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Archives: Aug. 26-Sept. 1, 2007

Jeff Nelson's comeback: Satisfying but tiring
Posted Sept. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jeff Nelson was never so happy to see a ground-ball out in his life. Not that he had anything against Rondell White, whose roller to 3B Ross Gload was the last out in Kansas City's 9-4 win over the Minnesota Twins Friday afternoon at the Metrodome in the opener of a day-night doubleheader. Rather, Nelson, the home plate umpire, had looked at 303 pitches and he was beat. It was Nelson's first game back in the major leagues after being out of action for nearly three months after being diagnosed with a form of testicular cancer. When the game was over, he felt satisfied but was also very weary. He chats about his experience with our Dave Wright.

Jeff Nelson with Royals third-base coach Brian Poldberg before the start of Friday afternoon's game. (Photo by Jim Robins.)

Marlins should use revenue sharing money for ballpark
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's the kind of story where the columnist knows his preferred route of action will never happen but he's working to take a few jabs at his subject. Dave Hyde says MLB should force the Florida Marlins to spend their $30 million a year in revenue sharing on a new ballpark. Now, we all know that will never happen: it's not like Commissioner Bud Selig has the power to force the team to do so, and since revenue sharing does fluctuate (in fact, many expect it to go down in 2010), it makes little financial sense for the Marlins to assume it will keep appearing. Still, it's a nice way for Hyde to illustrate MLB's dysfunctional finances: the Marlins will probably show a profit without appearing to care about fielding a competitive team.
    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

Drillers consider ballpark options
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With its lease at Drillers Stadium expiring in 2009, the Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) have attracted suitors for three new homes even as it negotiates terms with the Tulsa County Fairgrounds about staying put. Suburban Jenks is one, in the form of an 852,000-square-feet retail complex planned for the west bank of the Arkansas River, just south of the Oklahoma Aquarium. Downtown Tulsa leaders want to keep the club in town, although where it would be and how it would be funded remain uncertain. Some Broken Arrow developers also expressed interest, although Drillers President Cluck Lamson said he would consider only downtown Tulsa and Jenks. At issue is the 26-year-old Drillers Stadium that the team thinks is too big at 10,997.
    RELATED STORIES: Playing ball in downtown Tulsa; Jenks may lure Tulsa Drillers

Angels owner, Anaheim at odds over project
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The already cool relationship between Anaheim and its hometown baseball team has grown ever chillier, with Angels owner Arte Moreno raising the specter of legal action to block the city's proposed development in the Angel Stadium parking lot. After a recent meeting between Moreno and city officials deteriorated into a debate over who should have attended the meeting and what might be built next to the ballpark, two City Council members said Thursday that the city was now prepared to proceed with development without further discussion with Moreno. The 53-acre site, which is on the outskirts of the lot and includes the Grove theater, had been used in an attempt to attract an NFL team. But the city recently gave exclusive development rights to Archstone-Smith and Hines, a nationally known builder that has proposed incorporating 1,100 apartments into a project that also could include offices, hotels, shops and entertainment venues.

Residents will be asked to help fund minor-league ballpark
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If Brighton (Col). residents want a 3,000- to 4,000-seat multiuse ballpark for an independent American Association team and other events, then they will have to ante up. That’s the word from City Manager John Bramble. He’s proposing a tax of 20 cents on each $100 purchase to fund construction. If it passes, the new money could total as much as $31.8 million. Eighteen million of that goes to principle and interest on $18 million worth of bonds, and $5 million would be put into what Bramble called a "futures" account for upgrades or major maintenance. Voters would need to approve the hike on a November 2007 referendum, with a new ballpark coming in 2009.
    RELATED STORIES: 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.?

Today's video: the Nuts remake the classics
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Recently the Modesto Nuts (High Class A; California League) hosted a promotion called "Nuts Remake the Classics." The front office remade different scenes from classic baseball movies such as Bull Durham, A League of Their Own, Sandlot and Major League. All of the clips have a distinctly Modesto twist. Below is the remake of the famous meeting at the mound from Bull Durham; you can see the full set of videos at the team's YouTube page. Keep those suggestions for videos coming in -- you can email us videos and links at editors@augustpublications.com.

