Longtime Cleveland Guardians owner Larry Dolan has passed away at the age of 94, as announced by the team on Monday. The Dolan family holds the record for the longest ownership tenure in the franchise’s history, with Larry being a lifelong resident of Cleveland who made significant contributions to his community both on and off the field.
“We are saddened by the loss of our Dad, but we feel fortunate to have had him in our lives for so long,” said Dolan’s son, Paul Dolan, who serves as chair and CEO. “He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, deeply passionate about his family, his work, our community, and his love for local sports teams, including the Cleveland Guardians.”
In a video accompanying the announcement of Dolan’s death, the Guardians expressed, “Cleveland sadly lost one of its own today.” The narrator reflected on Dolan’s life, stating, “Born in Cleveland Heights in 1931, Lawrence J. Dolan dedicated his life to Greater Cleveland and made a profound impact on our community in numerous ways. From his service as a first lieutenant in the United States Marines to his philanthropic efforts, legal career, and involvement in sports, many benefited from his engagement and passion.”
Dolan was a standout athlete at Saint Ignatius High School, excelling in both football and baseball. The narrator continued, “He was fortunate to fulfill two dreams shared by many Cleveland athletes of his era: to play at Cleveland Stadium, where his childhood idol Lou Boudreau played, and to own a professional sports team in his city.”
In February 2000, Dolan acquired his beloved hometown baseball team. “We are eternally grateful for his passion and support for the Northeast Ohio community and the Cleveland Guardians organization,” the narrator added.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred also expressed his condolences, stating, “I am saddened by the passing of Cleveland native Larry Dolan, whose family’s quarter-century ownership has made their hometown team a consistent winner and a community staple. Larry was a lifelong baseball fan and a First Lieutenant in the United States Marines. He believed in mentoring young people and using the Guardians to positively impact Greater Cleveland.”
Dolan purchased the team for $323 million from Richard Jacobs and witnessed the franchise achieve 14 winning seasons and nine postseason appearances during his ownership. In 2016, the team reached the World Series as American League pennant winners but lost to the Chicago Cubs in a dramatic game.
Paul Dolan eventually became the primary owner of the franchise in 2013, overseeing the team’s name change to Guardians in 2021.