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Archives: July 29-Aug. 4, 2007

Ballpark negotiations over; now to sell it
Posted Aug. 3, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The fate of the potential remodeling of Ed Smith Stadium for future use by the Cincinnati Reds as a spring-training venue will depend on the results of a referendum this fall. Voters will be asked to extend and expand an existing property tax used to pay off bonds for the original construction of Ed Smith Stadium. For an average $250,000 home, property taxes will go from the present $20 a year dedicated to the ballpark (a tax that will end next season when the bonds are paid off) to around $26. Going for property-tax hikes in a Florida community is always a dicey affair, of course, and there's some doubt whether local citizens really care enough about spring training to ante up their contribution to the cost of the spring-training complex, which would be expanded in this scenario.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Twins to play tonight at Metrodome
Posted Aug. 3, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Minnesota Twins will go on with a regularly scheduled series this weekend against the Cleveland Indians at the Metrodome. Twins officials were looking at moving the series after the I-35W bridge near the Metrodome collapsed Wednesday, but after consulting  with local and state leaders decided to play on. "The Minnesota Twins and all of Major League Baseball are shocked and saddened by the tragic events, which took place on the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis last night," Twins president Dave St. Peter said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the individuals and families who are impacted by this horrific situation.
    "Since the moments following last evening's tragedy, the Twins organization has been in regular contact with public safety officials," St. Peter continued. "Those discussions led to the decision to play last night's game and the postponement of today's game versus the Royals. Following additional consultation with various agencies including the Minneapolis Police Department and the Department of Public Safety, the Twins have been encouraged to proceed with the series against the Indians as scheduled." Fans coming from the north will be inconvenienced the most, obviously, but there are alternate routes to downtown Minneapolis that seem to be working well. On a personal note, thanks to all the readers who expressed concern about our staff; we weren't involved, but several of us pass under that bridge daily.

Worker dies after ballpark elevator accident
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One of two Aramark workers injured Saturday in an elevator accident at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies, has died after being removed from life support, Philadelphia police said yesterday. Police withheld the victim's identity. The second worker, a brother of the victim, remained in an undisclosed hospital, police said. The accident occurred about 9 a.m. when one of the workers drove a four-wheeled vehicle into an elevator shaft and plunged 30 feet before landing on the elevator car, police said. The accident is under investigation.

Oaks pulling fans at 55-year high pace
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The Visalia Oaks (High Class A; California League) are on pace for their highest attendance figures in 55 years. Through 61 home games at Recreation Park this season, the Oaks have drawn 72,779 fans for an average of 1,193 per game. Oaks officials anticipate surpassing 82,000 by season's end -- which would be the club's highest attendance since the 1952 Visalia Cubs drew 83,399. The franchise single-season attendance record is 104,311 set by the 1947 Visalia Cubs. The Oaks' attendance this season is an increase of 34 percent from last year.

Report: Fishers' ballpark hits taxpayers for $1.3m
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Manchester taxpayers have already paid nearly $1.3 million for the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) downtown ballpark, despite promises that new riverfront housing and retail developments would cover every cent, a new report says. The report, authored by the city's new finance officer, Bill Sanders, says the city has dipped into tax coffers each of the past three years to cover shortfalls on the $27.5 million stadium. Another shortfall of $70,000 is expected this year. Mayor Frank Guinta was scrambling last night to confirm the report's findings. Two former Finance Department officials, Kevin Clougherty and Randy Sherman, have called the data into question, he said. The issue is the level of area development needed to pay for the ballpark; the Fisher Cats aren't being accused of anything.

Rosenblatt fans try to draft Costner
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An Omaha group lobbying to keep Rosenblatt Stadium is looking to add some star power to its roster: Kevin Costner. Jason Smith, an organizer for the Save Rosenblatt campaign, said his group has asked Costner to appear in a commercial that would promote keeping the College World Series at Rosenblatt Stadium. They hope to have an answer from Costner in about a week, Smith said. Save Rosenblatt has collected about 9,000 signatures from people who want to keep the CWS at Rosenblatt Stadium, Smith said. City leaders and the NCAA are considering moving the tournament to a new downtown ballpark to be shared with the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League).
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Take me out with the crowd
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Attendance at Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League) at new Dickey-Stephens Ballpark is at 305, 693 and counting with 13 home dates remaining, an increase of 83 percent from this time last season, when the Travs had drawn 166, 755 fans in 53 dates at Ray Winder Field. "I think it's exceeded our expectations, you would have to say," said Travs GM Pete Laven said. "I mean, after having such a consistent attendance for so many years and then relating that back to the market, you figured we’d have an increase but you just didn’t know exactly how much. We were thinking we could average 4,500. That’s a nice jump. That gives us 325,000 fans for the year, the all-time record. But to be averaging over 5,500, you'd have to say it's exceeded it so far."

NBC price tag pleases counci
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Rich Baseball is selling the National Baseball Congress (which includes NBC's merchandise, tournament format, participant lists and a 10-year noncompete provision) to the city of Wichita for $1 million, a price city officials are thrilled with. We're not entirely sure city officials should be thrilled with that price: given that the event doesn't generate a lot of its own income (most ducats are given away, and crowds have steadily declined over the years, reportedly at 80,000 or so in past summers), we're at a loss to see how that's a good deal for the city. And the city had the upper hand in negotiations with Rich Baseball, though officials apparently didn't realize it: without the presence of the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League), it would have been extremely difficult and expensive for Rich Baseball to run the tourney. With all the changes in summer-collegiate baseball over the last decade, we have to admit we're not optimistic about the future of the NBC. Rich Baseball officials have told us the tourney is profitable, but it may not be with a million-dollar nut.

