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Archives: Feb. 19-25, 2007

Forsyth County commits to new Warthogs ballpark
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Forsyth County officials announced that the county would be willing to give as much as $12.5 million in tax incentives over 25 years to support the commercial part of a new city development, which will include a new home for the Winston-Salem Warthogs (High Class A; Carolina League). The county's economic-incentive offer would not give any public money to the ballpark itself. In addition, the county would not take over ownership of the ballpark after 25 years, leaving the city of Winston-Salem as the eventual owner. Warthogs owner and project developer Billy Prim says he'll accept the county's offer, even though it's a little less than the $14 million he was seeking. There are still a lot of steps to be taken before the project is a reality, including the sale of Ernie Shore Field to Wake Forest.
    RELATED STORIES: Prim: I'll run figures in offer; County's ballpark offer in; New museum part of Winston-Salem ballpark?; Winston-Salem approves new Warthogs ballpark; county is next; Joines: Protect ticket revenue; Council considers city help with moving expenses; Prim's word is his bond; Council postpones Winston-Salem ballpark vote; Attendance, costs at question in W-S ballpark plan; County quiet on funding for new Warthogs ballpark; W-S ballpark could avoid difficult permits since it has no creek; Traffic concerns dominate Winston-Salem ballpark meeting; City outlines routes to proposed Warthogs ballpark; W-S finance committee recommends incentives for new Warthogs ballpark; New ballpark in Winston-Salem a go; Nearing the goal in Winston-Salem; New Warthogs ballpark won't affect local streets; Winston-Salem ballpark plan takes time to stretch

Fair officials respond with new spring-training plan
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A consultant's plan quietly being shopped around by Sarasota Agricultural Fair Association leaders shows a new spring training ballpark, clubhouse, offices and practice facilities for the Cincinnati Reds at the fairgrounds on Fruitville Road -- along with a hotel, modern arena and conference center. There are some major problems with the plan: the Reds would need to keep the current training complex as the home for their minor leaguers, since there are only two practice fields envisioned at the fairgrounds. Still, the plan has some potential, especially since the current plan is in doubt because it relies on $10 million coming from a developer -- and none have stepped forward.
    RELATED STORIES: New Reds training facility in some doubt; Florida finalizes five spring-training grants; Pirates to get 30-year lease, lights at McKechnie Field; Florida makes preliminary decision on state spring-training grants; Bush signs bill funding spring-training complexes; Reds sign 30-year lease to train in Sarasota; Sarasota, county OK Reds ballpark pact; Deal for new Reds spring-training facility close; Sarasota ballpark hopes for home run; Sarasota sends ballpark pacts to state; Sarasota County agrees to tax increase to fund new Reds spring facility; County tees up for baseball hearing; Sarasota ballpark plan stirs resistance; Now the real hard part begins on new Reds ballpark; For new Reds ballpark, cash crisis on deck; Reds swing and miss; New Reds' spring-training ballpark still $16M short; Price for new Reds training facility: $54 million to $62 million; Spring training ballpark, tourism compete for Sarasota bed tax revenue; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities

Matthews wins Ford C. Frick Award
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Kansas City Royals broadcaster Denny Matthews is this year's winner of the Ford C. Frick Award, given annually to a broadcaster in recognition of a long and distinguished career. Matthews will join fellow Kansas Citians George Brett and Joe McGuff in the hall. Brett was inducted in 1999, and McGuff, former editor and sports editor of The Kansas City Star, was inducted into the writers’ wing as the recipient of the J.G. Taylor Spink Award. Matthews joined the Royals in 1969. The award itself dates back to 1978 when Mel Allen and Red Barber were the first recipients. More from Matthews from Joe Posnanski.

Pirates to install new scoreboards at PNC Par
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Pittsburgh Pirates announced that the ballclub will install a larger video display for its main scoreboard and add a new light emitting diode (LED) fascia display that will span PNC Park's upper deck. The new main scoreboard display will have the capability of more than doubling the size of the current video display, as well as splitting into multiple windows to show lineups, statistics, out-of-town game information, animation, video clips and much more. The LED display will provide fans with the latest in-game information, up-to-the-minute player and team statistics and pitch counts, which has been a desired feature for many Pirates fans. Both systems are from Daktronics. The existing video display on the main scoreboard will be disassembled and reconfigured, with additional new display modules, to form a "ribbon" LED video display across PNC Park's upper deck. The new ProAd fascia display will span 960 feet from foul pole to foul pole and measure approximately 3 feet in height.

Dodgertown to ghost town
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Next spring will be the last time the Los Angeles Dodgers train in Vero Beach's Dodgertown, the definite end of an era. The Dodgers were the first team to approach spring training on a logical basis, taking over a former military base in the small Florida city and building dorms and training facilities. The move isn't final yet -- despite what others have reported, Vero Beach officials aren't totally committed to letting the Dodgers walk away with $15 million of debt remaining on the Dodgertown books after renovations -- and there's the chance the Dodgers could be the only inhabitants of a Glendale spring-training facility, at least for the first few years. Vero Beach officials say they'll seek another team for spring training, but he most likely outcome is the redevelopment of the complex. More from SI.com.
    RELATED STORIES: For Dodgers, spring is in the Arizona air; Five firms in line to design Glendale spring-training facility; Goodyear inks deal on spring-training facility; Goodyear eyes noted ballpark designer; Indians fan thrilled by new facility plans; $80 mil for baseball taps out sports authority; White Sox to delay Phoenix move?; Arizona commission to fund both proposed spring-training facilities; Glendale offers spring-training plan; Parties expect Dodgers, Sox deal to pan out; Leaving Tucson will be tricky for White Sox; County not eager to match baseball largess; State panel shouldn't fund White Sox move from Tucson; Goodyear ballpark plan hits funding snag; Pima County trying to avert loss of White Sox for spring training; Dodgers, White Sox reach deal with Glendale; A new Glendale ballpark -- in Phoenix; Goodyear prepares to make its pitch for ballpark funds; What could the future hold for Dodgertown?; Glendale wants to bring Dodgers' spring training to Valley; Goodyear sees spring-training complex as path to development; Goodyear finds support for spring-training plan; It's official: Indians agree to Grapefruit League move; Indians, Dodgers close to deal to move spring training to Arizona; Clock ticks on Disney-Indians deal; Cleveland says no to Cape Coral's springtime offer; Arizona move still a possibility

