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Archives: Sept. 2-8, 2007

Spirit gives up ghost in Lynn
Posted Sept. 7, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Yesterday we alluded to this happening, and now it's almost official: owner Nick Lopardo will shut down the North Shore Spirit (independent; Can-Am Association) at the end of the season (the team is still in the Can-Am playoffs). Lopardo almost shut things down at the end of last season -- even announcing that was his plan -- but he was persuaded to hang in there one more year. Lopardo did things the right way in Lynn: he put millions into Fraser Field and set up a very respectable business. But after five year he apparently decided enough was enough: attendance once again hovered at 2,300 fans per game this season and, given the additional financial burdens of indy ball (player salaries, workers' comp), it wasn't enough. Can-Am Association President Miles Wolff says he expects the team to be folded, not relocated. This puts the league lineup at nine teams, but that includes the Grays traveling team and the Nashua Pride, whose owner, John Stabile, has hinted he may fold operations as well. With Ottawa a huge question mark for 2008, the most likely outcome is that the league goes with eight teams next season unless Wolff can find someone to set up operations in Lynn or another market -- but there's not exactly a lot of open markets in the Can-Am Association footprint.

Tonight's the last night for Cobb Field
Posted Sept. 7, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League) have always prided themselves on offering no-frills, no-gimmicks baseball, and they plan to stick with that formula for their final night at Cobb Field tonight. "We're going to go about our business as usual," Mustangs General Manager Gary Roller said Thursday. "We've given them baseball for the last 55 years, and that's what we'll give them at the last game." Thursday night's game was rained out, forcing a doubleheader against the Great Falls White Sox today, starting at 4:05 p.m. There will be a few low-key events for the second game, which is expected to begin around 7 p.m. Les Barnes, who played on the first Mustangs team, will go to home plate to present a lineup card to the current manager, Ronnie Ortegan, and a color guard will take down the flag at the end of the game. The flag will be framed and displayed at the new ballpark, which is slated to open next season. Cobb Field was always one of our favorite ballparks in the minors: it was a window to a world of baseball that's largely disappeared, and it's a shame to lose such a classic. Let's hope the new ballpark has some of the personality we experienced for years at Cobb Field. Local fans sound as regretful as we are. More from Mike Scherting.
    RELATED STORIES: An extra inning to raise funds for new Billings ballpark; Billings looks at cutbacks to new ballpark; Tight schedule for Billings' new ballpark; Council awards ballpark contracts; City looks to cut cost of ballpark; Ballpark bids throw curve to officials; City OKs ballpark bond bids; Park plans head for home; City, Mustangs watching ballpark plans; Old-time ballplayers join groundbreaking for new Billings ballpark; Billings ballpark design allows future amenities; Plan for new baseball park has sunken, realigned field; Planning for new Cobb Field gets on fast track; Cobb Field planning kicks into high gear; Billings voters approve new Mustangs ballpark; Donors pitch $210K more toward new ballpark; Join local teams in support for new ballpark; Three groups, family pledge $200K for maintenance of new Cobb Field; New vote on an old park; Two more pitch in on new Cobb Field; Musburger urges support for Cobb Field replacement; Baseball fan boosts Billings ballpark campaign; Gaming operator donates $1 million toward Billings ballpark; Cobb backers unveil campaign; Lots to learn about new plan for Cobb Field; Bond issue for Cobb Field replacement on ballot; Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field; Potential gift could pare price of Cobb Field; Funding dominates Cobb discussion; Billings needs ballpark to be proud of, not field of dreams; Panel details ways to cut Billings ballpark costs; Cobb Field panel pursues closer look at costs; Billings panel asks for Cobb Field tax measure; Forums planned on Cobb Field proposal; Poll finds support for bonds for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

Littlefield fired as Pirates GM
Posted Sept. 7, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Pittsburgh Pirates announced that General Manager Dave Littlefield has been relieved of his duties effective immediately. Pirates Senior Director of Player Development Brian Graham will serve as interim General Manager until a permanent replacement is found. Pirates Chairman of the Board, Bob Nutting, announced his decision today after a thorough review of the organization since taking control of the organization in January.
    "After eight months of listening and analyzing the situation, it has become clear that this decision was necessary to move our organization forward," said Nutting. "While there are many bright spots for us to build from, I am not satisfied with the overall performance and progress that has been made. I'm committed to building a successful organization and this is an important step in that process."
    This move will not impact the timing of the search process for the Pirates new president, according to Nutting.
    Littlefield, 47, was named the club's General Manager on July 13, 2001, thus becoming the 11th General Manager in the history of the Pirates.

Bulls announce Goodmon Field
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Last night the Durham Bulls (Class AAA; International League) unveiled the new Goodmon Field sign in center field at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Durham Mayor Bill Bell read a resolution explaining the decision to name the field after Durham Bulls owner and President/CEO of Capitol Broadcasting Company Jim Goodmon saying, "Mr. Goodmon has been at the forefront of improving the Durham community as a business leader, community advocate and caring individual." Goodmon was a driving force for construction of the Durham Bulls Athletic Park that was built in 1995 and expanded for Triple-A baseball in 1998. Today, Capitol Broadcasting is developing the surrounding American Tobacco Campus.

Indian River County still in talks with team to replace Dodgers
Posted Sept. 7, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Indian River County administrator Joe Baird confirmed he is still in negotiations with a major league baseball team that could replace the Los Angeles Dodgers for spring training in Vero Beach's Dodgertown. The Dodgers are expected to soon break ground on a two-team facility with the Chicago White Sox in Glendale, Ariz., and will likely end their 60-year stay in Vero Beach after the 2008 spring training. Baird says he is getting close to an agreement with "a team," though he cannot name the team because of an agreement he signed.

