The group that bought a minority stake in the Colorado Rockies earlier this year is reportedly pursuing a much larger share of the club, a development that would sharply shift control of the franchise if the deal is completed.
Penner Sports Group eyes a larger role
According to a column published by Woody Paige of the Denver Gazette and reported by Purple Row, the Penner Sports Group — which purchased 40% of the Rockies in April — is looking to acquire an additional 35% of the team. That would bring the Penner group's total ownership stake to 75%, leaving the current controlling family, Dick and Charlie Monfort, as minority stakeholders.
“According to multiple sources, the Penners and Waltons intend to take over the 30-season-old club when and if Major League Baseball returns sometime in 2027.”
The column also indicates the Monforts would likely retain roughly 20% of the franchise if the transaction proceeds as described. The reports link the possible ownership shift to broader changes in Major League Baseball and follow recent movements among ownership groups around the league.
What the report says — and what remains unconfirmed
The story, which originated with Paige and was republished by Purple Row, frames the possible sale as part of a larger, ongoing ownership realignment. The Penner Sports Group and the Waltons are named as parties poised to consolidate control. At this stage, the reporting cites unnamed sources; there has been no official announcement from the Rockies, the Monfort family, the Penner group or Major League Baseball.
Key details from the reporting include:
- April transaction: Penner Sports Group previously purchased 40% of the Rockies.
- Proposed purchase: An additional 35% is reported to be under negotiation.
- Potential result: Penner and Waltons could hold approximately 75% control, with the Monforts retaining around 20%.
Why it matters to Colorado
A shift in majority ownership would have implications for how the team is managed, funded and positioned in Denver. Ownership changes can affect everything from front-office leadership and player payroll decisions to stadium investments and community partnerships. Colorado fans and local officials have previously scrutinized ownership direction amid long stretches without postseason appearances.
The report also references a timeline tied to MLB’s potential return in 2027, suggesting the buyers and other investors are positioning themselves for a new phase in the sport’s business environment. Those circumstances remain fluid and dependent on league decisions beyond the club level.
Ownership snapshot
| Owner(s) | Reported stake |
|---|---|
| Penner Sports Group | 40% (existing) + 35% (reported additional) |
| Monfort family (Dick and Charlie Monfort) | Approximately 20% (reported retention) |
That table reflects reported figures from the column and should be considered provisional until formal filings or statements are made public.
Next steps and what to watch for
Officials commonly disclose ownership changes through press releases, regulatory filings or statements to Major League Baseball. Interested observers should watch for:
- Official statements from the Colorado Rockies organization or the Monfort family.
- Public filings required by Major League Baseball governing ownership transfers.
- Local reporting and updates from reputable beat writers covering the franchise.
As of this report, the details remain attributed to column reporting and unnamed sources. Should those parties make a formal announcement, further reporting will be needed to clarify the transaction terms, governance changes and potential effects on club operations, payroll and community initiatives.
Hannah Sorensen, State Correspondent