San Diego Padres in Custody Battle Over Team Ownership
The San Diego Padres are embroiled in a custody battle over team ownership, with the widow of former owner Peter Seidler, Sheel Kamal Seidler, suing his two brothers, Matt and Bob, to take control of the team. Sheel alleges that Peter revealed his dying wish was for her to take control of the team, followed by their children, and that their children hold the largest stake in ownership. She also claims that Matt and Bob are attempting to erase Peter’s legacy and falsely portray themselves as his true heirs.
The lawsuit, which was filed in a California court, accuses Matt and Bob of breaching their fiduciary duty and fraud, and alleges that Bob’s wife made multiple racist, profane, and hateful communications directed at Sheel, who is of Indian descent.
Sheel released a statement addressing the complaint, saying, “I would urge anyone who is interested in the details to read the full complaint. This was not a decision I made lightly. During this difficult period, I have done everything in my power to avoid unwanted distractions and resolve the matter privately. I have focused on supporting the work of the many dedicated professionals within the Padres organization, as well as the incredible players we have the privilege of watching nearly every day throughout the season.”
Matt, on the other hand, released a statement claiming that Sheel’s allegations are “without merit.” “The complaint filed by Sheel Seidler is entirely without merit,” he said. “Peter had a clear estate plan. The plan specifically named three of his nine siblings, with whom he had worked closely for many decades, as successor trustees of his trust, and Peter himself prohibited Sheel from ever serving as trustee.”
Peter Seidler passed away in November 2023 at the age of 63, after a long illness. He was a cancer survivor and had dealt with health issues for many years.