Miscellany

A group of banks has pushed Baltimore Oriole owner Eli S. Jacobs into bankruptcy proceedings, adding a new layer of uncertainty to negotiations over a possible sale of the team.

The latest twist in Jacobs’ prolonged financial troubles will not have a direct impact on the team’s activities on the playing field.

Sources familiar with the situation said the Orioles still will probably be sold, with the best-known offer being $145 million from a group of investors led by Cincinnati businessman William O. DeWitt Jr.

But, if a judge approves the bankruptcy petition, Jacobs’ 87% stake in the Orioles could be sold only with the court’s permission.