DuPuy Backs McCourt

Amid relentless industry doubts about Frank McCourt’s ability to finance his purchase of the Dodgers, the commissioner’s office used its strongest language yet in saying Thursday it has received assurances that the Boston developer will be able to complete the deal.

Bob DuPuy, baseball’s chief operating officer, said that investment banker Allen & Co., which brokered the deal for News Corp., confirmed that McCourt has the wherewithal to fully finance the deal by himself.

“We’ve been told by Allen & Co. and McCourt that he’d be able to finance the purchase on his own if need be,” DuPuy said.

McCourt’s decision to investigate selling his property in the South Boston waterfront area has renewed speculation that he doesn’t have the money needed to complete the purchase of the Dodgers for a listed price of $430 million.

Although a person familiar with McCourt’s plans said his bid to purchase the Dodgers is not contingent on selling the land, some officials have expressed doubt, believing they are tied together.

“Until he submits a package, what he does behind the scenes is not a factor,” DuPuy said. “I don’t mean to be flippant, but he can sell off his marble collection if he wants.”

-- Jason Reid and Ross Newhan