Play ball in Leominster
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The local newspaper comes out in support of the plan for a new minor-league ballpark in Leominster, a city in the greater Boston area. Some city officials believe the details of the project -- which could include two restaurants, a hotel and convention space, and perhaps interactive sports activities such as batting cages -- could be ironed out this year. Construction would begin next year, with baseball being played in 2009. No word yet on the league setting its sights on the city, although there were previously discussions between city officials and the independent Atlantic League.
    RELATED STORIES: Leominster ballpark work may start in '08; Leominster ballpark dreams take shape; State financing sought for minor-league ballpark in Leominster; Danbury taking minor-league pitches again; Leominster councilors delay ballpark study

Safeco Field offers a semi-suite alternative
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Seattle Mariners are doing what many teams are doing: converting luxury boxes into party areas. They are destroying eight of Safeco Field's luxury suites, which were constructed less than eight years ago at great expense, and opening up the space as a mega-suite, giving Mariners fans an additional option. The All-Star Club, located just beyond first base, opens as the team joins the ranks of teams de-emphasizing the traditional luxury boxes in favor of new alternatives. The All-Star Club is sold on a season-ticket basis only, though fans can buy partial-season tickets for as few as 10 games. Tickets work out to between $100 and $125 per person per game, depending on seat location and number of games purchased. That gets you parking, a reserved seat in front of the suite, and access to a gourmet food spread similar to what is served in the Diamond Club. The only thing that costs extra is alcoholic beverages, available at a cash bar.
    RELATED STORIES: So long to the suite life

Goldeyes to honor Terry Hind with commemorative jersey patch
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Terry Hind, the GM of the original Winnipeg Goldeyes of the original Northern League, who passed away last month at age 86, will be honored by the current Goldeyes (independent; Northern League) this summer with a shoulder patch on Winnipeg's home white and Sunday red jerseys. It is the first such distinction since the Goldeyes returned to action in 1994. Hind was general manager of the Goldeyes from 1954-1964 when they were an affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, overseeing three championship teams during that time. He took his talents to the CFL's Winnipeg Blue Bombers for five years when the Goldeyes left but returned to baseball as the general manager of the Winnipeg Whips (Class AAA; International League) in 1970 and 1971. The patch, which is baseball-shaped, features the letters TH and the years 1920-2007. It will be worn on the right sleeve of both jerseys above an existing Canadian flag patch.

Time to honor teams, players and 'The Sarge'
Posted Feb. 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Today is the home opener for the University of South Carolina at Sarge Frye Field, and more than likely it's the last season opened for the Gamecocks in their longtime home, as a new ballpark is in the works. Sarge Frye was a longtime groundskeeper at USC, and he'll be honored this season with a large photo and banner, as well as a series of events.

County looking at two new sites for Twins ballpark
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In another sign the deal for a new Minnesota Twins ballpark is falling apart, county officials have quietly begun evaluating two alternative sites for the facility: Star Tribune-owned land west of the Metrodome and the current site of the Minneapolis Farmers Market, on the west side of downtown Minneapolis not far from the current new-ballpark site. Whether or not these early explorations will yield anything certainly remains to be seen, but they do indicate Hennepin County officials think there's the strong chance the current deal could collapse. Another sign things are to hell in a handbasket: owners of land needed for the facility blamed Hennepin County on Wednesday for stalling the project. "The ballpark project can begin right now if Hennepin County simply does what it said it would do," said a press statement from landowners' representatives Rich Pogin and Bruce Lambrecht. We're not quite sure we agree with this assessment, as the county has from the beginning used a figure of $13 million or so for this particular lot when budgeting land-acquisition costs, with the most recent offers exceeding that. And the pugnacious attitude exhibited by Pogin and Lambrecht recently hasn't won them many friends in Hennepin County or in the public eye, with many wondering whether the partners and attorney Dan Rosen really are capable of negotiating a deal fair to all. (There are some deep, deep divisions here, much deeper than anyone in the press is saying; some are political, some are personal.)
    RELATED STORIES: Official says changing site of Twins ballpark would mean delays; A great ballpark divide; Twins postpone ballpark unveiling; Hennepin County, Twins say they'll look for a new ballpark site; Draft environmental review for Twins ballpark unveiled; Judge rules Twins ballpark has public purpose; sides still apart on price; Community leaders eager to see Twins ballpark design; Twins ballpark likely to sport modern look; Ballpark site owners put squeeze on Twins; New year brings new ballpark tax for Hennepin County shoppers; Ballpark players ironing out use, development agreements; Twins release more details on new ballpark; New Twins ballpark bypasses standard reviews; Ballpark's link to downtown Minneapolis inadequate, group says; Ballpark should be held to high standards; Twins formally announce design team for new ballpark; Firms lined up early for stadium work; Eminent-domain effort begins for Twins ballpark land; Designing the experience around the Twins ballpark; Ideas for Twins ballpark, some from left field; A freeze frame for Twins; Experts blow hot, cold on ways to heat new Twins ballpark; Appraisal delay puts Twins new ballpark off schedule; Twins pick ballpark designers; As Twins chase playoffs, ballpark preparations push on; Twins ballpark on track to open in 2010; Hennepin County Board approves ballpark sales tax; It's official: Twins to switch broadcast rights to KSTP-AM; Twins to switch broadcast partner after 46 seasons; Twins seek partners for naming rights, sponsorships; Twins searching for trademark ballpark design; Hennepin County OKs spending plan for Twins ballpark; Naming rights options scary; More than a ballpark in Minneapolis

