprising, you’d think they would have a backup plan.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
I’m not sure what the problem was. The hard wire problem could have been local to the press box. Not sure.
by Eric Stephen on Jun 27, 2011 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions
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