Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred announced on Thursday that he plans to conclude his tenure in January 2029, marking the end of his five-year contract. In a statement to the press, Manfred stated, "This is going to be my last term," revealing that he had informed team owners of his decision before they voted to extend his leadership for a third consecutive five-year term back in July.
At 65 years old, Manfred acknowledged the inevitability of aging, pointing out that by the time his term concludes, he will be 70. He expressed a lighthearted perspective, stating, "You can only have so much fun in one lifetime," emphasizing his desire to make the most of his remaining years.
Having held various executive roles in MLB since 1998, Manfred is poised to become one of the few commissioners to serve for at least 14 years upon his retirement. His tenure has been marked by significant controversies, including the 2021 lockout, the reduction of over 40 minor league teams, a high-profile cheating scandal in the 2017 World Series, and ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Oakland Athletics' future.
Despite public outrage over moves like the reduction of minor league teams, Manfred's decisions have garnered support from team owners.
Looking ahead to 2029, Manfred acknowledged the forthcoming transition and the selection process for his successor. He outlined a familiar process, with a committee of owners tasked with identifying candidates through interviews before presenting someone or a slate of individuals for consideration.
Among potential candidates for the role in 2029, Theo Epstein, former Boston Red Sox manager and current member of the team's ownership group, stands out. A poll conducted by The Athletic in 2021 revealed that 14 out of 23 player agents preferred Epstein for the position. As Manfred's era concludes, MLB is poised to usher in a new chapter under fresh leadership.
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