New Hampshire awarded 2008 EL All-Star Game
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Eastern League President Joe McEacharn and the member clubs of the Eastern League announced that the New Hampshire Fisher Cats will play host to the 2008 All-Star Game. The game is scheduled to be played at MerchantsAuto.com Stadium in Manchester, New Hampshire on Wednesday, July 16th, 2008, pending Eastern League schedule approval.
    The 2008 Eastern League All-Star Game will feature a collection of the top talent from the Northern Division taking on a roster of Southern Division All-Stars. Each of the All-Star rosters will consist of 24 players, with each Eastern League franchise being represented by at least one pitcher and one position player.
    "The 2008 Eastern League All-Star Game provides the League and its member clubs the opportunity to bring something special to a city that shows tremendous support to their hometown team," McEacharn said. "We are looking forward to showcasing the Major League stars of tomorrow to the outstanding fans."

A scolding for Oriole Park officials
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In a scathing report released yesterday, state auditors scolded the Maryland Stadium Authority for a variety of management moves, including the payment of $42,000 for less than an hour of consulting services to a former executive director who left under an ethical cloud. The authority oversees Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home of the Baltimore Orioles. In other conclusions, the auditors said the state agency did not adequately pursue $1.7 million in rent the state believes is owed by the Orioles but disputed by the team. The Orioles say they have paid all rent due for 2002-2003 and that they are negotiating with the stadium authority for rent owed for 2004-2005. The sides disagree on how much money the club owes for advertising signs in the ballpark. The team pays rent based on a percentage of various revenues, including ballpark ads.

Sounds must make decisions regarding downtown ballpark
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With a new-ballpark deal in Nashville becoming increasingly tenuous, the argument here is that the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) must decide how much they need a new $48-million facility and whether they can come up with the money to cover any overruns. Sounds management has suggested either Metro or developer Struever Bros., Eccles & Rouse come up with the additional funds, but that may be a stretch: Metro leaders are firm in keeping the Sounds true to the original deal, and we're guessing Struever's lack of movement on the project means they're running into financial problems as well.
    RELATED STORIES: Struever says Sounds ballpark will be built; Amid ballpark questions, plan for two hotels unveiled; Sounds delay ballpark opening until 2009; Ballpark financing lag worries Sounds; Sounds fail to file lease legislation; Council approves lease extension for Nashville ballpark development; Sounds unveil ballpark plans; Metro agrees to deadline extension on Sounds project; Sounds' project team huddles to nail down a deal; Sounds get jump-start on ticket sales for new ballpark; Sounds ballpark developer needs to score soon; Ballpark financing not set as deadline approaches; Struever mulling ballpark-area changes in Nashville; Sounds unveil ballpark plans; PCL president applauds Nashville ballpark deal; Yaeger calls stadium plan flexible and fan-friendly; Sounds settle on 2008 opening date for new ballpark; Ballpark opening date up in air, Sounds say; Nashville Metro Council approves new Sounds ballpark; Company says Sounds deal sets stage for Frank project; Sounds send commitment letter to Council; Caucus continues pressure for minorities' role in stadium; Nashville Council Black Caucus wants more minority work on ballpark; Sounds are rounding third; Sounds remain at bargaining table; Nashville Sounds one vote away from new ballpark; Council should give Nashville ballpark their support; Sounds woo minority business owners for ballpark project; Sounds ballpark vote delayed; Museum, dining wanted at new Sounds ballpark; Sounds move ahead with ballpark design; Sounds weak; Sounds ballpark proposal passes first test on Council; Opposition to Nashville ballpark gears up on council; Many good questions raised over Sounds deal; Chamber of Commerce backs Sounds ballpark plan; Downtown merchants rally for Sounds; Board seeks information on Sounds ballpark deal; Neighbors of Nashville ballpark expect project to spark development; Sounds, Nashville sign agreement for new ballpark; Sides close on Sounds ballpark plan; Sounds ballpark plan nearly triples in size; New Sounds ballpark proposal in doubt; Nashville ballpark bill may have to wait until fall; Sounds deal stalls, but still in play; City bobbling save on Sounds’ perfect plan; Sounds ballpark negotiations slow; Will ballpark make SoBro soar?; Sounds swing deal to get new ballpark; Sounds win city approval for new ballpark

The new Yankee Stadium -- boon and dust
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Construction in the city is at a peak with a huge number of developments around town. Whether you like it or not, if you live near one of the big projects dust, noise and traffic are more part of your life than ever. WNYC's Elaine Rivera takes a look at the cost of the new Yankee Stadium for Bronx residents living nearby -- for some there's the inconvenience of noise, while others must deal with the dust generated from any large-scale development.

Rowan to pursue ownership agreement with Kannapolis
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Amazingly, there's never been a formal documenting who actually owns Fieldcrest Cannon Stadium, the home of the Kannapolis Intimidators (Low Class A; Sally League). Now that there's talk of developing a baseball academy on the site or even selling the ballpark, Rowan County commissioners think it's about time to put pen to paper. The commissioners voted unanimously to enter into an ownership agreement with Kannapolis. The city and county have agreed in principle to share ownership of the stadium property -- with Rowan County owning 75 percent and Kannapolis owning 25 percent, but no official agreement to that effect has been signed. More from the Salisbury Post.
    RELATED STORIES: Rowan County won't partner with sports complex; Sport complex at Kannapolis ballpark in the works

