Patrick Soon-Shiong signals interest if Dodgers owner Mark Walter ever puts team up for sale

Dodgers president Stan Kasten reiterated that majority owner Mark Walter has no plans to sell the franchise, despite speculation fueled by a federal probe into insurance firms tied to Walter’s businesses and a resulting cash crunch. The investigation, which has not produced charges, has prompted observers to watch for any shift in Walter’s stance. Patrick Soon-Shiong, one outlet owner who finished second in the 2012 Dodgers auction, told his lawyer he would be willing to lead an investment group if the team ever entered the market.

Industry sources estimate a potential valuation of $10 billion to $13 billion, considerably higher than the $2.15 billion purchase price that secured Walter’s ownership. The Dodgers are described as the “crown jewel” of Walter’s sports holdings, which also include the Los Angeles Lakers, recently sold to a consortium led by Bob Iger and Joshua Kushner. Soon-Shiong’s interest follows his past attempts to acquire other Los Angeles sports assets, such as AEG and the Angels. No formal discussions have taken place, and Walter’s firm TWG Global has not responded to comment requests.