The Cleveland Guardians have announced the passing of owner Lawrence “Larry” Dolan at age 94. As stated in a post on the team’s official account on X/Twitter, Dolan purchased Cleveland’s Major League Baseball franchise from Richard Jacobs on February 15, 2000, for $323 million.
While the MLB approved his son, Paul, to be the Guardians’ primary control person in 2013, the older Dolan remained a central figure within the franchise. Under his ownership, the Guardians won seven American League Central titles, nine playoff appearances, and one World Series stint.
Before becoming the Guardians’ owner, Dolan attended Notre Dame, wherein he met his wife, Eva. He enlisted with the U.S. Marine Corps after his graduation and practiced law after his military stint.
The Cleveland Guardians are saddened to announce the passing of Lawrence Dolan, owner of the Cleveland Guardians.
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) February 24, 2025
Larry purchased the Cleveland Baseball Club on February 15, 2000, from Richard Jacobs. The 2025 season is the 26th year of ownership for the Dolan family, the… pic.twitter.com/NrUYg62mtg
In addition to owning the Guardians, Dolan also founded the regional sports network SportsTime Ohio, now known as FanDuel Sports Network Great Lakes. Meanwhile, his nephew, James L. Dolan, owns the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers.
Lawrence Dolan is survived by his wife, Eva, their six children, and 21 grandchildren.
-Lance Fernandez