There was a Web site unveiling Thursday for Wichita Thunder Baseball...
Posted Aug. 3, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There was a Web site unveiling Thursday for Wichita Thunder Baseball, listing snappy suite package names and ticket prices and announcing a name-the-team contest. The only problem? The team doesn't exist. A committee has recommended the City Council approve the start of negotiations with an investor's group linked to the independent American Association, but that approval, while expected, wouldn't happen until Tuesday, and note that it marks the beginning of negotiations with Horn Chen's group. The classier approach would have been more low-key, announcing the possibility of the deal and asking for email addresses for future information.
    RELATED STORIES: Wichita to choose American Association bid; Northern League, American Association to court investors for Wichita team; NBC deal in the works; Wichita to court baseball leagues; Ballpark bids under estimates; New for 2008: The Northwest Arkansas Naturals; Officials dig baseball; Springdale ballpark construction budget approved; Springdale City Council approves ballpark design; Springdale commission approves new ballpark; Wranglers GM has new challenges; City hires consultant to assist on Lawrence-Dumont lease; Wranglers owner says team was Wichita's third baseball option; Council looks at ballpark design; Commissioners begin planning improvements around ballpark site; Wranglers' move big hit with Royals owner Glass; League approval slow but expected for move of Wranglers; Springdale approves Wranglers lease; Texas League executives scrutinize proposed Springdale lease; Springdale officials present Wranglers lease to public; Rich Baseball, Springdale reach agreement on move of Wranglers; City told only voters decide ballpark's user; Springdale aldermen to hear United League pitch for ballpark; What's new in Wichita?; Wranglers president says move is nearly official; Wranglers agreement down to one item; City negotiating terms with Wranglers; Springdale awaits word on getting Wichita's team; Wichita expects to negotiate for Wranglers; Wranglers to move in 2008

Sale of Mezona Inn saddens Chicago Cubs fans
Posted Aug. 3, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The guest ledger at the Best Western Mezona Inn would impress any baseball fan. In past years, its rooms were occupied by such Chicago Cubs luminaries as Mark Grace, Andre Dawson and Carlos Zambrano.  And while most of the big-name players own their own Valley condos now, the non-descript, 1970s-era property still serves as the team's minor-league motel. The property, located just two miles from HoHoKam Park, was sold recently to Mesa Hotels LLC, a group of California investors. The Dobson Ranch Inn, which has many of the same owners and is also closely associated with the Cubs, is up for sale, too. The outgoing owners said it was time to exit the business because many were aging and some had died, with their interests now owned by trusts. The sale is hitting many Mezona guests -- who literally turn the motel into their Arizona clubhouse each spring -- hard. They say it marks the end of an era and fear the familial vibe that makes the motel unique will be lost.

Former Red Sox great Doerr says farewell to Fenway
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Hall of Famer Bobby Doerr bid farewell to Fenway Park on Thursday. Saying he might not be up to another cross-country trip to the ballpark where played his entire career, the 89-year-old second baseman was saluted before the Boston Red Sox beat Baltimore 7-4. "Old baseball players never die, we just fade away," Doerr said, echoing Gen. Douglas MacArthur's speech to Congress. Dubbed by Ted Williams the "silent captain of the Red Sox," Doerr said he'll never miss watching a game, even if not in person. To help him stay in touch from his home in Illahe, Ore., the Red Sox presented him with a television set for the second "Bobby Doerr Day" -- exactly 60 years after the first.

Hawaii Winter Baseball won't play at Murakami Stadium
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Hawaii Winter Baseball announced that it will play all of its 2007 schedule at Hans L'Orange Park in Waipahu, save for 12 games on Neighbor Islands, because of the apparent unavailability of Les Murakami Stadium during the fall. The offseason developmental league that features U.S. minor leaguers and up-and-coming players in Japan's pro league was revived last year after running from 1993 to 1997. Murakami Stadium had been always used in previous seasons. The league cited in a press release that it would not be able to use Murakami because of "stadium renovations likely to take place" in the fall. The UH stadium is scheduled to have its turf replaced before the start of the 2008 season.

