Cleveland's Major League Baseball team is mourning the loss of Lawrence J. Dolan, who passed away at the age of 94. Dolan, who had owned the team since 2000, died of natural causes on Sunday night, as confirmed by the Cleveland Guardians.
Described as someone who invested his entire life in Greater Cleveland, Dolan's impact on the community was profound. From his service in the United States Marines to his philanthropic endeavors and successful career in law, business, education, and sports, Dolan left a lasting legacy.
A Cleveland native, Dolan acquired the team in 2000 from Richard Jacobs for $320 million. The Dolan family, with a 75% stake in the club, holds the record for the longest-tenured ownership group in Cleveland franchise history. Paul Dolan, Larry Dolan's son, assumed the role of the team's primary control person in 2013.
Expressing their sadness at the loss, Paul Dolan highlighted his father's love for family, work, community, and local sports teams, including the Cleveland Guardians. Under Dolan's ownership, the franchise, formerly known as the Cleveland Indians, achieved significant success, winning seven American League Central Division titles and making nine postseason appearances.
Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred acknowledged Dolan's contributions to the industry, noting his commitment to mentoring young people and using the Guardians as a platform to impact Greater Cleveland. Dolan's involvement extended to serving on the Major League Executive Council, the Ownership Committee, and two labor negotiating committees.
Larry Dolan is survived by his wife, Eva, six children, and 21 grandchildren. Notably, his nephew, James Dolan, owns the New York Knicks, New York Rangers, and Madison Square Garden.
The Cleveland Guardians and the baseball community at large are mourning the loss of a visionary leader whose dedication to his hometown team and community will be remembered for years to come.
