MLB lockout developments reflect influence of private equity investments

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 28, 2026, 4:01 AM

Last updated Sep 28, 2026

MLB lockout developments reflect influence of private equity investments
Summary

The MLB lockout scenario continues to evolve as private equity investments shape ownership's strategies. Teams, such as the Boston Red Sox, have made significant moves in negotiations, with Rafael Devers re-signing for a record $331 million after challenging the team's leverage. In contrast, player negotiations face obstacles due to ownership's push for a systemic salary cap and reduced labor costs, potentially affecting players' earnings. Estimates suggest the proposed changes could cost players over $500 million annually. Ownership has secured substantial financial backing, creating a disparity in resilience during negotiations.

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By the Numbers
  • •Rafael Devers signs a record $331 million deal with the Red Sox.
  • •Ownership is seeking to implement a salary cap to control costs.
  • •The MLB Players Association estimates a $500 million annual loss due to proposed cap changes.
  • •Private equity has taken minority stakes in 18 MLB teams since 2019.
  • •Teams have withheld $75 million each from central fund distributions during the lockout.
Latest Updates
  • 4:01 AMYahoo Sports — The MLB Lockout Now Runs on Private Equity
What they're saying
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Today’s guest columnist is Chris Koras, partner and head of sports at Working Capital Partners. In December 2022, I flew to the Dominican Republic to break a year-long contract stalemate. Our firm represented Rafael Devers. The Boston Red Sox had sent ownership and front-office executives to settle the negotiation directly with the player, hoping relationship …

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