Baseball Notes
Posted Aug. 3, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The front office of the Trenton Thunder (Class AA; Eastern League) announced they defeated the front office of the Reading Phillies (Class AA; Eastern League) by a 10-4 final score in the annual Trenton/Reading softball game at First Energy Stadium on Monday afternoon. The Thunder jumped out early in the contest and never looked back. Trenton plated four runs in the top of the first inning off of Reading’s crafty veteran groundskeeper Dan "Dirt" Douglas (0-1). Trenton Assistant General Manager Greg Coleman drove in five runs, and Stadium Operations Director Ryan Crammer had four hits to pace the Thunder front office. Director of Food and Beverages Kevin O’Byrne (1-0) pitched out of late trouble to secure the victory. The victory for the Thunder front office was its fourth straight since the inception of the yearly contest in 2004. The Thunder front office clearly took its cues from their players, which has led the Northern Division of the Eastern League since early April. The Thunder continued its mastery over Reading this season with their players on the field and in the front office. Trenton has won six of 10 meetings against Reading this season. Trenton will look to run its win streak over Reading to five straight in the annual softball game during the 2008 season....The Goldklang Group announced the activation of a 2008 ballpark campaign designed to spotlight the tremendous dedication of Professional Baseball Scouts and recognize them for their invaluable contributions to the game of baseball. They have created a Scouts Hall of Fame (SHOF) campaign across all of the teams associated with the Group; Charleston RiverDogs (Low Class A; Sally League), Hudson Valley Renegades (short season; NY-Penn League), Fort Myers Miracle (High Class A; Florida State League), St. Paul Saints (independent; American Association), Brockton Rox (independent; Can-Am Association) and Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association). There will be a ceremony and established dedication area at each ballpark honoring deserving scouts each year throughout the league schedule.

Nats ballpark to have extensive seating for wheelchairs
Posted Aug. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The new $611-million ballpark for the Washington Nationals will have wheelchair seating in nearly every section and will fully comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, team President Stan Kasten said yesterday. Kasten said the seating will be in place by the time the 41,000-seat ballpark opens in Southeast Washington in the spring. He made the announcement at a news conference attended by disabled people and officials from the Justice Department and Paralyzed Veterans of America, a nonprofit group that advocates for veterans with spinal cord injuries.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Metro halts funds to Sounds
Posted Aug. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Nashville Metro government has withheld $250,000 in maintenance funds from the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), a move that the team's general manager says is "mean-spirited" and might force the team to move home games to road games, preventing the team from playing out the season at Greer Stadium. Glenn Yaeger said Metro lawyers notified him Tuesday that they were withholding the funds. The annual payment was part of a new lease agreement from 2002 designed to help offset the team's costs at the aging ballpark. Metro Finance Director David Manning said the city was simply protecting its interests under the lease. The Sounds pay the city rent based on how much money the team generates. And the latest financial documents the team submitted show that the Sounds may owe the city rent, he said.
    RELATED STORIES: Could Sounds leave Nashville?; Sounds GM Yaeger criticizes Struever Bros. as "wrong partner"; Struever, Sounds now have until 4 p.m. tomorrow to seal ballpark deal; Struever, Sounds now have until 4 p.m. tomorrow to seal ballpark deal; Struever would build Sounds ballpark; Sounds, Struever keep swinging for a ballpark solution; Nashville ballpark plan may be losing its luster; Metro concerned about progress of Nashville ballpark deal; Sounds must make decisions regarding downtown ballpark; Struever says Sounds ballpark will be built; Amid ballpark questions, plan for two hotels unveiled; Sounds delay ballpark opening until 2009; Ballpark financing lag worries Sounds; Sounds fail to file lease legislation; Council approves lease extension for Nashville ballpark development; Sounds unveil ballpark plans; Metro agrees to deadline extension on Sounds project; Sounds' project team huddles to nail down a deal; Sounds get jump-start on ticket sales for new ballpark; Sounds ballpark developer needs to score soon; Ballpark financing not set as deadline approaches; Struever mulling ballpark-area changes in Nashville; Sounds unveil ballpark plans; PCL president applauds Nashville ballpark deal; Yaeger calls stadium plan flexible and fan-friendly; Sounds settle on 2008 opening date for new ballpark; Ballpark opening date up in air, Sounds say; Nashville Metro Council approves new Sounds ballpark; Company says Sounds deal sets stage for Frank project; Sounds send commitment letter to Council; Caucus continues pressure for minorities' role in stadium; Nashville Council Black Caucus wants more minority work on ballpark; Sounds are rounding third; Sounds remain at bargaining table; Nashville Sounds one vote away from new ballpark; Council should give Nashville ballpark their support; Sounds woo minority business owners for ballpark project; Sounds ballpark vote delayed; Museum, dining wanted at new Sounds ballpark; Sounds move ahead with ballpark design; Sounds weak; Sounds ballpark proposal passes first test on Council; Opposition to Nashville ballpark gears up on council; Many good questions raised over Sounds deal; Chamber of Commerce backs Sounds ballpark plan; Downtown merchants rally for Sounds; Board seeks information on Sounds ballpark deal; Neighbors of Nashville ballpark expect project to spark development; Sounds, Nashville sign agreement for new ballpark; Sides close on Sounds ballpark plan; Sounds ballpark plan nearly triples in size; New Sounds ballpark proposal in doubt; Nashville ballpark bill may have to wait until fall; Sounds deal stalls, but still in play; City bobbling save on Sounds’ perfect plan; Sounds ballpark negotiations slow; Will ballpark make SoBro soar?; Sounds swing deal to get new ballpark; Sounds win city approval for new ballpark

YES Network on the block; Yankees to follow?
Posted Aug. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Fortune Magazine is reporting that he New York Yankees' cable network, the YES Network, is for sale. And some baseball insiders and Yankees limited partners are wondering whether the team itself might be next. The highest-rated regional sports network in the country and the cable home of the Yankees and the NBA New Jersey Nets, YES is jointly owned by the Yankees, investment bank Goldman Sachs & Co. (Charts, Fortune 500) , and former Nets owner Ray Chambers. Goldman and Chambers would like to cash out, YES and Yankees insiders say, and one source says to expect a deal by summer's end. Some possible bidders: Cablevision, Comcast, News Corp./Fox and Verizon. If it's true and if rumors about George Steinbrenner's failing health are true (he was conspicuous by his absence at the trade deadline), then you could see a situation where the Yankees are in play -- but we're guessing it won't come until the new Yankee Stadium opens in 2009. This article was submitted by a reader. To submit an item for potential posting on Ballpark Digest, drop us a note.

