Who Owns New York Yankees: Ownership Insights

The New York Yankees is one of the most iconic teams in professional sports. For decades, baseball fans have wondered who owns New York Yankees, the franchise that has become a global sports powerhouse. Its ownership story is just as legendary as its players and championships.

The New York Yankees Profile

The New York Yankees is an American professional baseball team based in the Bronx, New York City. They compete in Major League Baseball’s (MLB) American League East Division and are widely considered the most successful and recognizable team in professional baseball. As of 2025, the Yankees hold a record 27 World Series championships and 41 American League pennants, more than any other MLB franchise. Their influence extends beyond the field, shaping American culture, global sports branding, and the business of baseball.

From 1903 through the 2024 season, the Yankees’ overall win-loss record stands at 10,778–8,148–88, reflecting consistent long-term success. The team plays home games at Yankee Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2009 and replaced the original stadium built in 1923.

Founding and Early Development

The franchise began in 1901 as the Baltimore Orioles, one of the charter members of the American League. After struggling financially, the franchise rights were sold in 1903 to New York businessmen Frank Farrell and Bill Devery, who moved the team to Manhattan.

The team was renamed the New York Highlanders, reflecting their hilltop home field at Hilltop Park. In 1913, they officially became the New York Yankees, a name that quickly gained popularity and became iconic in American sports.

Jacob Ruppert, a wealthy brewery owner, and Tillinghast Huston purchased the Yankees in 1915. Ruppert’s vision, investments, and his bold signing of Babe Ruth in 1920 changed the trajectory of the team, making the Yankees a dynasty in the making.

Key Milestones

The Yankees’ history is filled with landmark achievements that shaped both the franchise and professional baseball:

• 1903 – Move to New York: The Baltimore Orioles franchise relocates to New York, becoming the Highlanders.
• 1913 – Name Change: The team is officially renamed the New York Yankees.
• 1920 – Babe Ruth Acquisition: Purchased from the Boston Red Sox, Babe Ruth becomes the face of the Yankees and fuels their first dynasty.
• 1923 – First World Series Title: Yankees defeat the New York Giants and secure their first championship. This coincides with the opening of the original Yankee Stadium, known as “The House That Ruth Built.”
• 1936–1939 – Gehrig and DiMaggio Era: Yankees win four consecutive World Series, led by Lou Gehrig and rookie Joe DiMaggio.
• 1947 – Jackie Robinson’s Debut vs. Yankees: Yankees face the Brooklyn Dodgers in the World Series, the first featuring an African American player (Robinson).
• 1950–1953 – Five Consecutive Titles: Yankees set a record by winning five straight World Series under manager Casey Stengel.
• 1961 – Maris and Mantle: Roger Maris hits 61 home runs, breaking Babe Ruth’s single-season record. The Yankees win another championship with Mickey Mantle.
• 1964 – CBS Buys Yankees: Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) purchases the franchise but oversees a decline in on-field performance.
• 1973 – George Steinbrenner Purchase: Steinbrenner acquires the team for $10 million, marking the start of the modern Yankees empire.
• 1977–1978 – Rebirth of a Champion: Led by Reggie Jackson, the Yankees win back-to-back World Series, restoring their glory.
• 1996–2000 – Dynasty Years: Yankees, under Joe Torre, win four World Series in five years, with Derek Jeter emerging as captain.
• 2001 – 9/11 Tribute: The Yankees play a key role in uniting New York after the September 11 attacks, reaching the World Series in an emotional season.
• 2009 – New Stadium and 27th Title: Yankees open new Yankee Stadium and win their 27th World Series, led by Jeter, Rivera, and Teixeira.
• 2017 – Baby Bombers Era: With Aaron Judge’s record-breaking rookie season, the Yankees transitioned into a new generation of stars.
• 2019 – Historic Home Run Record: Yankees hit 306 home runs in a season, setting an MLB record at the time.
• 2022 – Aaron Judge’s Home Run Record: Judge hits 62 home runs, breaking Roger Maris’ American League single-season record.
• 2024 – 41st American League Pennant: Yankees reach another AL championship, reaffirming their enduring competitiveness.

