Larry Dolan, owner of MLB’s Cleveland Guardians, died Sunday at the age of 94, the team announced Monday. Dolan, brother to Cablevision and HBO founder Charles Dolan, and uncle to Knicks and Rangers owner James Dolan, passed away due to natural causes.
“Cleveland sadly lost one of their own last night,” said Bob DiBiasio, Guardians SVP/Public Affairs, reflecting on the significant loss to the community. “Mr. Dolan invested his entire life in Greater Cleveland and impacted our community on so many levels. From his service to our country as a First Lieutenant in the United States Marines, his many philanthropic acts of kindness, to his career spanning law, business, education, and sports, many benefited from his engagement, influence, and passion. Especially in the world of sports.”
A native Clevelander, Dolan purchased the then-Indians from Dick Jacobs for $323 million back in 2000 after earlier attempts to acquire the MLB’s Cincinnati Reds and NFL’s Cleveland Browns. His tenure was marked by notable successes, including winning seven American League Central Division titles, making nine postseason appearances, and advancing to the 2016 World Series before succumbing to the Chicago Cubs.
“We are saddened by the loss of our Dad, but lucky to have him as part of our lives as long as we did,” said Paul Dolan, current owner and chairman of the Guardians, on behalf of his family. “He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who was passionate about family, work, and our community.”
Before taking over the franchise, Dolan had his share of challenges, including sparring with fellow owners like George Steinbrenner about baseball’s economic issues. “George is part of our problem,” Dolan stated back in 2002 amid debates about team spending, emphasizing how financial disparity among teams could skew competition.
The Dolan family's ownership duration is unparalleled, having the longest tenure for any owners of the franchise. This extensive involvement has led to numerous accolades, including recognition at the Greater Cleveland Sports Awards for their contributions to the community.
Born and raised in Cleveland Heights, Dolan was not just involved primarily with baseball. His professional life saw him as president and managing partner at the Chardon-based law firm Thrasher, Dinsmore, and Dolan. He also served on boards for various philanthropic organizations, showing his commitment to giving back to the community throughout his life.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed his condolences, stating, “I am saddened by the passing of Cleveland native Larry Dolan, whose family’s quarter-century ownership has made their hometown team a consistent winner and staple of their community.” This sentiment echoes the sentiments of many players and fans who knew the impact Dolan had on the Ohio sports community.
The Dolan family's stewardship became notable during the club's transition from the Indians to the Guardians, which was finalized prior to the 2022 season. This change reflected not only awareness but respect for the broader community and its sentiments.
Despite criticism often directed at Dolan during his tenure for perceived lack of investment, the franchise enjoyed competitive success during his leadership, most recently evidenced by playoff appearances and performance improvements. The Guardians reached the ALCS before falling to the New York Yankees, continuing their pursuit of breaking the franchise's title drought dating back to 1948.
Dolan's passion for the game permeated through the organization, evidenced by the endurance of managerial staff and the winning edges they have developed collectively. The community, his family, and the stories shared reflected how deeply he connected with his roots and how grounded he stayed throughout his life.
Neil, who served as pitching coach, stated previously, “I just want to see it happen,” alluding to the desire for the team to win at least one World Series for the Dolan family legacy, highlighting the close connections between the family, the team, and the Cleveland faithful. Larry J. Dolan left behind not only his wife, Eva, but also six children and 21 grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many.