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Archives: April 2-8, 2007

Marlins ballpark funding decision has ways to go
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The Florida Marlins, who are preparing for tonight's home opener at Dolphin Stadium, don't expect the state to decide whether to pay $60 million to help finance a new ballpark until the legislative equivalent of the ninth inning -- the end of the session in early May. If state money is approved after years of failure, the news might arrive before the Marlins know exactly where a $490 million, retractable-roof ballpark would be built. Miami and Miami-Dade County have approved a baseball financing plan for a site "to be determined," and elected officials overwhelmingly favor placing the ballpark at the current Orange Bowl site, contingent on the University of Miami moving its football games to Dolphin Stadium. We continue to hear MLB and Marlins officials aren't too thrilled with the Orange Bowl site but will live with it should there be no other choice for public funding.
    RELATED STORIES: Door closed on use of Miami CRA funds for ballpark; Marlins ballpark funding bills advance; Regalado: CRA money shouldn't be dangled in Marlins ballpark talks; New Marlins ballpark in a squeeze play; Miami backs county on plan for new Marlins park at Orange Bowl; Orange Bowl reemerges as site of Marlins ballpark; County unveils Marlins financing plan; Marlins ballpark funding at first base; Charlie Crist's just not batting 1.000; Florida legislative leaders back tax help for sports; Governor boosts ballpark funding formula; CRA board members: Look somewhere else for ballpark funds; Marlins ballpark plan only latest of projects seeking CRA funds; Glitzy plans often pushed with funds for renewal; Agency head says city hasn't sought permission for ballpark deal; Crist backs state funding of new Marlins ballpark; Officials optimistic of finalizing Marlins ballpark deal in downtown Miami; DuPuy: Progress being made on new downtown Miami ballpark; Dade leaders pitch 'urban' ballpark for Marlins; New downtown Miami site explored for proposed Marlins ballpark; MLB official hopes Crist can pave way for new Marlins ballpark; Focus in Miami turns to new ballpark for Marlins; Marlins ballpark chances at Pompano considered a long shot; Pompano Park pitched as location for new Marlins ballpark; Marlins, Loria at crossroads with uncertain future; Orange County commissioner pushing for Marlins; Miami Arena owner sues to stop sale; Buyers sue Miami Arena owner; Deadline looms over proposal for Marlins ballpark in downtown Miami; Marlins officials tight-lipped on downtown Miami ballpark proposal; MLB ready to move on downtown Miami ballpark; Delay in solving cloud over Marlins' future has to end; Selig: Marlins need a new ballpark; DuPuy, local officials discuss new Marlins ballpark again; Marlins ballpark suffers setback; DuPuy meets with Marlins officials about new ballpark; Hialeah ballpark plan hinges on financial feasibility; Marlins to San Antonio: No thanks; Hialeah mayor upbeat on prospects of new Marlins ballpark; San Antonio, Marlins end courtship for now; Tough times for Marlins and their fans; Marlins players adjust to the empty seats

Potential sale of the SWB Yankees approved
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The real question may no longer be whether the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League) will be sold, but when. And for how much? As expected, Lackawanna County’s Multi-Purpose Stadium Authority voted in favor of deals giving private interests the right to manage, and ultimately buy the Triple-A baseball franchise. The pair of deals are between the stadium authority and SWB Yankees LLC, owned jointly by Mandalay Baseball Properties and the New York Yankees. The agreements’ next stop is before the Lackawanna County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday. Under the purchase agreement, SWB Yankees can buy the franchise for as little as $13 million, if it acts within the first term. However, it would have to enter into a 20-year lease to stay at PNC Field. When that lease expires, if SWB Yankees LLC wants to move the team out of Lackawanna County, the authority will have the right to buy it back, at a purchase price determined by an appraisal commissioned at that time. One potential hitch: Luzerne County, a partner in the ballpark and the Yankees, has not been party to any agreements.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

Wolves owner Levin has strong interest in Cubs
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Chicago Wolves (AHL) owner Don Levin has confirmed his interest in buying the Cubs. The lifelong Chicagoan, who just returned from a business trip to Australia, said owning the team would be the first step toward fulfilling his dream. ''My dream would be to be sitting in a box across from Jerry Reinsdorf playing a World Series game against the White Sox,'' Levin said. ''That's how interested I am. I would love to do that.'' Levin bought the Wolves in 1994. The team has made 12 playoff appearances in the International and American hockey leagues, reaching the finals five times and winning three championships. Levin may have a lot of competition to buy the Cubs and (we presume) Wrigley Field, and we expect the final sales price to be closer to a billion dollars than $500 million.
    RELATED STORIES: Bidders: Cubs, Wrigley go together; Cubs on the block

