ADVERTISE! | Ballpark Digest | The Baseball Directory | NWLfan | College Baseball Digest | Ballpark Digest Tickets
Spring Training Online | Arena Digest | Football Stadium Digest | August Publications
Search | League Histories | Bookshelf | Forums | Endangered Ballparks | Ballparks of the Past | About | Newsletter | Contact

Archives: Feb. 12-18, 2007

Cubs show tradition the door with ad deal
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This seems to be a heresy: The Chicago Cubs announced a multiyear deal Wednesday with Under Armour, a sports apparel company, agreeing to place its logo and name on the outfield doors of Wrigley Field. Terms of the agreement were not announced, but the ads will be in place at least through 2008. Tradition dictates the wall be covered with the ivy originally planted by Bill Veeck, but the ivy will be trimmed to allow viewing of the ad spaces. The current outfield walls were constructed in a 1937 remodeling project and the doors were painted green to blend in with the ivy. Veeck oversaw the construction, purchasing and planting of the bittersweet and Boston ivy and helped attach it to copper wires running to the top of 11-foot walls.

Winds of change unlikely at Ameriquest Field
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Texas Rangers spent $100,000 on a wind study of Ameriquest Field to see how fly balls are affected with wind changes and whether changes in the ballpark configuration would keep more balls in the park. The short answer is that the addition of the Cuervo Club did change the wind patterns to the point where more homers are flying beyond the fences. The bigger issue is whether the Rangers are doing anything to counter the effect, and the answer seems to be no: the team's new front office says players need to suck it up and play with the conditions as presented. Attracting top-level free-agent pitchers has been a challenge for the Rangers in recent years: last season Kevin Millwood was an average pitcher at home (7-7, 5.38 ERA) and posted much better stats on the road (9-5, 3.74 ERA).

Developer submits proposal for downtown Fort Wayne hotel
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One business group submitted a proposal to construct a new hotel in downtown Fort Wayne, a move city leaders hope will generate tax revenue to allow further development in the surrounding area. White Lodging Services Corp., along with Acquest Realty Advisors Inc., submitted a proposal to the city’s consulting firm in Chicago to construct a full-service Marriott-branded hotel at West Jefferson Boulevard and Harrison Street. Securing an agreement with a new hotel developer was a critical component for the city’s proposed Harrison Square development, which includes a new ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League).
    RELATED STORIES: Fort Wayne ballpark just a start in renewal endeavor; Ballpark's future subject to study; Poll backs downtown development, not new ballpark; Some on council aren't buying Fort Wayne ballpark plan; Ballpark's future is far from certain; Building the public square; Mayor calls ballpark plan opportunity of lifetime; Fort Wayne unveils ballpark plans; Top of the ninth in Fort Wayne; Poll: Tax-funded downtown Fort Wayne ballpark is unpopular; Wizards set 2008 ballpark goal; Enjoy downtown for what it is, not what you remember; Downtown Fort Wayne needs a full plan, including a ballpark; Playing ball downtown; We need to build ballpark downtown; Study supports downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Can downtown Fort Wayne ballpark be a boon?; Learning by example from Dayton; Fort Wayne looks at improvements to Memorial Stadium; A new(er) ballpark in Fort Wayne?; Ballpark panel sees one diamond in future; New owners bring fresh ideas to Fort Wayne; Fort Wayne's baseball future may be downtown; A new downtown castle?; Memorial Stadium far from obsolete; Fort Wayne Wizards sold; Fort Wayne ballpark has 50 years of usability left, says architect; Debate begins on proposed downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Group set to discuss downtown Fort Wayne ballpark

For Dodgers, spring is in the Arizona air
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
As baseball's training camps open this week, the Los Angeles Dodgers start reporting to Vero Beach on Friday for what they expect to be their penultimate spring there. Although the Dodgers are expected to challenge the Chicago Cubs and San Francisco Giants as the top draws in Arizona's Cactus League -- and profit from it -- owner Frank McCourt said he wouldn't pack up six decades of memories at storied Dodgertown only for the money. Really, the move of the Dodgers was inevitable: for many years Dodgertown was frequented by East Coasters with fond memories of the Brooklyn Dodgers, but as those fans died out, Los Angeles fans didn't take their places, and attendance suffered.
    RELATED STORIES: Five firms in line to design Glendale spring-training facility; Goodyear inks deal on spring-training facility; Goodyear eyes noted ballpark designer; Indians fan thrilled by new facility plans; $80 mil for baseball taps out sports authority; White Sox to delay Phoenix move?; Arizona commission to fund both proposed spring-training facilities; Glendale offers spring-training plan; Parties expect Dodgers, Sox deal to pan out; Leaving Tucson will be tricky for White Sox; County not eager to match baseball largess; State panel shouldn't fund White Sox move from Tucson; Goodyear ballpark plan hits funding snag; Pima County trying to avert loss of White Sox for spring training; Dodgers, White Sox reach deal with Glendale; A new Glendale ballpark -- in Phoenix; Goodyear prepares to make its pitch for ballpark funds; What could the future hold for Dodgertown?; Glendale wants to bring Dodgers' spring training to Valley; Goodyear sees spring-training complex as path to development; Goodyear finds support for spring-training plan; It's official: Indians agree to Grapefruit League move; Indians, Dodgers close to deal to move spring training to Arizona; Clock ticks on Disney-Indians deal; Cleveland says no to Cape Coral's springtime offer; Arizona move still a possibility