County breaks ground on downtown ballpark
Posted Aug. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Huntington Park, the future home of the Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League), is several hundred shovelfuls of dirt closer to getting built this morning. Franklin County's Politicians this morning gave the usual proud speeches at a groundbreaking. Then they invited fans, who'd come to the Arena District to watch a bit of history and help dig, undeterred by the 90-degree weather. Huntington Park, slated to open for the 2009 baseball season, will sit along Nationwide Boulevard at Neil Avenue and almost directly across from Nationwide Arena. The 8-acre ballpark will replace Cooper Stadium, rebuilt for the team in 1977.

Lack of attendance costing Cracker-Cats some of their nine lives
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Northern League Commissioner Clark Griffith was on hand at Telus Field, the home of the Edmonton Cracker-Cats, last night to discuss business with owner Dan Orlich amidst reports Orlich is thinking about throwing in the towel on his team, which has struggled to attract fans and generate revenue. Griffith says the team will be around for years to come, but let's face it: the current configuration of the Northern League pleases no one, and with both Edmonton and Calgary struggling (neither team is averaging more than 2,200 fans a game), a contraction or realignment makes business sense. Losing out on Wichita won't help the league's struggle any, either.

Charlotte ballpark renovations discussed
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A meeting Wednesday discussed the $27.2 million in renovations planned for Charlotte Sports Park to make it the new spring home of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Facilities director Andrew Baker detailed the improvements planned for the ballpark. They include new, individual seats with chair backs, a press box, luxury suites, a general admission area and a 40,000-square-foot clubhouse. The new stadium will hold 6,927 fans -- 5,188 in fixed seats and 1,739 in general admission. Construction is expected to be completed in January 2009.

Rat-a-kaplooey! City tries to ensure ballpark work won't scatter rodents
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Workers in Winston-Salem are taking a preemptive strike against rats in the city's sewer system by attempting to poison them and then flush them out. Apparently the lot planned as the future home of the Winston-Salem Warthogs (High Class A; Carolina League) is thick with rats, and the goal is to kill them before ballpark construction starts and forces the vermin into surrounding neighborhoods.

Cub fans aim to buy team
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As if. Chicago-based organization led by passionate baseball fans announced Wednesday that it has requested the application materials necessary to begin the process of a fan purchase of the Chicago Cubs. The group, 4 Fans Sake, is advocating a community-based ownership model similar to the one that the NFL's Green Bay Packers has thrived under since the 1920s. Under the community-based ownership model, Cubs fans would have a voice in the way the team is operated. The fans would fund the purchase of the team through a stock offering, and would acquire voting rights in the selection and control of the team's governing board of directors.
    RELATED STORIES: The Cubs' billion-dollar question; Cubs draw more than a dozen 'credible' bidders; Stodgy baseball owners don't want Cuban, Colangelo; Cuban applies to buy Cubs; Roster of Cubs bidders expands

BoSox won't commit to '08 Japan trip
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While Players Association lawyer Gene Orza told the Associated Press last night that the Red Sox were a "logical choice" to open next season in Tokyo because of Daisuke Matsuzaka, it still appears unlikely they will be one of two teams playing in the Tokyo Dome. No decisions have been made, but while the Sox' marketing arm has some interest in playing in Japan, the baseball operations side -- and owner John W. Henry -- still have serious reservations about making the journey, citing concerns about player fatigue and other potential disruptions. Spokesman John Blake said the club is still waiting to see a draft of the 2008 schedule before any decisions are made. Oakland's front office has expressed the most willingness to make the journey; it's now more likely another West Coast team would be involved.

Twins postpone groundbreaking, game in wake of bridge disaster
Posted Aug. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Minnesota Twins are postponing the groundbreaking for their new downtown Minneapolis ballpark originally scheduled for today, as well as the team's noon matinee at the Metrodome against the Kansas City Royals. The I-35W bridge over the Mississippi River collapsed around 6:05 p.m. last night -- the height of rush hour -- closing a main artery to the Metrodome and downtown Minneapolis. At this point there are four reported fatalities (though it's pretty certain more will be reported as there are 20 people missing), and undoubtedly some of the people injured (79 total, according to state officials) were on their way to the Twins game last night. The Twins decided against canceling last night's game, with officials saying they would have made the problem worse by sending the 20,000 or so fans at the game back into traffic.