Who Owns New York Yankees: Parent Company & Major Shareholders

The New York Yankees are owned through Yankee Global Enterprises, a holding company established in 1999 by George Steinbrenner. This structure was designed to manage the team, its media operations, and other sports-related investments under one umbrella.

Since the passing of George Steinbrenner in 2010, ownership and control have remained within the Steinbrenner family.

As of 2025, Hal Steinbrenner is the managing general partner and the primary authority overseeing the team’s business and baseball decisions.

Below are the major shareholders of Yankee Global Enterprises, the parent company that owns the New York Yankees, as of September 2025:

Yankee Global Enterprises

Yankee Global Enterprises, often referred to as YGE, is the parent company of the Yankees. It not only controls the baseball team but also owns a majority of the YES Network, which is the most-watched regional sports network in the United States.

YGE has invested in other ventures, including minority ownership stakes in Major League Soccer’s New York City FC and international soccer club AC Milan. The holding company remains privately owned and is not listed on any stock exchange, which allows the Steinbrenner family to maintain tight control over its operations and long-term strategy.

Yankee Global Enterprises is privately owned, with the Steinbrenner family controlling the majority. Hal Steinbrenner, as managing general partner, owns the largest individual stake and has the final say on major decisions.

His sisters maintain minority stakes, and a handful of outside investors hold smaller shares. This ownership model ensures that YGE, and by extension the Yankees, remain firmly under family control without outside interference from public markets.

Hal Steinbrenner

Hal Steinbrenner serves as the managing general partner and chairman of Yankee Global Enterprises. He inherited leadership from his father and has been the face of ownership since 2008. Hal is known for a more measured and financially cautious approach compared to George Steinbrenner’s aggressive spending style.

He is the trustee of the family trust that controls the Yankees, which gives him authority over team operations, contracts, and long-term planning.

As of 2025, Hal is believed to hold the majority controlling stake in YGE, which allows him to make the final decisions regarding both the Yankees and related businesses. His leadership has been marked by balancing competitiveness on the field with financial sustainability off it.

Other Steinbrenner Family Members

While Hal is the primary decision-maker, other Steinbrenner family members retain ownership stakes and involvement through Yankee Global Enterprises. His sisters, Jennifer and Jessica Steinbrenner, remain minority owners with roles in philanthropy and organizational development.

The late Hank Steinbrenner, Hal’s brother, also held a share until his passing in 2020, and his stake was retained within the family’s trust. Collectively, the Steinbrenners remain the face of Yankees ownership and have publicly committed to keeping the franchise within the family for the long term.

Minority Stakeholders

Beyond the Steinbrenners, a small group of long-term business partners holds minority stakes in Yankee Global Enterprises. These include figures such as Lester Crown, Jerry Speyer, and Marvin Goldklang.

Their shares are significantly smaller compared to the Steinbrenner family’s majority control, and they have limited influence over the direction of the franchise.

However, their involvement provides additional financial stability and business expertise to the holding company.

Acquisition Insights

The most significant acquisition in Yankees history occurred in 1973, when George Steinbrenner led a group of investors to purchase the team from CBS for $10 million.

At the time, the Yankees were underperforming and financially struggling. Steinbrenner’s bold leadership, heavy investments in talent, and aggressive pursuit of championships transformed the team into a global sports empire. Since then, there have been no major external acquisitions affecting ownership.

Instead, ownership transitioned smoothly within the Steinbrenner family following George’s death in 2010. Hal Steinbrenner eventually assumed the role of managing general partner, ensuring continuity of vision and control.