Oriole Park crews get raise
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Under pressure to raise wages for part-time janitorial workers at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the Maryland Stadium Authority voted yesterday to pay them the state's new $11.30-an-hour "living wage," starting next spring. The 5-2 decision came after the men and women who clean the state-owned Orioles ballpark on game days postponed a hunger strike this week to give the agency time to come up with a binding living-wage agreement. The hunger strike, which was to have started Monday, was called off yesterday.
    RELATED STORIES: Ballpark cleanup workers postpone hunger strike

Panel delays vote on center, ballpark
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Members of the Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission raised concerns about traffic around McHenry County College before again delaying a vote early Thursday on a proposed college expansion that would include a 6,500-seat ballpark for an independent Frontier League team. Traffic, of course, is always a big complaint when a new ballpark proposed, but we're guessing the issue can be finessed so the mean streets of Crystal Lake aren't impacted too much.
    RELATED STORIES: Ballpark cleanup workers postpone hunger strike

Ballpark Notes
Posted Sept. 7, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Greensboro Grasshoppers announced the selection of President and General Manager Donald Moore as the 2007 South Atlantic League General Manager of the Year. Under Moore's direction, the Hoppers have consistently ranked among the top 25 teams in Minor League Baseball for attendance. More notably, the Hoppers recently earned the distinguished honor of becoming the first Class A team in the history of Minor League Baseball to draw over 400,000 fans and grow its attendance for three straight years in a new ballpark....For the sixth year in a row, the Brockton Rox’s Campanelli Stadium has been named the best playing field in a vote of the independent Can-Am Association's ten field managers and media representatives. The Rox led the Can-Am in attendance again as 169,999 fans in 51 openings came through the turnstiles at the six-year facility, an average of 3,333 per game....

Three more enter race for MiLB president
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There's now a full slate of candidates for the Presidential Search Committee to interview as Minor League Baseball begins the process of ordaining a replacement for Mike Moore, who is retiring as president. Pat O'Connor, currently MiLB vice president and COO, threw his hat in the ring early. He's now joined by Memphis Redbirds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) president and general manager Dave Chase, who has long expressed interest in the post. Also scheduled to be considered: Phil Evans and Jeremy Kapstein. Evans was formerly president of the NBA Developmental League (2001-2007) after spending time with the Continental Basketball League and currently heads Evans Sports Group in Greenville, S.C. The D-League has not been a huge success, so that experience may not translate into MiLB. Kapstein is a former agent now working for the Boston Red Sox. With these announcements, there will surely be some tongues wagging. O'Connor probably wouldn't shake up things too much -- he certainly has had a strong hand in how MiLB has been run in recent years, and many owners speak respectfully of him -- but the energetic Chase would probably be more likely to propose change, looking at core issues like league alignments. With the weighted voting system, Class AAA owners have an important say in who is selected. We've heard there was talk between Chase and MiLB officials on him overseeing a proposed new minor-league museum in Durham; his entering the race presumably means these discussions didn't lead to an agreement.

New for 2008: Arvest Ballpark
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The Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Class AA; Texas League) will be playing next season in Arvest Ballpark, as the team sold naming rights to Arvest Bank Group. Terms of the 10-year deal (with an option for another decade) were not announced (under their lease, the Naturals retain all revenue from naming rights and are not forced to disclose the terms), but we're guessing the bank is paying a minimum of $100,000 a year. Arvest Bank Group is a regional chain with ties to Bentonville-based Wal-Mart. The deal also includes a suite for Arvest, signage and advertising, as well as exclusive right to place ATMs in the new ballpark. More from the Morning News. More on how the team is being received in Springdale, Ark.
    RELATED STORIES: Northwest Arkansas Naturals' new ballpark progressing rapidly; New for 2008: The Northwest Arkansas Naturals; Officials dig baseball; Springdale ballpark construction budget approved; Springdale City Council approves ballpark design; Springdale commission approves new ballpark; Wranglers GM has new challenges; City hires consultant to assist on Lawrence-Dumont lease; Wranglers owner says team was Wichita's third baseball option; Council looks at ballpark design; Commissioners begin planning improvements around ballpark site; Wranglers' move big hit with Royals owner Glass; League approval slow but expected for move of Wranglers; Springdale approves Wranglers lease; Texas League executives scrutinize proposed Springdale lease; Springdale officials present Wranglers lease to public; Rich Baseball, Springdale reach agreement on move of Wranglers; City told only voters decide ballpark's user; Springdale aldermen to hear United League pitch for ballpark; What's new in Wichita?; Wranglers president says move is nearly official; Wranglers agreement down to one item; City negotiating terms with Wranglers; Springdale awaits word on getting Wichita's team; Wichita expects to negotiate for Wranglers; Wranglers to move in 2008

Marlins about to bring ballpark deal in from the bullpen
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's a commentary discussing a potential new ballpark for the Florida Marlins at the Orange Bowl site. Some of the objections are just silly -- there's no doubt the Marlins would draw better at a retractable-roof baseball-only ballpark, no matter where it's located -- but there are some solid objections as well. For example, we just don't think it's likely you can build a retractable-roof hurricane-ready ballpark for only $422 million; the city and Miami-Dade County would be wise to get an updated cost estimate before proceeding with any deal. There's a lot of doubt whether a new ballpark would raise property values in the Orange Bowl area, but so far that's not used as a big selling point to the public.
    RELATED STORIES: Selig receptive to Orange Bowl site for new Marlins ballpark; UM exit from Orange Bowl paves way for new Marlins ballpark; Selig: Relocation an option if ballpark issue not settled; University of Miami might leave Orange Bowl by '08; Is there room for Marlins in South Florida?; Moss to seek changes in Marlins' name, spring training; Marlins' reaction to no state funding of ballpark: muted; State funding for Marlins ballpark dies when session ends; Senate leader: no deal with slots, Marlins ballpark; Slots, Marlins ballpark financing in tax-bill mix; Vote on Marlins ballpark financing again comes late in legislative session; New Marlins ballpark bill likely to strike out; State House endorses $60 million for Marlins ballpark in Miami; Marlins' pitch for ballpark cash apt to fall short; Dade lawmaker unsure about Marlins subsidy; Miami officials offended at Loria's insistence on downtown ballpark; Loria is pining for a downtown ballpark; Marlins ballpark funding decision has ways to go; Door closed on use of Miami CRA funds for ballpark; Marlins ballpark funding bills advance; Regalado: CRA money shouldn't be dangled in Marlins ballpark talks; New Marlins ballpark in a squeeze play; Miami backs county on plan for new Marlins park at Orange Bowl; Orange Bowl reemerges as site of Marlins ballpark; County unveils Marlins financing plan; Marlins ballpark funding at first base; 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