Sounds: Oh yes we did
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Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) GM/COO Glenn Yaeger has fired back at the city's Metro Council for holding the team in default on a deal for a new downtown ballpark, strongly disputing the city's reasons for why the team failed to perform. Yaeger didn't specifically reference Metro's assertion yesterday that the team didn't pay its architect HOK Sport, a failing that resulted in HOK's stopping work on construction plans, Metro asserts, and thus gave Metro a reason for holding the team in default. In a letter sent late Thursday to Sue Cain, Metro Legal's acting director, Yaeger simply disagreed with the "allegations concerning the relationship with our professionals" she had made in her default letter to the team one day earlier. Judging by the tone of the letters from both sides, we're guessing the end result of the whole shebang will be a court battle, not a new ballpark. In any case, developer Struever Bros. Eccles & Rouse says it will continue work on the site, but a ballpark is apparently out of the picture. More on the new plan for the downtown site from The Tennessean.
    RELATED STORIES: Sounds ballpark deal dead; city moving on; Rickey: PCL won't approve Sounds agreement; Key ally fed up with Sounds; 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

Snow closes down more ballgames
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It's no surprise snow forced the cancellation of the opening day for the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League) -- early April in Canada is always a dicey affair -- but there was another surprising cancellation: the Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) called last night's game due to snow. It's believed to be the first time a Tulsa professional baseball game was postponed due to snow.

D-Rays announce enhancements to Tropicana Field
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The Tampa Bay Devil Rays, in association with concessionaire Centerplate, spent the off-season redesigning Tropicana Field to provide an enhanced experience for Devil Rays fans this season. The new atmosphere reflects the history of the Devil Rays, the beauty of the Florida landscape and flavors of local cuisine. Updated seating and concession areas, new menu items and a brand new merchandise store are on tap this season for D-Rays fans.

Study: Not much future for old Memorial Stadium
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A $45,000 study apparently does not envision a bright future for Memorial Stadium should a new ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League) be built downtown as part of the Harrison Square project. The preliminary findings come from Minnesota-based CSL International, hired in January by the city, county and Indiana-Purdue University to assess alternative uses for the county-owned home of the Fort Wayne Wizards. With a $30-million ballpark serving as the centerpiece of the $125 million-$160 million Harrison Square downtown revitalization project, the fate of 14-year-old Memorial Stadium has been uncertain. IPFW officials have expressed interest in using the facility for baseball and other university events, and Deputy Mayor Mark Becker said in January the city might be willing to contribute to an endowment fund needed to pay the stadium’s minimum annual expenses of $200,000 to $300,000. But IPFW doesn't draw well, and an endowment of $3 million would be needed to generate enough money for expenses.
    RELATED STORIES: Ballpark deadline looming in Fort Wayne; Fort Wayne City Council divided on downtown ballpark; Cheaper seats offered for new Fort Wayne ballpark; Wizards' owner steps up to bat for Harrison Square; 'A few more pros than cons'; Downtown Fort Wayne ballpark: pro and con; Developer submits proposal for downtown Fort Wayne hotel; Fort Wayne ballpark just a start in renewal endeavor; Ballpark's future subject to study; Poll backs downtown development, not new ballpark; Some on council aren't buying Fort Wayne ballpark plan; Ballpark's future is far from certain; Building the public square; Mayor calls ballpark plan opportunity of lifetime; Fort Wayne unveils ballpark plans; Top of the ninth in Fort Wayne; Poll: Tax-funded downtown Fort Wayne ballpark is unpopular; Wizards set 2008 ballpark goal; Enjoy downtown for what it is, not what you remember; Downtown Fort Wayne needs a full plan, including a ballpark; Playing ball downtown; We need to build ballpark downtown; Study supports downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Can downtown Fort Wayne ballpark be a boon?; Learning by example from Dayton; Fort Wayne looks at improvements to Memorial Stadium; A new(er) ballpark in Fort Wayne?; Ballpark panel sees one diamond in future; New owners bring fresh ideas to Fort Wayne; Fort Wayne's baseball future may be downtown; A new downtown castle?; Memorial Stadium far from obsolete; Fort Wayne Wizards sold; Fort Wayne ballpark has 50 years of usability left, says architect; Debate begins on proposed downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Group set to discuss downtown Fort Wayne ballpark

Isotopes issue city $2 million rent check
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In what has become a spring tradition, Albuquerque Isotopes (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) President Ken Young handed over a check to the city of Albuquerque and Mayor Martin Chavez for an amount in excess of $2 million today at pre-season opener festivities at city-owned Isotopes Park. The payment represents the basic rent sum plus surcharge amounts paid by the team to the city, per the stadium lease. The amount paid is directly correlated to how well the club has done financially since its inception in 2003. With this year’s payment of $2,012,876, the total amount given to the city in the team’s four years is $8,043,027.
    "The bond between the Isotopes and the City of Albuquerque is a perfect model of how successful a symbiotic relationship between a public institution and private enterprise can be," said Young. "We’re extremely proud of our connection to the city and grateful for all the support they have provided, and continue to provide, since the team’s arrival in 2003."

Flying Tigers take off with victory in home opener
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The Lakeland Flying Tigers (High Class A; Florida State League) opened under their new name in fine style with a 3-0 win over the Tampa Yankees before 1,438 fans at Joker Marchant Stadium. The team was formerly known as the Lakeland Tigers -- in homage to parent Detroit -- but this offseason saw the team adopt a new name and a new identity from Plan B Branding.