New York Yankees Ownership History

The ownership history of the New York Yankees is as legendary as the team itself. Since its founding in the early 1900s, the franchise has passed through the hands of entrepreneurs, industrialists, media corporations, and finally the Steinbrenner family. Each era brought its own challenges and triumphs, shaping the Yankees into one of the most valuable and successful sports teams in the world.

Early Ownership (1901–1915)

The franchise was born in 1901 as the Baltimore Orioles, one of the eight charter teams of the American League. Financial instability plagued the Orioles, and in 1903, the rights to the team were purchased by Frank Farrell, a New York-based gambler and brewery owner, along with former New York City police chief Bill Devery.

They moved the franchise to Manhattan, renaming it the New York Highlanders. While they established the Yankees’ first presence in New York, their tenure was marked by inconsistency both financially and competitively.

The Ruppert-Huston Era (1915–1922)

In 1915, the team was purchased by Colonel Jacob Ruppert, a wealthy brewing magnate, and Tillinghast Huston, an engineer and former army officer. This partnership gave the Yankees financial stability and ambition. Ruppert and Huston played a critical role in building the foundation for the franchise’s dynasty. Their most influential move came in 1920 with the acquisition of Babe Ruth from the Boston Red Sox, an event that transformed the Yankees into a powerhouse.

Jacob Ruppert Sole Ownership (1922–1939)

By 1922, Ruppert had bought out Huston’s share, becoming the sole owner of the Yankees. Under his leadership, the team grew into one of the most dominant in baseball. Ruppert financed the construction of the original Yankee Stadium in 1923, often called “The House That Ruth Built.” During this period, the Yankees won their first championship in 1923 and cemented their reputation as a team of stars, led by Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Ruppert’s vision and resources ensured that the Yankees became synonymous with success.

Post-Ruppert Ownership (1939–1964)

After Ruppert’s death in 1939, control of the Yankees passed through a series of heirs and estate trustees. This period still brought success, as the Yankees continued to dominate the 1940s and 1950s under the leadership of managers like Casey Stengel and players like Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra, and Mickey Mantle. However, the lack of a strong single owner left the team’s structure more fragmented compared to the Ruppert years.

CBS Ownership (1964–1973)

In 1964, Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) purchased the Yankees for $11.2 million. This marked the first time a major media corporation owned a professional sports team.

However, CBS struggled to maintain the Yankees’ winning tradition. The team experienced one of its longest droughts without championships, and by the early 1970s, both fan attendance and performance had declined sharply. This period is often seen as one of the Yankees’ darkest eras.

George Steinbrenner Era (1973–2010)

A turning point came in 1973 when George Steinbrenner, a Cleveland-based shipping magnate, led a group of investors to acquire the Yankees from CBS for $10 million. Steinbrenner quickly became the dominant figure in ownership, known for his fiery personality, relentless demand for winning, and willingness to invest heavily in free-agent talent.

Under Steinbrenner’s leadership, the Yankees won championships in 1977 and 1978 and returned to glory in the 1990s and early 2000s with four World Series titles in five years (1996, 1998, 1999, and 2000).

His tenure was also marked by frequent managerial changes, headline-grabbing controversies, and bold business moves, including the creation of the YES Network in 2002. Steinbrenner’s ownership transformed the Yankees into one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world.

Transition to the Steinbrenner Family (2010–Present)

After George Steinbrenner’s death in 2010, control of the Yankees passed to his family. His children—Hal, Hank, Jennifer, and Jessica—retained ownership through Yankee Global Enterprises, the holding company created in 1999. Hank Steinbrenner was initially more visible in leadership but stepped back before his passing in 2020.

Hal Steinbrenner emerged as the managing general partner and chairman, becoming the primary authority over the team. Unlike his father, Hal is known for a reserved and financially cautious style of leadership. While he has faced criticism for not spending as aggressively as George, Hal has maintained the team’s competitiveness and preserved its financial dominance. As of 2025, Hal remains the face of Yankees ownership, supported by his sisters and a small group of minority investors.