Wolff busy moving ahead with ballpark plans for A's
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More on Oakland A's managing owner Lew Wolff and his work on a new Fremont ballpark. In November, the A’s unveiled plans to move south and build a long-awaited ballpark they hope will soon transform the small-market club into a big spender and a more popular choice for fans in the Bay Area while remaining affordable. The A’s, in partnership with Cisco Systems, Inc., agreed to purchase 143 acres of land from Cisco in suburban Fremont, about 20 miles south of their current home at the Coliseum. The team intends to break ground in the coming years on a new ballpark to be called Cisco Field, with a goal of opening in time for the 2011 season.
    RELATED STORIES: A's tout Cisco Field in ticket mailer; Will global warming swamp AT&T Park, new A's ballpark?; A's owner not sweating lack of BART at Fremont ballpark site; A's owner raises more questions than answers; Wolff seeks tax rebate for new ballpark village; Oakland A's owner buys office park near proposed Fremont ballpark; Fremont, A's continue talks for new ballpark; If Selig's coming, A's must be going; Wolff ready to go public on ballpark; Cisco blending tech and baseball; Records show evolving talks between A's, Fremont; Are the A's worth it to Fremont's neighbors?; More meetings with A's slated after new year; Fremont kicks off negotiations with the A's; A's detail Fremont plans down to the letter; San Jose still ponders illusory ballpark; Transit teams try to solve Cisco Field 'challenges'; A's Fremont ballpark must field host of hurdles; A's plan $400 million to $500 million ballpark village in Fremont; New A's ballpark would boast heavy Cisco tech; The next big thing: the San Jose A's?; A's ready to pull trigger on new Fremont ballpark; Oakland City Council grants A's extension; A's could move away; A's owner Wolff buys prospective ballpark land in Fremont; Fremont looking more and more like future home of Oakland A's; A's not ready to slide out of Oakland yet; A's pass on longer lease for McAfee Coliseum; Owner gives up on moving A's to San Jose; A's to decide ballpark fate by end of season; Fremont's attempt to lure A's running into obstacles; 'Let's plan for A's move,' Coliseum agency told; San Jose voters jeer ballpark plan; Wolff wants to keep A's in Bay Area; A's, Fremont near deal; A's must stay, Oakland mayor candidates say; A's close to deal for Fremont ballpark, officials say; Rumors trail A's search for new ballpark; A's owner in Fremont for meetings; Wolff says there's land for new A's ballpark in Fremont; A's officials confirm interest in new Fremont ballpark; A's take long look at Fremont ballpark site; The San Jose A's of Fremont?; San Jose will buy land for A's ballpark; Will smaller mean better for the A's?; A's committed to intimate 34,000 park in '06; A's owner's new plan for ballpark; Talks for new A's ballpark sputter; Soccer stadium throws curve at San Jose baseball plan; A's ownership group wants to buy MLS expansion team for San Jose; Athletics denied 3-year Coliseum lease extension; A's ballpark: 'Baseball Village' in the vision stage; Planning ahead to get A's to San Jose; San Jose buys first parcel of land for ballpark; Land acquisition for San Jose ballpark may cost $100 million; San Jose goes to bat for ballpark property; Fremont will consider a pitch for A's; Wolff on the hunt for more A's fans, new ballpark; Oakland ballpark village plan designed to win allies, public funds; Wolff's vision of ballpark raises questions; Wolff unveils plans for 35,000-seat ballpark near Coliseum; A's owner to offer specific ballpark plan to keep team in Oakland; Have A's settled on new ballpark site?; Smallball suits Lew Wolff just fine; A's think small with stadium plans; Fremont politicians make a pitch for A's; A's say Coliseum lot isn't feasible; Athletics announce committee to plan new Oakland ballpark; Another San Jose site eyed for baseball; The time has come for new A's ballpark; No specifics on new Oakland ballpark, but plans in the works; San Jose quits discussions on cannery; Wolff about to take over; Going to bat for A's is big opportunity for San Jose mayor; Wolff: A's ballpark already in works; Deal near for San Jose cannery site; For A's, way to San Jose paved with uncertainty; San Jose baseball crusader makes his pitch; A's sale could happen quickly; Sale of A's to heighten San Jose intrigue; BART to the ballpark, what a vision; Another San Jose pitch for baseball; San Jose mayor makes his pitch; Q&A with A's new owner Lew Wolff

The Japanese gyroball mystery
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Daisuke Matsuzaka says he doesn't throw one in games, but that doesn't stop some entrepreneurial baseball folks from Japan to come to spring training and sell the locals on the notion of the gyroball, which is basically a slider that doesn't break. It's actually not all that unique -- it's used extensively in cricket, according to Robert Adair -- and the man who claims to have invented the pitch was in Phoenix to drum up interest in the pitch. (A telling detail: he tried to copyright the pitch.) It seems to work best as a change-of-pace pitch; it also seems to work more as a threat than a reality.

Arizona Winter League ends on high note, will return in 2008
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Golden Baseball League (GBL) announced that the Arizona Winter League ended in fine style as a record crowd of 3,231 fans watched the Yuma Scorpions comeback and win the inaugural Arizona Winter League championship over the Canada Miners in the bottom of the ninth by a score of 7-6 on Friday night. Following the game and throughout the weekend, 35 Arizona Winter League players signed contracts for the upcoming season to play in the Golden Baseball League, the New York State League, and even one with the Baltimore Orioles. Including the 13 that arrived with contracts in place for 2007, this brings to 48 the number of AWL players that will report to professional spring training camps under contract this year. League officials also announced the four-team winter league based at Yuma's Desert Sun Stadium will return next year.

Wolff buys NYCBL franchise
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Miles Wolff, a leader in independent baseball and the owner of the Burlington Royals (rookie; Appalachian League) and the Quebec Capitales (independent; Can-Am Association), has purchased the Little Falls franchise in the summer-collegiate New York Collegiate Baseball League. The team is being renamed the Little Falls Miners. There are some familiar faces in the mix: Dan Moushon will be the team's vice president, while GM is Hoffman Wolff. Besides his ownership duties, Wolff is commissioner of the independent Can-Am and American associations.