Nashville mayoral candidates support downtown ballpark
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Good news for the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) as they continue their quest for a new ballpark: both mayoral candidates, Bob Clement and Karl Dean, generally support a new downtown ballpark for the team. Of course, the devil's always in the details, and it's not unlike a politician to pander six days before an election. Still, given that the Sounds almost put together a deal despite the opposition from the soon-to-be-former-mayor, support from both candidates is certainly encouraging.
    RELATED STORIES: Sounds ballpark enters mayoral debate; Architectural firm sues Sounds; Bank pulls money from Sounds' account to pay legal, other fees; Metro halts funds to Sounds; Could Sounds leave Nashville?; Sounds GM Yaeger criticizes Struever Bros. as "wrong partner"; Struever, Sounds now have until 4 p.m. tomorrow to seal ballpark deal; Struever, Sounds now have until 4 p.m. tomorrow to seal ballpark deal; Struever would build Sounds ballpark; Sounds, Struever keep swinging for a ballpark solution; Nashville ballpark plan may be losing its luster; Metro concerned about progress of Nashville ballpark deal; Sounds must make decisions regarding downtown ballpark; 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

When it comes to salaries, UO swinging a big bat
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If you want a solid sign that the game of college baseball has changed forever, check out the contract signed by George Horton to relaunch the baseball program at the University of Oregon: the minimum he'll make is $400,000 annually, with a base salary of $150,000 and another $250,000 in television and radio money and a contract with Nike. With incentives, Horton could earn another $285,000 a year. The incentives include $50,000 for a College World Series appearance, $20,000 for a Pacific-10 Conference title and other rewards for graduating players, producing All-Americans or winning coach of the year honors. That makes him the highest-paid coach in the Pac-10. Horton has a clear track record -- he's won consistently at Cal State-Fullerton -- and the team will need to attract fans to generate revenue. Athletic Director Pat Kilkenny said he'd had preliminary talks with the Eugene Emeralds (short season; Northwest League) about sharing a 5,000-seat ballpark complete with luxury suites and other amenities to maximize revenue. (That, of course, would mostly likely lead historic Civic Stadium to be consigned to the dustbin of history; we've added it to our list of endangered ballparks).

Life, liberty and your preferred bat? Maybe not
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's a follow-up to the recent court case upholding the New York City Council's decision to mandate the use of wood bats in the NYC public schools. Basically, the court held the council could do whatever it wanted and did not need to prove metal bats were less safe that wood bats; no one has the right to use a metal bat. We expect the decision to be upheld should it be appealed; the courts traditionally side with schools when it comes to students guidelines. We do prefer to see wood bats, but our objections to metal bats are based on aesthetics: we're not sure metal bats are less safe (safety objections seem to be based on anecdotes, not any statistical studies), but baseball with a ping just isn't the same. As we're not reliant on advertising from bat manufacturers -- like other baseball publications are, in a big way -- we can express that opinion openly.
    RELATED STORIES: Metal bats strike out in court; Baseball returns to its roots; Group sues New York City over ban on metal bats; New York City passes ban on metal bats; A swing toward wooden bats; USA Baseball: Metal bats are as safe as wooden bats; New York City moves toward ban on metal high-school bats

CL panel, MCC burn midnight oil
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The final decision on a new ballpark for an independent Frontier League team at McHenry Community College has been pushed back to Sept. 19, although the delay isn't expected to impact a planned Memorial Day 2009 opening for the facility. After hours of questions and debate dragged on until about 1 a.m. today, the Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission again ran out of time as it examined a controversial expansion proposal from McHenry County College. Local residents fear the expansion of McHenry Community College could negatively impact the local environment.
    RELATED STORIES: Crystal Lake wants outside opinion on ballpark; Crystal Lake bats around ballpark; Major boom for minor-league ball; McHenry County College, Frontier League close to agreement for new ballpark; McHenry County pulls off a double play; MCC ballpark for Frontier League gets OK; McHenry to vote on new ballpark; private group looks at area facility; Plans for minor league team 'moving in right direction'

Ottawa to land Nashua Pride?
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This could end up being a rough offseason for the independent Can-Am Association. For starters, it sounds like Nashua Pride owner John Stabile is ready to throw in the towel and either sell the team or move it, though he's had no discussions with Ottawa officials about Lynx Stadium. There are the usual rumblings about the North Shore Spirit folding up shop or being sold: owner Nick Lopardo almost shut things down at the end of last season and, although attendance this season was up by 8,000, an average of 2,299 per game may not be enough to sustain a team, especially with the added costs of independent ball (player salaries, workers' comp). The league's interest in expanding north of the border makes a lot of sense given the recent strength of the Canadian economy and the loonie, but owners may be forced to spring for new ballparks in Ottawa and Montreal. More on the loss of the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League).