Crystal Lake bats around ballpark
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Crystal Lake (Ill.) Planning and Zoning commissioners tabled late Wednesday night a decision on whether they would support a McHenry County College proposal to build a minor league ballpark for an independent Frontier League team (among other things) on land in the Crystal Lake watershed. Testimony on the proposal lasted more then four hours and frequently pitted residents’ passions against scientific findings. The public hearing was the first chance for area residents to publicly make known their opinions on the project. Normally folks object to a ballpark because of traffic and noise concerns, but the issue here is the effect the development would have on the Crystal Lake watershed.
    RELATED STORIES: Major boom for minor-league ball; McHenry County College, Frontier League close to agreement for new ballpark; McHenry County pulls off a double play; MCC ballpark for Frontier League gets OK; McHenry to vote on new ballpark; private group looks at area facility; Plans for minor league team 'moving in right direction'

Ballpark Notes
Posted Aug. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Gateway Grizzlies (independent; Frontier League) welcomed their one-millionth fan to GCS Ballpark Wednesday evening. Kristina Lynn from Highland, IL was greeted with confetti, balloons, and doves as she walked through the gates. "I’m excited and overjoyed," said Lynn. "Never in a million years would I have expected to be the millionth fan." With Wednesday evening’s crowd of 5,448, the Grizzlies have drawn 1,004,388 fans for their history. That total includes the previous five seasons at GCS Ballpark as well as the inaugural season at Sauget Field....The Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) will induct owner Went Hubbard and pitcher Kenny Rogers into the Drillers/Crown Bristow Wall of Fame during pre-game ceremonies Friday night. The special ceremonies will begin at 6:45 p.m. and will precede the Drillers game with Springfield. Hubbard purchased the Drillers franchise from the Texas Rangers in December 1986. He was responsible for the expansion and the numerous renovations to Drillers Stadium. He helped to transform the stadium from a 8,000 seat all-purpose stadium with an artificial surface playing field into a two-tier baseball-only facility with a grass field....StubHub announced a five-year deal Wednesday night making it the official source of secondary tickets for Major League Baseball. The agreement puts StubHub in charge of secondary ticket sales at MLB.com and for individual team sites. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Yankees, MLB unveil 2008 All-Star logo
Posted Aug. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Major League Baseball, the New York Yankees and the City of New York unveiled the official logo of the 79th Major League Baseball All-Star Game, which will be played on Tuesday, July 15, 2008, during the final season at Yankee Stadium. The official logo of the 2008 All-Star Game is traditional and simple in nature, symbolic of the Yankee franchise, and incorporates the club's signature pinstripes and the architectural element of the famed Yankee Stadium façade. The colors of the 2008 Midsummer Classic will reflect the club's navy and white. In addition, Walter Iooss, Jr. has been named the official artist of the 2008 All-Star Game. The New York-based Iooss will capture the essence of All-Star Summer in New York City and at Yankee Stadium through his pictorial essays. Iooss, whose shots have appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated more than 300 times, has covered baseball for decades, including the 61st home run hit by Roger Maris in 1961.

Midwest commish: Consider realigning Low Class A
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Low Class A Midwest League Commissioner George Spelius said the problems of the low-Class A South Atlantic League --which is spread from south Georgia to New Jersey -- is having with travel are not something the Midwest League should also have to endure. Instead of breaking the Sally League into two leagues as some in MiLB have proposed, Spelius said his ideal solution would be for either one or both the Lake County Captains or the Lexington Legends be absorbed into the Midwest League. That would help balance the Midwest League into truer East/West divisions. In the long run, those additions would limit travel in the league as teams would play more games in their own division. There's a lot of buzz these days about other realignments as well, but talk like this pops up annually -- and it's bound to always be an issue when you have the Pacific Coast League stretching from Tacoma to Nashville.

Madison to erect statue in honor of millionth fan
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Lots of teams are marking milestones in attendance this season, but the Madison Mallards (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) may have the ultimate honor for their millionth fan (who should pass through the Warner Park turnstiles early next week): the team will erect a statue in the likeness of the lucky fan and unveil it at the start of the 2008 season. We see a lot of attendance promotions showering lucky fans with gifts (and massaging sponsors), but this is the first we've seen that actually honors the fan. In other attendance news, the Harrisburg Senators (Class AA; Eastern League) topped the five-million-fan mark Tuesday night at Commerce Bank Park. All fans in attendance at the game were eligible to win a major prize package. George Young of Middletown was selected at the end of the game as the five millionth fan and he won a $2,250 prize package, which included 2008 box season tickets with parking. Also, the Tennessee Smokies (Class AA; Southern League) announced that Smokies Park will welcome the 2,000,000th fan through the turnstiles for baseball games. With this season’s current attendance, the Smokies are just 2,755 fans away from eclipsing this historical milestone. The Smokies are currently averaging 3,992 fans per game in 2007. In other attendance news, the Jacksonville Suns (Class AA; Southern League) have surpassed the 300,000 mark in attendance this season, marking the fifth consecutive year the team has reached that mark.  Through 54 openings this season, the Suns have drawn 311,079 fans to the Baseball Grounds, averaging 5,761 per game. That puts the Suns at the top of the Southern League and are on pace to lead the circuit in attendance. The Suns' attendance numbers have been the best in the Southern League since the Baseball Grounds opened in 2003.

Where are they now: Max Soriano
Posted Aug. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Max Soriano never lost his love for baseball. A big league team slipped away from him once, but his affection for a game that made him both Seattle hero and villain hasn't wavered. The dapper Soriano and his deceased older brother Dewey were majority owners of the Mariners predecessors, the Seattle Pilots -- lauded for bringing the 1969 expansion franchise to the city and hung in effigy when they declared bankruptcy after one season and sold everything to Milwaukee.

