The San Diego Padres could be headed for a major ownership shakeup, and this time, it’s more than just whispers. Since the passing of longtime owner Peter Seidler in 2023, there’s been plenty of speculation about the future of the franchise-and now, that speculation is starting to take shape. The team, currently valued at $2.31 billion, appears to be drawing serious interest from a growing list of potential buyers.
One of the most notable names in the mix? Joe Lacob, the current owner of the Golden State Warriors.
Lacob has made no secret of his desire to break into Major League Baseball ownership. He previously tried to acquire both the Los Angeles Angels and the Oakland A’s, but came up short.
Now, with the Seidler family reportedly preparing to sell, the Padres could offer him the opportunity he’s been waiting for.
Lacob’s track record in the NBA speaks for itself. Under his leadership, the Warriors built one of the most dominant dynasties in recent memory-four championships, a revolutionary style of play, and a culture of sustained excellence. If he were to bring that same vision and infrastructure to San Diego, it could be a game-changer for a franchise that’s been knocking on the door of long-term success.
And when you look at the Padres' current roster, it’s not hard to see the parallels. The Warriors had their star-powered core-Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and later Kevin Durant.
The Padres? They’ve got Fernando Tatis Jr., Xander Bogaerts, Manny Machado, and rising star Jackson Merrill.
That’s a foundation built to win now, and with the right ownership group, it could be the start of something big in the NL West.
But Lacob isn’t the only name in the conversation. Across the Atlantic, European soccer ownership is also showing interest.
Dan Friedkin, who owns Serie A club AS Roma, is reportedly considering a bid. Friedkin’s involvement would bring a different kind of sports-business acumen to the table-one shaped by the global football market and the high-stakes world of European club ownership.
What’s clear is that whoever steps in next will be inheriting a roster with serious potential and a fan base hungry for consistent contention. The Padres have already made significant investments in elite talent, and most of that core is locked in for the foreseeable future. The right owner won’t be starting from scratch-they’ll be stepping into a team that’s built to compete.
This isn’t just a business transaction. It’s a pivotal moment for a franchise that’s been on the cusp of something special. With the right leadership at the top, the Padres could take the next step from “dangerous on paper” to “perennial powerhouse.”
The sale process is still in its early stages, but the interest is real, and the stakes are high. For Padres fans, there’s every reason to be optimistic. A new chapter is coming-and it might just be the one that finally brings sustained success to San Diego.