Ballpark Notes
Posted Sept. 6, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Pacific Coast League is again celebrating a new attendance milestone, eclipsing the 7.4-million fan mark for the second consecutive season during the recently completed 2007 regular season. The PCL averaged over 6,600 fans per game for the third straight year, accumulating a total of 7,420,095 fans in 1,120 openings, surpassing the previous attendance record of 7,413,505 fans set during the 2006 regular season. For the eighth season in a row, Sacramento paced the PCL and all of Minor League Baseball with a total season attendance of 710,235. They were followed closely in League standings by Round Rock who took over the second position this year with 662,575 fans, while Memphis claimed the PCL's third-highest count at 677,706. Meanwhile, Iowa and Albuquerque rounded out the top-5 as they did a year ago. They, along with Oklahoma and Fresno, surpassed 500,000 total fans. In addition to topping the 500,000 mark Fresno also boasted the highest increase in per-game average from last season, as nearly 400 more Grizzlies fans filled Chukchansi Park each game in 2007. Colorado Springs experienced a league-best percentage increase of 8.4 percent while Tacoma followed with a 7-percent increase....The Chicago White Sox have hired creative agency Energy BBDO (Chicago) to serve as the organization's advertising agency of record. Energy BBDO handles numerous brands for clients including Bayer, Beam Global Spirits & Wines, Inc., Dial and Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co., among others....For the seventh consecutive season, the Lakewood BlueClaws have drawn more fans to their ballpark than any other professional team in the South Atlantic League and the state of New Jersey. On the strength of 6,900 fans for the season-ending Labor Day matinee, and a season-high 9,104 on Sunday night, the BlueClaws finished the year with a final attendance of 442,256 in 2007....The Spokane Indians (short season; Northwest League) may have finished the season with a 6-3 loss to the Yakima Bears but they were definitely winners at the gate, pulling 5,864 fans to break their average attendance record and short-season total attendance franchise record. The total number of fans that passed through the gates of Avista Stadium this year was 192,021 which sets the Indians' record for total short-season attendance. That also works out to 5,053 fans per game, the highest season average in Spokane's 104-year history.... The Houston Astros have begun their interviews as they seek a new general manager. Interviewed yesterday were Jim Beattie (former GM of the Montreal Expos and Baltimore Orioles), Ed Wade (former Phillies GM) and Muzzy Jackson (former assistant GM for the Reds). Ruben Amaro Jr., Dave Gottfried, Ricky Bennett and Bob Watson are also scheduled to be interviewed. To share a story or press release with the baseball community, send an email to editors@augustpublications.com.

Portland to keep Beavers moniker
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The Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) announced that the team will not change its historic nickname. In recent months, the Beavers began a formal exploration into the possibility of a name change in an effort to create a stronger identity. The team conducted an extensive series of polls and surveys, ultimately presenting fans with a list of name-change options for input. In the end, the majority of fans expressed opinions in favor of keeping the familiar Beavers moniker. "We said from the beginning this was a decision that couldn’t be made without the input of the community and our fans," said Merritt Paulson, owner of the Beavers. "There's no question that there is a great deal of history with the Beavers' name, and we are embracing that history.
    "We were not going to change the name just for the sake of change. It's clear that there are strong feelings about the Beavers' name, and that's a great thing. However, we still need to explore changes we can make to enhance the team's identity."
    Among those changes, the team has plans to develop a new logo, color scheme and on-field identity system. Further details regarding these changes will be announced at a later date.

Planners endorse Holland Township ballpark
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SunCoast Baseball LLC received approval from Holland Township planners for a proposed 5,300-capacity ballpark at the former Hart & Cooley plant site on Eighth Street, tentatively slated open in 2009 with an independent Frontier League team as a tenant. Holland is located on the west side of Michigan, about an hour from Kalamazoo and a half-hour from Grand Rapids. According to SunCoast Baseball Chief Operating Officer Dobb Mayo, Third Coast Development Partners would build the $6.5 million stadium under a 25-year lease with SunCoast Baseball. If the Frontier League stays as it is now, it would place two teams within an hour of each other -- however, the Kalamazoo Kings didn't draw well in 2007, attracting just 1,169 fans a game, and their continued presence at Homer Stryker Field will surely be a point of discussion in coming months -- and the West Michigan Whitecaps (Low Class A; Midwest League), who will play a half-hour away, draw well.

Swing announces six finalists for new team name
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The Swing of the Quad Cities (Low Class A; Midwest League) revealed the six finalists in the ongoing "ReName the Team" contest on Tuesday: Channel Cats, Current, River Bandits, River Eagles, Swing and Talons. River Bandits is the former name of the team: it has a lot of name recognition in the market and was one of the more unique marks in baseball. The finalists were drawn from a collection of hundreds of nominations, as Quad Cities residents showed an overwhelming amount of interest in helping to pick the team’s new moniker. The name suggestions ran the gamut, ranging from the Quad City Aces to the Quad City Zippers. Quad Cities baseball fans can begin voting on which name they want to come out on top. The next phase of voting will take place online, and fans can vote for their favorite option on the Swing website. More from the Quad Cities Times.
    RELATED STORIES: River Bandits back in Quad Cities?

Cubs sale a slow deal
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Actually, it's not. Five months after Tribune Co. announced plans to sell the Chicago Cubs, the first-place ballclub is making much more noise on the field than its corporate owners have been about the slow-moving sale process. But whether the Cubs make the playoffs or even manage to capture their first World Series in 99 years, an emerging lineup of deep-pocketed bidders has put Tribune in strong position to net a record sale price for the franchise. Tribune put the team and historic Wrigley Field on the block in April, saying it would sell the team after the season and intended to do so by the end of the year. But its bankers have yet to send out detailed financial information to prospective bidders and are not expected to do so until mid-September, jeopardizing that timetable. There's a very good reason for the delay: the move by Sam Zell to take Tribune Co. private has been stalled as rumblings in the equity market and revenue challenges in newspapers have slowed down that deal, which should be completed in the fourth quarter -- although changes in that deal could further delay the sale of the Cubs.

