News Summary
The Baltimore Orioles have confirmed that investor Mark Ein has acquired a minority stake in the franchise. This move comes as part of ongoing ownership changes led by David Rubenstein, who took full control of the team in 2024. The Orioles, valued at $1.725 billion, are focused on maintaining competitiveness and addressing pitching challenges as they lead the American League East this season. The ownership group has committed to refurbishing Orioles Park and investing in player development.
Baltimore, MD — Major League Baseball’s Baltimore Orioles have announced the recent acquisition of a minority stake in the team by investor Mark Ein, as part of ongoing changes in ownership and addressing pitching challenges.
Details of Equity Stake and Ownership Group
The team confirmed on Thursday that Mark Ein has acquired a minority stake in the Orioles. However, the specific size of Ein’s ownership share has not been disclosed. The Orioles are controlled by an ownership group led by David Rubenstein, co-founder of the Carlyle Group. Rubenstein’s group took full ownership of the Orioles on August 1, 2024, after purchasing the team from the Angelos family, who had owned it since 1993.
The group’s initial control was 70% but was finalized as full ownership following the death of former owner Peter Angelos. Rubenstein’s investment group includes notable figures such as Cal Ripken Jr., Grant Hill, Michael Bloomberg, and Kurt Schmoke. Rubenstein’s net worth is estimated at $4.6 billion, primarily accumulated through private equity ventures.
Financial Valuation and Future Plans
The team was valued at $1.725 billion, making it the third-highest sale price for a baseball franchise. Rubenstein expressed a firm commitment to maintaining a competitive team and strengthening community partnerships. Future plans include refurbishing Orioles Park and developing the surrounding area. Rubenstein also intends to inject capital into the team to support free agency pursuits and long-term contracts for promising young players.
The Orioles’ recent success includes a 101-win regular season last year, driven by rising stars such as Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson. The team is currently leading the American League East with a 65-44 record.
Management of Pitching Challenges and Player Updates
The team has encountered several pitching challenges this season, with multiple pitchers starting on the injured list. Notably, Grayson Rodriguez and Andrew Kittredge are among those affected. Both Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells, who are starters, underwent elbow surgeries last year and may be available in the second half of the season.
Additionally, Trevor Rogers is not expected to be ready for opening day due to a partial dislocation of his right kneecap. Chayce McDermott is behind schedule after suffering a lat injury. Although the club has yet to confirm closing pitcher Félix Bautista’s participation in the season opener, he is recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Spring Training Highlights and Roster Composition
Despite injury setbacks, Tomoyuki Sugano has performed well in spring training, holding a record of 1-0 with no earned runs in seven innings, striking out seven and limiting opponents to a .167 batting average. Sugano, on a one-year deal worth $13 million, has an accomplished background in Japan with the Yomiuri Giants, earning multiple MVP awards and leading in key statistics.
The team’s starting rotation is expected to include Zach Eflin, Charlie Morton, Sugano, and Dean Kremer. The fifth spot may be filled by Albert Suárez or Cade Povich.
Ownership Transition and Community Impact
The ownership transition has marked a significant change for the Orioles, which have been under the Angelos family’s control since 1993. Rubenstein’s group has also secured a long-term lease with the Maryland Stadium Authority to ensure the team remains at Camden Yards.
The franchise’s recent valuation and ownership stability aim to foster a competitive future while also focusing on enhancing the local community and stadium facilities. Rubenstein emphasized plans to work on refurbishing the ballpark and developing the area around it.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Orioles are in a period of transition, with a new owner taking the helm and an investor, Mark Ein, acquiring a minority stake. Addressing pitching injuries remains a priority, and the team’s current performance positions them well in the standings. The new ownership group’s long-term vision includes strengthening team competitiveness, investing in player development, and fostering community development to secure the franchise’s future success.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Closure of Fells Point’s Iconic Antique Shop After 35 Years
Additional Resources
- Bloomberg: Baltimore Orioles Sell Minority Stake
- Baltimore Sun: Orioles Owner Plans Camden Yards Upgrades
- ESPN: David Rubenstein Unanimously Approved as New Orioles Owner
- Sports Illustrated: Orioles Rookie Making Case for Opening Day Rotation
- CBS News: David Rubenstein’s Group Gains Full Ownership of Orioles
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
