A week after Hall of Fame outfielder Tony Gwynn threw his support behind Thomas Tull's bid to buy the Padres, another well-known San Diego athlete has joined a competing group.
Professional golfer Phil Mickelson is joining the bid led by the four grandchildren of former Dodgers owner Walter O'Malley.
"Growing up, the Padres were my team and still are," Mickelson told Tim Sullivan of UT San Diego. "I always had a love for the team. But (recently) I just felt disassociated with the organization a little bit as a fan. I just know I didn't identify with the players or have an emotional connection.
"Where I want to get involved is I want to get a personal involvement with the players and the community personal interaction with fans, more community outreach. I want to create an emotional tie with the players and the community."
Mickelson, 41, said he would also be a financial investor in the Padres if the O'Malley offer is accepted. Mickelson said he would put his own money into the deal as a financial partner with the O'Malleys.
Mickelson said that if he and the O'Malleys were to regain control of the Padres, Gwynn would be invited to join their group.
"He's such an icon with the team," Mickelson said. "We'd want him involved. Hopefully it won't be combative."
The O'Malleys approached Gwynn before the Hall of Fame outfielder committed to join Tull's bid.