Norwich approves funding for ballpark
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The Norwich City Council unanimously approved a $610,000 ordinance tonight for numerous capital improvements to the Thomas J. Dodd Stadium, some of which are required in the city’s lease with the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League). Aldermen said they were pleased with last week’s agreement between the Baseball Stadium Authority and the Defenders to settle questions over back rent the team owes and the amount of credit the team should receive for equipment purchases and improvements already paid for by the team. The $610,000 includes an estimated $190,000 to replace the playing field, about $100,000 to move the outfield fences in to encourage more home runs, another $100,000 to upgrade public bathrooms and other funding to replace carpeting in the skyboxes and make improvements to the visiting team’s dugout and clubhouse. Work should be completed before the beginning of the 2008 season.
    RELATED STORIES: Defenders, city reach deal on debt; Norwich Council seeking answers on Dodd proposal; Defenders, city meet over rent bill

Orioles defy all business models
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The question here is what sort of business the Baltimore Orioles would be compared to public corporations. A little unfair perhaps; an MLB team does have an identifiable business plan even if it doesn't make sense to outsiders. But the bigger issue raised here certainly is true: the O's seem to have lost touch with their once-passionate fan base -- coasting on the charms of Oriole Park at Camden Yards for years now -- and it will take a lot of work from Andy MacPhail and crew to reestablish that relationship. This article was contributed by a reader. To share a story with the baseball community, send an email to editors@augustpublications.com.

Shuttle off to Lynx Stadium?
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More on the new future of Lynx Stadium, the soon-to-be former home of the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League). The issue is whether it stays as a baseball facility -- the independent Can-Am Association says it's ready to assume the final two years of the Lynx's lease -- or whether it's leased to a local entrepreneur who would convert it to a sports and entertainment venue. Leaving it be as a ballpark would be a safe route, although the Lynx ownership has sued the city for $11 million, saying changes to the parking situation at the ballpark depressed attendance in violation of the lease. Meanwhile, local citizens are circulating a petition asking city leaders to leave Lynx Stadium as a baseball-only facility, but we're guessing less than 3,000 signatures won't really sway many heads in City Hall.
    RELATED STORIES: Another one bites the dust; Lynx rack up thousandth win; Wolff: Don't close down Lynx Stadium

Pro sports flirting with burbs
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More on the potential ballparks for independent American Association teams in Brighton and Castle Rock, Col. Both proposals call for a raise in the local sales-tax rate, which will require approval from the voters. Assuming voters assume both, the Brighton ballpark could open in 2009 and the Castle Rock ballpark in 2010.
    RELATED STORIES: Residents will be asked to help fund minor-league ballpark; Brighton, Castle Rock join in baseball team search; Baseball cost: fair or foul?; Investors pitch baseball idea for The Ranch; Commissioners back study of ballpark at The Ranch; Another baseball contender in Fort Collins: the American Association; Ballpark battle beginning in Fort Collins?;  Foxes still seeking location for their new 'Den'; Minor-league baseball for Castle Rock, Col.?

Historic stadium has uncertain future
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The ongoing saga surrounding Paterson's Hinchliffe Stadium continues. The historic New Jersey stadium was once home to the New York Black Yankees of the Negro Leagues, but today's it's crumbing as its owner, the local school district, doesn't have a renovation plan in the works. Paterson officials say they'd oversee a renovation, but the school district won't give up control. Hinchliffe Stadium is a prominent member of our Endangered Ballparks list. This article was contributed by a reader. To share a story with the baseball community, send an email to editors@augustpublications.com.

Texas Tech to install FieldTurf at ballpark
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Texas Tech is installing FieldTurf at Dan Law Field. The new surface is expected to be in place in time for the 2008 season. The turf upgrade will further cement Dan Law's standing. The facility has hosted several NCAA regional and conference tournaments. In a continuing effort to elevate Dan Law to even greater heights, recent renovations have included an ultra-modern lighting system, a new clubhouse, major league-style bullpens and a new state-of-the-art scoreboard with a modern video screen.

Ballpark Notes
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The Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) witnessed a dramatic increase in attendance during their first year of the “New Era.” Spurred by a series of privately funded capital improvements and renovations to the ballpark totaling more than $2 million, the Pelicans welcomed 215,059 fans through the gates during the 2008 season. The summer at BB&T Coastal Field brought in the third-largest attendance in franchise history and the largest since the 2000 season. An average of 3,117 fans per night jumped the attendance by nearly 8 percent from a year ago....Minor League Baseball has established a new attendance record for an unprecedented fourth consecutive year. As of games through Labor Day, the 175 Minor League Baseball clubs that charge admission had attracted 42,636,123 fans, over 900,000 more than the industry drew in 2006.  The 2007 record total will increase as the Northwest, New York-Penn and Pioneer leagues have not yet concluded regular season play. The Northwest League ends tonight, while the New York-Penn and Pioneer circuits wrap up their regular seasons on Friday....The Los Angeles Dodgers have informed the Great Lakes Loons (Low Class A; Midwest League) that manager Lance Parrish, who led the team in its inaugural 2007 season, will not return to the Dodgers’ organization next year....The New Britain Rock Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) set franchise attendance records for season total and per-game average. The season total of 341,816 surpassed the previous best, 337,687 in 2005. The average per game was 5,341, a sizeable jump from last year's franchise record of 5,052....Rob Rabenecker, who has managed Roger Dean Stadium for the past 10 years, is stepping down to become an owner and operator of a Chick-Fil-A franchise restaurant at The Mall at Wellington Green. He plans to remain at Roger Dean until Sept. 14...The Toledo Mud Hens (Class AAA; International League) set a single-season attendance record for the third consecutive year. The Mud Hens drew 590,159 at Fifth Third Field in 2007, surpassing last year's total of 559,330....To share a story with the baseball community, send an email to editors@augustpublications.com.

