New York Mets: Three observations on the Steve Cohen sale

Observation #2: Cohen’s group has leaked very little information

This leads me to my next observation. This is the second time that Cohen has surfaced as a major player to purchase the Mets. Twice, the idea of a rare change in ownership has occurred surrounding a major franchise in the midst of the New York media.

And yet, how much do we really know about the details? Cohen and company have kept the important information surprisingly quiet considering the circumstances. At no point has information been released without their approval. This is a breath of fresh air following an administration famous for their dysfunction.

We also don’t have any idea what Cohen is thinking in terms of baseball. He has yet to divulge any information concerning his plans for the franchise, vision, spending exceptions, front office or coaching changes, etc.

It can be assumed that Cohen has plenty of connections in the baseball world. He may also be interested in making changes and implementing “his people” in key roles. Yet, he has kept these details private throughout the process thus far. When you look at the best sports owners, a defining trait seems to be an absence of boisterous public opinions and meddling. Many top individuals are largely faceless and even nameless in the minds of the average sports fan. Their focus is on their business, building a healthy culture, and setting their franchises up for maximum success.

An owner with the ability to limit leaks, speak strategically, and control information is something most Mets fans will sign up for in a heartbeat. I certainly know I would!

Observation #3: Ownership vetoes are very rare

The news that Cohen and the Wilpon’s ownership group have agreed to a sale is a major hurdle. In fact, considering the state of the last round of negotiations, it was likely the biggest challenge. There is, however, one other major event that must take place for the sale to become official: a vote by the 29 remaining owners.

The sale to Cohen must be approved by 22 of the 29 other owners for the deal to become official. Fans who know the Mets history of disappointment are likely still afraid something will occur between now and that point.

However, it should be known that a curveball at this point in the process would be quite rare. At this stage, the vote should be considered more of a formality than a concern.

There is some precedent for a sale being denied during an ownership change. The last occurrence was in 2012 when Jeff Moorad attempted to purchase the San Diego Padres, but was voted down by owners. However, there were a number of extenuating factors that are not concerns in the case of the Mets.

One can also be certain that MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has some handle on the situation for it to reach this stage. A sale falling through without just cause in the eleventh hour would be a stain on the league as a whole. It would be shocking if the vote did not easily pass.

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Nothing is official until after the vote, but there is very little reason to fear.