The St. Paul Saints will soon have new owners. According to Channel 5 ABC, on Wednesday morning, the team announced that Diamond Baseball Holdings is in the process of purchasing the team from the Goldklang Group, which has owned the team since 1992 and includes Marv Goldklang, Mike Veeck and Bill Murray.
A team spokesman said Derek Sharrer, the executive vice president and general manager who has led the organization for 20 years, will continue to do so this season. Sharrer told Channel 5 ABC that “it is the right time and the right people” for the sale to take place, and the franchise will continue to operate for his community.
“I think the best thing we can say as an organization about St. Paul and our fan base is that they get it. The Saints are built on the fans, by the fans, for the fans, and I can promise that that’s not going to change,” Sharrer said. Although the league has yet to sign off on the purchase and closing conditions must be met, the purchase is expected to be “completed soon,” according to the Saints.
Fans have shared mixed feelings about the business deal. “I always liked that Bill Murray was on the team. It was always something special to us, to have a celebrity own something here. But it shouldn’t affect us too much,” said Brett Arnold. Another fan said he “can’t put a dollar” on the Saints staying in his neighborhood, even after they change hands.
“It’s a big draw for the area. When I tell people I live in Lowertown, they immediately think of the St. Paul Saints and ask if I go to the games. Happy to see them stay? Yes, absolutely,” said Nathan Boyea. New owners are expected to take over this season.
“(The owners of the Goldklang Group) trust the people they are handing over to. They are confident in the fact that the current staff will continue in place to carry on their legacy,” Sharrer said.