Foxhounds tickets going fast; GreenJackets set record
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Aiken Foxhounds (independent; South Coast League) franchise is leading the new league in season ticket sales, general manager Bradley Bell said Wednesday. Bell said the team, which will play in USC Aiken's Roberto Hernandez Stadium starting in May, has sold approximately 60 percent of its initial target number of 300 season tickets. Meanwhile, the Augusta GreenJackets (Low Class A; Sally League) last week surpassed last year's number of season ticket sales, setting a new team record. With two months of sales left, general manager Nick Brown said the team has sold more than 1,200 packages and is hoping to sell 1,600 by the home opener April 9.

Yankees ask to play first major-league baseball game in China
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New York Yankees want to play Major League Baseball's first game in China, team president Randy Levine said. Levine and General Manager Brian Cashman were among Yankees officials who visited China last month to form a partnership with the Chinese Baseball Association that will help coaches and players learn about the sport. The earliest a game might be played in the most populous country is 2009, because the stadium to be used won't be available until after the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, Levine said in a telephone interview. He said the Yankees want to play a regular-season game there, with a season-opener a possibility.
    RELATED STORIES: Seeking edge in China, Yankees put baseball first

State grant to fund expansion at Ripken baseball complex
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Maryland Board of Public Works on Wednesday approved a $500,000 grant to Cal Ripken Jr.'s charitable foundation to expand and enhance a youth baseball field at the Hall of Famer's Aberdeen complex. The Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation -- named for Ripken's father, the longtime Baltimore Orioles coach and manager -- will use the money to add seats, a bullpen area for pitchers, a scoreboard and an outfield concessions and picnic area to Cal Sr.'s Yard, the youth-sized replica of Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Cal Sr.'s Yard plays host to youth baseball tournaments and is one of the prime attractions at the complex off Interstate 95. It is also home to the Aberdeen Ironbirds (short season; NY-Penn League).

Hersh, city back in court today
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Believing former West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) President David Hersh "hid evidence" during trial proceedings, Jackson City Attorney Lewis Cobb has filed a motion to have a judge dismiss Hersh's long-standing suit against the city. But that motion, filed Monday, will not be considered today, when Chancellor Martha Brasfield is scheduled to hear closing arguments at 10 a.m. in the trial over contract disputes between the city and Hersh. Cobb said the city received additional financial records from Minor League Baseball after the trial ended that were in Hersh's possession but not provided to the city by Hersh as requested. The city's motion said the financial records show that Hersh's ownership group "never achieved acceptable equity-to-debt ratio while in Memphis" and that the ownership group "lost money every year while in Memphis. While in Jackson, the financial records show that (the ownership group) had positive cash flow every year (considering depreciation and net income) and positive net income, after debt service, every year except 2001. Finally, the documents show that (the ownership group) made a $2.7 million profit on the sale of the team in 2002." The motion said the new information provides a more accurate picture of the ownership group's finances than was presented at trial by Hersh's attorneys.
    RELATED STORIES: Hersh, city bickering enters last inning; Farmer wraps up testimony on 12th day of Jaxx trial; City, Hersh crunch numbers; Suit over $112K is about more than money for both sides

New ballpark, recruits excite baseball team
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Penn State baseball coach Robbie Wine says his team should improve from last season's seventh-place finish in the Big Ten thanks to some new recruits and a new ballpark, Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. There's no doubt a facility like Medlar Field at Lubrano Park will be a great recruiting tool: a lot of baseball talent comes from Pennsylvania, and a top-notch ballpark will help keep those recruits at home. We visited Medlar Field at Lubrano Park late last season and will be putting up a page on the impressive new facility shortly.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Feb. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Fort Worth Cats (independent; American Association) have named Stan Hilton as their pitching coach for the 2007 season, it was announced today. Hilton spent the last three seasons with the Clinton Lumberkings (Low Class A; Midwest League). He left baseball in 1992 to pursue business interests, but returned to the dugout in 2004 with Clinton. From 1989-1991, he was the pitching coach for the Burlington Indians (rookie; Appalachian League).  He spent six seasons in the minor leagues as a pitcher in the Cleveland and Oakland organizations. He was originally drafted by the Athletics as a first-round pick in the 1983 draft.