For Stockings, retirement becomes a day at the park
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Longtime Vacaville residents Beverly and Joe Stocking emerged from retirement over the winter to take control of business operations of the Solano Thunderbirds (summer collegiate; California Collegiate League). It represents a switch within the family that has owned the team, which features top college baseball prospects from across the nation and plays a summer schedule in Travis Credit Union Park. The Stockings, who created the fuel-distributing company BC Stocking, and the baseball squad's manager, Phil Swimley, now comprise the entire team ownership.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Feb. 22, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Rockford RiverHawks (independent; Frontier League) announced they have hired Travis Stephen as their new head groundskeeper. Stephen, 30, left a similar position with the Clinton Lumberkings (Class A; Midwest League) in order to join the RiverHawks. Stephen, a native of Bellesville, Ohio, attended Ohio University and Ohio State University. He graduated from the latter institution in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in turf management and a minor in meteorology. While with the OSU staff in 2001-05, Stephen was responsible for maintenance at all athletic facilities, including football, baseball and soccer stadiums.

Marlins ballpark funding at first base
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The effort to finance a $500-million ballpark in downtown Miami for the Florida Marlins received a boost Tuesday when the Senate Commerce Committee unanimously approved two bills that would provide $60 million in state money for the project. The votes mark the earliest in the year that legislators have taken action on state funding for a ballpark. Even with Tuesday's votes and support from Gov. Charlie Crist, state funding is far from guaranteed. The request comes during a tight budget year and as another bill being drafted would help all nine of the state's professional franchises each receive a $60 million sales tax rebate. The cost to the state in lost sale tax revenue could total $540 million. More from the Palm Beach Post, which is optimistic about final state funding, and the Miami Herald, which is pessimistic. Given the reaction of some Miami-Dade County commissioners to the proposed downtown location, the Herald may be onto something.
    RELATED STORIES: Charlie Crist's just not batting 1.000; Florida legislative leaders back tax help for sports; Governor boosts ballpark funding formula; CRA board members: Look somewhere else for ballpark funds; Marlins ballpark plan only latest of projects seeking CRA funds; Glitzy plans often pushed with funds for renewal; Agency head says city hasn't sought permission for ballpark deal; Crist backs state funding of new Marlins ballpark; Officials optimistic of finalizing Marlins ballpark deal in downtown Miami; DuPuy: Progress being made on new downtown Miami ballpark; Dade leaders pitch 'urban' ballpark for Marlins; New downtown Miami site explored for proposed Marlins ballpark; MLB official hopes Crist can pave way for new Marlins ballpark; Focus in Miami turns to new ballpark for Marlins; Marlins ballpark chances at Pompano considered a long shot; Pompano Park pitched as location for new Marlins ballpark; Marlins, Loria at crossroads with uncertain future; Orange County commissioner pushing for Marlins; Miami Arena owner sues to stop sale; Buyers sue Miami Arena owner; Deadline looms over proposal for Marlins ballpark in downtown Miami; Marlins officials tight-lipped on downtown Miami ballpark proposal; MLB ready to move on downtown Miami ballpark; Delay in solving cloud over Marlins' future has to end; Selig: Marlins need a new ballpark; DuPuy, local officials discuss new Marlins ballpark again; Marlins ballpark suffers setback; DuPuy meets with Marlins officials about new ballpark; Hialeah ballpark plan hinges on financial feasibility; Marlins to San Antonio: No thanks; Hialeah mayor upbeat on prospects of new Marlins ballpark; San Antonio, Marlins end courtship for now; Tough times for Marlins and their fans; Marlins players adjust to the empty seats

Struever says Sounds ballpark will be built
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Bill Struever, the CEO of Struever Bros., Eccles & Rouse (SBER), the Baltimore firm planning a roughly $200 million hotel-office-condo project to surround a proposed Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) downtown ballpark, said Tuesday he believes the ballpark will happen and said the company is willing to work with the Sounds to get the ballpark done. That may be a more difficult task than it appears: because of delays the cost of the ballpark -- now estimated at $43 million -- will most certainly go up, and Sounds GM Glenn Yaeger says the city or Struever should chip in to compensate for a higher price. Struever declined to comment on the issue, and Metro officials are adamant about not paying anything more toward the ballpark. There are some other issues surrounding the facility, including the issue of who will do the final design and whether the Sounds and Struever can complete financing.
    RELATED STORIES: Amid ballpark questions, plan for two hotels unveiled; Sounds delay ballpark opening until 2009; Ballpark financing lag worries Sounds; Sounds fail to file lease legislation; Council approves lease extension for Nashville ballpark development; Sounds unveil ballpark plans; Metro agrees to deadline extension on Sounds project; Sounds' project team huddles to nail down a deal; Sounds get jump-start on ticket sales for new ballpark; Sounds ballpark developer needs to score soon; Ballpark financing not set as deadline approaches; Struever mulling ballpark-area changes in Nashville; Sounds unveil ballpark plans; PCL president applauds Nashville ballpark deal; Yaeger calls stadium plan flexible and fan-friendly; Sounds settle on 2008 opening date for new ballpark; Ballpark opening date up in air, Sounds say; Nashville Metro Council approves new Sounds ballpark; Company says Sounds deal sets stage for Frank project; Sounds send commitment letter to Council; Caucus continues pressure for minorities' role in stadium; Nashville Council Black Caucus wants more minority work on ballpark; Sounds are rounding third; Sounds remain at bargaining table; Nashville Sounds one vote away from new ballpark; Council should give Nashville ballpark their support; Sounds woo minority business owners for ballpark project; Sounds ballpark vote delayed; Museum, dining wanted at new Sounds ballpark; Sounds move ahead with ballpark design; Sounds weak; Sounds ballpark proposal passes first test on Council; Opposition to Nashville ballpark gears up on council; Many good questions raised over Sounds deal; Chamber of Commerce backs Sounds ballpark plan; Downtown merchants rally for Sounds; Board seeks information on Sounds ballpark deal; Neighbors of Nashville ballpark expect project to spark development; Sounds, Nashville sign agreement for new ballpark; Sides close on Sounds ballpark plan; Sounds ballpark plan nearly triples in size; New Sounds ballpark proposal in doubt; Nashville ballpark bill may have to wait until fall; Sounds deal stalls, but still in play; City bobbling save on Sounds’ perfect plan; Sounds ballpark negotiations slow; Will ballpark make SoBro soar?; Sounds swing deal to get new ballpark; Sounds win city approval for new ballpark