Lynx rack up thousandth win
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The team may be moving to Allentown next season, but that doesn't mean the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; Texas League) aren't leaving Canada with a bang. When the Lynx won the first game of last night's doubleheader, they recorded the 1,000th win in franchise history. Gary Knotts earned the win for the Lynx. The first win in Lynx history came on April 8, 1993 in Charlotte, N.C., when the Lynx defeated Charlotte, 8-6. Tavo Alvarez was the winning pitched as the Lynx topped their expansion cousins, the Charlotte Knights. 1993 Lynx MVP Todd Haney hit the first home run in Lynx history. Both teams would go on to make the playoffs in their very first season. The Lynx won the wild card with a 73-69 record before falling to Rochester in the first round of the IL Playoffs.

Honestly, you can't really blame him
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Now that the independent Can-Am Association is coming to a close, it's time for the annual speculation to begin: whether the Nashua Pride will be returning next season. John Stabile's not a stupid guy, and at some point he'll figure out pro ball in Nashua isn't a good bet. Sports editor Tom King doesn't want to a summer-collegiate team in Holman Stadium (sportswriters generally see those leagues as a step down when they're used to covering the pros), but if there's a ballpark and market that's perfect for summer-collegiate ball it's Nashua's Holman Stadium.

What a way to end a crazy SCL season
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's a pretty harsh evaluation of the inaugural season for the independent South Coast League, who apparently committed the grave sin of scheduling the league championship series when high-school football begins play in Georgia. Things probably didn't go the way organizers anticipated -- they never do -- and things probably aren't as bad as this article would have you believe. Case in point: complaining that Jackie Hernandez stepped down as Charlotte County manager at a time his wife was experiencing health problems is more than a little crass.

The boychicks of summer
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Apparently things didn't go as well with the independent Israel Baseball League this season as organizers had us believe. Players threatened a strike because their paychecks were smaller than anticipated, the playing conditions were subpar and telecasts were dropped because the league didn't pay a sports channel. League officials say they'll be back next season and put lessons learned this season to good use.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Aug. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With the end of the season approaching, we have lots of attendance news to pass along. For the fifth consecutive year, the Portland Sea Dogs (Class AA; Eastern League) have established a new attendance record at Hadlock Field. In 64 openings in 2007, the Sea Dogs averaged a franchise record 6,521 fans per game, surpassing the previous mark of 6,358 fans in 2006. Portland sold out Hadlock Field 24 times in 2007 and drew 417,326, the third highest total in team history, despite losing seven openings due to inclement weather. It is the seventh time in franchise history that the Sea Dogs have surpassed the 400,000 mark. The Sea Dogs finish the season second in the Eastern League in average attendance....Derek Martin, former director of ticket sales for the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League), is the new assistant general manager/ticket sales for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League). Martin will join the Pelicans front office staff in preparation for the 2008 season, the team’s tenth....The Greensboro Grasshoppers (Low Class A; Sally League) set another attendance record last night, when a crowd of 6,604 fans brought the season attendance to a record 432,085, surpassing the 2006 total of 427,890. With this newest attendance record, the Hoppers will become the only Low-A franchise in the history of Minor League Baseball to increase its attendance in its first three years in a new ballpark....The Modesto Nuts (High Class A; California League) set a franchise attendance record last night at the final home game of the 2007 regular season, when a crowd of 3,821 was on hand to see the Nuts defeat the
Bakersfield Blaze, 3-0. The final 2007 attendance of 158,936 eclipsed the old mark of 155,171 set in 2002....The Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Class AAA: Pacific Coast League) set a new franchise single-season attendance record earlier this week. The season total finished at 274,408, breaking the old record of 269,904 set back in 2001. The Sky Sox broke the record with only 66 of their 72 openings because of six snow outs back in April. The per game average attendance for the Sky Sox is also a new record as the team drew an average of 4,157 fans per contest. The Sky Sox have now draw 4,467,320 fans over their twenty seasons in Colorado Springs....The Trenton Thunder (Class AA; Eastern League) became the first team in the history of Minor League Baseball at the Double-A level or below to draw 400,000 fans for thirteen consecutive seasons....York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League) ushers Greg Lloyd and Lynn Pfleiger will exchange vows behind home plate at Sovereign Bank Stadium on Sept. 1. The ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by the game between the Revolution and the Bridgeport Bluefish at 7:05. Lloyd and Pfleiger would like to extend the invitation to all fans to attend their wedding on Saturday. Fans will be referred to as wedding guests on this special night, and are asked to bring cards and a monetary donation benefiting Make-A-Wish as a gift to the couple....Eric Blanton of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats has been named the 2007 Eastern League Sports Turf Manager of the Year. It is the first time that Eric has won the award, which is voted on by Eastern League field staff and umpires. Blanton serves as the Head Turf Manager at Merchantsauto.com Stadium and has been with the Fisher Cats since the 2005 season. Before joining the Fisher Cats staff, the Packwood, Washington native spent three seasons working with the Los Angeles Dodgers and one season with the Tacoma Rainiers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League)....

