In a stunning twist of events, the wife of late San Diego Padres owner Peter Seidler, Sheel Seidler, has filed a lawsuit against her brothers-in-law, Matthew and Robert Seidler, in a bid to prevent another brother, John, from assuming control of the team. The lawsuit alleges that Peter, who tragically passed away at the age of 63 on November 14, 2023, had intended for Sheel to succeed him as the team’s control person.
However, Matthew Seidler, one of the brothers being sued, vehemently denies the allegations leveled against him and his brother. In a letter posted on the Peter Seidler Trust’s website, Matthew stated, “Sheel’s claims against Bob and me are entirely untrue, and we will vigorously defend ourselves against them. The false accusations in her complaint will not distract the Padres organization from continuing its great momentum on and off the field in San Diego.”
Matthew further clarified the succession plan put in place by Peter, explaining that their brother Bob had initially been named as the trustee of Peter’s trust. However, Bob resigned from the position in May 2024 due to a personal health matter in his family, prompting Matthew to step in as the trustee. He emphasized that Peter had entrusted the decision of the next permanent control person to the trustee of his trust, which happened to be him.
Addressing Sheel’s disappointment at not being named as the trustee or control person, Matthew highlighted John’s qualifications for the role. He praised John’s extensive experience in business and his love for the Padres, expressing confidence that John’s appointment would be well-received by the Padres’ owners and swiftly approved by MLB.
In response to allegations of a potential relocation of the Padres, Matthew unequivocally stated, “This is completely false. It is also laughable. To clarify the record without ambiguity, relocating the Padres from San Diego has never been discussed or contemplated.”
As the legal battle ensues and the future of the San Diego Padres hangs in the balance, one thing is certain – the drama off the field is just as riveting as the action on the diamond. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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