A surprising new ownership group may be forming in Major League Baseball, as former NFL superstar Drew Brees and entrepreneur Joe Kudla are reportedly exploring a bid to purchase the San Diego Padres. The potential move would pair one of football’s most respected former quarterbacks with one of Southern California’s most successful business leaders in a bold attempt to take control of one of MLB’s most high-profile franchises.
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A Star Athlete Meets a Lifestyle Mogul
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) rolls out to pass against the New England Patriots during 1st quarter their game at the Louisiana Superdome. Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Brees, best known for leading the New Orleans Saints to a Super Bowl title and retiring as one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, has steadily built his post-playing career around business ventures, broadcasting, and investments. Adding an MLB ownership stake would represent his most ambitious move yet in the sports business world.
Kudla, the founder and CEO of performance apparel brand Vuori, has built his company into a billion-dollar enterprise with deep California roots. With financial backing and strong local ties, Kudla brings the type of capital and regional influence necessary to mount a serious bid for a franchise that has seen its valuation skyrocket in recent years.
Why the Padres?
The Padres have become one of baseball’s most talked-about teams over the past several seasons. Massive contracts, star-studded rosters, and an energized fan base have turned Petco Park into one of MLB’s premier destinations.
San Diego’s market size, combined with its passionate fan base and strong media presence, makes the franchise an attractive investment opportunity. Any ownership change would likely come with expectations of continued aggressive spending and a commitment to contending in the ultra-competitive National League West.
What This Could Mean for the Franchise
Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) throws during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
A Brees–Kudla ownership group would bring a unique blend of athlete-driven leadership and modern brand-building expertise. Brees’ experience as a locker room leader could help shape organizational culture, while Kudla’s marketing background could further elevate the Padres’ brand nationally and internationally.
If the bid progresses, the move would continue a growing trend of former professional athletes entering ownership roles across major sports leagues.
For now, discussions remain exploratory, and any official sale process would require approval from MLB owners. But if successful, San Diego could soon see a Super Bowl champion and a retail industry powerhouse guiding the future of its baseball franchise.
The Padres’ next chapter may be written not just on the field—but in the boardroom.
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