Follow LA Observed on Twitter here
Bill Shaikin of the Times caught up with Frank McCourt at the dedication of a youth baseball field in Compton. The owner of the Dodgers said selling the team wasn't his first choice, but "it became very, very clear to me that it was the right decision. I'm at peace with the decision." Excerpt:
What he would like say to the fans: "I'm very grateful to the fans. They have been phenomenal to me and my family since the day we arrived in L.A. I know the last couple years were very, very difficult. I'm very, very sorry about that. We're going to move forward and handle the situation now in as professional a way as possible and make sure the baton is passed here in a classy way."What he has endured the last two years: "It's been tough. It's been a tough couple years, no question. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. It's been a privilege to own this franchise. My focus is to make sure I hand it on in better shape than I found it."
Whether he has seller's remorse: "I've made a decision, and I'm going to stick with that decision....I'm now very, very focused on making sure I pass the baton here in a way that is as professional as possible and make sure that I hand off the franchise in better shape than I found it."
Cool. Could it be he's a stand-up guy after all? By the way, the Dodgers are apparently primed to sign outfielder Matt Kemp to a $160 million contract after one season as a star.