MLB President of Business & Media
Bob Bowman will step down at the end of the year, concluding a 17-year run that catapulted baseball into a tech innovator and helped transform how sports fans consume digital content. Bowman, 62, said he would not seek a contract extension when his current one expires next month and that his decision was fueled in part by the recent completion of the BAMTech deal with Disney. “Recognizing the enormous talent pool that exists at MLB and MLB.com, it is an ideal time for new leadership,” said Bowman, who conferred with MLB Commissioner
Rob Manfred for several weeks on the decision.
Manfred in a statement said, “I understand Bob’s desire to step away and respect his decision. Like the owners of our 30 clubs, I am grateful for his groundbreaking work that he and his team have performed for our sport. Bob’s vision made our game even more accessible and enjoyable to millions of fans. He and I will work closely to ensure a smooth transition in the weeks ahead.”
Bowman was hired in '00 by then-MLB Commissioner Bud Selig from online retailer Outpost.com to oversee the newly formed MLBAM, where he would go on to lead the development of every major digital product and initiative for baseball. Some of those creations include the MLB.com At Bat and Ballpark mobile apps, the MLB.TV streaming video service and in-market streaming for 27 clubs, Statcast and BAMTech. At Bat in particular is the highest grossing sports app of all time, and the Disney-BAMTech deal generated more than $50M for each owner. In late '14, Bowman was elevated to his current position as part of the commissioner transition from Selig to Manfred.
