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: Nov. 12-18, 2007

BoSox raise ticket prices 9 percent
Posted Nov. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When you're defending World Series champs and control one of the best ballparks in Major League Baseball, you can get away with raising ticket prices by an average of 9 percent. The Boston Red Sox announced 2008 ticket prices yesterday, and suffice it to say attending a game at Fenway Park will be a more expensive proposition next season -- if you can get tickets. While you can still get in the ballpark for $12 in the Upper Bleachers section, a Field Box seat (the best in the park) will run you $125, and a Loge Box seats now goes for $90. In some ways the pricing is academic anyway: The BoSox have sold out 388 consecutive regular-season games, and most tickets are not available through the team, but rather through aftermarket resellers. Will the market care? Probably not. The market perhaps cares more about the announcement that the Red Sox will be breaking spring camp early and eliminating a few games from their Grapefruit League schedule; locals in Fort Myers weren't too happy with the news.

Reading Phillies unveil new logo, uniforms
Posted Nov. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Reading Phillies (Class AA; Eastern League) unveiled their new identity program on Wednesday at Reading Area Community College’s Miller Center. The new identity is part of a six-month creative overhaul of the franchise.
    "Today marks the next era in Reading Phillies Baseball," Reading Phillies General Manager Scott Hunsicker said. "Our new look is part of our continuing effort to embody the spirit and heritage of Reading, while paying tribute to our 42-year affiliation with Philadelphia."
    A dynamic, modern evolution of the current Phillies identity, the new look features a titled polished "R-Phils" Primary Logo. Fans will also enjoy a new Dynamic Star and the Reading Pagoda makes its way into the R-Phils identity program.
    Phillies Red, Light Blue, Dark Navy and "Bubble Gum" make up the club's new official colors, paying tribute to their Phillies heritage. The R-Phils are the first professional sports team to use Bubble Gum in their identity.
    The redesigned home uniforms replicate Philadelphia's pinstriped uniforms featuring "Reading" across the chest with Bubble Gum highlights, and the Reading Pagoda on the left sleeve and the Phillies “P” on the right sleeve. Two alternate jerseys -- one red, one light navy -- feature “R-Phils” across the chest. The light navy alternate will be worn for home games once a week. The red jersey is primarily for batting practice but could see its way into games as well.
    The R-Phils new game cap is Phillies Red featuring an "R" with a star inside. One alternate cap is light navy featuring the same "R" with a star inside, the other features a dynamic light Blue and light navy Star on a Phillies Red cap and will be worn primarily for batting practice but could be worn for games.
    In 2008 the R-Phils will also sport a powder blue Retro Uniform based on the 1980 World Champion Phillies Uniform with a modernized R-Train cap logo. The powder blue uniform will be the club’s road uniform and will also be used once a week for home games.
    The R-Phils makeover is the work of Plan B Branding, a San Diego-grown creative ideas company specializing in storytelling and branding ideas. Partners Casey White & Jason Klein dreamed up fresh looks for the Cincinnati Reds, Lehigh Valley IronPigs, Clearwater Threshers and other prestigious Minor League Baseball clubs.
    You can see the complete set of new logos here and the complete set of new uniforms here.

Team touts new survey as proof Fremont wants A's
Posted Nov. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Nearly two-thirds of Fremont residents support the Oakland A's ballpark village project, according to a telephone survey commissioned by the ballclub. Team officials Wednesday released a portion of the 66-question poll of 400 registered Fremont voters conducted in September. Sixty-two percent of respondents said they favored the project, compared with 34 percent who opposed it. The A's organization was viewed favorably by 69 percent of respondents, and A's co-owner Lew Wolff was viewed favorably by 44 percent of respondents and negatively by 18 percent. The poll's margin of error was plus or minus 4.9 percent. Team officials trumpeted the findings as evidence that most Fremont residents support their ballpark plan despite fears of game-day gridlock.
    RELATED STORIES: A's submit long-awaited application for Fremont ballpark; Baseball fans weigh in on pitch for new A's park; Staying in Oakland out of the question for Athletics; Oakland's dream ballpark, or traffic nightmare?; Fremont not ready to declare proposed A's 'baseball village' utopia; A's revised plan for ballpark village gets warmer reception; A's ballpark village plan moves school away from the landfill; Preview of Oakland ballpark plan isn't a home run; Ex-mayor: Ballpark still makes no sense; A's ready to make noise and not just ballpark construction; A's ballpark vision takes shape; Wolff takes hands-on approach to A's Fremont ballpark; A's Wolff sees new ballpark as super site; A's sign contracts for land in Fremont to build new ballpark; Entitlements key in funding Cisco Field; Study: A's ballpark worth $109 million to economy; Toxic hazard creates bump in road to new A's ballpark; 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

Goodyear OKs contract for work on new ballpark
Posted Nov. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Goodyear City Council has approved a $4.2 million construction contract with Barton Malow Co. for work on the spring-training development complex near Estrella Parkway and Yuma Road. The contract, approved 6-0 Tuesday, comes on the heels of a separate agreement by the council last month that will pay Barton Malow $10.7 million for other ballpark work, including excavation, grading and underground utilities of the fields. The company is based in Southfield, Mich., and has an offices in Tempe and other U.S. cities. The total costs of the ballpark and player development complex will be $74.8 million. Half of the bill will be paid by the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority. Here's one way to get a team to move spring-training operations from Florida to Arizona: wine and dine them.

Rays ballpark plan kept secret for months
Posted Nov. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Sports fans frustrated by the secrecy surrounding the Tampa Bay Rays' proposal to build a new waterfront ballpark could soon get a few answers to their questions. St. Petersburg city leaders will release some of the details about the plan "in a couple of days," said David Goodwin, the city's economic development director. Officials also will release the terms of their confidentiality agreement with the Rays' owners, which Goodwin agreed to in March. The team is expected to make a formal ballpark proposal in the next month. St. Petersburg residents are likely to vote on the plan in 2008. The plan is to build a new waterfront ballpark on the site of Al Lang Field using the proceeds of the sale of Tropicana Field along with $150 million from the team. More on Florida Gov. Charlie Crist's wholehearted support of the plan. More from the St. Pete Times.
    RELATED STORIES: Land under the Trop is a developer's dream; Tampa Bay ballpark cost looms as curveball; Rays on the bay?

Border Cats sold
Posted Nov. 15, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Thunder Bay Border Cats (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) have been sold by John Wendel to local entrepreneur Brad Jorgenson, who will also serve as the team's GM. Wendel launched the team when the league expanded several years ago; he's also a former owner of several minor-league teams. The Border Cats have not really taken off at Port Arthur Stadium: the team‘s attendance fell from a record 1,254 fans per game in 2006 to just 941 in 2007. On Jorgenson's agenda: coming up with a new, fiercer logo and lowering ticket prices. More from Thunder Bay's Source.

