MLB appoints representative to monitor operations of L.A. Dodgers

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MLB appoints representative to monitor operations of L.A. Dodgers

2011-04-26 04:15:58 GMT+7 (ICT)

MIAMI, FLORIDA (BNO NEWS) -- Major League Baseball (MLB) on Monday announced that Thomas Schieffer was appointed to monitor operations of Los Angeles Dodgers franchise.

Schieffer, former president of the Texas Rangers, was designated by MLB Commissioner Bud Selig to be his representative in oversight of the day-to-day operations, business and finances of the club.

"We are very fortunate to have someone of Tom Schieffer's stature monitor the operations of the Los Angeles Dodgers on behalf of Major League Baseball," said Selig. "I am grateful for Tom's acceptance of this role."

Schieffer, 63, served three terms as a Democrat in the Texas House of Representatives, was the U.S. Ambassador to Australia from 2001-20005 and was the U.S. Ambassador to Japan from 2005-2009.

"Tom is a distinguished public servant who has represented the nation with excellence and has demonstrated extraordinary leadership throughout his career," said the Commissioner . "The many years that he spent managing the operations of a successful franchise will benefit the Dodgers and MLB as a whole."

Last Wednesday, the league took over operations of Los Angeles Dodgers, one of MLB's greatest franchises, due to the financial issues of owner Frank McCourt. Selig said the action was taken in the best interests of the club.

Previously, McCourt requested a $30-million loan from Fox Broadcasting Company in order to meet the first payroll of the season. The Dodgers' owner has bee under the spotlight due to his divorce from Jamie McCourt, his wife of 29 years who also served as CEO of the club until 2009.

This is the third time in recent MLB history that the Commissioner's office has taken over operations of a club. Last year, the Texas Rangers, the American League champions, were placed under operational control of MLB. The situation was resolved in a bankruptcy court and the team was sold for $550 million.

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