New pitch likely for ballpark
Posted Aug. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The days could be numbered for Vacaville's Travis Credit Union Park, but a small group that includes a local assistant principal is not giving up just yet. Ed Santopadre, Vacaville High School assistant principal and former head football coach, said a group is taking shape and discussing what could be done to save the embattled facility, which was once home to the Solano Thunderbirds (summer collegiate; CCCL) and the venue for a host of community events. Apparently the idea from the independent Golden Baseball League to dismantle and move the ballpark didn't gain much traction.

In memoriam: Larry Shank
Posted Aug. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Larry Shank, 56, the public address announcer at Baum Stadium for the University of Arkansas baseball team, died Saturday morning of cancer at his home in Springdale. Shank not only announced but sang and entertained between innings. Recalling Shank's renditions at Baum Stadium of the national anthem and seventh-inning sing-a-longs of "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" and between innings announcements and patter. More from NWATimes.

Tech group asks government to order MLB, others to revise copyright warnings
Posted Aug. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A trade group that includes Google, Microsoft and other high-tech companies asked federal regulators to order changes in copyright warnings. Copyright statements that appear at the start of most DVDs and pro sports events and movies broadcast on TV go too far and discourage legal use of the content, the Computer and Communications Industry Association said in a statement. The complaint filed with the Federal Trade Commission protests statements used by Major League Baseball, among others. The complaint asks the FTC to order the companies to stop using current copyright language and launch a marketing campaign to inform consumers of their rights under fair use laws.

Wichita to choose American Association bid
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A six-member committee will recommend that the Wichita City Council negotiate to put an independent American Association franchise in Lawrence-Dumont Stadium for the 2008 season, two city council members said Monday. Council members Paul Gray and Jeff Longwell, both of whom serve on the committee, said the ownership group of Horn Chen, the owner of the Wichita Thunder hockey team, and four local investors had the best proposal of three submitted. The committee will make its recommendation to the council on Aug. 7, but the council will receive the information on Thursday so it has time to review it. Gray and Longwell expect that decision to lead to final negotiations with the American Association's ownership group. Gray said the choice quickly became obvious, which is why the committee decided sooner than expected. The city had requested any team bidding would also run the National Baseball Congress. It's a key win for the American Association and a big loss for the Northern League, which saw Wichita as a key component in league expansion. For the American Association, landing Wichita means the league will have a key bridge between the northern and southern teams, especially if they can add a team in Topeka.
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Harwell: I can save Tiger Stadium
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Legendary sportscaster Ernie Harwell met Monday with Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and unveiled a redevelopment plan that he believes can save Tiger Stadium from the wrecking ball. Harwell and his longtime friend and attorney, S. Gary Spicer, told the mayor that within a 24-hour period they received commitments they believe will total $300,000 -- enough to pay the ballpark's $25,000 monthly maintenance bill for one year. Spicer said he and Harwell plan to meet with Wall Street financiers over the next 10 days in an attempt to cobble together the $15 million to $20 million they think their plan will cost. It includes preserving 10,000 seats for a ballpark, lofts, stores and music and sports museums. Meanwhile, city officials said they still are moving forward to raze Tiger Stadium, as the council decided Friday. But if the Harwell team, or any other developer, comes up with the money to carry out a redevelopment plan, the city can delay the demolition, they said. A new Navin Field would be a great place for high-school and college games, perhaps minor-league baseball or even a summer-collegiate team. Some locals want to see the ballpark saved. Tiger Stadium is a prominent member of our Endangered Ballparks listings.
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Minor-league baseball long way from Hollywood
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Why, yes it is, especially when you're talking about a Brooklyn Cyclones (short season; NY-Penn League) game at KeySpan Park. Behind the glitzy ballparks and the fan promotions are players who work for little money (a maximum of $1,100 a month, plus $20 per diem meal money) and front-office staffs who aren't paid much better. Short-season ball is a good test of these young ballplayers; while those from the summer-collegiate leagues are used to the grind of daily play, those out of college or high school may not be used to the schedule. Still, there are a lot of people in baseball who are in it for the love of the game.

Gibson gets lost in the chase
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Yesterday we demoaned the fact Barry Bonds' pursuit of the career home-run crown overshadowed the induction of Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Bonds has also overshadowed one of the all-time greats: Josh Gibson. We'll never know how many career home runs came from Gibson's bat: record-keeping in the Negro Leagues was spotty at best. Many -- including Bonds -- believe Gibson has a claim on the single-season home-run record with 84, and . Now, home-run distances and fishing accomplishments tend to expand over time, so .

Basic training
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We have to admit to a certain level of amusement when fans write in and tell us they're attending a Gulf Coast League game and ask for advice on where to sit and what to do. GCL games are for the players, not the fans: they're played during the day at a spring-training complex field with few amenities (the only shade is reserved for the players, and if there's seating, it's a small set of bleachers). The games start at noon, and unless you know your GCL rosters inside and out, there's no chance to know who's at bat and who's pitching. It doesn't sound the players are thrilled with the setup, either, so there's a tremendous incentive to do well and move up to the next level of ball, probably with a short-season team. Here's a look at how Peoria Sports Complex is used year-round, including some rookie ball.

