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Diamondbacks’ Quiet Move Becomes Public Amid Spring Training

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Abdul Bari Khan | Last updated Mar 3, 2026 1:40 PM ET

During Spring Training this week, the Arizona Diamondbacks are making headlines. But it’s not because of a roster change or a standout player. Rather, a previously unreported ownership development has surfaced, showing that two years ago, Billionaire Rob Walton quietly bought a share in the club.

Sportico reported that Walton bought a 10% stake from MLB Team’s $2 billion valuation. The investment was only recently discovered and was never made public at the time. Because the transaction was private, the individuals spoke on condition of anonymity. Walton has progressively increased his presence in professional sports leagues.

The 81-year-old is widely regarded as the richest owner in major American sports. Apart from being an heir to Walmart’s Billion-dollar fortune, the business tycoon is also known for spending $4.65 billion to buy NFL team Denver Broncos. However, this specific transaction went unnoticed.

SCOOP: Rob Walton, the richest owner in U.S. sports, quietly bought 10% of the @Dbacks at a $2 billion valuation back in 2024.

His sports portfolio includes @NFL, @F1 and @TGL. More with @JustBirny https://t.co/JeL1BwSMYW
— Eben Novy-Williams (@novy_williams) March 3, 2026

The report also suggested that proceeds from Walton’s investment reportedly went toward stadium improvements at Chase Field, the team’s home venue in Phoenix. Upgrades to infrastructure and fan amenities have been ongoing priorities for the franchise, particularly as teams across Major League Baseball focus on enhancing ballpark experiences to drive revenue and attendance.

Last year, the Diamondbacks came in at number 24 on Sportico's list of MLB's most valuable teams. They were valued at $1.54 billion. Walton reportedly declined to comment on his quiet investment. A representative for the team also did not respond to a request for comment. As the news of MLB Team’s newest owner becomes public, it gives fans an exciting new dimension as Spring Training progresses.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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