Coming soon to the Trop: Florida-friendly landscape
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Tampa Bay Devil Rays Baseball Foundation will soon begin sprucing up the trench that separates Tropicana Field from the parking lot in hopes of making it less of a moat and more of a stream. Encouraging tailgating in the parking lots highlighted how bleak some of the landscaping was, said Silverman. With a $225,000 grant from the Pinellas County Environmental Fund, the team's foundation will plant 200 native trees and 5,000 shrubs as a demonstration project of Florida-friendly landscaping. The team will also contribute $300,000 in cash and marketing for the project. There's another new feature at the Trop: a new installation of FieldTurf should play slower than the old one.

Weather slows down York construction schedule
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Though the snow and ice that hit the York area this week have slowed construction of Sovereign Bank Stadium, the new home of the York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League), some work on the ballpark continues. A layer of ice covers much of the construction site, but behind a tent of plastic sheeting, masonry work continued yesterday. A single storm will not necessarily throw off the construction schedule, said Eric Menzer, vice president for construction manager Wagman Construction. But a few more weeks of cold and wet could hurt the project, Menzer said. Though the schedule allows for a bit of winter weather, weeks of wet and cold could delay some work, such as pouring the concrete for a seating bowl.

MLB doffs wool caps, adopts new synthetic material
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
On opening day, Major League Baseball will doff the traditional wool cap in favor of a new polyester blend model designed to wick away sweat before it can stream down a player’s face. The change is part of commissioner Bud Selig’s focus on boosting player performance, a Major League Baseball official said, and follows a general trend toward moisture-managing "performance" materials in sports apparel. Of course, the notion of selling new and improved hats must also make Selig and New Era officials pretty happy as well.

Texas opens in renovated Disch-Falk Stadium
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When Kyle Russell dove to snag a pop fly in right field Tuesday, he didn't land on the plush, dark grass of the Dell Diamond. Instead, Russell landed face first on rock-hard, unforgiving AstroTurf and received a harsh reminder that Texas was indeed back at UFCU Disch-Falk Field for good. Though the turf didn't force Russell to dive for the ball, it sure made it look like it hurt when he landed. More than just AstroTurf welcomed the Longhorns to Disch-Falk on Tuesday, and the construction workers who watched the game from right field were a reminder that the stadium is still a work in progress, but Danks said he was glad to be back on campus.

Pelicans solicit fan commercials for 2007 campaign
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association) are holding the “Where Everyone Plays TV Commercial” contest, similar to the Super Bowl ads, for the Pelicans 2007 ad campaign. Groups or individuals are invited to submit a fully edited and produced 15-20 second TV commercial for the opportunity to win a cash prize, a pair of season tickets, and a Pelicans merchandise package. The winning spot will also be aired throughout the Pelicans season. “Where Everyone Plays” is the team’s theme for the season. The theme spotlights the games, promotions and events that happen at and around a Pelicans game and includes the young little leaguer to the young-at-heart and everyone in between. The deadline to submit a commercial is Friday, March 23 at the Pelicans office located at 4920 North Davis Highway..

Ballpark Notes
Posted Feb. 21, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) and Cumulus Radio Broadcasting of Myrtle Beach have reached an agreement to broadcast all regular and post-season action on ESPN Radio 93.9 FM, 93.7 FM, and 1050 AM “The Team” throughout the 2007 season. In addition, each and every Pelicans game can be heard live on the internet at the official website of the Pelicans, www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com. Ryan Ibbotson returns for his fourth season behind the microphone in the Pelicans radio booth....

Cash 'isn't there' for new P-Nats ballpark, supervisors say
Posted Feb. 20, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Facing a severe budget crunch and diminishing revenue, a majority of the members of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors say they are unlikely to approve funding for construction of a ballpark for the Potomac Nationals (High Class A; Carolina League). Plans have been drawn up for a modern, $22.5 million ballpark to replace G. Richard Pfitzner Stadium, a deteriorating, 22-year-old county-owned ballpark with aluminum bench seats near the county government office complex. The new ballpark would be built on the same site and financed by bond sales, the cost of which would be split by the owner of the Class A minor league team and the county. Team owner Art Silber has said that he needs the 6,500-capacity ballpark built by 2008 or he might have to consider moving the team. In order to be ready for 2008, the county would have to approve it this spring.

Pitch in, Twins
Posted Feb. 20, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The St. Paul Pioneer Press says Hennepin County and the Minnesota Twins should make a deal with a group of recalcitrant land owners to acquire the needed land for a new downtown Twins ballpark. Probably pretty good advice, but there are now strong personalities in play, and what may make a lot of sense in theory would require one or more folks to swallow their pride to make a deal. One source of frustration is the unwillingness of the land owners to actually name a price for their land; really, that needs to happen before any further negotiations can take place. We also don't think there's a lot of political fallout if Hennepin County had to go back to the Minnesota Legislature to get approval for another downtown site.

Diamond vision bogs down for Newberry
Posted Feb. 20, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Newberry College has faced a lot of adversity in its attempt to build a new ballpark. Their old ballpark was torn down to make room for new dorms, but the planned new ballpark was slowed down by red tape (it's on a wetlands site) and increasing costs. With the proposed ballpark near the Newberry campus still under construction, college officials have arranged to play "home" games at the old Greenville Municipal Stadium, the former home of the Greenville Braves (Class AA; Southern League) and the Greenville Bombers (Low Class A; Sally League). To offset the cost of having to play 25 home games some 40 miles from campus, the athletics department significantly increased its baseball travel budget to $100,000.

