Padres transfer of ownership is official

Mexico City, Mexico - April 26: José E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones stand for the national anthem before Game 2 of the MLB World Tour Mexico City Series between the San Diego Padres and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Alfredo Harp Helu Stadium on Sunday, April 26, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Meg McLaughlin / The San Diego Union-Tribune via Getty Images)

The San Diego Padres have officially announced the ownership transfer of the team to José E. Feliciano and his wife, Kwanza Jones. The couple will own approximately 40% of the team and Feliciano will be the controlling partner in the eyes of MLB. They will be joined by a group of owners that will continue to include Alfredo Harp Hélu, some members of the Seidler family and others who are not officially known.

The MLB owners must approve the ownership in a vote that has to be at least 75% of the 30 owners. The running of the team will remain with the Seidler family until the vote is held. There is reportedly to be no change in the day-to-day operations of the team or in leadership during this final process.

Padres Chairman, John Seidler, released a statement on Saturday morning.

“I’m thrilled that after a highly competitive process, Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano will become the next majority owners of the Padres,” Seidler said. “When I became control person, my goal was to continue building on our recent success in pursuit of a World Series Championship for the city of San Diego and our faithful fans. Now, as I pass the baton to Kwanza and José, I do so with full confidence that they share that vision, as well as the Padres deep commitment to San Diego. It’s what the team, our fans, and the community deserve.”

“Our family loves this team. This is a bittersweet moment for us as we reflect on what the Padres have accomplished since my brother Peter became the steward of the franchise. I congratulate Kwanza, José, and the Padres, and wish them nothing but success. We look forward to a smooth transition.”