A "mystery group," which includes two former owners of
major U.S. pro sports teams, "have approached" Interbrew SA
about purchasing the Blue Jays, according to Tony Van Alphen
of the TORONTO STAR. The group's lawyer has told Interbrew
SA in a "confidential" letter that it wants to move quickly
with an offer and that "money would not be an impediment."
The group's letter does not identify backers but it reveals
"previous owners of other professional sports franchises" --
including one from MLB. A source said the group "hopes to
meet with the Jays owners in the next seven to 10 days with
a view of making an offer" (TORONTO STAR, 10/18).
WHERE DO WE GO FRUM HERE? In Toronto, Simmons & Elliott
report that prospective Jays Owner Murray Frum was still
"confident his group is close to a deal." Frum: "Our
lawyers are extremely close to having this completed." Frum
said "he was told by Interbrew Director Allan Chapin that
another bidder had entered the picture." More Frum:
"Interbrew advised us they have received a letter, but
they're not taking it very seriously" (TORONTO SUN, 10/20).