Another one bites the dust
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The Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League) played their last game at Lynx Stadium, attracting 7,468 fans to an 8-5 loss to the Syracuse Chiefs. The team is slated to move to Allentown, Pa., next season. It was an interesting 15-year run for the Lynx: the team came strong out of the gate and led the International League in attendance early on, but bit by bit fans lost interest in professional baseball in the Canadian capital even when the amateur game seems to be thriving. The future of Lynx Stadium is in doubt: the independent Can-Am Association wants to bring a team there as early as next season, but there's a proposal to turn it into a soccer and entertainment complex. Indeed, the plan presented by David Butler is pretty ambitious: he want to drop baseball and spend millions of dollars to turn Lynx Stadium into a multi-service entertainment and sports complex within perhaps 20 months. Frank D'Angelo, the owner and president of Steelback Brewery, has a written agreement with Butler to be the lead sponsor of a renamed Steelback Centre of Ottawa. The ballpark would be converted to a concert and soccer facility, without any provisions for baseball. The plan would also see money flowing into city coffers; by contrast, a move by the Can-Am Association would be revenue-neutral. City officials aren't saying a lot: they say they have a binding lease with the Lynx through 2009, but the Lynx are suing the city for $11 million Canadian, and the most logical outcome would be a settling of the lease and the claim. Independent ball, with its shorter seasons and ability to sign local players, seems to be the future in Canada: the Vancouver Canadians (short season; Northwest League) are the only affiliated team left north of the border, but indy ball does well in Winnipeg and Quebec City. Let's hope the Lynx staff lands on their feet; they've done a pretty good job this season under some trying circumstances. This Canadian Press article may be a tad dramatic: it's been a long, long time since Triple-A baseball left Winnipeg and Montreal. Don Brennan holds out hope the Lynx could return. More from the National Post and the Ottawa Citizen.
    RELATED STORIES: Lynx rack up thousandth win; Wolff: Don't close down Lynx Stadium

Landowners make settlement offer in Twins ballpark dispute
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The owners of 10.5 downtown acres where the new Minnesota Twins ballpark is being built have offered to drop the asking price to $33.18 million to avoid a court fight over land condemnation. The offer was sent to Hennepin County officials Friday by Land Partners II, a limited-liability corporation with about 80 investors, and Houston-based developer partner Hines Interests. If the offer is legitimate and doesn't have any conditions not reported here (like having Hennepin County pay extra for legal costs incurred by the landowners), then it's something Hennepin County should seriously consider. A three-member panel of arbitrators said the land was worth $23.8 million, but a dissident member of the panel pegged the value at $33 million. Both valuations are vastly less than what the owners were asking: $65.375 million. The landowners already pledged an appeal, but this is an attempt at negotiations before what would sure to be a lengthy court battle. More from the Star Tribune.
    RELATED STORIES: Twins finally hold groundbreaking for new ballpark; Landowners to appeal valuation of Twins ballpark parcel; A new dispute on ballpark land figures; Twins ballpark site worth $23.8 million, says condemnation panel; Greed circles the plate at Twins ballpark site; Hennepin County, land owners remain far apart on value of ballpark site; Taxpayers' costs for Twins ballpark may be going up; Ballpark land was low-balled; Ballpark designers seek green label, but say effort alone counts; Twins ballpark parcel worth $65.375 million, say owners; Twins ballpark draws development interest; Pohlads lining up land near ballpark; Hennepin County takes control of ballpark land, reaches agreement with railroad; Twins, Hennepin County sign ballpark agreement; now the fun begins; County: Twins' extra donation for ballpark is confidential; Twins unveil ballpark plans; Hennepin County, Twins reach land agreement; vote slated for today; Twins ballpark meeting is delayed; Ballpark impasse solution may be near on Twins ballpark; Twins moving ahead with ballpark plans; Pohlads step up to plate to help county save deal; Possible fix for Twins ballpark impasse arises; Are Twins working to end ballpark impasse?; Building a ballpark may hinge on having the Twins pay more; County officials, landowners of Twins ballpark site remain in a holding pattern; County looking at two new sites for Twins ballpark; 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

An extra inning to raise funds for new Billings ballpark
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The city of Billings is asking citizens to contribute funds for the new home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League), replacing venerable Cobb Field. There isn't enough money in the budget to pay for "alternates" not in the base bid. Those are the items that Brewer and Hahn are working to cover. Topping the list is landscaping, including trees and shrubs to beautify the perimeter of the park and parking areas. The call to action here is for citizens to contribute funds for the new ballpark to fill a $565,000 gap: there's already been $2.11 million pledged, and the city is selling commemorative bricks as an inducement to contributing.
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Defenders, city reach deal on debt
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City officials and the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League) have reached an agreement on overdue lease payments owed to the city and credits the minor league baseball team should receive. The agreement resolves key financial issues as the City Council is set to vote Tuesday for capital improvements to the Thomas J. Dodd Memorial Stadium. Aldermen delayed action Aug. 20 on an ordinance to authorize $610,000 for several upgrades to the city-owned Dodd Stadium, saying they wanted a report on the financial status of the team's lease payments by the Sept. 4 council meeting.
    RELATED STORIES: Norwich Council seeking answers on Dodd proposal; Defenders, city meet over rent bill

River Bandits back in Quad Cities?
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The Swing of the Quad Cities (Low Class A; Midwest League) are holding a name-the-team contest and will announce the six finalists at a press conference this afternoon. We're guessing of the names on the list will be the Quad Cities River Bandits, the team's former moniker. We're hoping so: River Bandits is a great name, and the logo was always one of the better marks in minor-league baseball. There are other potential merchandising spinoffs -- especially where kids are concerned -- with the River Bandits name. More from the Quad-Cities Times.

