Report: Marlins under investigation for business practices

((ht: yahoo sports))

Miami Marlins

All we'll say before getting into this and it isn't directed specifically at the Marlins but rather pro sports in general is--"It's about time!".

Yahoo Sports reporter Jeff Passan says the Security and Exchange Commission has opened an investigation to the team...and Major League Baseball's dealings with the local government in Miami in regards to building the teams new stadium.

Among the concerns voiced: How and why the city never asked to look at the teams finances before agreeing to fund 80% of the $600 million stadium. Especially since the team was citing financial ruin, when in fact they were flush in profits. The report also voiced concerns that team owner Jeffery Loria was funneling money to a separate corporation and not reporting it.

And yes, there are serious implications of bribery and/or deception here. If it can be proven, it will get ugly. Very ugly.

Read the entire Yahoo story RIGHT HERE

This story bring up two HUGE issues with professional sports and the blackmail-like hold they seem to hold over cities and the general public.

Cities around the country are having major financial issues and yet are asked on a regular basis to either fork over money to build a stadium to keep their team or to continue to pay millions to cover the debt on stadiums for fear of repercussions. And yes ticket buyer and taxpayer, ultimately that cost is passed on to you.

It is a never-ending cycle of building the newest facilities with the latest amenities to attract the ultimate Luxury Suite buyer, not you. Who do you think the Minnesota legislature is going to pass the cost of a new Vikings stadium (should it be built) on to? Sure the team will contribute a little, but ultimately you, Minnesota resident will pay for it.

As for this story in Florida, yeah, it is pretty amazing that the city and/or county seemed to be able to secure an immense amount of financing for the Marlins despite the eroding city and county infrastructure. Never mind the fact the Marlins have been of the, if not the worst drawing team in Major League Baseball for years. We don't believe a new stadium will fix that. And as for Loria having the money to pay more for it. Sure he should have, but it would appear on the surface at least that the politicians who should have asked him to do it, never thought it would be an appropriate question.