Cincinnati Reds owner Marge Schoot is forced to step down from her duties as owner of the club after being punished by MLB for her racial insensitivity in public and other ethical violations
On June 12, 1996, Cincinnati Reds majority owner Marge Schott voluntarily agreed to relinquish day-to-day operational control of the team through the 1998 season. Confronted with an ultimatum by Major League Baseball’s executive council, Schott chose to step aside rather than face a formal, mandatory suspension that would have stripped her of all ballpark access.
The decision came after months of controversy surrounding remarks attributed to Schott that drew widespread criticism from baseball officials, players, and civic leaders. While she retained ownership of the franchise, operational authority was transferred to others within the organization, marking one of the most significant disciplinary actions ever taken against a club owner.
The move reflected Major League Baseball’s effort to protect its public image and demonstrate accountability at the highest levels of the sport. For the Reds, the announcement closed a turbulent chapter that had overshadowed the team and shifted attention away from the field, while leaving lingering questions about Schott’s future role within the franchise and the long-term direction of the organization.