Selig receptive to Orange Bowl site for new Marlins ballpark
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig met with Miami and Miami-Dade County leaders Tuesday and declared all sides were in agreement about the need for a new, retractable-roof ballpark for the Florida Marlins. Selig stopped short of saying the stadium should go on the site now occupied by the Orange Bowl, but city and county leaders said that was the site they discussed in a pair of meetings. The city and county have focused their attention on the Orange Bowl, which has an uncertain future after the University of Miami announced plans to leave for Dolphin Stadium at the end of this season. The Marlins would prefer a downtown site, but the team and MLB officials declined to comment on that issue Tuesday.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Reno council OKs downtown ballpark deal
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Reno City Council voted unanimously last night to support a deal with SK Baseball to bring professional baseball to downtown Reno. Under the agreement, the city would gain a new ballpark for the relocated Tucson Sidewinders (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and shopping district that could revitalize the east end of downtown. SK Baseball bought the Sidewinders and would build the $48 million stadium with seating for up to 10,000 people. The company began intense negotiations for a site in July against an Oct. 1 deadline to use up to $27 million in county car rental fees for the ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Baseball owners could get tax break; Two sites OK'd for Reno ballpark; Two Reno ballpark sites to go before city planners; PCL approves Sidewinders sale; Reno gets site; Reno officials want 8-acre site near Evans Avenue for ballpark; Reno City Council to consider plan to build new ballpark; It's all over but the blaming; Sidewinders sold; expected to be in Reno in '09; Announcement on Reno's Triple-A team delayed; Washoe County approves PCL ballpark; Reno is closer to Triple-A baseball; Guinn OKs bonds for marina; State tourism panel aids Sparks marina project; Sparks Council OKs proposal for 92 acres of marina project; Officials still hold hope for Triple-A franchise in Reno; Sparks still in hunt for Triple-A team

Twins to hold ballpark groundbreaking tonight
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Minnesota Twins will hold a groundbreaking tonight for their new downtown Minneapolis ballpark. Local lad Martin Zellar will begin performing at 4:15, while the actual ceremonies will begin at 6. MLB Commissioner Bud Selig will be on hand to comment on the new ballpark, as will several Twins, elected officials and team sponsors. (Yes, the public is invited as well.) We're not expecting the former owners of the land to show up, as they're planning to appeal a valuation of the land as passed down by a panel of mediators. Also notable by his absence: popular centerfielder Torii Hunter, who is in the last year of his contract. Here's a look at the ballpark site: you can see the prep work and where home plate will be located. (Photos by Jim Robins.)

