Franchise Notes

In DC, Barry Svrluga reports American Baseball Capital (ABC) –- formerly the Virginia Baseball Club –- “submitted an application to buy the Nationals, just beating yesterday’s deadline.” The group is led by William Collins. ABC’s bid “brings the total to at least six applicants who have paid the required $100,000 fee to enter the bidding for the” team (WASHINGTON POST, 2/1).

KEEP THE FAITH: In L.A., Bill Shaikin reports Anaheim officials in an open letter to Anaheim citizens “vowed to continue their court fight against the Angels’ name change but urged fans to support the team and its players.” The letter stated the players “are not a part of this misguided marketing effort and should not be punished or faulted for the decisions of the front office.” The letter, which was signed by Anaheim Mayor Curt Pringle and the city council, appeared January 27 as a full-page ad in the Anaheim Bulletin and the Anaheim Hills News (L.A. TIMES, 2/1).

RETURNING SERVE: In Boston, Bud Collins reports the Boston Lobsters, which folded in ’78, are back in World TeamTennis (WTT) under the ownership of Bahar Uttam. Uttam two years ago sold his technology firm, Synetics, and is “devoted to bringing pro tennis back to Boston.” Uttam: “We’ve got a logo, season ticket (packages), and sponsorship plans.” WTT co-Founder Billie Jean King said, “We’re glad to have Boston back in the league. It’s always been a good tennis town” (BOSTON GLOBE, 2/1). Patriots Owner Bob Kraft owned the franchise from ’77-78 (THE DAILY).