Nats to open new ballpark March 29
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Nationals Park, the new home of the Washington Nationals, will host a dress rehearsal March 29, an exhibition game against the Orioles. The Nationals want to find out whether they will be able to use the new ballpark for real the next day. Tickets won't be sold for the exhibition game against the Orioles. Instead, people with season-ticket packages will be admitted for free and other tickets will be given away, perhaps to ballpark workers or city schoolchildren. Nationals president Stan Kasten said yesterday that the team is awaiting word from the commissioner's office on whether the first regular-season game at Nationals Park will be played March 30 or April 7. The Post's Thomas Boswell gives the new ballpark a big thumbs-up.
    RELATED STORIES: Photo tour of new Nats ballpark; Nationals make effort to address parking woes at new ballpark; On deck: Playing field for new Nats ballpark; Goals unmet on ballpark construction jobs for D.C. workers; RFK is full of concrete memories; Nationals choose Centerplate to manage concessions at new ballpark; Lessons for the Lerners: what to steal from other ballparks; Nats ballpark to have extensive seating for wheelchairs; Metro, District and Nationals talking possible 'ballpark fare'; Signing off on the last beam; Top price for ducats at new Nats ballpark: $400; Nationals' transition extends off field; National crisis: Capital franchise in turmoil; Ballpark brings hope but no guarantee; Nationals ballpark 'on time, on budget' for 2008 opening; Future distinctly on rise for Nationals; District not over park cap; New Nats ballpark to feature cherry blossoms beyond left-field fence; As ballpark rises, battles over land continue; For Nats' home, a rapid ascent; Nats ballpark cost tops cap, council members say; Nats owners to pay $20 million for ballpark upgrades; With new Nats ballpark, name of the game is money; D.C. Council approves ballpark parking garages; The D.C. ballpark parking debate; Severe penalties await city if parking garages aren't provided, Gandhi warns; Ballpark garages proposal rejected; Fenty promotes aboveground parking to end fight over new Nats ballpark; New Nats ballpark construction on schedule for 2008 opening; Cropp pushes for decision on parking at DC ballpark; Mayor proposes lifting cap for DC ballpark parking; DC ballpark to be first LEED-certified ballpark in country; Legislation would revive condo and garage development at new DC ballpark; New focus at D.C. ballpark: parking; D.C. parking issue threatens budget; Development plan near new Nats ballpark falls flat; Garage plan at new D.C. ballpark at risk

Sale of Swing of Quad Cities approved
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Main Street Iowa’s Dave Heller joined with Davenport Mayor Ed Winborn at an afternoon press conference to announce that the sale of the Swing of the Quad Cities (Low Class A; Midwest League) from Seventh Inning Stretch to Main Street Iowa has been approved by Major League Baseball. MLB was the last group to put their stamp of approval on Main Street Iowa’s application to purchase the Swing of the Quad Cities, following in the footsteps of the Midwest League and Minor League Baseball.
    "We have been working towards this day for quite some time and I couldn’t be happier," said Heller, Managing Partner of the new ownership group. "We have so many new and exciting changes planned for next season and we are eager to get started."
    Former President and General Manager Kevin Krause, who headed Seventh Inning Stretch and has operated the club since 1998, said the past 10 seasons have been a time that he will always look back on fondly. "We’ve laid the foundation and created one of the country’s premier minor league baseball organizations and stadiums," Krause said. "Main Street Iowa is going to inherit a phenomenal fan base, and I wish the team all the best in the future."
    Now that the transaction has been approved at all of the necessary levels, Main Street Iowa and Seventh Inning Stretch have 10 business days to close the deal and make the transaction official. More from the Quad Cities Times.

Red Sox, A's to open season in Japan
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It's official: the Boston Red Sox and the Oakland A's will open the 2008 season on March 25 and 26 at the Tokyo Dome. As part of Japan Opening Series 2008, both MLB Clubs will also compete against to-be-determined Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) teams in day/night doubleheaders scheduled for March 22 and 23. After these games, the two teams will return to finish spring training before launching the homeland regular season in April. One issue for fans is how these games will affect spring training: we now know the Red Sox and the A's will have an abbreviated spring training. The spring-training schedule will also be upset by the Padres and Dodgers playing exhibition games in Beijing, China, on March 15-16; these games have not been formally announced. Japan Opening Series 2008 will mark the first MLB season opener in Japan since the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays played in front of sell-out crowds at the Tokyo Dome in 2004. Over the past decade, eight MLB Clubs (Colorado Rockies, San Diego Padres, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays) have experienced international openers.

Lawmakers amend budget to include funds for Moosic ballpark
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Pennsylvania senators added $35 million in funding for a new Moosic ballpark on the site of PNC Field, the home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League). The total cost of the project is expected to be $50 million; the remainder of the funds will come from the sale of the team to Mandalay Sports Entertainment. This is merely the first step in what is expected to be a long and contentious process for ballpark funding; Lackawanna County commissioners are expected to take a close look at the sale of the team.
    RELATED STORIES: Mandalay promised new ballpark in SWB?; Baseball study: Sale of SWB Yankees risky; Cordaro claims a role in minor-league turnaround; Is PNC Field debt-free? Sides disagree; Commissioners postpone decision on baseball suit; Yankees set to break attendance record; Law firms hired in Yankees flap; Mandalay eyes expansion; Value of Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees questioned; Sale of Harrisburg franchise raises questions about Yanks; Luzerne County officials finally out of the bullpen; County rejects Triple-A agreement; Potential sale of SWB Yankees approved; Luzerne County explores options on baseball deals; Blaum wants 1986 ballpark contract honored; Potential sale of the SWB Yankees approved; Lackawanna County minority commissioner wants stadium authority to pay off county; Yanks filling seats in Moosic; Once again, it’s all about the Yankees; New for 2007: PNC Field; Work on Lackawanna County Stadium progresses; New for 2007: the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees; End of Astroturf at Lackawanna County Stadium; Here to stay, keep baseball fifty-fifty; Red Barons will stay, Mandalay vows; Moosic councilman presses county on amusement tax; New grass field, fixing leaks are ballpark priorities; Hard-nosed Mandalay known for investments in minor-league teams; Will Moosic get a new ballpark?; Yankees' Triple-A affiliate, California management firm heading to Moosic; Mets representatives expected to tour Lackawanna County Stadium today; Proposal would combine front offices of Barons and Pens; It's official: Yankees leaving Columbus; move to Scranton a done deal?; Authority will consider giving Cordaro power; Yankees to SWB?

Land under the Trop is a developer's dream
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One reason why the financial plan for a new ballpark for the Tampa Bay Rays may work: the land underneath Tropicana Field is a developer's dream and potentially the largest urban redevelopment project in Pinellas County history. The Rays want to be part of the action; the owners foresee a major mixed-use development with retail, office and housing. The current plan calls for the proceeds of this development, combined with a $150 million payment from the Rays ownership, to pay for the new ballpark; no public assistance would be needed. The Rays have told elected officials they would like to include affordable housing in the project, which could help sway voters and local leaders on the plan. The team also said it wants to keep 5,000 parking spaces -- presumably in garages -- for fans heading to the new downtown ballpark. Gov. Charlie Crist, who used to office next to Al Lang Field when he worked for Minor League Baseball, says he's inclined to have the state help both the Rays and the Florida Marlins on new-ballpark proposals. More from the Tampa Tribune, which is quite incorrect when it asserts "stadium financing experts said they have never seen a team try to use the money from sale of public property to build a stadium for a pro franchise." Probably should have talked to us: the proceeds of the sale of the land used for Metropolitan Stadium in Bloomington, Minn., was used to help fund the Metrodome. (Specifically, according to Bill Lester of the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, the proceeds of the land sale -- $25 million -- was used to pay off Metrodome bonds in 1998.)
    RELATED STORIES: Tampa Bay ballpark cost looms as curveball; Rays on the bay?

