Michael Petitti, a former Major League Baseball executive, has been named the Big Ten Commissioner, according to an Associated Press source. The news of Petitti’s appointment was first reported by the AP on Tuesday, and it marks the end of a months-long search for a new commissioner.
Petitti, who has held several executive positions in Major League Baseball over the past two decades, will take over from current Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany, who announced his retirement in March. Petitti is the first non-Delany commissioner in the Big Ten’s history.
In his time with Major League Baseball, Petitti served as the league’s senior vice president for business affairs and chief legal officer. He also served as the executive vice president of business and media for MLB Advanced Media, the league’s digital arm.
Petitti’s appointment comes at a time when the Big Ten is undergoing a period of significant change. The conference recently announced that it would be adding two new members, Maryland and Rutgers, and is considering further expansion. The Big Ten is also in the process of renegotiating its television contracts with ESPN and Fox Sports.
Petitti brings a wealth of experience to the Big Ten, having worked with some of the most successful organizations in professional sports. He is well-versed in business and legal matters, and his experience in digital media will be invaluable as the conference looks to expand its reach.
The Big Ten is one of the most prestigious conferences in college athletics, and Petitti’s appointment is a sign that the conference is committed to staying at the forefront of collegiate sports. With Petitti at the helm, the Big Ten is sure to remain one of the top conferences in the country.
