Cleveland Guardians fans long nightmare almost over

CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 15: The new Cleveland Guardians logo hangs on the exterior of Progressive Field prior to the home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 15: The new Cleveland Guardians logo hangs on the exterior of Progressive Field prior to the home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Cleveland Guardians fans have wanted to be rid of the Dolan Family almost since the moment that they purchased the franchise. Their dream may finally be ready to come true.

The Dolan family had said that they would be looking for a new minority owner for the franchise after John Sherman purchased the Royals. That moment has come as Major League Baseball has approved the sale of a 25% stake in the Guardians to David Blitzer. This sale also includes an option for Blitzer to purchase a controlling share in the team in six years.

The countdown has begun for Cleveland Guardians ownership change

Blitzer has become a familiar figure in the sporting universe. He is also a part owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, Real Salt Lake, and the New Jersey Devils stateside, and several foreign soccer teams, including Crystal Palace F.C.

He has also been involved in professional baseball prior to this purchase. Blitzer is also a part owner of the Scranton RailRiders, the Yankees Triple-A team. As owners cannot be a part of two franchises, Blitzer may need to part with the RailRiders before the purchase becomes official.

It also remains to be seen as to how much of an impact Blitzer will have on the Guardians’ payroll. Only three teams – the A’s, Orioles, and Pirates – have spent less on their players than Cleveland this season. However, as they have locked Jose Ramirez up on a long term extension, they may explore similar deals with other key pieces of the roster.

What is clear is that Guardians fans can begin to look ahead. The countdown is on for when the Dolan’s will cede control of the franchise, something that the fanbase has been waiting for for years. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.

The Cleveland Guardians have a new minority owner in David Blitzer. It is now a matter of time before the Dolan’s are out of the picture.