Islanders file plan for new Long Island ballpark
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The owners of the NHL's New York Islanders submitted a plan for an ambitious new development surrounding a renovated Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum that would include a new Class AA ballpark. The ballpark is really a small part of the $300 million proposal, and the future of the whole thing will rest on how local residents feel about such as ambitious project.

IronPigs unveil mascot
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs unveiled their mascot Wednesday at Seiple Farms in Bath, Pa., and announced that they will be holding a "Name the Mascot" contest in conjunction with The Morning Call. The IronPigs mascot is described as a portly, affable IronPig wearing the IronPigs home uniform and jersey number 26 – the atomic number for Iron (Fe).
    "We searched far and wide for our mascot before discovering a pig that personified 'fun,'" stated Kurt Landes, general manager of the IronPigs. "Now that we have found our pig and given him a home, he needs a name!"
    Fans may submit their name suggestions online ironpigsbigsbaseball.com through noon on November 25. The winner will be announced in The Morning Call on December 2.
    The fan submitting the winning name will receive a prize pack featuring 10 tickets to a future IronPigs game, select merchandise, the opportunity to throw a first pitch and a chance to meet the new mascot. In the event that more than one fan submits the same name a winner will be chosen randomly. Complete rules are available online.
    The IronPigs mascot design was created by Plan B Branding, a San Diego-based creative ideas company specializing in storytelling and branding ideas, and produced by Sugar’s Mascot Costumes, a leader in the mascot production industry. More from the Allentown Morning Call.

Reds likely to remain in Florida for training
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Despite some early enthusiasm, the feeling in Arizona is that the Cincinnati Reds are unlikely to shift spring-training operations from Florida, despite the defeat of a referendum last week calling for the renovation of Sarasota's Ed Smith Stadium. Diamondbacks President Derrick Hall will be meeting with Reds ownership tonight about the prospect of moving to Tucson, but he'll have a hard sell: there are no direct flights between Cincy and Tucson, and two teams need to move, not just one.
    RELATED STORIES: Arizona looking to woo Reds to new spring-training home; Voters reject ballpark initiatives in Sarasota, Brighton; approve them in Helena and Avon; Sarasota officials mum on ballpark property tax; Reds ballpark decision delayed; 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

Miller Park may get upgrades
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Milwaukee Brewers have plans to upgrade Miller Park's sound system and replace the main scoreboard in time for the 2010 season. The plans and timetable could still change. But in discussions between team officials and the Miller Park stadium district, a master plan maintained by the district calls for millions of dollars to be set aside from an account that is jointly funded by the Brewers and the district. That fund, a creation of the existing lease between the district and the team, was set up to pay for ballpark improvements. The district board must approve each project and, in some cases, officials have rejected projects that should not be supported in part by taxpayer money. It has been estimated that a sound system upgrade would cost at least $1.5 million. The cost to replace the scoreboard could run between $8 million and $10 million.

Fisher Cats to add Sam Adams Bar & Grill
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) announced that construction will begin soon on the all-new Samuel Adams Bar & Grill at Merchantsauto.com Stadium. The Samuel Adams Bar & Grill, which will overlook the playing field above the left field wall, is slated to open on Opening Night, April 10, 2008. The Samuel Adams Bar & Grill will feature table top and bar seating for over 300 people. There will be multiple flat-screen televisions, an indoor mahogany bar and an extensive menu to complement the menu items offered at the ballpark.

Pope to make abbreviated ballpark tour
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Pope Benedict XVI will celebrate Mass at two ballparks next year as part of his first visit to the United States as pontiff. He'll celebrate Mass on April 17 at Nationals Park, the home of the Washington Nationals, and on April 20 at Yankee Stadium. Tickets to both events are expected to be free and distributed through the local archdiocese; you can expect the scalpers to be involved in a lively aftermarket, however. More from the Examiner, which explains how the Lerner family -- which owns the Nats -- were personally involved in arranging the visit.

Fahey says ballpark review commission making progress
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Immediately following his announcement Tuesday that he will not run for U.S. Senate, Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey got back to business on one of the biggest issues of his political career: the future of the College World Series in his city. The unresolved ballpark question is one major factor Fahey cited when he said he has too much city business to deal with to pursue a Senate seat. Omaha now has until the end of April to present a recommended ballpark site to the NCAA. But Fahey didn't offer much information to the group at the Press Club to indicate what that recommendation might be. Instead, he said the city's ballpark review committee is making steady progress in its review of eight possible ballpark plans. The committee is considering five sites for a new downtown ballpark and three options to renovate Rosenblatt Stadium to serve as a long-term home for the College World Series.
    RELATED STORIES: Save Rosenblatt Committee wants representative on mayor's ballpark committee; NCAA's feelers out for CWS sites; Omaha mayor's public pitch for ballpark begins; More options introduced for new home of College World Series; Skeptics of Omaha ballpark proposal look for return on funding; Public to have say on Omaha ballpark proposal; Omaha restaurant owners vow opposition to ballpark tax; Omaha mayor unveils $117-million ballpark plan; Rosenblatt group sends petitions to NCAA; Omaha and the CWS: City bids for 20-year deal; Omaha Royals support plan for new ballpark; NCAA ties College World Series to new ballpark; Today's video: Kevin Costner: Save Rosenblatt Stadium; Costner: Save Rosenblatt Stadium; New downtown Omaha ballpark would be near Qwest; 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

Appeal filed in Charlotte land-swap case
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A real estate attorney has appealed a Superior Court judge's decision to dismiss his lawsuits challenging a plan to bring a new ballpark to uptown Charlotte. In the meantime, Mecklenburg County leaders still are trying to assemble land for the project, which ultimately would include the new ballpark for the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League), new parks and a mixed-income housing development. Reese, who has tried to bring the major-league Florida Marlins to Charlotte, has called the swap of county, city and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools-owned land for the minor-league ballpark "unlawful" and a "sham." But in October, a Guilford County judge dismissed Reese's lawsuit, and Guilford had until Monday to file notice of appeal.
    RELATED STORIES: Charlotte ballpark lawsuit tossed; Council action aids Charlotte baseball deal; Knights say downtown site squeeze is OK; Much up in air with uptown baseball plans; County waves Knights toward uptown; County details Knights ballpark numbers; Knights now pushing to get ballpark in play by 2009; Charlotte approves Knights ballpark deal; Knights in talks on financing new ballpark; Schools agree to role in land swap for baseball; County moves forward on Knights ballpark plan; A new season for Knights, but same old battles; More time wanted for Charlotte baseball deal; Officials: Arts sale not about sports; Ballpark land swap still in play for reshaping Charlotte; Could new Charlotte ballpark be delayed by lawsuit?; Land deal for Charlotte ballpark advances; Diehl plans fight over Charlotte ballpark; Mecklenburg County set for baseball deal role; Charlotte Council seeks answers on baseball; Uptown park for Knights makes sense; Charlotte council gets update on baseball plan; Chamber: poll shows overwhelming support for Knights ballpark; Backers urge: Make noise for Charlotte ballpark; A slow curve in Charlotte; Charlotte ballpark land swap seen as feasible; Charlotte Knights select Barton Malow to oversee ballpark construction; Hard days for Knights; Knights see more fans, but lag league; Knights select Odell Associates, HOK to design new ballpark; Knights meet with potential architects; Competing plans for baseball parks in Charlotte; The big pitch for uptown baseball in Charlotte; Charlotte turns to funding plans for ballpark; Will Charlotte ballpark be magnet for growth?; Third Ward residents object to new Knights ballpark; Uptown baseball in Charlotte may cost city $5 million; Charlotte ballpark plan now turns to question of real estate; Arts package heads the agenda for city funding, but baseball is now up to bat with a new plan; Uptown ballpark plan has some rally-killers; Deal in works for uptown Charlotte ballpark