RELATED STORIES: 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

New downtown Omaha ballpark would be near Qwest
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey threw some locals for a loop when he pitched NCAA officials on the possibility of a new downtown Omaha ballpark next to Qwest Center Omaha, rather than north of downtown. The proposed site does have a lot of advantages: it's within walking distance of most downtown hotels and restaurants. The ballpark, with 25,000 to 30,000 seats, would be built on what is now Parking Lot D of the convention center and arena, at 10th Street near the curve in Abbott Drive. That would put the ballpark several blocks closer to the river than the location that city officials initially considered -- and some NoDo business owners aren't pleased with the shift. Also discussed with the NCAA: a refurbishment of Rosenblatt Stadium. Left out of the discussions: the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and Creighton University.
    RELATED STORIES: Rosenblatt fans try to draft Costner; Rosenblatt demolition among Omaha ballpark suggestions; Royals president says two baseball facilities can work; Petition drive aims to save Rosenblatt; Could Indy someday be host for CWS?; New Omaha ballpark could feature other pastimes; Coaches reminisce as talk turns to proposed downtown ballpark; Plan B: Fix up Rosenblatt; Omaha wants at least 10-year CWS extension before ballpark work; Mayor: NCAA shows interest in new Omaha ballpark; Omaha floats new ballpark for CWS, O-Royals

Reds ballpark decision delayed
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A proposed renovation of Ed Smith Stadium as the spring home of the Cincinnati Reds isn't totally dead yet, as Sarasota County commissioners changed course once again and delayed a decision on helping fund a $45 million deal. Instead, they deferred the future of spring training in Sarasota to city voters, as city commissioners did in July. The ballpark project now relies on city voters' willingness to approve a $16 million bond referendum on Nov. 6 to fund the city's portion of an incomplete financing plan. If they do, the issue will be revisited by a County Commission that, so far, does not have the necessary four out of five votes to move forward with its $22 million share of the project's funding.
    RELATED STORIES: For Reds, no rush to vacate Sarasota; Reds spring ballpark deal dealt a major blow; Ballpark negotiations over; now to sell it; Reds official sizes up Sarasota; Replacement for Dodgers in Vero may be near; Sarasota approves Ed Smith project vote; Ballpark issues in Sarasota; Reds spring ballpark plan hinges on 3 votes; Significantly scaled-back plan is weighed for Reds' spring home; Why Sarasota may spurn baseball; What is spring training worth to Vero Beach?; Reds: We're interested in Vero Beach; New Reds spring-complex deal on life support; Delaying puts Reds spring complex in jeopardy; Task force confident in Reds ballpark deal; Finance plan for Reds spring-training facility in place -- maybe; Looking at a Plan B for new Reds spring complex; Sarasota looking to cut spring-training complex cost; Fair officials respond with new spring-training plan; 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

More Dodger Stadium changes planned for off-season
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Los Angeles Dodgers plan to pour $70 million into Dodger Stadium renovations this winter, but owner Frank McCourt said that investment would not reduce the amount of money available to sign players during the off-season. In announcing the latest round of upgrades -- this one to widen concourses on the field level, double the number of restrooms and concession stands there and equip every stand to grill Dodger Dogs -- McCourt emphasized the need to accommodate large crowds by blending modern amenities within a ballpark that opened in 1962. The concession and restroom areas will be upgraded on the other levels by 2010 or 2011, he said. He also said the parking fee, which jumped from $10 to $15 this season, would not increase next season. HKS is working on the renovations.

Metal bats strike out in court
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
New York City is free to ban aluminum baseball bats from city schools after a federal judge tossed a lawsuit by unhappy high-school players, coaches and sports-equipment companies, finding they failed to prove their mettle in court. Manhattan federal Judge John Koeltl ruled it is within the city's power to ban non-wooden bats from school playing fields, even though there is scant evidence that metal bats cause more serious injuries. The ruling was pretty simple: New York City Council really doesn't need to prove to anyone that wood bats are safer, because it's their prerogative as the body governing the district to decide what products are used in the schools.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Billings looks at cutbacks to new ballpark
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Billings officials have been looking at ways to cut $565,000 from the budget of the replacement for Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League). One change that has received a lot of attention is a proposal to redesign the outfield wall for right field. The original plans called for a vertical concrete wall topped by a fence, and the stadium would be surrounded by a 22-foot concrete concourse at street level. A cheaper alternative that has been discussed by the steering committee would involve an unpaved, sloped wall in right field and a narrower concourse.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

D-Backs plan to install largest scoreboard in pro sports
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Arizona Diamondbacks are planning to install a new high-definition Jumbotron at Chase Field that the club says will be the largest in pro sports. The board, which will cost an estimated $10 million to $12 million, will be 144 feet wide and 55 feet high, and it is expected to be ready for next season's opener. It would be 900 square feet larger than the biggest existing board, at Atlanta's Turner Field.