Astrodome in danger?
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It looks as though plans to renovate the Astrodome, the longtime home of the Houston Astros, are on hold, leading to some local officials to ask why Harris County is spending millions of dollars keeping the facility open for a handful of local events. "The dome is old and it's falling apart," said Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. "It's time as they say to fish or cut bait." The Astrodome opened as the first domed stadium in the major leagues, hosting the Astros as well as the NFL's Houston Oilers. We've placed the Astrodome back on our list of endangered ballparks. Speaking of endangered ballparks: Slate magazine says Tiger Stadium must go.

Goodyear to hold groundbreaking later this month
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Goodyear will break ground on a new spring-training complex for the Cleveland Indians later this month, highlighted by an appearance from former Indians great Bob Feller. Construction on the complex is scheduled to be finished by February 2009 and is expected to be ready for the Indians' spring training season that year.

Stockton hasn't given up on ballpark naming rights
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It has been more than two years since a consultant told Stockton the city could make millions of dollars by selling the right to name Banner Island Ballpark, the home of the Stockton Ports (High Class A; California League), but still no corporate name has come. After the consultant, Cleveland-based The Superlative Group, failed to sell the name the city will soon try again, City Manager Gordon Palmer said last week, and will likely issuing a request for proposals from companies that might test the market once more. Original estimates pegged naming rights for the ballpark at $2 million.

Nationals choose Centerplate to manage concessions at new ballpark
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The Washington Nationals have named Centerplate as the food and merchandising concessionaire at Nationals Park, slated to open next season. "The concessionaire's reputation for fine cuisine and service is widely recognized throughout the industry," commented Washington Nationals President Stan Kasten. "We are looking forward to having Centerplate as part of our team as we are committed to providing our guests with the best and most enjoyable fan experience at the new Nationals Park."

Golden Baseball League looks to add two teams for '08
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The independent Golden Baseball League is looking to add two more teams for the 2008 season, up from the six fielded this season. One potential area is Vacaville, though the talk has been to tear down Travis Credit Union Park. Though the books haven't yet been closed on the season, officials of the independent minor league say it will turn a profit this year, a year earlier than expected according to their business plan. In reality, we're guessing the league really needs to come up with three new market: we'd be surprised to see the Reno team still playing when the Pacific Coast League begins operations in a new ballpark in 2009.

Ballpark cleanup workers postpone hunger strike
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Preaching the importance of respect, dignity and justice for low-wage workers at a Labor Day prayer service and rally, the men and women who clean Oriole Park at Camden Yards called off a planned hunger strike to give the Maryland Stadium Authority a few more days to sign a binding "living wage" agreement that the workers have demanded. Organizers with the United Workers Association, a human rights group founded by homeless day laborers in Baltimore, said they were encouraged by public remarks Friday from Gov. Martin O'Malley and Frederick W. Puddester, chairman of the stadium authority. Both expressed support for a living wage for the part-time workers who clean the state-owned Oriole Park at Camden Yards on game days.

Today's video: Brawl at the ballpark
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There were fireworks in the recent Greensboro Grasshoppers/Kannapolis Intimidators (Low Class A; Sally League) series, but the wrong kind. Basically, you had several cases of retaliation and perceived retaliation, with so many players tossed the outcome of the game was in doubt. (Sally League President John Henry Moss ultimately reinstated the tossed players so the game could go on.) You can read a blow-by-blow account of the brawl here. Keep those suggestions for videos coming in -- you can email us videos and links at editors@augustpublications.com.

UPDATE: The original video was pulled from YouTube. Never fear: you can view a higher-res version here, as well as a video of the second night of the brawl.

Pelicans unveil 2008 Cal-Car All-Star Game logo
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The Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) unveiled the official logo for the 2008 California League-Carolina League All-Star Game, which will be played on June 24, 2008 at BB&T Coastal Field. "First of all, we are beyond excited to bring the All-Star Game here to Myrtle Beach," said Pelicans President & Managing Partner Chuck Greenberg. "The All-Star logo certainly ties in the fun beach feel of this dynamic community with our new logo, which is one of the freshest and most vibrant in professional sports." The All-Star game logo features a sparkling star outlined with the same dock rope prominently featured in the Pelicans’ primary logo. A large Palmetto tree, the state tree of South Carolina, emerges out of the bottom right corner of the star, giving the logo a distinct local appeal. The colors used in the logo derive from the Pelicans current logo, featuring Pelicans Blue, Midnight Blue, and Sun Gold, with a touch of white.

Paulson seeks some big hits for Beavers
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New owner Merritt Paulson certainly has taken a hands-on approach to the Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), infusing some new life into the venerable franchise. Some of the moves have been great, like attracting the 2009 Triple-A All-Star Game, and others have been a little less successful, like the proposal to rename the team. And we're not entirely sure Paulson is in as good position to bring MLB to Portland as some think -- there's a lot more separation between MLB and MiLB than outsiders assume, and MLB tends not to like to involve minor-league owners when teams hit the market.

Dragons have grand slam season
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Ken Stickney, managing director of the Dayton Dragon (Low Class A; Midwest League) ownership, said the Dragons are wrapping up their most financially successful season to date and business across the board is up 10 percent.  At the end of the 2007 season, the team will finish at 564 consecutive sellouts at Fifth Third Field, though seats still sit vacant if season ticket holders do not attend. Last year's regular season total attendance of 582,903 was slightly higher than the 2005 attendance, but lower than in 2003 and 2004, when the team had its highest attendance with 593,663.

Jaxx end summer of growth
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After a shaky offseason that saw the team almost sold to an Orlando investment group, the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) saw paid attendance this season increase by 16,929, to finish at 113,351 -- a 17.6 percent increase over last season's 96,422 paid attendance. Jaxx General Manager Jeff Parker credited season-ticket holders, a steadfast fan base and increased activities for children as several reasons for the increase.