Allen stepping down as Reds COO
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
John Allen will step down at the end of the year as chief operating officer of the Cincinnati Reds. The team will not replace Allen when he resigns Dec. 31, and his duties will be reallocated among other team officials. Allen, 58, joined the organization as controller in May 1995, and was named managing executive in August 1996, when former owner Marge Schott was suspended by Major League Baseball for making a series of offensive comments. More from the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Naturals announce front-office staff, manager
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Class AA; Texas League) introduced nine more members of the front-office administrative staff that are working hard to make the region’s only professional sports franchise a reality. Justin Cole joined the organization last month as the assistant general manager, having spent the last four seasons working with the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League), primarily in a sales capacity. He served as Co-General Manager during the team’s final season in Wichita, and arrived in Northwest Arkansas two months ago. Anna Whitham serves as the ticket operations manager and joined the Naturals in May after spending the prior two seasons with the Wichita Wranglers where she served as ticket coordinator. Frank Novak joined the Naturals earlier this month as the Marketing and Public Relations Manager. Frank will work on the Naturals promotions and marketing efforts while also serving as the team’s primary media contact. Erin O’Donnell joined the Naturals as the club’s marketing coordinator. Erin is a native of Portland, Texas and graduated in May from Trinity University in San Antonio. Brian Nickerson joined the Naturals in January as Operations Coordinator. Brian graduated from Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas with a major in management. Morgan Smith joined the Naturals in May as an account executive and merchandise coordinator. She is a 2007 graduate of the University of Arkansas where she majored in marketing and political science. Andrew Thaxton joined the Naturals in June and will serve as an account executive. Andrew comes to the Naturals from J.B. Hunt Transport, where he served as a recruiting specialist. Ryan Ritchie joined the Naturals in September as an account executive. He comes to the Naturals from First Federal Bank, where he served as a loan officer for the past two years. Monty Sowell will serve as the Naturals’ head groundskeeper. He comes to the Naturals from the University of Arkansas where he served as the Field Turf Manager for the Razorbacks’ baseball team. A Fort Smith native, Monty has prior professional baseball experience with the Triple-A Fresno Grizzlies and Colorado Springs Sky Sox, both in the Pacific Coast League, as well as with the Midland RockHounds (Class AA; Texas League). Brian Poldberg, a 19-year veteran of the Royals farm system, will serve as the first field manager for the Naturals. Poldberg, a 50-year-old Omaha resident, served as the third-base coach under former Royals’ skipper Buddy Bell in the 2007 season, capping four consecutive seasons on the Royals’ Major League staff that saw him coach first base during the 2006 season and serve as the Royals’ bullpen coach during the 2004-05 seasons. Meanwhile, the Springdale City Council on Tuesday approved an ordinance that allows for fireworks shows at Arvest Ballpark, the Naturals' new home.

Holyoke Giants moving to Lynn's Fraser Field
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It didn't take long for someone to move into Fraser Field, the former home of the North Shore Spirit: Holyoke Giants (summer collegiate; New England Collegiate Baseball League) owner Philip Rosenfield says he's moving his team there. The ballpark is a fairly modest facility that may be best suited for summer-collegiate baseball; Rosenfield says he's also worried about pro baseball moving into the Holyoke market.

City leaders must step up to the plate to save Tucson spring training
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Tucson Daily Star calls for city leaders to help save spring training in the Old Pueblo. Realistically, the way to do that is through money: fix up Hi Corbett Field per the wishes of the Colorado Rockies and perhaps build a new downtown ballpark to replace Tucson Electric Park. The economics of spring training have changed dramatically in the last several years, but the sleepy atmosphere in Tucson hasn't kept pace.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Nov. 14, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Former Mankato Moondogs pitching coach Bobby Meier will be named the new field manager of the Thunder Bay Border Cats (summer collegiate; Northwoods League), while Brad Jorgenson will be named general manager. Meier spent the last two summers with the Moondogs. Jorgenson took over as interim GM last season when Greg Balec left his post with the team citing personal reasons.....The Fresno Grizzlies (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and the San Francisco Giants announced that the two teams will play each other in a full squad exhibition game next spring at Chukchansi Park in Fresno. The game will be played on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 and will be the first time that the Giants will visit their Triple-A affiliate in Fresno since 2003. Time of the game is yet to be determined and will be announced at a later date. "Our organization is very proud of our affiliation with the Grizzlies and we look forward to giving Fresno an up close and personal look at the 2008 big league club," said Giants Senior Vice President and General Manager Brian Sabean. "This game is a great way to give back to a community that has helped foster future Giants for so long." Grizzlies season ticket holders and mini plan package patrons will have the first opportunity to purchase tickets for the game....The Kansas City Royals announced that Omaha manager Mike Jirschele and the rest of the team’s coaching staff will return in 2008. Tom Burgmeier will again serve as the Triple-A club’s pitching coach, with Terry Bradshaw back as the team’s hitting coach. Jirschele will manage Omaha for a sixth consecutive season and ninth overall, having also skippered the club from 1995-1997....Joe Pinto is the new general manager of Roger Dean Stadium, the regular-season home of the Jupiter Hammerheads and Palm Beach Cardinals (both High Class A: Florida State League) and the spring home of the St. Louis Cardinals and Florida Marlins. Pinto resigned as general manager of the Lancaster Barnstormers (independent; Atlantic League) following the 2006 season after being named the league's General Manager of the Year. Pinto also was named the Class A Carolina League's GM of the Year in 2002 while with the Frederick Keys....Jim Gabella was named the new manager of the Idaho Falls Chukars (rookie; Pioneer League), moving to Idaho Falls after spending the last four seasons with the Burlington Bees (Low Class A; Midwest League). Jon Williams was named the new hitting coach, while Jerry Nyman returns for his second season as the Chukars pitching coach. Before taking over the helm in Burlington, Gabella spent eight seasons as an area scout for the Cleveland Indians....Darryl Kennedy, a former minor-league catcher who managed the Burlington Royals (rookie; Appalachian League) last season, has been named manager of the Wilmington Blue Rocks (High Class A; Carolina League). Kennedy, 38, replaces John Mizerock, who was recently named bullpen coach of the Kansas City Royals....Robin Wallace has resigned as general manager of the Nashua Pride (independent; Can-Am Association) effective immediately to take a new post with the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL)....

