Is Mark Walter forced to sell the Dodgers? Bill Simmons makes shocking prediction

Journalist and analyst Bill Simmons believes the Los Angeles Dodgers could be the next major asset owned by billionaire Mark Walter to hit the market, following the record-breaking $12.5 billion sale of the Los Angeles Lakers and amid growing scrutiny surrounding his business empire.

During the latest episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast , Simmons discussed Walter’s situation, pointing to the Lakers sale and reports that the businessman is negotiating the sale of his stake in Chelsea FC . The commentator also speculated on the potential outcome of the federal investigation involving Walter and his businesses.

“It’s starting to seem like he might actually go to jail. He’s already shed himself of the Lakers. He’s selling his Chelsea stake reportedly right now, which was like 12.5%, and my guess is that the Dodgers are going to be next,” Simmons said. “So, what is this? Are we moving toward a Bernie Madoff, Ivan Boesky-type situation? Will the words ‘Mark Walter today pled guilty’ be said in the next two years?”

Walter has not been charged with any crime , meaning Simmons’ comments are purely speculation about where the ongoing federal investigation could ultimately lead.

Federal prosecutors and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have been investigating potential financial irregularities involving Walter’s business interests. As part of the investigation, federal agents reportedly previously seized the businessman’s phones and computers, while two insurance companies under his control received grand jury subpoenas in February.

Simmons believes Walter’s entire sports empire could be at risk

Sam Koppelman , who joined Simmons during the discussion, agreed that Walter’s sports holdings could potentially be on the table.

“I think it’s really possible,” Koppelman said. “I also think the Trump administration has not put away very many billionaires and so I’m sure they work something out. But I don’t think there’s a single safe asset in the entire Mark Walter cinematic universe. Like, I think it’s potentially all for sale and I do think that the Dodgers being sold — I think all of this is on the table.”

A Dodgers sale would have massive MLB implications

Walter’s potential departure from the Dodgers would have a major impact across Major League Baseball. The businessman has been the team’s controlling owner and chairman since Guggenheim Baseball Management acquired the franchise in 2012 .

“That’s why it’s such a bigger story than just the Lakers,” Simmons said. “If he has to sell the Dodgers, who spent so much money over the last seven years that they’re going to single-handedly create the baseball lockout next year. They also won two titles. He’s had all this extra money to buy the last two World Series titles. The Dodgers are back-to-back champions partly because of all the f***ing money this guy spent.”

Under Walter’s ownership, Los Angeles has become one of baseball’s most dominant organizations, combining aggressive spending with consistent regular-season success. The Dodgers have won three World Series championships during his tenure, including back-to-back titles in 2024 and 2025 .

For now, there is no confirmed agreement for Walter to sell the Dodgers . However, Simmons’ comments have once again raised questions about the future of the businessman’s sports portfolio as the federal investigation continues.

On the field, the Dodgers remain focused on pursuing a third consecutive championship. Los Angeles leads the National League West with a 76-51 record, ahead of the San Diego Padres (68-59), as the postseason approaches.