Hal Steinbrenner Net Worth

Hal Steinbrenner is the managing general partner and chairman of Yankee Global Enterprises, the holding company of the New York Yankees. His fortune reflects not just inheritance, but also active stewardship and diversification of family assets, spanning media, sports, and hospitality ventures. His wealth underscores his dual role as both a custodian of legacy and a modern business executive.

Below is a summary of the net worth of Hal Steinbrenner as of September 2025:

Net Worth Estimate

As of September 2025, Hal Steinbrenner’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1.5 billion, according to Forbes and multiple financial profiles.

Some projections using modeling tools place it slightly higher at around $1.53 billion. While some older sources list much higher estimates (such as $3.8 billion), these figures appear dated and less aligned with the broader consensus; the $1.5–$1.6 billion range remains the most current and reliable estimate.

Sources of Income and Wealth Diversification

Below is a breakdown of the sources of Hal Steinbrenner’s income:

New York Yankees & YES Network

The core of Hal’s wealth comes from his controlling stake in Yankee Global Enterprises, which holds the Yankees franchise and a significant share of the YES Network, a major regional sports broadcaster.

The financial power of the Yankees—consistently rated among the most valuable sports properties globally—forms the bedrock of his net worth.

Sports Investments & Media Holdings

Beyond the Yankees, Hal benefits from related business interests. These include minority stakes in New York City FC and AC Milan, as well as involvement in Legends Hospitality. Together, these interests diversify his revenue and solidify his influence in international sports markets.

Strategic Wealth Management

Hal is known for a disciplined, long-term approach. Rather than public flamboyance, he reinvests franchise earnings back into operations and assets, helping to grow the family empire under his stewardship.

Wealth in Perspective: The MLB Landscape

Even as a billionaire, Hal’s financial power is modest compared to other elite owners in Major League Baseball.

For example, Steve Cohen of the Mets—one of his fiercest competitors—holds a net worth exceeding $21 billion, allowing him to dramatically upend the local financial landscape when aggressive acquisitions occur, such as the pursuit of Juan Soto.

Compared to such rivals, Hal’s measured approach highlights his preference for sustainability over splashy spending.

New York Yankees Net Worth

The New York Yankees remain the most valuable franchise in Major League Baseball. As of September 2025, Forbes values the Yankees at $8.2 billion making it the first MLB team to cross the $8 billion mark.

This valuation reflects both the team’s legendary status and its unmatched financial infrastructure.

The figure is more than three times the average MLB team valuation, which hovers around $2.7 billion. Despite occasional on-field challenges, the Yankees’ business performance has shown consistent growth due to their loyal fan base, global reach, and dominance in the New York market.

Below is an overview of the historical net worth of the New York Yankees from 2015-25:

Comparative Valuations Across Platforms

Different financial outlets provide varying estimates of the Yankees’ worth. Forbes places the team at $8.2 billion, while CNBC values them at around $8.0 billion. Sportico offers an even higher estimate of $8.39 billion when factoring in additional assets like real estate and related business holdings.

Although the numbers vary slightly, all reports agree that the Yankees are at the top of the MLB valuation list. Compared to rivals like the Los Angeles Dodgers at $7.8 billion and the Boston Red Sox at $5.8 billion, the Yankees remain in a league of their own.

Key Drivers Behind the High Valuation

Here are the key drivers of the valuation of the New York Yankees:

Market Strength and Media Assets

The Yankees benefit greatly from New York City’s massive market. The team draws not only from local fans but also from a worldwide audience. A large part of their valuation comes from the YES Network, which is one of the most profitable regional sports networks in the United States. YES generates huge advertising and broadcasting revenues, adding billions of dollars in value to the Yankees’ overall business.

Brand Power and Legacy

The Yankees’ global recognition contributes significantly to their valuation. Their logo, pinstripe uniforms, and championship legacy are instantly recognizable worldwide.

