Travis Kelce is headed to Major League Baseball — as an owner.
Kelce, 36, was born in nearby Westlake, Ohio.
“I have so much love for this city,” Kelce told ESPN. “I say it all the time: I’m just a kid from the Heights living the dream. I credit every good thing in my life to Cleveland and being raised here with the values and the people and the work ethic. Cleveland Heights is such a diverse and dynamic place. Every friend, neighbour, teacher and teammate — they all made me the man I am today. It just fuelled such a deep appreciation for life and community and service. That mentality of Cleveland against the world runs deep.”
The three-time Super Bowl champion Kelce joins teammate Patrick Mahomes as an MLB team owner. Mahomes purchased a stake in the Kansas City Royals in July 2020.
Kelce said he grew up a “die-hard” fan of Cleveland’s baseball team. He was a top-level high-school baseball player before committing to football in college.
“That’s just a core memory for me. Kenny Lofton, Carlos Baerga, Jim Thome, Sandy Alomar Jr., the list goes on, and I admire how they just continue to pour into this city and this game. It’s something that resonates with me, giving back to the places and the people that gave so much to you,” Kelce said.
The Guardians’ majority owner is David Blitzer, who also co-owns the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and NFL’s Washington Commanders.
Per Forbes, the Guardians are valued at just under $1.7 billion.
Entering action Wednesday, Cleveland led the AL Central with a 32-25 record.