MLB notebook: Jeter, Jeb Bush join forces in effort to buy Marlins

MLB notebook: Jeter, Jeb Bush join forces in effort to buy Marlins
AP source: Jeter, Bush join forces in bid to buy Marlins

Derek Jeter and Jeb Bush have formed a team in their attempt to buy a big-league club. The former New York Yankees star and former Florida governor have joined forces in their pursuit of the Miami Marlins, The Associated Press reported Wednesday, citing a source.

Jeter and Bush have not commented. They initially had competing interests in efforts to buy the team. The source said Quogue Capital investment fund founder Wayne Rothbaum also is interested in buying the Marlins.

Jeter has long talked about owning a franchise. Bush’s brother, former President George W. Bush, was part-owner of the Texas Rangers from 1989-1998.

Last week, Marlins president David Samson said talks with multiple parties interested in buying the team were in the “fourth inning.” He said owner Jeffrey Loria, 76, might sell before the end of the season — or not at all.

Price and financing could be major hurdles. Joshua Kushner, whose older brother is an adviser to President Donald Trump, had a preliminary agreement to buy the Marlins for $1.6 billion before breaking off negotiations. Loria bought the team in 2002 for $158.5 million.

Spokesmen for Jeter and Bush didn’t respond to requests for comment.

Jeter retired in 2014 after 20 seasons with the Yankees.

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