Arizona looking to woo Reds to new spring-training home
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
No surprise that Arizona officials are licking their chops over the possibility of the Cincinnati Reds shifting spring-training operations there after Sarasota voters rejected a renovation of  Ed Smith Stadium. There are a number of opportunities for the Reds, but they all carry some downsides. Moving to Goodyear, where the Cleveland Indians are already slated to move in 2009, would be a natural, but the complex was designed for one team (two training fields) and would need to be expanded. The complex at Surprise could be expanded to accommodate a third team, but it's not clear how baseball would react to having three teams train in the same locale. Brad Wright, an Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority board member who heads the Cactus League committee, is working to guide the Reds to Tucson as a replacement for the Chicago White Sox in Tucson Electric Park; that gives the White Sox an out (the team committed to playing in Glendale while still contractually obligated to play in Tucson) and could keep spring training in the Old Pueblo, though the Rockies have also looked at bailing on Hi Corbett Field. And, of course, Casa Grande folks want to recapture the glory of hosting spring training (Horace Stoneham built quite the facility there decades ago). A few things to note. First, teams traditionally have been required to move in pairs for scheduling purposes; if the Reds were to move they'd need to find a companion (such as the Baltimore Orioles, whose efforts to renovate Fort Lauderdale Stadium have seemingly stalled). Second, there are no direct flights between Cincinnati and Tucson; traveling between the two cities can be a pain in the butt for fans (it's not easy and it's not cheap), and the Reds should take that into account. Third, the state has no more money for ballpark and training facilities; the state fund is tapped out for the next 25 years.
    RELATED STORIES: Voters reject ballpark initiatives in Sarasota, Brighton; approve them in Helena and Avon; Sarasota officials mum on ballpark property tax; Reds ballpark decision delayed; 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

Tampa Bay ballpark cost looms as curveball
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
St. Petersburg City Council members who were briefed on the Tampa Bay Rays' proposed waterfront ballpark Monday liked what they saw, for the most part. However, the main question emerging from the meetings at Tropicana Field is one whose answer likely will determine the fate of the project: Exactly how much is the $450 million ballpark going to cost taxpayers? Currently the plan is for the ballpark to funded by a sale of Tropicana Field, $60 million in state money and $150 million from the Rays. Now, this plan obviously depends on two things beyond the control of the city or the Rays: the final sale price of Tropicana Field and $60 million in state money at a time when legislators say their belts are tight. Voters would also need to approve a change in the zoning of Al Lang Field in order to tear it down and build the new ballpark. The team envisions an open-air ballpark seating about 35,000 with a retractable awning to protect fans against sun and rain. The right-field fence would be parallel to the water, and long home runs would have a chance to get wet. More from the St. Petersburg Times. John Romano gives the proposal a qualified endorsement.
    RELATED STORIES: Rays on the bay?

SWB Dems to talk baseball
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It is premature to talk about a new ballpark for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League), Lackawanna County Commissioner Mike Washo said Monday, insisting professional baseball in Northeastern Pennsylvania presents opportunities for all the parties involved. Washo said he and Commissioner-elect Corey O’Brien, who will become the new Democratic majority on the Board of Commissioners in January, want to meet within two weeks with Mandalay Baseball Properties to discuss each side’s expectations "and what they’d like to see happen here." More ominously, the pair may seek to revisit the deal selling the Yankees to Mandalay for between $13 million to $16.4 million, depending on when it is exercised; we've been told the agreement is not reversible, but that remains to be seen.
    RELATED STORIES: Mandalay promised new ballpark in SWB?; Baseball study: Sale of SWB Yankees risky; Cordaro claims a role in minor-league turnaround; Is PNC Field debt-free? Sides disagree; Commissioners postpone decision on baseball suit; Yankees set to break attendance record; Law firms hired in Yankees flap; Mandalay eyes expansion; Value of Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees questioned; Sale of Harrisburg franchise raises questions about Yanks; Luzerne County officials finally out of the bullpen; County rejects Triple-A agreement; Potential sale of SWB Yankees approved; Luzerne County explores options on baseball deals; Blaum wants 1986 ballpark contract honored; Potential sale of the SWB Yankees approved; Lackawanna County minority commissioner wants stadium authority to pay off county; Yanks filling seats in Moosic; Once again, it’s all about the Yankees; New for 2007: PNC Field; Work on Lackawanna County Stadium progresses; New for 2007: the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees; End of Astroturf at Lackawanna County Stadium; Here to stay, keep baseball fifty-fifty; Red Barons will stay, Mandalay vows; Moosic councilman presses county on amusement tax; New grass field, fixing leaks are ballpark priorities; Hard-nosed Mandalay known for investments in minor-league teams; Will Moosic get a new ballpark?; Yankees' Triple-A affiliate, California management firm heading to Moosic; Mets representatives expected to tour Lackawanna County Stadium today; Proposal would combine front offices of Barons and Pens; It's official: Yankees leaving Columbus; move to Scranton a done deal?; Authority will consider giving Cordaro power; Yankees to SWB?

City may let group buy back Warthogs
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The downtown Winston-Salem ballpark now under construction could be torn down in 20 years under proposed changes being discussed by the city and the developers. Mayor Allen Joines said yesterday that he does not think the developers plan to do that, but he confirmed that it could be a drawback to allowing the developers -- Sports Menagerie Corp. -- to eventually buy the ballpark back from the city. It may all be a matter of semantics: Sports Menagerie Corp. also owns the ballpark's prime tenant, the Winston-Salem Warthogs (High Class A; Carolina League). Joines said that the developers proposed the option of buying it back as a safeguard measure in case the overall ballpark project does not turn out as planned.

