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Former Royals owner David Glass, who sold team in November, dies at 84

Kansas City Royals owner David Glass reacts as he watches batting practice before the team's baseball game against the Chicago Cubs at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)
Kansas City Royals owner David Glass died last week after an illness. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)

The Kansas City Royals announced former owner and chairman David Glass died last week. He was 84.

Glass sold the team to John Sherman last fall. The two businessmen came to an agreement in August and the deal was finalized in November. He owned the team for 20 years after his family acquired it in April 2000. Under Glass’s ownership, the Royals won the 2015 World Series, their first in 30 years joining the 1985 title, and back-to-back American League pennants in 2014 and ’15.

Senior vice president of baseball operations and general manager Dayton Moore said in a team statement:

“Mr. Glass loved this game, this team, and our city with all his heart. He cared deeply for our fans and for the future of baseball. But above all, Mr. Glass placed an emphasis on putting family first, which is what he stressed to our entire organization. We are forever grateful for his humble and supportive leadership, and we are beyond blessed that we were a part of his incredible life. Our thoughts and prayers are with his very special family.”

Glass, who bought the team for $96 million in 2000, sold the team to Sherman, a former Cleveland Indians minority owner, for $1 billion. The deal was formally announced by the Royals less than two months ago on Nov. 26, 2019.

At the time of the sale, Glass was reportedly undergoing health problems. He said in a statement the decision to sell was difficult and that the family believed it found a “great steward” for the franchise going forward. The ownership group consists of a large group of investors as well as actor and Kansas City sports fan Eric Stonestreet, best known for his role on “Modern Family.”

Sherman, 64, is the third owner in Royals history since its inception in 1969. His statement, in part:

“Like so many Kansas Citians, I am deeply saddened by the news of David’s passing. His voice among other owners was so respected; he served on and led several Major League Baseball committees to better our game. His passion for baseball and love for Kansas City was the driving force in bringing success on the field for this franchise.”

Glass was an active member of MLB committees and boards. He was elected to the Board of Directors of the Baseball Hall of Fame in July 2000, per his Royals bio. He was previously the president and chief executive officer of Walmart for 12 years.

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