MLB owners approve Marlins sale to Jeter-led group

MLB owners unanimously approved the sale of the Miami Marlins to an ownership group led by former New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter and American businessman Bruce Sherman, the league announced Wednesday.

"I wish the best to (previous owner) Jeffrey Loria and (outgoing team president) David Samson," commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement.

"During their tenures, the Marlins won the 2003 World Series, hosted this season's successful All-Star Week at spectacular Marlins Park and eagerly supported our efforts to grow the game internationally. I congratulate Mr. Sherman on receiving approval from the Major League Clubs as the new control person of the Marlins and look forward to Mr. Jeter's ownership and CEO role following his extraordinary career as a player."

The approval is dependent on the completion of the sale, which is expected to be made official within the next week.

Jeter reportedly called Samson - who is reportedly set to be replaced - to fire special assistants Jeff Conine, Andre Dawson, Tony Perez, and Jack McKeon because he didn't want to do it himself.

There's also been speculation that Jeter wants to cut the Marlins payroll to as low as $55 million, contingent upon the team finding a trade partner for MVP candidate Giancarlo Stanton.

Loria purchased the Marlins in 2002. The team won the World Series the next year, defeating Jeter's Yankees in four games.