Getting Five To One: Share Of D'Rays Sale Gets Informal OK

Sternberg Not Expected To Receive Shares Of Team Until After Season Begins

MLB President & COO Bob DuPuy and VP/Administration John McHale Jr. "informally endorsed" the "impending sale of a large portion of" the D'Rays to Stuart Sternberg, according to Carter Gaddis of the TAMPA TRIBUNE, who noted Sternberg is trying to purchase 48% of the team from Chris Sullivan, Bob Basham, Mark Bostick, Bill Griffin and Daniel Doyle Sr. DuPuy: "I think any time you consolidate a group of owners with someone who shows an interest in coming to a club, and someone with Mr. Sternberg's wherewithal and commitment, it's a positive sign for the game." Gaddis noted the purchase "has cleared the standard administrative hurdles set forth by the commissioner's office, including a background check, but details remain to be worked out and Sternberg isn't expected to receive his shares of the team until after the regular season begins." D'Rays Managing General Partner Vince Naimoli would maintain control of the franchise as his 35% interest includes certain "control" shares (TAMPA TRIBUNE, 3/13).