In DC, Steven Goff cites sources as saying that MLS
"might take over" DC United's operations in the "wake of the
collapse" of the team's "long-awaited" sale to N.Y.
investment firm Warburg Pincus. Washington Soccer L.P. put
the club on the market "almost two years ago and apparently
has not answered the league's periodic cash-calls in some
time." A takeover "probably wouldn't have a significant
impact" on the team's daily business or result in any front-
office moves. But MLS "would handle the primary efforts to
sell the club's operating rights, reducing Washington Soccer
L.P.'s role in negotiations" (WASHINGTON POST, 10/12).
BUCS UP TIX PRICES: In Pittsburgh, Chuck Finder reports
that "as expected," the Pirates revealed that ticket prices
will go up as the team moves into PNC Park. $20 seats in
Three Rivers Stadium went up, "for the most part," to $23
and $25 in PNC Park. Outfield line seat prices increased
15%, baseline box seats 25%, prime dugout box seats 75% and
first-level outfield seats 160%. However, seat prices in
the second level of right and left field decreased 10%.
Team execs said the average ticket price in PNC Park is
$19.24, which they contend "falls into the middle of the
other new major-league homeowners" (POST-GAZETTE, 10/12).
