Dolphins owner Stephen Ross wants in on Marlins sale

Nov 27, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins Stephen Ross looks on in the game against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. The Miami Dolphins defeat the San Francisco 49ers 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins Stephen Ross looks on in the game against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. The Miami Dolphins defeat the San Francisco 49ers 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Miami Marlins are up for sale. Marlin fans are anxiously awaiting news that the team is no longer in the hands of Jeffrey Loria. They may get a familiar face.

Rumors have circulated in recent days that former Yankee great Derek Jeter and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush are interested in buying the franchise. Now it seems that Stephen Ross may be joining them in their pursuit of the team. Not as a partner but on his own.

Under NFL rules, Ross can own two franchises provided the teams are both in the same city. Ross has spent much of his time in Miami being ridiculed by his decisions with the Dolphins but fans are realizing that his passion for sports is undeniable and he is learning every year more and more about being an owner.

As to Jeb Bush, it’s a family thing. His brother George W. Bush, former U.S. President owned a majority share in the Texas Rangers and served as the managing partner before selling his shares ahead of his bid for the Texas governor position.

Marlins fans have been livid with the direction the team has gone under Loria especially after the team moved into their own stadium. Loria quickly dumped his roster to save money and the team went downhill quick.

According to Douglas Hanks of the Miami Herald, Ross’ interest in the team is tepid at this point. His interest would increase and possibly his pursuit if Loria drops his asking price which according to ProFootballTalk.com is in the $1.2 – $1.3 billion dollar range. The owner would also receive the stadium as well.

Many will question whether Ross’ ownership of the Marlins would be good for his other property the Miami Dolphins. However Ross tends to stay out of the way when it comes to business decisions. With his reality businesses and entertainment businesses he may be stretched rather thin should he buy the Marlins.

For now it’s a long shot but there is interest there apparently. For the fans, it could be a favorable development. As Dolphins fans know, Ross isn’t afraid to spend money to build his franchise. The Marlins need that kind of ownership who has as much commitment to the team as he does the fan base.