Selig at Dodger Stadium to direct security
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig will be in attendance today when Barry Bonds and San Francisco begin a three-game series at Dodger Stadium. Bonds, who probably won't be in the lineup today, is one home run away from matching Hank Aaron's all-time record of 755. The league might have been distancing itself from Bonds, but officials are taking steps to reduce the negative environment if the 43-year-old slugger ties or breaks Aaron's record on the road. On the Giants' last road trip to Chicago and Milwaukee, league officials directed ballpark security to confiscate signs with references to steroid use or cheating.

Dodgers surpass 3.5-million mark in ticket sales for 2007 season
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Los Angeles Dodgers announced that they have surpassed the 3.5-million mark in ticket sales for the 2007 season and by doing so, the club beat last year's record, which was the fastest they have hit that mark since 1992. The Dodgers are the only Southern California team to have reached 3.5 million fans in a single season. This will mark the third consecutive season in which the Dodgers will draw 3.5 million fans to Dodger Stadium and the fifth time overall. During the 2006 season, the Dodgers attracted 3,758,545 fans, the highest total in the National League and their largest single-season total ever, surpassing the previous record set in 1982, when they drew 3,608,881 patrons. The Dodgers were one of only two teams last season to draw more than 3.5 million fans during the course of the season, trailing only the Yankees.

Baseball done right at Texas League park
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's a look at Dr Pepper Ballpark, home of the Frisco Roughriders (Class AA; Texas League). It's a modern ballpark, complete with fan-friendly amenities like a swimming pool, picnic areas and the usual minor-league promotions.

In memoriam: Bill Robinson
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Bill Robinson, the Los Angeles Dodgers minor league hitting coordinator, died Sunday while visiting the Las Vegas 51s (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League). He was 64. "What a great man he was, a friend to everybody in baseball," said Great Lakes Loons (Low Class A; Midwest League) manager Lance Parrish. "I can't tell you how much he meant to the guys in this organization. It's very sad, very devastating news."

Q&A with Ed Nottle
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
So there we were at spring training, watching a minor-league game at a playing field in the Hi Corbett complex in Tucson, when we overhead a conversation from an adjoining field where some Rockies prospects were taking batting practice. The subject: Singing Ed Nottle. Now, ballplayers will chat about the oddest things, but we figured that if Ed Nottle was notorious enough to be the subject of chatter on a spring-training diamond his fame must surely have spread throughout the world of baseball. So here's an interview with the legendary Nottle, now the skipper of the Sioux City Explorers (independent; American Association). We especially love when Ed Nottle talked about Ed Nottle in the third person.

New use sought for Municipal Stadium
Posted July 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
ilf the Salinas City Council approves replacing Municipal Stadium at the Salinas Sports Complex with a new community football and soccer field could debut in time for the 2009 school year. Three weeks ago, the complex went before a city subcommittee with a $4 million proposal to replace the stadium with a field that doubles as a soccer and football field. The city built the existing stadium in 1949. Despite several renovations over the years, conditions at the facility slowly deteriorated, and 10 years ago the wooden grandstands were torn down, he said. The last baseball team to use the facilities, the Salinas Packers (summer collegiate; California Collegiate League), went out of business this summer.

Metro, District and Nationals talking possible 'ballpark fare'
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Concern about game-night gridlock on the roads surrounding the new Washington Nationals ballpark is leading D.C., transit and team leaders to consider a special "ballpark fare" for those fans who ride Metro to the ballpark. The average weeknight game at the 41,000-seat South Capitol Street ballpark, slated to open in April 2008, is projected to draw roughly 27,000 fans. Of those, 49 percent would arrive by transit, 40 percent by car and 8.5 percent on a bicycle or by foot. Neither side would release details of talks between Metro and the Nationals -- including what entity or government would absorb the cost. Some see the new ballpark as the salvation of the neighborhood, but it may be tough for some to survive until the 2008 opening.
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Today's video: Let Ballpark Digest be your guide!
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Allow us a little self-indulgence here as we unveil our own commercial, which makes its first broadcast appearance later this week on ESPNU. The script is from Plan B. Branding, and it was shot at historic Franklin Rogers Park, home of the Mankato MoonDogs (summer collegiate; Northwoods League). Keep the videos coming in: We've been really pleased with the response to our call for videos: we've already heard from several teams and vendors, so we'll continue bringing them to you. If you want to share your videos with the baseball community, drop us a line at editors@augustpublications.com. UPDATED: We've been asked by a few teams whether we're making this available for in-ballpark use. We are. Just drop us a note at editors@augustpublications.com.