A great ballpark divide
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's an in-depth look at the spat between Hennepin County and a recalcitrant group of owners of a key land parcel targeted as the site of a new Minnesota Twins ballpark. When you tear away all the rhetoric from both sides, there's a basic disagreement over what the land is worth, and part of the problem is the fact that the current owners are reluctant to specify a price for the parcel; as a result, you have figures of $40 million and $50 million being thrown around. In this article, the owners admit their own experts say the land is worth around $21 million, a starting figure that the county might actually agree with. Lessening the value is the fact the land represents an engineering challenge: it may cost more to build on the site because there's a creek running beneath the land. (Indeed, opening up Bassett Creek was one of the early goals of the county.) A lot of posturing, to be sure. The Star Tribune calls for a truce in the war, but if we know these guys right, it could be a little while before grudges -- some quite old -- are put aside.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Amid ballpark questions, plan for two hotels unveiled
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With talk of deadline extensions, money issues and an ongoing public debate over how soon -- or if -- a new downtown baseball park can be built for the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA: Pacific Coast League), there appears to be less difficulty attracting hotel operators to the downtown site. Struever Bros., Eccles & Rouse, the Baltimore-based developer in charge of turning the former Nashville Thermal Transfer site into condos, hotel rooms and a minor-league ballpark, unveiled plans Tuesday for two new hotels to be built on the 12-acre tract. More important, Struever Bros. officials said the hotel deals and other recent developments are a sign the ballpark will be built despite red flags raised by the Sounds last week when General Manager Glenn Yaeger said costs had risen above an original $43 million estimate and more money would have to be found. More from Nashville City Paper. Meanwhile, there appears to be some disagreements between the Sounds and the city over exactly what will happen in April: the city says all the ballpark renderings must be made available for review, but the team disagrees.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Mesa faces questions as Hohokam Park bill grows
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Mesa runs Hohokam Park, the spring home of the Chicago Cubs, at a loss, and some in the city say that's wrong. It costs the city about $3 million a year to run the ballpark, but it brings in only $1.2 million in revenues. It will cost more to run the ballpark in the future: Under the terms of a 20-year financing agreement, the debt payments soar from $398,800 this year and next year to $1.73 million in fiscal year 2008-09, $1,899,000 in 2009-10, $2,029,000 in fiscal year 2010-11. The payment drops to $1,374,000 in fiscal year 2011-12.

Progress on Loons ballpark at fast pace
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Great Lakes Loons (Low Class A; Midwest League) are set to open the Dow Diamond in two months, and it looks like most of the ballpark will be in working order. On average, 200 workers are at the Diamond each day, working on the facility, where the estimated total cost is now up to $33 million for the privately funded ballpark. That's $5 million more than the original estimate, partly due to increased material costs, but also because of the expense of building a one-of-a-kind ballpark. More from the Saginaw News and the Bay City Times.
    RELATED STORIES: Mild weather helps Midland ballpark construction; Solar panels to help power ballpark for Great Lakes Loons; Ballpark could connect with shoppers; New for 2007: Dow Diamond

Rays look to grow attendance through families
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
As the Tampa Bay Devil Rays are set to embark in year two of the "Sternberg Era," their latest advertising campaign emphasizes family fun and togetherness at the ballpark. Introduced by Rays' executives Tuesday, the new slogan, "more than just a game," is an effort by the team to better connect with the community in a variety of ways centered on family experiences. Print ads that will soon be appearing will be heavy on father-son togetherness and will share a common theme of family bonding. More from the St. Petersburg Times.

Braves' ties will stay intact -- for now
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A sale of the Atlanta Braves to Liberty Media won't affect the status of the three minor-league teams that will go along with the deal: the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League), the Mississippi Braves (Class AA; Southern League) and the Rome Braves (Low Class A; Sally League). R-Braves management continues to talk about a new or renovated ballpark in Richmond, and that isn't expected to change. However, many in baseball expect Liberty Media to at least explore a sale of the three teams once the purchase is completed -- at least that's what many potential buyers have been told.
    RELATED STORIES: Liberty, Time Warner close to sale of Braves; Status quo endures at The Diamond; On Braves sale, baseball throws a change-up; Braves' sale could bring Turner back into mix; Malone: Liberty Media is interested on Braves purchase; Go local, Braves bidder pleads; Braves talks are strictly business; Progress is made on Braves sale; Blank breaks off negotiations to buy Braves; Blank gains on Braves purchase

Pelicans hope for approval of logo on water tower
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) want to see a Pelicans logo on a water tower beyond the first-base grandstand at Coastal Federal Field. The city is currently prepping the tower for a repainting, and the Pelicans front office has asked for permission to paint on a logo as part of that process. Also, Pelicans officials met last week with executives of BB&T, whose acquisition of Coastal Federal Bank's holding company is pending, to discuss their plans for the ballpark's naming rights.

