Rogers Badgett
James Rogers Badgett Sr. | |
|---|---|
| Born | 27 July 1917 Pettus, Arkansas, U.S. |
| Died | 6 June 2005 (aged 87) |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur |
| Known for | Minority stakeholder in the Boston Red Sox (1978–1985) |
James Rogers Badgett Sr. (July 27, 1917 – June 6, 2005), occasionally spelled Rodgers Badgett, was an American entrepreneur involved in multiple industries including construction, coal mining, oil and gas exploration, dredging, aviation, and automobile sales. From 1978 until 1985, he served as a significant minority stakeholder in the Boston Red Sox baseball franchise. Originating from Pettus, Arkansas, he completed his secondary education at Messick High School in Memphis and pursued studies at the University of Tennessee. He resided for many years in Madisonville, Kentucky.
Prior to the outbreak of World War II, Badgett owned the Badgett Construction Company and during the conflict established the Badgett Mine Stripping Corporation. Initially focused on bauxite mining in Missouri, his operations later expanded into coal strip mining within Kentucky’s Hopkins and Muhlenberg counties. Post-war, his construction and dredging enterprises executed extensive projects throughout North America—including work on the St. Lawrence Seaway—as well as international contracts in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.
Supported 1977 Red Sox ownership group
In 1977, Badgett joined forces with former Red Sox trainer Buddy LeRoux and eventually vice president Haywood Sullivan to create a consortium aiming to acquire the team from the estate of owner Tom Yawkey. The American League sanctioned the sale on May 23, 1978, when Yawkey’s widow Jean became part of the partnership. While LeRoux, Sullivan, and Mrs. Yawkey held general partner status, Badgett participated as a limited partner controlling 12 out of 30 limited partner shares. At one stage, combined holdings of Badgett and LeRoux accounted for 42 percent of the club’s stock.
Disagreements over management and financial matters soon emerged within the group, culminating on June 6, 1983, when LeRoux—supported by Badgett—attempted a takeover to remove Yawkey and Sullivan in what became known as the "Coup LeRoux." Following a protracted legal dispute lasting about a year, Yawkey and Sullivan emerged victorious in June 1984. By late 1985, Yawkey had purchased the limited partner shares previously owned by Badgett and the LeRoux faction.
Recognition
Badgett received multiple accolades honoring his business success and charitable contributions. These included being named "Coal Miner of the Year" by the Western Kentucky Coal Producers' Association, receiving "Man of the Year" honors from the Lions Club, and earning the title of "Distinguished Eagle Scout" from the Boy Scouts of America. He died in Madisonville at age 87.