Commissioners who back Twins ballpark receive threats
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Four Hennepin County commissioners who voted for a tax to support the new Minnesota Twins ballpark have received threatening letters, and police say they have identified a suspect. Commissioner Mark Stenglein said one letter asked "What do you do with someone who steals tax dollars?" The worst letter, he said, was sent to all four about three weeks ago and stated only: "Judgment day is coming." He said that one was particularly disturbing because none of the commissioners was up for election this fall, leaving open the possibility that the sender had a less democratic judgment in mind. Meanwhile, the new ballpark will be built according to the approved design and agreed-upon construction budget, Twins Sports President Jerry Bell assured the Minnesota Ballpark Authority on Friday. The Star Tribune argues the ballpark designers need to worry about the area surrounding the park.
    RELATED STORIES: Twins ballpark design clears big hurdle with quick board vote; New info on Twins ballpark unveiled; Final price tag for Twins ballpark land: $28.5 million; Mediator will try to find a ballpark land solution; Hennepin County makes insulting offer to Twins ballpark landowners; Landowners make settlement offer in Twins ballpark dispute; Twins finally hold groundbreaking for new ballpark; Landowners to appeal valuation of Twins ballpark parcel; A new dispute on ballpark land figures; Twins ballpark site worth $23.8 million, says condemnation panel; Greed circles the plate at Twins ballpark site; Hennepin County, land owners remain far apart on value of ballpark site; Taxpayers' costs for Twins ballpark may be going up; Ballpark land was low-balled; Ballpark designers seek green label, but say effort alone counts; Twins ballpark parcel worth $65.375 million, say owners; Twins ballpark draws development interest; Pohlads lining up land near ballpark; Hennepin County takes control of ballpark land, reaches agreement with railroad; Twins, Hennepin County sign ballpark agreement; now the fun begins; County: Twins' extra donation for ballpark is confidential; Twins unveil ballpark plans; Hennepin County, Twins reach land agreement; vote slated for today; Twins ballpark meeting is delayed; Ballpark impasse solution may be near on Twins ballpark; Twins moving ahead with ballpark plans; Pohlads step up to plate to help county save deal; Possible fix for Twins ballpark impasse arises; Are Twins working to end ballpark impasse?; Building a ballpark may hinge on having the Twins pay more; County officials, landowners of Twins ballpark site remain in a holding pattern; County looking at two new sites for Twins ballpark; Official says changing site of Twins ballpark would mean delays; A great ballpark divide; Twins postpone ballpark unveiling; Hennepin County, Twins say they'll look for a new ballpark site; Draft environmental review for Twins ballpark unveiled; Judge rules Twins ballpark has public purpose; sides still apart on price; Community leaders eager to see Twins ballpark design; Twins ballpark likely to sport modern look; Ballpark site owners put squeeze on Twins; New year brings new ballpark tax for Hennepin County shoppers; Ballpark players ironing out use, development agreements; Twins release more details on new ballpark; New Twins ballpark bypasses standard reviews; Ballpark's link to downtown Minneapolis inadequate, group says; Ballpark should be held to high standards; Twins formally announce design team for new ballpark; Firms lined up early for stadium work; Eminent-domain effort begins for Twins ballpark land; Designing the experience around the Twins ballpark; Ideas for Twins ballpark, some from left field; A freeze frame for Twins; Experts blow hot, cold on ways to heat new Twins ballpark; Appraisal delay puts Twins new ballpark off schedule; Twins pick ballpark designers; As Twins chase playoffs, ballpark preparations push on; Twins ballpark on track to open in 2010; Hennepin County Board approves ballpark sales tax; It's official: Twins to switch broadcast rights to KSTP-AM; Twins to switch broadcast partner after 46 seasons; Twins seek partners for naming rights, sponsorships; Twins searching for trademark ballpark design; Hennepin County OKs spending plan for Twins ballpark; Naming rights options scary; More than a ballpark in Minneapolis

Chicago, Great Falls extend affiliate agreement
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Great Falls Baseball Club officials Monday announced a new two-year extension with the Chicago White Sox organization that ensures a relationship with the Great Falls White Sox (rookie; Pioneer League) through the summer of 2010. In addition, manager Chris Cron and most of his staff will return to Great Falls next year as the team seeks to successfully defend its Pioneer League Northern Division championship.

York City schools want share from new ballpark
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The York City school board is revisiting a 2005 decision it made to opt out of receiving more than $1.3 million in payments from the York County Industrial Development Authority, which owns Sovereign Bank Stadium, the home of the York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League). Two years ago, school board members balked at receiving the money, saying that agreeing to take the "payment in lieu of taxes" would prevent them from collecting taxes if the multimillion-dollar baseball stadium were taxed at its full value. At the time, city and county officials who agreed to the payments said they were baffled by the school district's position; they said the ballpark is nonprofit and thus exempt from ever being taxed. But school officials disagreed, and the district's solicitor, Greg Gettle Sr., said cloudy ownership issues made it unclear whether the ballpark -- which had not yet been built -- would be tax exempt under state rules.

Toros could return in new incarnation
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jay Zucker, the former owner of the Tucson Sidewinders (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), is talking about bringing back the team's predecessor -- the Tucson Toros -- as a franchise in the independent Golden Baseball League. Unless another Pacific Coast League team moves to Tucson -- something that's not entirely out of the question, by the way -- Tucson Electric Park will be sitting empty every summer, and there really aren't any other leagues that could be a good fit with Tucson. Zucker owns the rights to the Toros name.

In memoriam: Ann Cook
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Ann Cook, who was a fixture in her box seats of the Burlington Athletic Stadium, passed away on Monday after a lengthy battle with lung cancer. A fan with a true passion for the game, Ann was also an unofficial team historian and a fan advocate who was not afraid to keep team management on their toes.
    As a mainstay of the Booster Club for the Burlington Indians and later the Burlington Royals (both rookie; Appalachian League(, Ann organized trips to see the team on the road, helped with fund-raising events for the team's current clubhouse, and traveled the state of North Carolina to see "her boys" play after they'd been promoted from Burlington.
    Ann was 64 years old at the time of her passing. She is survived by her husband, James, who was always at her side cheering on Burlington's baseball teams, as well as their daughter, Amy, and son, David. -- Mark Cryan

Shockers' baseball facility gets boost
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Wichita State baseball players may be able to put away stocking caps and sweatshirts as practice gear by the 2009 season. Instead, they could be working out indoors in January and February. WSU's plans for a practice facility took a big step toward reality with Monday's announcement of a donation of $1.2 million from Bombardier Learjet. The donation gives the company naming rights to the 170-foot by 170-foot facility, which will be located next to Eck Stadium and serve as a cold-weather asset for baseball, softball and other sports.

City gives go-ahead to Duncan Park Stadium project
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Spartanburg City Council voted unanimously Monday to replace the outfield wall at Duncan Park Stadium, the city's former home to minor-league and summer-collegiate baseball. The Council voted to spend $229,000 to hire Gaffney-based Sossamon Construction to demolish and replace the existing outfield wall that was likely built in the late 1950s or early 1960s. The wall is unsafe and was repaired in recent years after a portion of it collapsed, Donnie Love, an architect with McMillan Smith and Partners, told the council. City leaders are in negotiations with Spartanburg School District 7 for the Spartanburg High School baseball team to serve as a primary tenant of the stadium, with the city retaining ownership of the stadium. Architects have estimated that the stadium, which was built in 1926, needs a about $3 million in renovations, and fundraising will be needed to secure at least half of those funds.

Wild Things offer Bonds 2008 contract
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Washington Wild Things (independent; Frontier League) have offered a contract to Barry Bonds, according to officials. A move to the Wild Things’ organization would give Bonds the opportunity to return to the market where he started his Major League career. Bonds debuted with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1986, playing seven seasons in Western Pennsylvania prior to signing a contract with the San Francisco Giants in 1993. "Many of the great ones eventually return to where their careers began," said Wild Things General Manager Ross Vecchio. "Babe Ruth began his career with the Red Sox and then finished with the Boston Braves; Willie Mays started with the New York Giants and finished his career with the Mets; and, of course, Hank Aaron began and finished his career in Milwaukee (Braves & Brewers). This contract gives Barry the opportunity to play once again in Western, PA as he continues his career."

