Selig To Leave MLB Commissioner Post After 2012 Season

November 28, 2009 5:25 p.m. EST

New York, NY (AHN) - Bud Selig, installed as the ninth commissioner of Major League Baseball in 1998, will reportedly step down from his post when his contract runs out after the 2012 season.

A group of five owners approached Selig, 75, on staying in his position, but he declined and reiterated his plans to retire following the 2012 season to focus on other personal goals, the Chicago Tribune reported.

Among the changes made during Selig's tenure were the introduction of the wild card and interleague play.

He also played a vital role in the organization of the World Baseball Classic.

Selig is also credited for the merging of the National and American league under the Office of the Commissioner.

Selig, who formerly owned the Milwaukee Brewers, also oversaw baseball through the strike that marred the 1994 season.

Under his watch, revenue sharing was incorporated in the league.

Increase in baseball revenue was also seen during Selig's tenure.

Perhaps the one knock on Selig was that, as a former owner, he would take ownership's side on matters.

In Sept. 1992, Selig was named interim Commissioner before being elected by the owners permanently six years later.

Selig announced in Dec. 2006 that he intends to relinquish his post upon the expiration of his contract in 2009, but the owners extended his contract last year through Dec. 31, 2012.