Official says changing site of Twins ballpark would mean delays
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Moving the new Minnesota Twins ballpark project to another location would make it unlikely that the ballpark would be finished by 2010, according to Ed Hunter, the project manager for the Minnesota Ballpark Authority. The owners of the property near the Target Center and officials with Hennepin County have reached a stalemate on the land’s purchase price. County officials said they might seek other locations for the $522-million project, which includes a 40,000-seat ballpark. The next few weeks will be crucial, as Hennepin County officials decide whether to bring the landowners to court for eminent-domain proceedings or if they go for a new location. More from Tom Powers and the Pioneer Press.
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New Reds training facility in some doubt
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The deal for a new $54-million Cincinnati Reds spring-training facility is in serious danger of collapsing, as Sarasota officials are having a hard time finding a private developer to contribute $10 million to the project. Sarasota and the Reds went ahead with the deal without a developer in place in order to qualify for $15 million in state funding for the project, which was preliminarily approved. A final agreement must be done by May to secure the state funds.
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City still in talks to sell Senators
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The four bidders for the Harrisburg Senators (Class AA; Eastern League) have been identified by the local newspaper as Ivy Walls Management, Ripken Baseball, International Facilities Group/Beacon Sports Capital and Professional Sports Marketing, and we've heard the two finalists are Ivy Walls Management and Professional Sports Marketing. All four are involved in baseball: Ivy Walls Management owns the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and the Lexington Legends (Low Class A; Sally League); Professional Sports Marketing owns the Montgomery Biscuits (Class AA; Southern League) and the Lansing Lugnuts (Low Class A; Midwest League); Ripken Baseball owns the Aberdeen IronBirds (short season; NY-Penn League) and the Augusta GreenJackets (Low Class A; Sally League); and International Facilities Group is owned by Michael Reinsdorf, who has consulted on other baseball projects, including U.S. Cellular Field.

Lehigh Valley officials score ballpark money
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lehigh County officials secured a money-saving deal this week to pay for a new ballpark for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League), thanks to a timely financial assessment and five commissioners braving icy roads. Financial advisers for the county lined up investors Tuesday and Wednesday to buy $31.48 million in bonds to pair with state grants for the $48.4 million project, county Administration Director Thomas S. Muller said. Team owners Craig Stein and Joe Finley have agreed to pay the county $1.29 million in lease payments over 30 years. That will pay off an $18.12 million taxable bond. The other $13.36 million bond is tax-exempt and will be paid off with hotel taxes. The new bond rating helped increase the taxable bond amount, meaning the county will need to draw only about $92,000 a year from the hotel-tax fund instead of the $182,000 projected.
    RELATED STORIES: Allentown ballpark begins to take shape; Revised Allentown ballpark cost released; Affiliated baseball finally comes to Valley; Allentown breaks ground on new ballpark; International League approves sale of Lynx; Lynx poised to leap after 2007

Field of dreams or field of schemes?
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Blair Kamin rips the Chicago Cubs for their plan to add advertising to the outfield wall of Wrigley Field. It's one thing to put up billboards and other signs in the park, but the Wrigley Field playing area has been free of ads since 1920 (indeed, the outfield wall sported ads for only three seasons) except for the rotating TV signs behind home plate, but the deal with Under Armour puts ads in the field of play (ed -- error corrected). The irony is that the Cubs are well-aware of how much of an impact those ads will have -- but are now hiding behind some lawyerly explanations.
    RELATED STORIES: Cubs show tradition the door with ad deal

Leominster ballpark work may start in '08
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The on-again, off-again ballpark project in Leominster, Mass., is apparently on again as city officials are making the rounds with plans for a sports complex in an effort to remake the old landfill area just off Routes 2 and 190. Officials expect to have the details of tenants and a funding plan in place this year, with construction starting next year and the area open by 2009. Leominster officials had been talking with the independent Atlantic League about a team, and while the area would seem to fall outside the league's footprint (indeed, the independent Can-Am Association has a far greater presence in the Boston area), adding two teams to the Boston area isn't out of the question for the Atlantic League.
    RELATED STORIES: Leominster ballpark dreams take shape; State financing sought for minor-league ballpark in Leominster; Danbury taking minor-league pitches again; Leominster councilors delay ballpark study

Charlie Crist's just not batting 1.000
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Florida Gov. Charlie Crist comes under some criticism for suggesting state aid be extended to sports teams -- including the Florida Marlins and potentially the Tampa Bay Devil Rays -- for facility construction and renovation. Crist isn't portraying the half-billion in spending as a quality-of-life issue, but rather as an economic issue. The problem with that is obvious: using a sports facility as an economic driver is a dicey issue. There's some evidence that a ballpark can work as an economic in very specific circumstances (think San Diego or Denver), and it certainly has more economic impact than a Wendy's (the specious argument used in this article), but Crist is overselling what a new Marlins ballpark can do.
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Sidewinders on the block?
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There's no doubt many in minor-league baseball believe the Tucson Sidewinders (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) are on the block. But what's in much more doubt is the rumor the team will be moving to a new ballpark in Reno for the 2008 season. For starters, it would be a huge stretch to see a new ballpark in Reno, considering RED Development hasn't put together a final financing plan for a mixed-used development. (This article suggests RED would own the team, which is highly unlikely.) Sidewinders owner Jay Zucker has apparently talked to many potential buyers in the past, and the team still plays at Tucson Electric Park, so draw your own conclusions.

MLB announces 2007 rule changes
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
MLB's rules committee has come out with its rules changes for the 2007 season. The biggest change is how statistics and suspended games are handled. Before, a game called with the score tied in the bottom of the fifth inning or later was to be be replayed in its entirety, though player statistics count from the tie game counted. The new rule states a game stopped when tied in the bottom of the fifth will be suspended and resumed before the next scheduled game between the same two clubs, though it could be finished on the road if no more games remain at the original club's home park. If no more games are scheduled between the two teams and there are playoffs implications, a full game will be played. (This is currently the system in minor-league baseball.) Other rule changes clarify how errors are scored; how defensive indifference should play during a stolen base; the addition of a 10-game suspension to any position player umpires say is scuffing the baseball; and prohibits position players from catching a foul ball in the dugout (they may reach into the dugout, but not actually enter it).

