Sale of team will be finalized soon

From the Post:

Two weeks from today, Robert Castellini should officially assume control of the Reds.

The final step in the process that will transfer majority ownership of baseball's oldest professional franchise from Carl Lindner to Castellini is scheduled to take place Jan. 19. That day, owners of Major League Baseball's other 29 teams will vote on Castellini's bid during their regular meetings in Scottsdale, Ariz.

"I think that's probably going to happen," MLB spokesman Rich Levin confirmed Wednesday. "It'll take place at the full owners' meeting, there will be a vote, and depending on the vote it'll be approved or not."

[...]

Because the transition will take place less than a month before pitchers and catchers report to spring training, Castellini's presence at the helm isn't likely to have a drastic immediate effect on how the baseball side of the Reds' front office does its work this offseason.

Once Castellini settles in, though, the Reds are expected to be more aggressive in attempting to assemble a winning team and fill seats at Great American Ball Park. Castellini and his partners have tasted postseason play with the Cardinals the last several years and those who have spoken with Castellini say he's focused on bringing that kind of success here.

I'm apprehensive, but I really can't wait to see what Castellini has to say when he assumes control.  Will say alot about the future of this franchise.

They're doing this over at RedsZone and I thought it was a good idea.

When will Dan O'Brien get fired?  Pick a day and we'll see who gets closest.

I'm going to go with July 6, 2006 for a couple of reasons:

1. It's my birthday and it would be an awesome present.
2. It's a few weeks before the trade deadline, and these sorts of things often go down mid-season.