Ballpark bliss, while it lasts
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When it's inevitable a team is moving, we normally receive a slew of emails bemoaning the move. We haven't received a single note from the Tuscon Sidewinders (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) fans complaining about the team's future move to Reno. Perhaps that's the problem: the team never really cultivated enough of a passionate following to warrant a PCL team. Maybe it's the ballpark -- Tucson Electric Park isn't the most inviting of venues for locals and is more suitable as a spring-training facility -- and maybe it's the nature of the Tucson market. (We'd be interested to see how a team would fare at Hi Corbett Park, which is more centrally located.) Here's a look at some Sidewinders fans bemoaning the fate of their team. Speaking of Reno: SK Baseball postponed an Aug. 1 review before the Reno City Planning Commission of its site plans for a minor league stadium but will unveil the plans for the downtown Freight House or the Grand Sierra Resort sites on Aug. 15. HOK Sport is designing the facility.
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The Cubs' billion-dollar question
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We received some mocking email months ago when we suggested the bidding for the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field and a chunk of local cable sports network Comcast SportsNet would easily reach a billion dollars. Turns out others have come around to our thinking: "I think $1 billion is the starting point," said sports industry consultant Marc Ganis, president of Chicago-based Sportscorp Ltd. Valuation of sports franchises rarely make economic sense when it comes to traditional metrics, and the intangibles in this deal -- the Cubbies and Wrigley Field are among baseball's crown jewels -- bump up the price. (In fact, we don't think the Cubs have come close to fully monetizing Wrigley Field.) It should be an interesting process. With Tribune Co. selling the assets, the ability of MLB to absolutely appoint a new owner may be limited: yes, they will need to sign off on the owner, but they can't make the Tribune Co. take less than what the high bidder offered.
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The Ballpark will stand forever in our memories
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jerry Green, a retired columnist for the Detroit News, shares his favorite Tiger Stadium memories. He saw a lot of sporting events at the Corner: in addition to being the home of the Tigers, the stadium also housed the NFL's Detroit Tigers for many years. It's still not clear what will happen to the ballpark: while the City Council did authorize demolition of Tiger Stadium, it didn't transfer ownership from the city and presumably will monitor any redevelopment proposals. Currently the playing field and a part of the grandstand are slated to be left intact, though that may make the land parcel far less desirable for a big developer. Tiger Stadium is a prominent member of our Endangered Ballparks listings.
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Will Vero hear crack of bats -- or of hearts being broken?
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We were asked by the local newspaper our opinion on the chance of Vero Beach landing another spring-training team once the Los Angeles Dodgers decamp for Arizona. Our answer was simple: "Whoever is talking to Vero Beach is doing so to have a backup plan should their primary plan fall through. I just don't see another team moving to Dodgertown, especially in its present condition, and if they do, it won't be their first choice." We'll stick by that assessment. Some Vero Beach officials say they're in "serious" negotiations to land a team. Truth is, the Dodgers and Vero Beach haven't done a very good job in maintaining Dodgertown or Holman Stadium, and things some oldtimers find quaint may not be seen in such a charming way by others.
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Hall of trust
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In many ways it was a disappointing weekend for baseball fans. Yesterday Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. -- two of the classiest guys ever to take the field -- were inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. They exemplify everything to love about baseball: they played their entire careers with a single team, they were accessible to the press and to fans, and after they left the majors they stayed in the game (Gwynn as a coach at San Diego State University, Ripken as a minor-league operator). On the flip side, you had CNN cutting in every time Barry Bonds went to the plate, as he remains one short in his quest to overtake Hank Aaron as home-run king. The contrast couldn't have been clearer. This editorial from USA Today is spot-on in explaining the contrast: Gwynn and Ripken earned the respect of baseball fans; Bonds has not. More from the San Diego Union-Tribune, the New York Times and SI.com.

IronPigs fans line up to see ballpark's progress
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Even before they built it, Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League) fans came. Dozens of dedicated fans of the region's newest professional baseball team, the IronPigs, caught their first up-close glimpse of the club's in-progress Coca-Cola Park today when the team held its inaugural open house. There was no ball field to speak of -- that won't go in until August, at the earliest, says IronPigs General Manager Kurt Landes -- just mud, construction materials and four Port-A-Johns near second base. But at least three-quarters of the ballpark's wraparound stands were far enough along that fans could sense what the finished product will look like.

The stadium chase
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Not everything is a competition, which is why this article is so flawed. The premise here is that the New York Yankees are trailing the New York Mets in a "stadium chase" because construction of Citi Field is on schedule and construction of the new Yankee Stadium has apparently slipped. (That's based on an anonymous source saying his particular part of the construction -- installation of the trademark facade -- is three months behind.) The two ballparks are slated to open in April 2009, which gives crews plenty of time to catch up. It's a false race.
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Was new ballpark the answer in Battle Creek?
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Would a new ballpark have saved affiliated baseball in Battle Creek? Probably not. Battle Creek is part of a larger market that includes Kalamazoo, and there's some debate among the baseball people we know whether it's a good pro market. The Battle Creek Bombers (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) are a good fit for that market and have had some limited success, but the locals need to quit worrying about the loss of affiliated ball and embrace what's there. The Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Low Class A; Midwest League), of course, moved to Midland, Mich., and became the Great Lakes Loons; we'll be hitting the Dow Diamond next Monday.

Ballpark Notes
Posted July 30, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Peoria Chiefs (Low Class A; Midwest League) announced that the team set a franchise record for average attendance in the month of July, as 57,769 fans attended 12 home games for an average of 4,814 per game. Despite having the least amount of July home games on the schedule over the last five seasons at O'Brien Field, the Chiefs drew eight crowds over 4,000 and five over 5,000. The Chiefs have welcomed 196,577 fans overall this season and will surpass the 200,000 mark during the August 7-10 homestand, marking the earliest in the season the team has ever exceeded 200,000 fans.