Early Word On Dodger Bidding

Word, however correct it may be, is that the winnowing process has already begun in the bidding:

Hedge fund head Steven Cohen and groups including Joe Torre and Magic Johnson have survived the first round of cuts in bidding for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, speaking after his basketball team's game Friday night, refused to say whether he was in or out. The Los Angeles Times reported he did not advance.

Initial bids were submitted Monday to the financial firm handling the sale by Frank McCourt, and people affiliated with process said Friday they were notified they will be advancing in the process. The people spoke on condition of anonymity because no public statements were authorized.

UPDATE: Shaikin says Cuban and Gilbert have been eliminated.