Wolff: Don't close down Lynx Stadium
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Ottawa officials are looking at a proposal to convert Lynx Stadium, the home of the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League), to a covered soccer-only facility. Given the popularity of soccer across Canada, it's a tempting thought, but Can-Am Association leader Miles Wolff says the ballpark should stay as it is and serve as the lynchpin of perhaps an all-Canada independent league that would stretch across the continent. Wolff already owns the Quebec Capitales (independent; Can-Am Association) and has been in talks to bring a team to Montreal in the future. An all-Canada circuit may be a stretch: as you'll recall, the Canadian Baseball League didn't last a season, but it was shut out of the larger markets and was most successful in the east. Unless Wolff has a plan to bring in the three Canadian teams in the Northern League -- Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg -- talking about an all-Canada league doesn't make much sense. The Lynx will play their final game in Canada on Labor Day; the team will move next season to a new ballpark in Allentown, Pa. More from the Ottawa Citizen.

'Seat rights' plan pitched at ballpark
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lou Weisbach started a subtle marketing campaign at Coors Field this season, putting the phrase "Equity Seat Rights" on the wall along the left-field line. He's introducing is a concept that would allow fans to sign long-term contracts to buy seat rights, with a guarantee that the price they pay for season tickets will never rise. Weisbach's company, Stadium Capital Associates, would arrange the deals so clubs receive upfront proceeds ranging from $50 million to more than $500 million. Weisbach says he's close to culminating about a dozen facilities deals.
    RELATED STORIES: Morgan Stanley buys stake in stadium finance firm

Spikes ballpark receives LEED certification
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, the home of the State College Spikes (short season; NY-Penn League) and the Penn State Nittany Lions, was honored last night as the first ballpark -- pro or college -- to receive LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental) certification. Basically, LEED certification is a process where a facility is measured against a checklist of items to ensure that it is environmentally friendly. The Washington Nationals are going after LEED certification with their new ballpark. L. Robert Kimball and Associates / DLR Group did the design; Barton Malow did the construction.

Delays continue for new USC ballpark
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The latest sign has arrived that it will take a Herculean task to get South Carolina’s new ballpark ready for the start of the 2008 season. Because of state rules, construction will not begin until mid-October at the earliest, and it could be pushed back further if the bid process does not begin soon. Construction bids were supposed to go out this month, but the state engineer’s office is still doing a final review of design documents. Once the state signs off, USC will put the project out to bid for 30 days, to be followed by a 15-day protest period. Then the contract is awarded, and construction begins when the company is ready. The school still hopes to open the 2008 season at the yet-to-be-named ballpark, which will replace Sarge Frye Field.

Carefully invest in ballpark
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Day newspaper says the city of Norwich should invest in Dodd Stadium, the home of the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League), but do so carefully. The team's lease runs through 2012 but the team could conceivably leave after the 2009 season under an escape clause. The city is looking at spending $610,000 on some modest improvements (resodding of the baseball field, renovation of the public bathrooms, replacing worn carpeting in the skyboxes, and various clubhouse and dugout improvements). A recent spat over rent and what the Defenders can deduct from their payments didn't help matters any. Really, the Defenders front office needs to decide whether Norwich is a sustainable Class AA market; some in baseball aren't too sure.
    RELATED STORIES: Norwich Council seeking answers on Dodd proposal; Defenders, city meet over rent bill

In memoriam: Josh Fant
Posted Aug. 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
North Central Texas College freshman Josh Fant, 18, collapsed Monday during the college’s first baseball practice for the school year at the Gainesville campus, said Condoa Parrent, college vice president of student services. The players had taken turns throwing about 30 pitches before rotating to the outfield. "It was nothing real strenuous," said Parrent. Players were nearing the end of practice and jogging when Fant bent down on one knee, Parrent said. As others came to his assistance, he collapsed.