Dodgers owner Mark Walter issues statement on Bud Selig's retirement

LOS ANGELES -- Major League Baseball comissioner Bud Selig announced on Thursday, formally, his plans to retire once his term runs out on January 24, 2015. Dodgers owner and chairman Mark Walter issued a statement regarding Selig on Friday.

"Speaking as a life-long fan of the game, Bud Selig's love of baseball, its players and fans had always been obvious," Walter said. "Now, as an owner of one of the sport's most storied franchises, I can see that his respect for the integrity of the sport, its beauty and nuances are even more evident in every carefully considered decision he's made.

"Baseball's popularity, sweeping economic growth, labor peace and unity are a direct result of Bud's tireless efforts and leadership, which have had a significant impact on franchise values in every market. While the Commissioner has said he will retire after the 2014 season, we are hopeful that he will continue to lend his wisdom and support to our great game for many years to come."

Without Selig and MLB pushing to get Frank McCourt out of the game, who knows if Walter would even be a Major League owner now. Walter heads Guggenheim Partners, which purchased the Dodgers from McCourt for a record $2.15 billion in 2012.