Michael Bloomberg, Mets Owner? Billionaire Mayor Not Interested
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/ AP) — As a billionaire, Mayor Michael Bloomberg could afford to buy the Mets. But that's one job that he's not looking to step into after he leaves City Hall.
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The mayor was asked by a reporter on Wednesday if he'd be interested in buying the team.
"Look the Mets are fun and I like going, I think Citi Field turned out fine," he replied, according to the New York Observer. "Why anybody wants to own a sports team, I can't figure out."
Bloomberg said he already faces tough scrutiny from the press without owning a team.
"I like the Wilpons. They are nice people," he added. "I've known the family for a while. I wish them -- hopefully they work themselves out of their fiscal problems. I like to go and I like to have a beer, and some popcorn and enjoy."
The Mets have been in financial turmoil following three seasons of losing records at Citi Field and a lawsuit filed by the trustee seeking to recover money for victims of the Bernard Madoff Ponzi scheme.
A trial is scheduled for next month; the trustee is seeking $386 million.
A $200 million minority ownership deal with hedge funder David Einhorn fell through in September. The Mets are now trying to sell smaller shares of the franchise at $20 million apiece.
Do you think Mayor Bloomberg would make a good franchise owner? Sound off in the comments below...
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