Ballpark Notes
Posted Nov. 13, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association) named Benny Castillo as the team’s hitting coach for the 2008 season. Castillo began his managerial career in with the Duluth-Superior Dukes in the Northern League. In his first year as manager, Castillo led the Dukes to the Northern League Central Championship, and was named the Minor League Manager of the Year by Baseball America. Since then, Castillo has spent time as a manager for the Sioux City Explorers (2001-02), the short-season Jamestown Jammers (2003-04), the independent Golden Baseball League’s Yuma Scorpions (2005-06), and the Detroit Tigers’ rookie team in the Gulf Coast League (2007)....

Rays on the bay?
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Tampa Bay Rays have developed a bold plan to build a $450-million downtown ballpark that would give fans waterfront views and protection from rain. The ballpark, to be built on the site of Al Lang Field, would seat about 35,000 and could open as early as 2012. Hitters there would have a chance to send the ball into the bay. Financing is still being worked out, but a primary source would be proceeds of the sale of the Tropicana Field site to a developer who would build a large retail/residential complex there. The Rays also would make a contribution, perhaps as much as $150-million, covering one-third of the cost. The team also would seek legislative approval for $60-million of state money in future sales tax revenue from food, beer and merchandise sales in the new park. (Indeed, we've been hinting in recent weeks that the Florida Marlins would be seeking state funds for a new ballpark; the Rays and the Marlins are expected to make a joint request, and officials from MLB and the two teams have already briefed Florida Gov. Charlie Crist.) The team is walking a tightrope with the proposal: while it's clear Tropicana Field isn't suitable for the long term, the team must be wary of being perceived as demanding a new ballpark -- and a press release issued in response to the ballpark news reiterated that stance.
    It was quite the news cycle for the Rays. Note the new name: the team formally announced the new name of the team (the Tampa Bay Rays), a new look (Carl Crawford is shown at left in the new uniform), a new logo (which we showed you months ago; no surprise for loyal readers), new colors (no more green) and a new marketing emphasis: less on sea critters and more on sunshine. "We are now the 'Rays' -- a beacon that radiates throughout Tampa Bay and across the entire state of Florida," said Stuart Sternberg, the team's principal owner. "Tampa Bay and the Sunshine State are beautiful places. We want the Rays to reflect the best our region has to offer." The organization will not remove all connection to its first ten years of play as the Devil Rays. An updated Devil Ray patch will continue to be worn on the left sleeve of the jersey. The team will also continue to operate its popular touch tank filled with live rays at Tropicana Field.

Mandalay promised new ballpark in SWB?
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lackawanna County Commissioner Robert Cordaro says he agreed a year ago the county would build a new ballpark as part of the deal that attracted an affiliation with the New York Yankees for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League). Cordaro, who never specifically mentioned the agreement before, said the deal includes a commitment by state Sen. Robert J. Mellow to provide $35 million in state money for a $50 million ballpark. The deal also includes massive new development around the ballpark totaling another $150 million. Mellow doesn't deny the deal, but decried Cordaro's decision to disclose it at this time. Under the deal, Cordaro said, Lackawanna County would take the proceeds of the planned sale of the SWB Yankees to Mandalay and add it to the state money to build the ballpark, which would be a miniature version of the new Yankee Stadium with open concourses. The project would include a host of other developments -- a Yankee Village retail complex with a stop on the county’s electric trolley, a Yankee-themed hotel and a Yankee museum. If there's nothing in writing, of course, there's no real deal in place. But muddying the waters is the election of two new Democratic County commissioners who say there's no deal for a new ballpark -- and, in fact, they want to reevaluate the sale of the team, though it's not clear whether that deal (which is in writing) can be reversed.
    RELATED STORIES: Baseball study: Sale of SWB Yankees risky; Cordaro claims a role in minor-league turnaround; Is PNC Field debt-free? Sides disagree; Commissioners postpone decision on baseball suit; Yankees set to break attendance record; Law firms hired in Yankees flap; Mandalay eyes expansion; Value of Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees questioned; Sale of Harrisburg franchise raises questions about Yanks; Luzerne County officials finally out of the bullpen; County rejects Triple-A agreement; Potential sale of SWB Yankees approved; Luzerne County explores options on baseball deals; Blaum wants 1986 ballpark contract honored; Potential sale of the SWB Yankees approved; Lackawanna County minority commissioner wants stadium authority to pay off county; Yanks filling seats in Moosic; Once again, it’s all about the Yankees; New for 2007: PNC Field; Work on Lackawanna County Stadium progresses; New for 2007: the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees; End of Astroturf at Lackawanna County Stadium; Here to stay, keep baseball fifty-fifty; Red Barons will stay, Mandalay vows; Moosic councilman presses county on amusement tax; New grass field, fixing leaks are ballpark priorities; Hard-nosed Mandalay known for investments in minor-league teams; Will Moosic get a new ballpark?; Yankees' Triple-A affiliate, California management firm heading to Moosic; Mets representatives expected to tour Lackawanna County Stadium today; Proposal would combine front offices of Barons and Pens; It's official: Yankees leaving Columbus; move to Scranton a done deal?; Authority will consider giving Cordaro power; Yankees to SWB?

In memoriam: Matt Minker
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Matt Minker, the majority owner of the Wilmington Blue Rocks (High Class A; Carolina League), passed away yesterday. He was 60. Minker, the man who helped transform the Wilmington skyline and reputation by building Frawley Stadium in a swamp on the Riverfront, passed away after a five-year battle with cancer. Minker was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2002 and underwent successful treatment. Then in 2006, doctors discovered a lymphoma on his pancreas. Again, he sought treatment and seemed to be recovering when the cancer returned last December. He was also a past owner of the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League).

Strike three for Tucson spring training?
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Colorado Rockies and Goodyear, Az., officials are discussing a move of the team should a new spring-training complex be expanded. Currently the Cleveland Indians are slated to move to the new complex in 2009, but as it stands right now the configuration is only for one team in terms of clubhouses and practice fields. That the Rockies are in discussions -- even if they are a backup plan to staying at Hi Corbett Field -- does not bode well for spring training staying in Tucson. Three teams -- the Rockies, White Sox and Diamondbacks -- currently train in Tucson, but their leases can be broken if only two teams remain. The White Sox are trying to break their lease at Tucson Electric Park (which runs through 2012) in order to move to a new Glendale complex; the ChiSox must either find a replacement or buy out the lease. To be honest, training in Tucson isn't a popular thing in baseball circles: yeah, we know the local fans like it, but none of the teams draw well, it's not accessible (the Indians rejected a possible move there when team officials realized there were no non-stop flights between Cleveland and Tucson) and the facilities are average at best -- in fact, the Rockies are discussing the need for improvements to Hi Corbett Field should they stay. The remoteness of the city, once a selling point when players arrived out of shape, actually works against Tucson now. Inevitably someone will bring up the possibility of the Cincinnati Reds moving to Tucson, but that's a slightly different situation: teams must move between the Grapefruit League and the Cactus League in pairs, so the Reds would need to find a partner before a switch -- but we've heard the Orioles' deal in Fort Lauderdale for a new complex has unraveled somewhat, so anything is possible.