Over the years, they have built a reputation that extends beyond sports, making them a lifestyle brand. Merchandising and licensing sales remain one of the strongest in professional sports, rivaling major soccer clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United.

Stadium and Infrastructure

The team’s home, Yankee Stadium, opened in 2009 and is one of the most modern ballparks in Major League Baseball. With a capacity of over 46,000 and premium seating options, the stadium generates high revenues from ticket sales, luxury suites, concessions, and sponsorships.

It also serves as a venue for concerts and events, providing another income stream outside baseball. The stadium’s design allows for strong corporate partnerships, further increasing its financial value.

Financial Performance

In 2024, the Yankees generated about $705 million in revenue, the highest in MLB. Their EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) was also estimated at $705 million, showing a highly efficient financial structure.

Broadcasting rights, both regional and national, make up a major portion of these revenues. Sponsorships from global brands, high ticket demand, and strong merchandise sales add to the team’s robust performance. Even during seasons without championships, the Yankees remain financially stable due to their diversified revenue streams.

How the Yankees Stack Up in the Sports World

The Yankees are not just at the top of Major League Baseball but also rank among the most valuable sports teams globally.

In North America, only the Dallas Cowboys, valued at around $11 billion, and the Golden State Warriors, worth about $9.4 billion, surpass them.

Globally, soccer giants like Real Madrid and Manchester United are close competitors, but the Yankees remain one of the top three sports franchises in terms of value. Their financial dominance shows the enduring power of baseball’s most iconic team and its ability to compete with franchises across different sports.

Who is the Chairman of the New York Yankees?

The New York Yankees do not use the title “CEO” within the organization. Instead, overall leadership falls to Hal Steinbrenner, who serves as Managing General Partner and Chairman of Yankee Global Enterprises—the parent company of the Yankees. These roles essentially position him as the de facto chief executive, guiding both the business and baseball operations of the organization. He also holds titles as trustee of the family trust that controls the team and chairman of the board.

Supporting Hal in the day-to-day running of the franchise is Randy Levine, who has held the position of President of the New York Yankees since 2000. He oversees business operations, strategic partnerships, and acts as a liaison between ownership and senior management.

In practical terms, leadership flows down as follows:

• Hal Steinbrenner, Managing General Partner & Chairman – de facto CEO.
• Randy Levine, President – handles business operations and strategic execution.
• Lonn Trost, COO – oversees daily operational execution.
• Brian Cashman, Senior VP & GM – directs baseball operations and team-building.

Hal Steinbrenner: Managing General Partner & Chairman

Hal officially took over as Chairman of the board in 2007. In November 2008, Major League Baseball’s ownership approved the shift of day-to-day control from his father, George Steinbrenner, to Hal.

Under Hal’s leadership, several key moments stand out: the Yankees won the 2009 World Series, opened their new stadium in 2009, and consistently stayed competitive in postseason play.

He is also involved outside of baseball, serving as CEO of Steinbrenner Hotel Properties and contributing to other family ventures.

Hal is known for a reserved leadership style, favoring organizational stability and deliberate decision-making— a stark contrast to his father’s more impulsive tendencies.

Randy Levine: President of the Yankees

Randy Levine became President in 2000, and during his tenure, the Yankees secured World Series titles in 2000 and 2009.

Levine brings legal and public administration experience to the role, having previously served the U.S. Department of Justice and the New York City government before joining the Yankees. He also serves on the board of A.C. Milan.

Today, he remains a key executive voice in business strategy, community relations, and media operations within the organization.

Supporting Executive Leadership

The Yankees’ front office includes a strong leadership infrastructure. Lonn Trost serves as Chief Operating Officer, managing operational and business logistics. Brian Cashman holds the longstanding role of Senior Vice President & General Manager, responsible for baseball operations, including roster construction and talent acquisition.

Cashman’s position complements Hal’s leadership, ensuring baseball decisions are aligned with the organization’s broader strategic goals.

