David Samson on Marlins sale: ‘There’s not a guarantee that a transaction will happen’

Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria has reportedly been engaged in talks to sell the franchise since February, but there is a chance Loria doesn’t sell the team.

While team president David Samson told MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro talks are “in the fourth inning,” he also made clear there is a chance nothing happens:

"There's more willingness on Jeffrey's part to listen," Samson said. "It's a complicated, long process to any transaction like this. There's not a guarantee that a transaction will happen. For the purposes of this process, it's not right to confirm names or deny names."

Separate groups that include Jeb Bush and Derek Jeter are reportedly among those interested in purchasing the Marlins, and while there isn’t a clear timeline, Loria almost certainly won’t sell until after this summer’s All-Star festivities, which will be on display at Marlins Park.

Jose Fernandez’s death seemingly took a toll on Loria, whose interest in selling is notable because he has declined to listen to offers in the past. That is one of many factors that have led to Loria listening, Samson told MLB.com.

Still, Loria could be fielding offers in preparation for a future but not immediate sale. He probably won’t get the amounts floated since the beginning of the year, but with figures public, there is a good chance he cashes in.