Cats to scratch back
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After rumors floating around this past season of the future of the baseball club, the management of the Edmonton Cracker-Cats (independent; Northern League) say they will be back at Telus Field next season for a fourth campaign. "This team isn't going anywhere. Our ballpark is a triple-A-caliber facility and somebody needs to fill it," said Cracker-Cats general manager Al Coates. "The onus at some point needs to fall on us and we haven't had a winning team here in three years. We feel if we can build a winning ball club, the fans will come."

Southern Illinois proud of 'boys of summer'
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Another article on the amazing success enjoyed this inaugural season by the Southern Illinois Miners (independent; Frontier League). The team set a Frontier League attendance record and truly capture the imaginations of the local community. Plus, Rent One Park has proven to be a comfortable place to view a game. (We'll have our look at the ballpark tomorrow.) It will be interesting to see how the Miners follow up next season.

Pitchers' speed thrills, but smoking-gun theories abound
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Fans love to see public displays of the pitch velocities collected by radar guns, but it's not exactly the most reliable measure of how fast a pitcher throws. Though it's not easy to manipulate the actual speed gun, fans assume they're juiced in some ballparks. The bigger issue is how the speed gun is set up: it will register faster speeds if it's aimed toward the pitching mound. Some minor-league coaches we've talked with would do away with them completely; youngsters worry too much about their speeds and less about learning how to pitch.

Baseball team does right by tribe
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The Spokane Indians (short season; Northwest League) play minor-league baseball in a quaint ballpark built in 1958 on the east side of this former timber town. But the Indians have made major news by accomplishing a cultural feat that has been lost on the Cleveland Indians, the Washington Redskins and the University of Illinois. The Spokane Tribe of Indians helped create the new team logo. A pair of eagle feathers circle a baseball. The tribe told the ballclub that the soaring eagle is the most honored form of representation. The Indians red game cap has an "S" with an eagle feather accent. T-shirts say "Spokane Indians Baseball Club," written in Salish, the tribe's language.

In memoriam: Gary Jones
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Longtime GM Gary Jones died at 64 after a long illness at his home in Bloomington, Ind. Jones, a 1961 Central graduate and longtime Evansville resident, served as business manager of the Triple-A Evansville Triplets in 1972 and '73 and was general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies' Double-A affiliate in Reading, Pa., from 1974 to '76. He returned to Evansville to become the Triplets' GM in 1977. He was principal owner of the Springfield Capitals when they won Frontier League titles in 1996 and '98. He was vice president and director of baseball operations for the Evansville Otters (independent; Frontier League) for two years.

Ballpark Notes
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With most affiliated leagues ending their seasons yesterday, it's no surprise we have a slew of attendance news today. The Binghamton Mets (Class AA; Eastern League) saw attendance at NYSEG Stadium climb to its highest mark in 15 years. In 66 home dates, the B-Mets drew a total of 230,053 fans, an increase of 14,717 over the 2006 total. The average attendance of 3,486 increased 8 percent over the 3,214 per opening average last year. The all-time attendance record for the ballclub was established in the inaugural season, 1992, when paid attendance totaled  259,183. The team followed up with 225,467 patrons in 1993. That figure now ranks third best in team history....The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) announced that a franchise-record 371,710 fans attended games at Merchantsauto.com Stadium in 2007, a 23 percent increase from last season. New Hampshire’s total attendance ranked fourth overall in the Eastern League, another all-time club record. This season’s attendance mark shattered the previous high of 300,049 fans drawn in 2006 and caps a season in which every franchise attendance mark was broken. The Fisher Cats finished the season with 17 standing-room-only crowds, including seven consecutive standing-room-only crowds between June 15 and June 25....The Tri-City ValleyCats (short season; NY-Penn League) have broken their single-season attendance record for the fourth consecutive year with Sunday night's crowd of 4,326 against the Oneonta Tigers. The total attendance for the 2007 season is now at 130,823, with still one game remaining. The ValleyCats, who are now in their sixth season in the Capital Region, have set attendance records in 2004 (110,497), 2005 (116,674), 2006 (129,126) and again in 2007. Each of the six seasons the 'Cats have totaled over 100,000 fans at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium....With a final-day crowd of 3,800 on Monday, the Peoria Chiefs (Low Class A; Midwest League) surpassed the franchise record for attendance in a season, which had been set during the 2005 season. The new total of 259,784 breaks the record of 256,612 set two seasons ago when the Chiefs rejoined the Cubs organization. The 2007 season also saw the highest average attendance for the month of July in franchise history with an average crowd of 4,814 during 12 home July games. The 2007 season at O’Brien Field featured rehab appearances by several Chicago Cubs through out the year....The Salem Avalanche (High Class A; Carolina League) surpassed their all-time franchise attendance record of 255,225 on Saturday with a crowd of 5,769. With Sunday's attendance of 3,057, the new record sits at 258,469. The team finished the season with an average attendance of 3,916 -- up from 3,602 in 2006 (+8.7 percent) and up from 3,753 in the prior record-setting season of 2005 (+4.2 percent). In 2006 and 2007, the Avalanche hosted 66 home games; in 2005, the Avalanche played 68 at home....Chris "Butter" Ball repeated as groundskeeper of the year in the High Class A Carolina League. He oversees things at BB&T Coastal Field, home of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans....The Low Class A Midwest League has named the Great Lakes Loons’ Dow Diamond Grounds Crew as the top Grounds Crew in the Midwest League for the 2007 season. The crew is headed by Matt McQuaid, Head Groundskeeper for the Great Lakes Loons. The league’s managers selected Dow Diamond’s crew for the award. A statement released by Midwest League President George Spelius said the Loons' Grounds Crew "demonstrated a commitment and dedication to providing a first-rate playing surface, making them a respected leader in the Sports Turf industry."