Barons announce 2007 Rickwood Classic
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Birmingham Barons (Class AA; Southern League) announced this year's Rickwood Classic will be played on May 30 at 12:35 p.m., with the Jacksonville Suns in town. Rickwood Field is touted by the team as the oldest ballpark in America (a designation some might dispute), and it was the team's home since the Barons brought baseball back to Birmingham in 1964.
    As in past years, the Rickwood Classic will celebrate a particular era of Birmingham’s baseball history. In 2007, the Barons will celebrate their affiliation with the Kansas City A’s organization in 1964 and 1965, which coincides with the first two years of existence for the Southern League. Barons players will don the gold, road uniforms of the 1964 Birmingham Barons. The Jacksonville Suns will wear their uniforms from the 1967 team that featured Hall-of-Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan.
    Rickwood Field was vacant for two seasons before the Barons were reborn in 1964 in the newly formed Southern League. Rickwood saw stars such as Bert Campaneris, Tony LaRussa, Dave Duncan, Rene and Marcel Lachemann, and manager John McNamara during this time period.

ULB to continue Texas Winter League next year
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The independent United League Baseball announced it will continue the Texas Winter League in 2008, despite some bumps in the road this year. Four teams played an abbreviated pay-for-play season in Harlingen. "It can only get better," said Craig Brasfield, president and chief operating officer of the Winter League and ULB. "We did not do nearly as well as we hoped financially, due to the terrible weather, but the purpose of the league was accomplished." A total of 16 players were signed by the ULB for its regular summer league play, with more expected to be drafted as summer nears. For those keeping score at home, the Brownsville Toros snared the first winter-league title.

So long to the suite life
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The argument here is that sports teams are suffering because they're converting suites into other premium spaces. But the people quoted here actually counter that presumption: Seattle's Bob Aylward says the decision to eliminate some suites in favor of party areas resulted in increased revenue. (The trick is understanding most sports facilities deal with unsold inventories most of the time.) There are some solid business reasons as to why business entertainment (and not just at sports games) is on the wane, and this article points out how sports teams are focusing a little less on corporate sales and more on individual premium sales.

Heart and Seoul of spring training
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
You can find spring training in more places than just Florida and Arizona. If you're in Hawaii, you can see the Hanwha Eagles of Korean professional baseball train at Central O'ahu Regional Park. Korean baseball has some links to Hawaii -- the LG Twins formerly trained there as well -- and those links could be expanded in the future, as Korean baseball authorities explore sending players to Hawaii Winter Baseball.

Pulaski goes to bat at Calfee Field
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
You've got to give the Appy League officials some credit: they worked like heck to come up with a replacement parent team for Pulaski after Toronto pulled its affiliation. The locals aren't pleased, especially after they stepped forward to renovate Calfee Field over the last few years. We expect the Appy League to continue to look for a replacement -- playing with nine teams is OK for one year but not acceptable on a long-term basis -- so Pulaski may not be lacking pro baseball for a long stretch.
    RELATED STORIES: Appalachian League to operate with nine teams in 2007; Pulaski searching for sub; Pulaski loses Jays as parent; negotiations underway for replacement; Blue Jays inform Appy League of plan to pull from Pulaski

Amsterdam to host 2007 NYCBL All-Star Game; Dittman comes aboard as owner
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Amsterdam Mohawks made lots of news last week. First, it was announced the team is hosting the 2007 New York Collegiate Baseball League All-Star Game at July 6 at Shuttleworth Park. The park is in the midst of a five-year renovation plan that will see seating increased to 3,000; already installed is a brick backstop and blue seats from Philadelphia's Veterans Stadium. It was also announced that Dave Dittman, formerly the owner of the NECBL's Newport Gulls and Vermont Mountaineers, is the new co-owner of the franchise.

University of Michigan names area near ballpark after Wilpon family
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The University of Michigan announced that New York Mets owner Fred Wilpon and his wife, Judy, have given the university $12 million through their foundation, which includes $5 million to create a sport injury prevention center, $3 million for need-based scholarships, and a previously announced $4 million gift for improvements at the baseball and softball stadiums. At their regular monthly meeting Thursday, U-M regents named the area around the ballparks as the Wilpon Baseball and Softball Complex after Fred Wilpon's parents, Frances and Nathan Wilpon.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Feb. 19, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Hagerstown Suns (Low Class A; Sally League) announced that WICL Cool 95.9FM, a Prettyman Broadcasting station, will serve as the new flagship station for Suns’ radio broadcasts. The two year deal covers all baseball games during the Suns 2007 and 2008 seasons. All 140 games each season will air live on Cool 95.9FM, marking the club's first foray into FM radio in the tri-state community. In addition, all games are available over the Internet at www.hagerstownsuns.com....Local performer and composer Jeremy Hegg is the new organist for the Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association) for the 2007 season. Hegg will run the team’s music operations during all 48 home games....The Tennessee Smokies (Class AA; Southern League) have named Mick Gillispie as the radio play-by-play announcer on the Smokies Radio Network for the 2007 season. Gillispie, a native of Westminster, Maryland, joins the Smokies after two years with the Chattanooga Lookouts (Class AA; Southern League) as their secondary radio announcer behind long-time announcer Larry Ward. Mick will join the Smokies officially on March 15....The independent South Coast League announced a league-wide agreement with Victory Custom Athletic as the Official Uniform of the SCL for the inaugural 2007 season. Victory currently supplies on field uniforms for more than 20 different independent teams throughout the United States, and is also the league supplier for both the Golden Baseball League and United League Baseball. In addition to being the SCL's exclusive uniform provider, Victory will partner with South Coast League to pay tribute to the Negro Leagues with a “Throwback” uniform promotion in each market during the season.