Washington, D.C. – Throughout the history of Washington-area sports teams, the curse of terrible owners has been a prevailing theme. From overtly racist figures to those driven by greed, the city has seen its fair share of disappointing leadership. However, a recent shift in ownership may signal a turning point for local sports.
In the 1950s, Washington faced the reign of Calvin Griffith and George Preston Marshall, owners of the city’s MLB and NFL franchises, known for their poor records and unethical practices. Following them was Bob Short, who infamously moved the expansion Senators to Texas. Fans, including the author, put a curse on the Rangers, vowing they would never win a championship until Washington celebrated a World Series victory – a hex that seemingly held true.
Now, with the departure of Daniel M. Snyder and the passing of Peter G. Angelos, the Washington sports scene may finally be breaking free from a multigenerational era of awful ownership. Snyder, widely regarded as one of the worst owners in sports history, left a legacy marred by financial scandals and allegations of misconduct. Angelos, known for his harmful impact on baseball in D.C., left many in the industry with stories of a toxic workplace culture.
Despite these challenges, there is hope on the horizon. New ownership, such as that of Josh Harris for the Commanders, brings promise of positive change. The recent roster overhaul under general manager Adam Peters has instilled confidence in fans, with strategic signings and a focus on teambuilding for the future.
While transitions in ownership offer potential for improvement, challenges still persist. The Lerner family continues to run the Nationals, with room for growth and development. However, the failed bid by Ted Leonsis to acquire the team last year highlights the uncertainty that lingers in the sports landscape.
As the Commanders and Orioles undergo rebuilds and transitions in ownership, the future of Washington sports remains uncertain. The resolution of ongoing disputes, such as the MASN agreement, and efforts to improve the fan experience will play a crucial role in shaping the success of the teams moving forward. Despite past disappointments, there is a sense of cautious optimism that brighter days may be ahead for Washington sports.