Ron Fowler, who has been with the San Diego Padres since 2012, will be stepping down as the team’s Executive Chairman, handing off the reins to longtime partner Peter Seidler. The decision has already been approved by the other 29 team owners.
“I have had the privilege to lead the Padres and to participate at the highest level of Major League Baseball over the last eight years; however, it’s time to step back,” Fowler said. “I am confident that Peter will lead this franchise to even greater success over the next decade.”
Now-chairman Peter Seidler had this to say,
“The reality of it is we’ve all worked together for a long time now. The best transitions are fluid. I expect this will be very fluid. Ron and I have been partners for eight years and I think we’ll be partners for many years going forward.
I greatly appreciate the support of Commissioner Manfred and the other MLB team owners and am excited to assume the responsibilities of control person and Chairman. The Padres hold a special place in San Diego and our organization will continue to work tirelessly to bring consistent championship quality baseball to our supportive and deserving fans. I particularly want to thank Ron for being instrumental in building outstanding qualities including a strong work ethic, an entrepreneurial spirit and a focus on continuous improvement into the foundation of our franchise.”
While Fowler won’t be the chairman anymore, he’s not stepping away from the team entirely; he will instead serve an advisory role. According to the San Diego Union Tribune, he will also retain a prominent role in baseball’s labor negotiations and maintain his place on various league committees.
Photo via Orlando Ramirez/Associated Press
