The Baltimore Orioles have appointed Catie Griggs as their president of business operations, marking the first time a woman has held this position in the franchise’s history.
Elevate Talent, working under the Orioles’ new ownership led by majority owner David Rubenstein, was responsible for filling the role.
“Catie’s proven success, diverse business background, and dedication to excellence made her the ideal choice to lead our business operations in Baltimore moving forward,” Rubenstein stated.
Griggs joins the Orioles after spending three years with the Seattle Mariners, where she served in a similar capacity overseeing business operations. During her tenure, she oversaw significant enhancements at T-Mobile Park, the Mariners’ long-standing home venue, focusing on operations, technology, and enhancing the fan experience.
A notable achievement under her leadership was T-Mobile Park hosting both the MLB All-Star Game in July 2023 and the NHL Winter Classic in January 2024, a first for the venue.
“I am incredibly excited to join the Orioles organization. It’s a tremendous honor to support this historic franchise, the city of Baltimore, and our devoted fans,” Griggs expressed.
Her responsibilities will include overseeing plans to rejuvenate Oriole Park at Camden Yards, a stadium pivotal in the development of modern ballparks across the U.S. Following Maryland’s new governor, Wes Moore, taking office in January, efforts were made to renew the lease agreement between the Orioles and the Maryland Stadium Authority.
Itwas successfully signed in December before the ownership change, securing the team’s presence at Camden Yards for the next 15 years with a $600 million taxpayer-funded renovation plan for the ballpark and surrounding area to create a “ballpark village,” similar to The Battery in Atlanta and other MLB cities.
Drawing from her experience in Atlanta, Griggs will also bring insights gained from her time with Turner Broadcasting and as chief business officer for Atlanta United from 2017 to 2021, overseeing the team’s MLS Cup victory in 2018.
Griggs’ appointment underscores Rubenstein’s ongoing influence on the Orioles since assuming control of the franchise shortly before the start of the season. Rubenstein, a prominent private equity figure, acquired a 40% stake in the team in January with an option to acquire the remaining stake upon the passing of founding owner Peter Angelos, who passed away in March.
According to Sportico’s MLB team valuations, the Orioles currently rank 18th with a valuation of $1.73 billion, reflecting an 8% increase from the previous year.
