Dodgers Owner Frank McCourt wants L.A. Superior Court Judge Scott Gordon “to clear the way for a lucrative television contract” for the team, while his ex-wife Jamie “wants the judge to order the Dodgers sold,” according to Bill Shaikin of the L.A. TIMES. Gordon on Thursday set June 22 “as the date he would hear both issues.” But MLB “could seize the Dodgers and put them up for sale if Frank McCourt cannot meet their May 31 payroll." MLB Commissioner Bud Selig "does not appear inclined to wait for the court hearing before taking action.” A source said of Frank McCourt, "If he doesn't make payroll, it's over." Shaikin reports Frank and Jamie McCourt also “agreed to renew settlement talks on May 26, with Gordon as the mediator.” Frank McCourt has asked Gordon “either to approve a proposed television contract with Fox” or to rule that his ex-wife "has no say in the deal.” Sources said that Fox “does not plan to move forward with a contract without assurances that Jamie McCourt would not challenge it in court.” A source said that “potential opposition from Jamie McCourt is not the only factor in Selig's consideration of the deal.” The source said it is "not impossible" that investigation could be concluded by May 31 (L.A. TIMES, 5/20).
