CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - A Cleveland Browns player reportedly purchased a minority stake in the Cleveland Guardians, the baseball team announced Wednesday.
According to a release, Cleveland-native and five-time Pro Bowler Denzel Ward has joined the Guardians as an investor.
> Cleveland is my hometown. I’m so blessed to be able to show up for this city on the field and now as a part of the Guardians organization. I couldn’t be more grateful to the Dolan family and David Blitzer for the opportunity to continue to pour into this community and give back to the best fans in the world.
Ward attended and played football at Nordonia High School in Macedonia, went on to Ohio State, was the first-round pick of the Cleveland Browns in 2018, and [recently signed a two-year extension with the Browns.](https://www.cleveland19.com/2026/07/29/denzel-ward-excited-stay-cleveland-with-two-year-contract-extension/)
> Denzel Ward is a hometown hero on the field and off it. His excellence, character and commitment to this community – including his work with the Make Them Know Your Name Foundation – make him a perfect fit for our organization. We are proud to welcome him as a partner in the Guardians future.
The Guardians will celebrate Denzel Ward at Progressive Field on September 15 against the Chicago White Sox.
Back in May, Kansas City Chiefs tight end and Cleveland Heights native Travis Kelce also purchased a minority stake in the team.
_Copyright 2026 WOIO. All rights reserved._