Despite the potential for a 2027 lockout, investor interest in Major League Baseball remains strong, with several private equity deals in 2026 highlighting confidence in the league's long-term value. Kroenke Sports & Entertainment agreed to acquire a controlling stake in the Los Angeles Angels from the Moreno family, while an ownership group led by Kwanza Jones and José E Feliciano bought the San Diego Padres for $3.9 billion. Apollo Sports Capital provided $2.6 billion to Yankee Global Enterprises, and Harbinger Sports Partners acquired a minority stake in the Athletics.

Sean Clemens of Park Lane noted investors view lockouts as short-term setbacks, similar to the 2020 pandemic-shortened season. In other news, Niobrara Capital acquired managed IT services provider MSP Corp, a Montreal-based firm founded in 1993 offering end-to-end IT services including managed monitoring, cybersecurity, and disaster recovery. Niobrara plans to expand MSP’s footprint in Canada and into the U.S., citing the fragmented Canadian market and MSP’s strong acquisition track record.

PE Hub also noted continued interest in HR software deals from firms like Thoma Bravo, Main Capital, and Gryphon Investors.