MLB

Jeter’s group closing in on $1.2B Marlins deal

Derek Jeter’s group has bid $1.2 billion for the Miami Marlins and appeared on Monday night to be closing in on a deal, The Post has learned.

While the situation was extremely fluid, Jeter’s group, which includes deep-pocketed Naples, Fla., money manager Bruce Sherman, is now seen as the leading contender to buy the money-losing franchise from New York art dealer Jeffrey Loria, sources close to the talks said.

No sales agreement has yet been presented to MLB for approval, a source said.

Interestingly, NBA great Michael Jordan is among a group of about 15 investors in the Jeter camp, sources said — although the ex-hoopster is said to be kicking in very little cash.

Jeter sees Jordan as a role model in how to become a successful sports executive, a source who knows Jeter said.

Meanwhile, Miami billionaire Jorge Mas is putting the finishing touches on his bid — said to be roughly $1.17 billion, sources said.

No bidder has hit Loria’s $1.3 billion asking price, and it now appears he is willing to accept a slightly lower price.

A Tagg Romney-led group bid less than $1.2 billion and is not a favorite to win the auction, sources said.

The Marlins are not expected to name a winner of the auction by Tuesday’s All-Star Game in Miami, sources said.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred had wanted a winner chosen before the game — but the process is now expected to wrap up next week, a source said.

Manfred said Monday all three suitors had hit Loria’s asking price, without elaborating on what the price was.

Additional reporting by Joel Sherman