Razing memories of 95-year-old Tiger Stadium before demolition work begins
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Unless something changes, Tiger Stadium is slated to be demolished this summer; only the playing field and a small part of the grandstand will remain. There will be a wake of sorts when the Detroit Tigers open their season -- fans will be allowed on the field for one last salute -- but it's still a rather ignoble end to a noble venue, which opened on the same day as Fenway Park. More on Tiger Stadium on our Endangered Ballparks page.
    RELATED STORIES: Final farewell planned for Tiger Stadium; Old house is hard to forget; Once a baseball cathedral, Tiger Stadium now sits in disrepair; Memories of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium demolition delayed; Progress is in the ballpark; Developers didn't stand a chance with Tiger Stadium; Artifacts from Tiger Stadium to be auctioned off under city plan; Tiger Stadium to be razed: condos, retail to be built on historic site; Detroit should sell Tiger Stadium as is; Historical marker at Tiger Stadium stolen; Tiger Stadium would make fine vacation destination; 8 innings of words get us no closer to a Tiger Stadium fix; Documentary makes case for saving Tiger Stadium; Plenty of options for Tiger Stadium; Detroit Mayor Kilpatrick wants Tiger Stadium razed; Hope fades for Tiger Stadium; Detroit ignores calls to save Tiger Stadium; Save Tiger Stadium as scaled-down ballpark; City should tear down Tiger Stadium; Is it the final out for Tiger Stadium?

Catfish pay back rent on Golden Park
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Columbus Catfish (Low Class A; Sally League) has paid $28,000 in back rent to the city of Columbus. The team had been withholding rent payments since June 2006 in an effort to force the city to make changes to Golden Park. The team wants the city to address concerns it has with drainage issues in the outfield at Golden Park, which have been an ongoing issue since Olympic softball competition was held there in 1996; a fence collapsed last season at the ballpark because of water damage.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Feb. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Charleston RiverDogs (Low Class A; Sally League) announced the hiring of four new employees. Megan Green, a native of Gainesville, FL, is the new director of community relations. Most recently a community director for the March of Dimes Lowcountry Division, Green will now concentrate her efforts by serving as the RiverDogs’ primary liaison with the local community. Jon Hillard is the RiverDogs’ new assistant director of media relations; he will handle the club’s pre- and postgame sections of the radio broadcasts. He replaces Noel Blaha, who moved into the box office manager’s position. Jason Wells is the club's new assistant food and beverage director. A graduate of Washington State University where he also gained training with Seattle’s Best Coffee, Wells possesses more than three years’ experience in the food and beverage industry, primarily on the West Coast. Henry Thames is the new assistant groundskeeper.

Liberty, Time Warner close to sale of Braves
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After more than a year of negotiations, Time Warner has finally unloaded the Atlanta Braves and $1 billion in cash to Liberty Media Corp. in exchange for stock. The deal is still subject to Major League Baseball approval. Liberty Media agreed to turn over one-third of its share in Time Warner, or 60 million of its 171 million shares. The figure reduces Liberty's ownership of Time Warner to 2.6 percent from nearly 4 percent. In addition, Liberty receives Leisure Arts, which are a group of Time Inc. craft magazines valued at $22 million. The companies valued the Braves at $460 million; Forbes has valued the franchise at $406 million, but the deal also includes the three minor-league clubs owned by Time Warner: the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League), the Mississippi Braves (Class AA; Southern League) and the Rome Braves (Low Class A; Sally League). Many in baseball expect Liberty Media to sell the minor-league clubs. More from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
    RELATED STORIES: Status quo endures at The Diamond; On Braves sale, baseball throws a change-up; Braves' sale could bring Turner back into mix; Malone: Liberty Media is interested on Braves purchase; Go local, Braves bidder pleads; Braves talks are strictly business; Progress is made on Braves sale; Blank breaks off negotiations to buy Braves; Blank gains on Braves purchase

It's spring -- almost
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Though the first pitchers and catchers aren't slated to report to camp until tomorrow (with several teams opening the gates for reporting, and the rest scheduled to do so over the remainder of the week), spring training is already creating news in the baseball world and beyond. Daisuke Matsuzaka, the biggest acquisition of the offseason, was greeted by cameras and fans when he arrived at Tampa International Airport on his way to Fort Myers, where he's scheduled to report to the Boston Red Sox on Feb. 17. The Washington Post lists the 10 most important storylines in spring training (led, of course, by the controversy still surrounding Barry Bonds), while the Austin American-Statesman provides a pretty good overview of the game. More from Reuters and the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette.

Two boutique hotels announced for Nashville ballpark ballpark site
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Struever Bros., Eccles & Rouse, developers of a new Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) ballpark and related housing/retail complex in downtown Nashville, announced it has added a pair of boutique hotels to a broader mix of properties planned for the project: A 180-room aloft hotel, spelled with a lower-case "a," and a 168-room Element Hotel (a brand name associated with the Westin Hotels & Resorts). Announcement of the hotel projects comes amid public disagreements between the Sounds AAA management and Struever Bros. over how much it will cost to build the ballpark and the timing of a groundbreaking.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Twins postpone ballpark unveiling
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Minnesota Twins and Hennepin County have postponed Thursday's scheduled unveiling of the new ballpark's specific drawings over uncertainty surrounding the location of the facility. A standoff with owners of a key ballpark site in downtown Minneapolis's Warehouse District is causing Hennepin County commissioners and the Twins to seek a new location for the ballpark, but so far neither side is blinking, though the owners of lot say they'll be willing to let a judge decide the fair market of the land. That's really the key here: the owners say because the area was rezoned from commercial to office several years ago (an obvious blunder by the Minneapolis City Council) the lot is worth more because you could in theory build a multimillion-dollar skyscraper on the site. There's a lot of posturing on both sides, but we'd be very surprised if some discussions of putting the ballpark on the eastern side of downtown Minneapolis hasn't already taken place. More from the Star Tribune.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Progress as promised at the ballpark
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The new owners of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) have taken the first step in their planned improvements at Coastal Federal Field. Motorists driving past the ballpark on Robert Grissom Parkway probably noticed the workers and their cranes removing most of the existing scoreboard to make way for the new state-of-art, high-definition scoreboard and video board. The new owners, about to embark on their first full season at the team's helm, plan to move the outfield fences in 10 feet all the way around to make it a more friendly ballpark for hitters. They also plan to move the visitors' bullpen into the area formerly known as the Shark Tank -- between the third-base grandstand and the grassy berm -- and relocate the home bullpen closer to the Pelicans' clubhouse while constructing new concession, picnic and lounge areas around the ballpark.

