MLB Approves $3.9 Billion Padres Sale to Feliciano and Jones
New ownership group led by Jose E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones receives unanimous approval from league owners, contingent on closing within weeks
Major League Baseball has unanimously approved the sale of the San Diego Padres to a new ownership group led by Jose E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones, a transaction valued at $3.9 billion. The deal, which establishes a new record for the highest valuation of an MLB franchise, follows the death of former principal owner Peter Seidler in 2023 and the subsequent transfer of control to his family.
League Commissioner Rob Manfred formally welcomed the new majority owners, acknowledging the stewardship of the Seidler family. Manfred noted that under Peter Seidler’s leadership, the franchise reached the postseason four times in six years and solidified its role within the San Diego community. The approval is contingent upon the formal closing of the transaction, which is expected to occur over the next few weeks.
The new ownership structure places Feliciano as the control person, with his wife and business partner, Kwanza Jones, serving as co-leaders. In a joint statement, the couple emphasised their intent to build an enduring organisation capable of competing for championships annually. They pledged to invest ambitiously in the franchise, aiming to enhance the experience at Petco Park and deepen ties with the local fanbase.
The $3.9 billion price tag significantly surpasses the previous record of $2.4 billion paid by Steve Cohen for the New York Mets. The Seidler family originally acquired the Padres for $800 million in 2012. The new owners have explicitly targeted the World Series championship, noting that the Padres are currently one of five current MLB franchises, alongside the Rays, Mariners, Brewers, and Rockies, that have never won the title.
On the field, the Padres are positioned for a playoff push, currently tied with the Philadelphia Phillies for the second wild-card spot after winning 17 of their last 22 games. The team is scheduled to begin a series against the New York Mets in New York on Monday night, as the league prepares for the 2026 postseason which commences on 29 September.
