Volume
1 Issue 4 - June 2001
Donald V. Watkins
"...Watkins still has interest in ownership of a professional sports team, MLB or otherwise..."
After being highlighted in virtually every major media outlet for his ownership pursuit of Major League Baseball's Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Donald V. Watkins has decided to put the project on the back burner. The Rays had reportedly looked into retaining an investment banker to evaluate the teams' financial future, including the possibility of selling the team. Watkins contacted the team and the league to express his interest in ownership of the franchise. Forbes magazine recently valued the team at $150 million.
An official response was not forthcoming. After setting a deadline for a decision from the team, Watkins received a fax from Rays managing general partner Vince Naimoli saying, "We have not retained an investment banker, but when and if we do, we would certainly make them aware of your letter and provide a copy to them."
Though Watkins still has interest in ownership of a professional sports team, MLB or otherwise, he has switched gears to develop another venture in California. According to Watkins, the California deal does not involve sports.
Related Links:
Birmingham News - If Devil Rays want to sell, Watkins ready
Related Links:
USA Today (full story)- Watkins wants to 'begin due diligence'
Related Links:
ESPN.com - Watkins interested in buying D-Rays
Related Links:
CNNSI.com - Alabama banker interested in Rays
Related Links:
St. Petersburg Times- Rays catch the eye of Alabama bank chairman
Related Links:
Tampa Bay Online - Alabama businessman has interest in Rays
Related Links:
Montgomery Advertiser - Watkins gives Devil Rays Friday deadline
Related Links:
Montgomery Advertiser - Devil Rays in no hurry to sell team
back to the top
SIEGELMAN FAILS LEADERSHIP TEST
Commentary By: Donald V. Watkins
U.S. SENATOR JEFFORDS SPLITS FROM REPUBLICAN PARTY, POWER SHIFTS IN WASHINGTON
SPECIAL BULLETIN:
LEGISLATIVE SESSION ENDS WITH GOOD NEWS FOR CONSUMERS
ALFRED SEAWRIGHT KNOWN AS "RISING POLITICAL LEADER"
WATKINS RESIGNS ASU TRUSTEE POSITION (the actual resignation letter)
Q: WHY WOMEN? A: WHY NOT WOMEN?
By: Natalie Davis
MIDDLE CLASS BLACK VOTERS KEY TO VICTORY IN 2002 ELECTIONS
By: Artur Davis
DEVIL RAYS NOT FOR SALE, WATKINS EYES OTHER VENTURES