Games in Japan? Count Sox in
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Boston Red Sox front office says they'll consider opening next season in Japan -- the perfect opportunity to promote native son Daisuke Matsuzaka. MLB is working to expand the game nationally, and Japan would appear to be the perfect venue. Judging by the mail we receive from Japanese baseball fans, however, MLB might be hard-pressed to push the general concept of American baseball: Japanese fans overwhelmingly tend to follow specific players in America and not teams, so they don't automatically transfer loyalties when a Japanese player leaves. (Japanese fans aren't buying Yankees jerseys; they're buying Matsui jerseys. There's a difference.) The Yankees will find that out when Hideki Matsui leaves the team someday.

Barons to host 2009 Southern League All-Star Game
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Birmingham Barons announced that Hoover Metropolitan Stadium has been chosen as the site of the 2009 Southern League All-Star Game. "Hosting a Southern League All-Star Game is quite a challenge for any organization and its staff, but I know the Logan ownership group and General Manager Jonathan Nelson will do a first-class job," said Southern League president Don Mincher. "The Barons are one of the most highly regarded franchises in the minor leagues, and I am elated that they will have the opportunity to showcase the Southern League's best before the devoted fans at the Hoover Met in 2009." The 2009 All-Star Game will be the first time the Birmingham Barons have hosted the annual event since 1982, when the Southern League All-Stars took on the Atlanta Braves at historic Rickwood Field in Birmingham. This will be the first time the event has taken place in Hoover, home of the Birmingham Barons since 1988.

No ballpark, no A's, but San Jose study will go on
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
San Jose will hold hearings next week on an environmental analysis for a downtown ballpark -- a facility no one expects to be built. The study, which cost $520,000, was conceived in 2005 on the faint hope the Oakland A's could be lured to San Jose. But it's now a document destined to gather more dust than an angry baseball manager can kick across home plate. City officials say finishing the study costs little and makes sense in case the team's plans somehow change. But others see it as a waste of time, since A's managing partner Lew Wolff has seemingly committed to a Fremont ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: A's tout Cisco Field in ticket mailer; Will global warming swamp AT&T Park, new A's ballpark?; A's owner not sweating lack of BART at Fremont ballpark site; A's owner raises more questions than answers; Wolff seeks tax rebate for new ballpark village; Oakland A's owner buys office park near proposed Fremont ballpark; Fremont, A's continue talks for new ballpark; If Selig's coming, A's must be going; Wolff ready to go public on ballpark; Cisco blending tech and baseball; Records show evolving talks between A's, Fremont; Are the A's worth it to Fremont's neighbors?; More meetings with A's slated after new year; Fremont kicks off negotiations with the A's; A's detail Fremont plans down to the letter; San Jose still ponders illusory ballpark; Transit teams try to solve Cisco Field 'challenges'; A's Fremont ballpark must field host of hurdles; A's plan $400 million to $500 million ballpark village in Fremont; New A's ballpark would boast heavy Cisco tech; The next big thing: the San Jose A's?; A's ready to pull trigger on new Fremont ballpark; Oakland City Council grants A's extension; A's could move away; A's owner Wolff buys prospective ballpark land in Fremont; Fremont looking more and more like future home of Oakland A's; A's not ready to slide out of Oakland yet; A's pass on longer lease for McAfee Coliseum; Owner gives up on moving A's to San Jose; A's to decide ballpark fate by end of season; Fremont's attempt to lure A's running into obstacles; 'Let's plan for A's move,' Coliseum agency told; San Jose voters jeer ballpark plan; Wolff wants to keep A's in Bay Area; A's, Fremont near deal; A's must stay, Oakland mayor candidates say; A's close to deal for Fremont ballpark, officials say; Rumors trail A's search for new ballpark; A's owner in Fremont for meetings; Wolff says there's land for new A's ballpark in Fremont; A's officials confirm interest in new Fremont ballpark; A's take long look at Fremont ballpark site; The San Jose A's of Fremont?; San Jose will buy land for A's ballpark; Will smaller mean better for the A's?; A's committed to intimate 34,000 park in '06; A's owner's new plan for ballpark; Talks for new A's ballpark sputter; Soccer stadium throws curve at San Jose baseball plan; A's ownership group wants to buy MLS expansion team for San Jose; Athletics denied 3-year Coliseum lease extension; A's ballpark: 'Baseball Village' in the vision stage; Planning ahead to get A's to San Jose; San Jose buys first parcel of land for ballpark; Land acquisition for San Jose ballpark may cost $100 million; San Jose goes to bat for ballpark property; Fremont will consider a pitch for A's; Wolff on the hunt for more A's fans, new ballpark; Oakland ballpark village plan designed to win allies, public funds; Wolff's vision of ballpark raises questions; Wolff unveils plans for 35,000-seat ballpark near Coliseum; A's owner to offer specific ballpark plan to keep team in Oakland; Have A's settled on new ballpark site?; Smallball suits Lew Wolff just fine; A's think small with stadium plans; Fremont politicians make a pitch for A's; A's say Coliseum lot isn't feasible; Athletics announce committee to plan new Oakland ballpark; Another San Jose site eyed for baseball; The time has come for new A's ballpark; No specifics on new Oakland ballpark, but plans in the works; San Jose quits discussions on cannery; Wolff about to take over; Going to bat for A's is big opportunity for San Jose mayor; Wolff: A's ballpark already in works; Deal near for San Jose cannery site; For A's, way to San Jose paved with uncertainty; San Jose baseball crusader makes his pitch; A's sale could happen quickly; Sale of A's to heighten San Jose intrigue; BART to the ballpark, what a vision; Another San Jose pitch for baseball; San Jose mayor makes his pitch; Q&A with A's new owner Lew Wolff