Conclusion

The New York Yankees remain one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world, with a legacy that stretches back to 1903. When looking at who owns New York Yankees today, the Steinbrenner family continues to play a defining role in its success and direction. Under Hal Steinbrenner’s leadership, the team has maintained its reputation for excellence both on the field and as a global sports brand. With a rich history, strong financial power, and a loyal fan base, the Yankees’ ownership ensures that the franchise remains a dominant force in baseball for years to come.

FAQs

Who is the current owner of the Yankees?

The New York Yankees are currently owned by Yankee Global Enterprises, which is controlled by the Steinbrenner family. Hal Steinbrenner, son of George Steinbrenner, serves as the managing general partner and principal decision-maker.

Who owns Yankee Stadium?

Yankee Stadium is owned by the City of New York. The Yankees lease and operate the ballpark through agreements with the New York City Industrial Development Agency, while Yankee Global Enterprises manages stadium operations and revenue.

Who owns the Yankees?

The Yankees are owned by Yankee Global Enterprises, with majority control held by the Steinbrenner family. Hal Steinbrenner has the largest individual stake and oversees the franchise’s strategic and financial decisions.

What is the net worth of Yankees owner?

Hal Steinbrenner, the managing general partner, has an estimated net worth of about $4 billion as of 2025. The broader Steinbrenner family collectively controls assets worth billions through Yankee Global Enterprises.

How are the Steinbrenners rich?

The Steinbrenner family wealth primarily comes from the New York Yankees franchise, real estate investments, and the YES Network. George Steinbrenner initially built his fortune in the shipping industry before acquiring the Yankees in 1973 for $10 million, a deal that transformed the family’s financial legacy.

Can you buy shares of the Yankees?

No, the Yankees are not publicly traded. The team is privately owned by Yankee Global Enterprises, and shares are not available on any stock exchange. Ownership is closely held within the Steinbrenner family.

What family owns the New York Yankees?

The Steinbrenner family owns the Yankees. Hal Steinbrenner leads the ownership group today, following the legacy of his late father, George Steinbrenner.

How rich is the Yankees owner?

Hal Steinbrenner’s wealth is estimated at around $4 billion, while the Yankees franchise itself is valued at about $7.5 billion as of 2025, making it the most valuable MLB team.

Who is the highest-paid Yankee player?

As of 2025, Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ captain and outfielder, is the highest-paid player on the roster. He signed a long-term deal in 2022 worth $360 million over nine years.

Do the Yankees own their own stadiums?

No, the Yankees do not technically own Yankee Stadium. The stadium is owned by New York City, but the team operates and manages it under long-term agreements.

Are the Yankees the richest team?

Yes, the Yankees are considered the richest MLB team, with a franchise valuation of approximately $7.5 billion in 2025. Their global brand, merchandising power, and media revenues through the YES Network make them the wealthiest in baseball.

Do the Yankees own YES?

Yes, Yankee Global Enterprises retains a majority ownership stake in the YES Network, although stakes have been sold to partners such as Amazon and Sinclair in recent years. The Yankees still exercise strong influence over the channel.

Who sold Babe Ruth to the Yankees?

Babe Ruth was sold to the Yankees by Harry Frazee, the owner of the Boston Red Sox, in 1919. This transaction became one of the most famous deals in baseball history and fueled the Yankees’ rise to dominance.

How much would it cost to buy the Yankees?

The Yankees are valued at around $7.5 billion in 2025, but the actual purchase price would likely exceed that due to brand value, heritage, and market demand. A sale would require not just the franchise cost but also negotiations over related assets like YES Network stakes.

Who is the founder of the Yankees?

The team was founded in 1901 as the Baltimore Orioles before relocating to New York in 1903. Jacob Ruppert is credited with establishing the Yankees’ early dynasty after purchasing the team in 1915.

How did George Steinbrenner buy the Yankees?

George Steinbrenner bought the Yankees from CBS in 1973 for $10 million. His leadership transformed the team into a global powerhouse.