The San Diego Padres confirmed on Saturday that they would be sold to a new ownership group led by billionaire José Feliciano and his wife Kwanza Jones.
“This is about more than baseball,” the couple said in a statement. “It’s about boosting the pride, energy, and connection that define the Padres, investing in community, deepening belonging, and ensuring this team remains accessible and endures for generations. We are all in — with the goal of bringing a World Series championship to San Diego.”
The sale must still be approved by Major League Baseball. Feliciano and Jones’ group had reportedly offered a record-setting $3.9 billion to acquire the team. The Padres have been valued at around $3.1 billion.
By comparison, the ownership group that included the Seidler family had bought the team in August 2012 for around $800 million. Current team chairman John Seidler’s brother, Peter, served in that position until his death in November 2023. Two years after his passing, the family announced that it would explore selling the team, which touched off a legal fight that was resolved in February 2026.
“This is a bittersweet moment for us as we reflect on what the Padres have accomplished since my brother Peter became the steward of the franchise,” John Seidler said in a statement. “I congratulate Kwanza, José, and the Padres, and wish them nothing but success. We look forward to a smooth transition.”
Feliciano is also part of the ownership group leading the English Premier League squad Chelsea FC. Jones has a history of philanthrophic efforts, including serving on the board of directors for the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