Manatees expand audience
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Brevard County Manatees (High Class A; Florida State League) players aren't in the major leagues yet, but to local fans, it may soon sound like they are. Scott Pinner, hired this season as the Manatees' director of broadcasting and media, is spearheading a new broadcast initiative at Space Coast Stadium that will include games on the radio and online, as well as an in-house signal (94.5 FM) that will allow fans who bring in a radio to listen to the game while they are watching it live. Pinner will handle Manatees play-by-play; Mississippi State graduate Mark Muzzi, who played on the Bulldogs' 2005 SEC championship baseball team, is in charge of color commentary; and Penn State junior Lauren Ferrell will do the on-field reporting.

For Nats' home, a rapid ascent
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Nine months after D.C. officials posed with shovel blades attached to Louisville Sluggers in a ceremonial groundbreaking for the project, architect Marsthall Purnell and other experts responsible for bringing the Nationals' ballpark to fruition led a tour of the busy construction site along the Anacostia River. They shared anecdotes, including the clubhouse story, and declared themselves delighted with the progress since May. Workers are scheduled to finish enclosing the structure in the spring, officials said. The clubhouses (the visitors' locker room will be rectangular) are to be completed over the summer, and work will begin in August on the playing field and drainage system. The huge main scoreboard, not yet fully designed, is slated to go up in September. Among the notable features of the new ballpark: no corners in the clubhouses.

Handelsman and crew purchase Wilmington Sharks
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Wilmington Sharks (summer collegiate; Coastal Plain League) has been purchased by Wilmington Baseball, Inc., the same management group that owns the Fayetteville SwampDogs of the Coastal Plain League. Wilmington City Council approval of the lease transfer took place last Tuesday evening, clearing the way for the transaction to be finalized. Terms were not disclosed. "We see this as an opportunity to continue and expand a wonderful tradition of baseball in Wilmington," said Darrell Handelsman, who is both general manager and field manager of the SwampDogs, as well as a team owner. "This acquisition will benefit both fans and advertisers, all of whom will enjoy new opportunities." Speaking of Wilmington: the city has popped up on the Sally League's radar recently as there's the potential for a new ballpark. While we've been told the chances are slim the deal will work, apparently the elderly owner of a desirable piece of land in Wilmington is willing to sell to a developer on the condition the development include a new minor-league ballpark. It doesn't sound like the new ballpark is likely to materialize, however.

Five firms in line to design Glendale spring-training facility
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Five companies are under consideration to design Glendale's newest professional sports venue, a spring training stadium for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox. City and team representatives will meet in the coming weeks to whittle the list to one. Then they will begin the search for a construction manager. The city hopes to break ground this summer and play ball in 2009. The finalists for the 12,000-seat ballpark: HOK Sport, HKS Architects, DLR Group and a joint proposal from 360 Architecture and Barker.
    RELATED STORIES: Goodyear inks deal on spring-training facility; Goodyear eyes noted ballpark designer; Indians fan thrilled by new facility plans; $80 mil for baseball taps out sports authority; White Sox to delay Phoenix move?; Arizona commission to fund both proposed spring-training facilities; Glendale offers spring-training plan; Parties expect Dodgers, Sox deal to pan out; Leaving Tucson will be tricky for White Sox; County not eager to match baseball largess; State panel shouldn't fund White Sox move from Tucson; Goodyear ballpark plan hits funding snag; Pima County trying to avert loss of White Sox for spring training; Dodgers, White Sox reach deal with Glendale; A new Glendale ballpark -- in Phoenix; Goodyear prepares to make its pitch for ballpark funds; What could the future hold for Dodgertown?; Glendale wants to bring Dodgers' spring training to Valley; Goodyear sees spring-training complex as path to development; Goodyear finds support for spring-training plan; It's official: Indians agree to Grapefruit League move; Indians, Dodgers close to deal to move spring training to Arizona; Clock ticks on Disney-Indians deal; Cleveland says no to Cape Coral's springtime offer; Arizona move still a possibility

