Selig's deep-rooted love for baseball led him to spearhead efforts to bring a team back to Milwaukee. In 1970, he succeeded in purchasing the Seattle Pilots, a struggling franchise, and relocated them to Milwaukee, renaming them the Milwaukee Brewers. As the owner of the Brewers, Selig was instrumental in the team's development and growth. Under his leadership, the Brewers transitioned from the American League to the National League in 1998, although this occurred after his tenure as owner.
During his time with the Brewers, Selig was actively involved in MLB's governance. He served on several committees and was known for his ability to navigate the complexities of baseball's business side. His influence extended beyond the Brewers, as he played a role in shaping the league's policies and direction.
In 1992, Selig stepped into a more prominent role within MLB when he became the acting Commissioner of Baseball following the resignation of Fay Vincent. Although initially reluctant to take on the position permanently, Selig was named the official Commissioner in 1998. His tenure as Commissioner saw numerous changes and challenges, including the introduction of the wild card playoff system, interleague play, and revenue sharing among teams.
Selig's leadership was not without controversy. The 1994 players' strike, which led to the cancellation of the World Series, was a significant event during his time as acting Commissioner. Despite this setback, Selig continued to work towards improving the financial stability and competitive balance of the league.
Throughout his career, Selig was known for his pragmatic approach to baseball's evolving landscape. He navigated the sport through periods of change and uncertainty, always with an eye toward the future. His efforts to modernize the game and address issues such as performance-enhancing drugs were met with both praise and criticism.
Bud Selig's influence on baseball extended well beyond his years as an owner and Commissioner.
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