SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — A legal dispute has erupted among the heirs of late San Diego Padres owner Peter Seidler, with his widow, Sheel Seidler, filing a lawsuit against Peter's brothers, Matthew and Robert Seidler, to regain control of the franchise. The lawsuit, filed Monday in Texas probate court, alleges serious breaches of fiduciary duty and fraud by the brothers, claiming they misappropriated estate assets for personal gain.
Following Peter’s unexpected death in November 2023, Sheel alleges her brothers-in-law conspired to diminish her role and take actions contrary to Peter’s expressed wishes. According to Sheel’s complaint, Peter’s intention was clear — to have her succeed him as the Padres’ control person.
“Earlier today, I filed a complaint against Matthew Seidler and Robert Seidler to protect my family and to continue to carry out Peter’s legacy,” Sheel posted on X (formerly Twitter). Her statement expresses her commitment to upholding Peter's vision for the team during this tumultuous time.
The complaint claims the brothers acted as stewards of Peter's estate yet engaged in efforts to erase his legacy, alleging they worked to solidify their control over the franchise instead. They reportedly plan to appoint their brother, John Seidler, as the new control person for the Padres, which Sheel contests vehemently, stating her late husband wanted her and their children to follow him with the franchise.
Sheel Seidler’s statement underscored the emotional weight of the situation: “This was not a decision I made lightly. During this difficult period, I have done everything to avoid unwanted distractions and resolve the matter privately,” she mentioned. Nevertheless, she feels compelled to take legal action for the sake of her children and Peter’s legacy.
Sheel alleges the brothers engaged in intimidating behavior, including sending threatening letters from attorneys when she questioned their management of the estate. The lawsuit details how Peter had expressed wishes about his succession plan, even documenting them with handwritten notes listing Sheel first, followed by their children. She claims his brothers are overlooking these wishes and attempting to establish themselves as Peter’s rightful successors.
The lawsuit describes various alleged misappropriations of estate assets, including the controlling stake in the Padres and interest in Seidler Kutsenda Management Company, Peter’s private equity firm. “They have schemed to take the estate and the Seidler Trust’s assets for themselves,” the complaint states, asserting they attempted to sell trust assets to themselves for below their market value.
Adding to the emotional turmoil, Sheel accuses Robert’s wife, Alecia Seidler, of making racist and profane comments directed at her. The complaint cites instances of dehumanizing and hostile communications, complicity among family members, and the stress this has wrought.
Since Peter's passing, Sheel asserts she and her children have been pushed aside by the brothers. The allegations highlight how the brothers are allegedly trying to keep Sheel and her children out of the owner’s box at Petco Park, emphasizing the fractured familial ties following Peter’s death. The lawsuit claims she has been subjected to hostility and ostracism from the organization they once stood united within.
Meanwhile, the Padres organization has offered no public comments on the pending lawsuit, adhering to its policy of refraining from discussing legal matters. A spokesman stated, "We do not comment on pending legal matters," which has only fueled speculation among Padres fans and analysts alike.
Peter Seidler was known for transforming the Padres from perennial bottom dwellers to playoff contenders, exemplified by aggressive spending on star players such as Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado under his leadership. His unexpected death has opened up not only the question of control over the franchise, but also concerns over its future financial direction. The lawsuit injects uncertainty during the offseason, expected to be pivotal for the team’s competitive strategy.
Currently, John Seidler’s appointment as the control person is pending approval by Major League Baseball, creating added tension as the league often requires at least one key individual hold significant ownership. Whether Sheel’s lawsuit will alter or delay this process remains to be seen.
“For the past 13 years, you — the Padres fans — have shown such incredible kindness to me, our children, and, of course, Peter,” Sheel stated. She reaffirmed her commitment to the team and community, emphasizing her desire to build upon their previously established successes for the benefit of future endeavors.
Fans are watching closely as this family dispute plays out, framing it as not just about ownership but about the future direction of the Puerto Veneno franchise, which carries the hopes and dreams of its community. While speculations mount about how this could shape the Padres' mission, Sheel has made it abundantly clear: she will do what it takes to protect her children's legacy, her husband's dreams, and the team they all cherish.