League dreams of summer collegiate team
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More on the efforts by Chad Bauer to being a Northwoods League team and ballpark to Pewaukee, a suburb of Milwaukee. The proposal received an early endorsement from the city's Tourism Committee last week and is slated to be reviewed by the Joint Pewaukee Park and Recreation Board on Wednesday, Feb. 14. One big issue: exactly what Bauer expects from Pewaukee. Some say the city can't afford to do anything but contribute land, and so far that's about all Bauer is asking for.
    RELATED STORIES: Pewaukee looks at baseball plan; Group to pitch Northwoods League team in Pewaukee

Twins ballpark geniuses weren't so bright about site
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With the Twins and Hennepin County announcing they might seek a new site for a Minnesota Twins ballpark, the crusty, overpaid and overrated columnists at Twin Cities dailies opened their bags of clichés and contributed little to the discussion. Nick Coleman says a new ballpark should be built on the sire of the old Metropolitan Stadium, the better for aging baby boomers to sit around and reminisce about their boring youths. Ain't gonna happen. (Yeah, we'd love to see that powerful Bloomington delegation in the Legislature get that passed.) Joe Soucheray says the new ballpark should be built in St. Paul at the incredibly scenic corner of Rice and University, where you could pine for downtown St. Paul from a distance and take in the sounds and smells of a White Castle. Who would pay for a new ballpark? Joe doesn't seem to have considered that. Pat Reusse says the ballpark should be built in Anoka County, on the far northern edge of the Twin Cities metro area, on a site abandoned by the Minnesota Vikings as a potential stadium site. And why did the Vikings abandon the site? Because putting a stadium there was an incredibly stupid idea, an angle Patrick seems to have missed. Finally, Sid Hartman is so pissed he can't even bring himself to suggest an alternate site. Sid is right: the landowners asking for more than the appraised $13.5 million price for their parcel of land run the very real risk of undermining the whole ballpark deal. We expect there to be some desirable parcels of land near the Metrodome opening up in 2007, and it doesn't take a genius to see how a new Twins ballpark would fit in what's becoming a very trendy area. More from the Mankato Free Press.

Miller Lite issues challenge to Busch for ballpark naming rights
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's your clever gimmick of the day. Miller Lite today announced its 2007 NASCAR challenge to Budweiser, this time putting naming rights to Miller Park on the line for a weekend series between the Milwaukee Brewers and the St. Louis Cardinals. The challenge, introduced by Miller Lite last season, pits the #2 Miller Lite car against the #8 Budweiser car, with the season-long NASCAR points leader winning the "wager" for his sponsor. If the Miller Lite car finishes ahead of the Budweiser car in the season standings, Busch Stadium will be renamed Miller Lite Stadium for a to-be-determined 2008 series in St. Louis between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Milwaukee Brewers. If the Budweiser car finishes the season ahead of the Miller Lite car, Miller Park will be renamed Budweiser Park for a 2008 series in Milwaukee between the same two teams. A-B declined the challenge last year, and there's no indication it will accept the challenge this year, either.