A's submit long-awaited application for Fremont ballpark
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Oakland A's filed a long-awaited development application with the city of Fremont, a major step toward the construction of a new ballpark in the south of the city. In addition to the 32,000-capacity ballpark, a significant portion of the land would be devoted to residential, retail and other commercial development. The $1.8 billion ballpark village project will be primarily financed by a combination of private equity and real-estate development proceeds generated by the ballpark and the surrounding village, A's officials said. City officials are expected to take from 12 to 18 months to review the application. If the application is approved, ground-breaking on the project will begin as soon as possible, team officials said. The A's have been working toward a 2010 opening, but we can't realistically see that happening given the long review time. There's bound to be close scrutiny of the plan -- any time you have any form of public assistance, in this case the equivalent of tax-increment financing, activists can be expected to pose opposition. More from the San Francisco Chronicle.
    RELATED STORIES: Baseball fans weigh in on pitch for new A's park; Staying in Oakland out of the question for Athletics; Oakland's dream ballpark, or traffic nightmare?; Fremont not ready to declare proposed A's 'baseball village' utopia; A's revised plan for ballpark village gets warmer reception; A's ballpark village plan moves school away from the landfill; Preview of Oakland ballpark plan isn't a home run; Ex-mayor: Ballpark still makes no sense; A's ready to make noise and not just ballpark construction; A's ballpark vision takes shape; Wolff takes hands-on approach to A's Fremont ballpark; A's Wolff sees new ballpark as super site; A's sign contracts for land in Fremont to build new ballpark; Entitlements key in funding Cisco Field; Study: A's ballpark worth $109 million to economy; Toxic hazard creates bump in road to new A's ballpark; 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

New name for Grasshoppers home: NewBridge Bank Park
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Greensboro Grasshoppers (Low Class A; Sally League) announced that NewBridge Bank, the new bank resulting from the merger of LSB The Bank and FNB Southeast, has signed a 10-year commitment to be the naming-rights partner for the Grasshoppers' downtown ballpark. "This is another positive step forward for our organization and this community," said Grasshoppers President and General Manager Donald Moore. "Having a bank of this magnitude in Greensboro is a wonderful accomplishment, but having them as your partner is even better." First Horizon Bank, the previous namesake for the facility, has chosen to concentrate its efforts on mortgage lending and corporate banking rather than the initial plan for personal banking services in the area. First Horizon Bank had agreed to $275,000 annually for naming rights and, although the terms of the new deal were not released, we'd be surprised if the new deal wasn't very similar. More from the Greensboro News-Record.

With Dodgers' plans up in the air, will Indian River County embrace change?
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Indian River County officials are talking of terminating the Los Angeles Dodgers lease for the use of Dodgertown as they grow increasingly frustrated with the team's apparent unwillingness to give them a definite departure date. The team, meanwhile, is considering buying the spring training facility back from the county, as if their option per their lease. Indian River County Administrator Joe Baird said he is "very confident" he would be able to reach an agreement with a new team if he can get a departure date. He would not reveal the team's name but said he thought an agreement probably could be reached in 60 days or less. The county says the team's lease for Dodgertown calls for at least 10 spring-training games, but if the Dodgers play part of the 2008 spring training in China and then spend the rest of March in Phoenix, the Dodgers would be in default. One possibility, of course, is having the Cincinnati Reds move to Dodgertown, but other Florida cities are expected to make a play for the team; officials in Lakewood Ranch have already raised the possibility.

New for 2008: Wichita Wingnuts
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The newest team in the independent American Association: the Wichita Wingnuts, who will begin play next May. Wingnuts was chosen from over 200 entries submitted during the Wichita Eagle’s name-the-team contest as well as from input submitted from numerous leaders of the business community. "It has been a long process, but a thorough one," said Wichita Pro Sports President Chris Presson. "In the end we wanted a unique name and a look that would suggest fun, while still maintaining a tie-in to Wichita’s great history of aviation." The logo was designed by Associated Advertising. The team colors are red, silver and black. The Wingnuts introduced Kash Beauchamp as their first field manager. Beauchamp brings 25 years of pro experience to the club, including 10 at the independent level. Beauchamp will be assisted by Pitching Coach Luke Robertson. The Wingnuts formally introduced their ownership group today, led by Horn Chen. Chen has solely owned the Wichita Thunder since the franchise began Central Hockey League (CHL) play in the inaugural 1992 season. Steve Ruud, owner of the 46-year-old concrete company, R.A. Ruud and Son, Inc., spearheads the local ownership group. He is joined by Nick Easter, co-owner of NCRI, Dan Waller, vice president of Conco Construction and Gary Austerman, a partner in the law firm, Klenda, Mitchell, Austerman and Zuercher, L.L.C. The newest members of the Wingnuts ownership team are Detroit Tigers pitcher Nate Robertson, Josh Robertson and Chris Presson. Nate, Josh and Luke Robertson are all brothers. More from the Wichita Eagle.

Future of Ray Winder Field under review
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It didn't take long for Ray Winder Field, the home of the Arkansas Travelers from 1932 to 2006, to go to pot. Overgrown grass nearly obscured the outline of the playing field by mid summer. Growth has subsided, but the surface, gouged by rain and runoff, looks more like an old man’s ear than a baseball diamond. Weeds have pushed up dramatically through cracks in the cement on the first-base grandstand and behind home plate, while trash is scattered throughout the lobby where fans once milled about in line for concessions and souvenirs. The Travelers held a four-day yard sale and sold anything not nailed down, and the real work of preserving the historic ballpark can begin. Some want to see the ballpark torn down, but a start-up organization is being assembled to raise funds to save the ballpark and take over its ownership and operation for possible users including high school and American Legion teams.

Aaron venture may buy team
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Atlanta Braves great Hank Aaron may be getting ready to help buy a professional sports team. Aaron, a Braves executive and Hall of Fame outfielder, has signed on to be a director with a new venture, Sports Properties Acquisition Corp. (SPAC), that plans to raise up to $450 million and whose goal, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, is "operating a business or businesses in the sports leisure or entertainment industries." Among the other high-profile directors of the company are Tony Tavares, who has nine years of experience as a president of a Major League Baseball team with the Anaheim Angels and Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals, former New York governor Mario Cuomo, who played minor league baseball in the Pittsburgh Pirates' organization, and Jack Kemp, a former NFL quarterback and vice presidential candidate. Tavares will be president and CEO of SPAC.

JMU announces plans for new Memorial Stadium
Posted Nov. 12, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Details are sparse, but James Madison University has officially announced its plans to demolish and rebuild Memorial Stadium. A new baseball and softball complex will be dedicated to all veterans, JMU President Linwood Rose told a crowd of a few hundred on Sunday. The ballpark, also the home of the Harrisonburg Turks (summer collegiate; Valley Baseball League), was the site of a Veterans Day ceremony with school, city and state officials. JMU plans on preserving the Memorial Stadium name, given in 1949 when the site was dedicated in honor of 139 World War II vets.