Marlins wonder if star's smile can muster support for new ballpark
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Florida Marlins have been fairly quiet as MLB and various governmental entities work toward a new downtown Miami ballpark for the team, and it doesn't appear they're really doing a lot these days in pushing Dontelle Willis as the face of the franchise's future. This story says the elements are all aligned to give the Fish a decent shot at a new ballpark, but it doesn't really explain how Willis, by far the most popular member of the team, has been a part of that.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Cryan course on marketing offered by UC Davis
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's what one of our authors is up to these days. The University of California Davis Extension announced today that award-winning sports industry executive Mark Cryan will be teaching Marketing and Media Relations for Your Sports Event. This class is part of the Sports Event Management certificate program offered online by UC Davis Extension. Previously, Cryan has taught Sponsorships: How to Cultivate and Maintain Partnerships for Your Sports Event as part of the UC Davis Extension program, and also serves as an adjunct faculty member at Elon University’s Love School of Business. During his tenure as the General Manager of the Burlington Indians (rookie; Appalachian League), the team was honored with the Freitas Award from Baseball America magazine, given to the top franchises in minor league baseball. Cryan was also a presenting speaker at the Freitas Promotional Seminar at the 2005 Baseball Winter Meetings in Dallas.  Prior to his work in Burlington, Cryan served as the Vice President and Director of Operations for the summer-collegiate Coastal Plain League, Director of Operations for the Raleigh IceCaps (ECHL), and as Marketing Director of the Fayetteville Generals (Low Class A; Sally League). For more information, visit http://extension.ucdavis.edu/ or e-mail Program Director Robin Duran McBride at rduran@unexmail.ucdavis.edu. Registration for Marketing and Media Relations for Your Sports Event ends on March 26. Mark, as you know, is authoring our upcoming tome on the ballparks of North Carolina, past and present.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Feb. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The West Virginia Power (Low Class A; Sally League) announced their field staff for the 2007 season, which includes two returning 2006 staff members. Mike Guerrero will lead the Power in 2007, marking his 13th season as a manager at the minor-league level and his second with the Power. John Curtis returns as the pitching coach for his third season on the Power staff. Cory Hart will serve as the hitting coach for the West Virginia Power in 2007. Hart will make his coaching debut after spending nine years in the minor leagues and one year in independent ball. Jeremy Herniman will be the team trainer, his first with the team...Commercials from the Savannah Sand Gnats (Low Class A; Sally LEague) won two awards at the 2006-2007 Savannah Addy Awards ceremony last week. The commercials won the Judge’s Choice Award for the overall television and radio campaign and a Silver Addy in the television campaign category. The awards are presented annually by the Savannah Advertising Federation. The commercials featured Chuck the Groundskeeper, Frank the Frosty Beverage Man and mascot Gnate the Gnat answering letters from fans. Ken Lewis of Post-One Audio produced the radio spots while Guy Smith of Popcorn Octane produced the television spots. The commercials were co-written by Greg Vojtanek and Scott Gierman of the Sand Gnats and filmed entirely at Historic Grayson Stadium....Michael S. Rothberg is the new Chief Operating Officer of Bay Colony Baseball & Athletics, LLC, the parent company of the independent Plymouth River Eels. As COO, Rothberg is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the corporation and reports directly to CEO and President Thomas J. O’Brien. Also, Stuart A. Kirsch has been named Vice President of Management Information Systems....The Reading Phillies (Class AA; Eastern League) have announced that Service Electric Cable TV-2 Sports will serve as the flagship provider for an extensive television network that will carry all Friday and Saturday home games live. The partnership with SECTV means that Reading Phillies games will be televised in Berks County for the first time since 2004....The Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) unveiled AM-1460 KZNT as the new flagship radio station for all broadcasts of Sky Sox baseball....The Orem Owlz (rookie; Pioneer League) announced the hiring of veteran broadcaster Jimmy Christopher as the team’s Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations. Christopher will call all of the action for the 2007 season on the Owlz’ flagship station, 960 AM The Zone. Christopher, currently the voice of the NBA Development League’s Fort Worth Flyers, has also done play-by-play for the Frisco Roughriders (Class AA; Texas League) and the High Desert Mavericks (High Class A; California League). He has been a studio host for the Dallas Mavericks and the co-host of the Texas Rangers Diamond post-game show.

Hennepin County, Twins say they'll look for a new ballpark site
Posted Feb. 9, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In a move that's been rumored for the last few days, Hennepin County officials say they'll look at alternative sites for a new Twins ballpark, as the county and the owners of a key piece of land at the downtown Minneapolis site continue to be at loggerheads over the property's value. When the Minnesota Legislature was debating the idea of a new ballpark, the leaders of the Land Partners III group controlling the land -- Rich Pogin and Bruce Lambrecht -- assured legislators they wouldn't have any problems coming to a sales agreement with the county. At that time, however, their economic plan was to tell the land to the county and then retain development rights to the area surrounding the ballpark. Now, with the downtown condo market slowing down and development partner Hines saying they don't foresee any immediate development in the area, the economic model used by Land Partners III calls for them to make as much money on the Twins project as possible because returns from associated development may not come quickly. One idea that seems to be gaining some steam: locating the new ballpark near the Metrodome. Ironically, the eastern part of downtown Minneapolis is trendy these days -- the Metrodome never did much to stimulate the area, but the new Guthrie Theater, some popular restaurants and a slew of condo projects near the waterfront have instilled a new sense of life to the area. Some large chunks of land are expected to be available once the sale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune is finalized, and there's plenty of open sites between the Metrodome and the riverfront. (In fact, there may be some attractive sites right on the riverfront.) Potential competition for a suitable site: the Minnesota Vikings, who already have expressed a preference for a new stadium in the area. Is all of this political? Sure. Hennepin County officials want to remind the landowners who is driving this train. But both sides are capable of playing hardball, and what's lost in all these discussions is the status of Pogin and Lambrecht as longtime conservative activists -- a status that many in the DFL-controlled Minnesota Legislature remember all too clearly, so getting state approval for a switch may not be as difficult as some believe. More from the Star Tribune and Sid Hartman.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Sounds delay ballpark opening until 2009
Posted Feb. 9, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) will be unable to open their proposed downtown ballpark until April 2009 -- a year later than the planned April 2008 completion date -- and the ballpark's cost may be higher than the $43 million originally estimated, team officials confirmed Thursday. The news comes on the heels of the Metro Council’s decision in December to give the Sounds and Baltimore developer Struever Bros., Eccles & Rouse a four-and-a-half month extension to complete financing for the stadium, moving an original, contracted deadline from Dec. 31 to April 15 this year.