Even empty, ballpark pulls 'em in
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The opening day in Great Lakes Loons (Low Class A; Midwest League) history featured a 10-3 win at South Bend, Ind., Thursday evening plus a brisk open house at the Dow Diamond in Midland for the hundreds of fans who cared to capture the ambiance of minor-league baseball while listening to the radio broadcast of the game. Mother Nature was rude, with temperatures in the 20s. There was just one noticeable glitch -- the gas-fired fireplace in the Loons' ballpark concourse was not functioning yet.

Ballpark changes a big hit for Pelicans fans
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Yesterday we detailed the many changes made by the ownership of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Sally League) to Coastal Federal Field. Yesterday's chilly opener drew a record crowd of 6,047 to the ballpark, and it seems like the many improvements struck a nerve with Pelicans fans. A new high-definition scoreboard, the installation of a beach and Tiki Bar, and a new logo all resonated with the record crowd.
    RELATED STORIES: Ballpark renovations to enhance season opener in Myrtle Beach

RiverDogs set new attendance record
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Second baseman Wilmer Pino lined a bases-loaded single to center with one out in the bottom of the 10th inning to lift the Charleston RiverDogs to a 1-0 victory over the Greenville Drive in the Low Class A Sally League opener for both teams Thursday night at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park. The game was witnessed by 8,426 fans, a new record crowd at 11-year-old Riley Park. The new attendance figure surpassed the previous mark of 8,257, which was set on July 3, 2006 and the prior Opening Day record was 7,032, also set last year on April 6.

Stein avoids clippers; Legends win opener
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Lexington Legends (Low Class A; Sally League) President Alan Stein can keep his hairstyle. Lexington defeated the Delmarva Shorebirds, 4-2, on Opening Night at Applebee's Park. Stein had previously agreed to sport a Mohawk if the Legends lost their season opener, which would be their sixth loss in seven tries on the season's first game. Instead, Lexington won the opener for the second straight year. It took a triple from catcher Ralphie Henriquez driving in three runs to provide the victory for Stein's hairline.
    RELATED STORIES: Stein makes opening-day pledge: a Mohawk if the Legends lose

Dodgers return to Cal League
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The High Class A California League can finally kiss its Dodger blues good-bye. After a six-year absence, the Cal League has its flagship major league affiliate back in the fold after the Los Angeles Dodgers signed a player-development contract (PDC) with the Inland Empire 66ers in September. The Dodgers were once a powerful presence in the Cal League, but when MiLB decreed MLB teams could have only one affiliate in each level, the Dodgers abandoned the Cal League and stayed with the Vero Beach Dodgers (High Class A; Florida State League). With the Dodgers shifting operations westward, a move back to the Cal League was inevitable. More from the San Bernardino Sun.

Pro baseball returns to Utica
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The stage is being set for professional baseball's return to the Mohawk Valley. The names of the four local teams that will make up the New York State League -- the Utica Brewmasters, Rome Coppers, Oneida Barge Bucs and Herkimer Trailbusters -- were unveiled by commissioner Jay Acton during a press conference Wednesday at Piggy Pat's Restaurant. All games will be played at Murnane Field's Donovan Stadium except during the first week in August, when Murnane hosts the New York State American Legion Baseball Championships. The 50-game season runs from July 3 to Aug. 31. A matinee and an evening game are scheduled each day. There will be no admission charge for day games and tickets for night games will be $5. Acton already has nightly promotions in place, and there are season-ticket packages and group discounts available.

Coyotes expand concessions at Edinburg Baseball Stadium
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The Edinburg Coyotes (independent; United League Baseball) announced the expansion of their concessions operations for the upcoming 2007 season. The Echo Hotel of Edinburg will be the official in-park caterer of the Edinburg Coyotes and will cater all picnics and the luxury suites at Edinburg Baseball Stadium. The Coyotes have also entered into a working agreement with Luca Pizza di Roma of McAllen to operate the third-base concessions stand and create a patio area for fans. In addition, the Coyotes will be welcoming in  current and new outside vendors into the stadium which will include  kettle corn, roasted corn on the cob, funnel cakes, and fajita tacos.

It all comes down to money
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Brad Feldman wants to bring a summer-collegiate Northwoods League team to Bismarck, N.D., but there's one small detail to be fixed: he lacks money and investors. Feldman's goal is to put a Bismarck team in the NWL for 2008, but there are some things working against him. For starters, Bismarck is almost 600 miles away from the nearest Northwoods League city, although that may change as there have been some rumors of other potential teams in the region. Still, with no investors and no money, Feldman faces a huge challenge.

Sounds ballpark deal dead; city moving on
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The Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) have failed to live up to their agreement to build a downtown ballpark, Metro's top attorney told the baseball franchise yesterday. Metro's acting law director, Sue Cain, wrote in a letter to Sounds General Manager Glenn Yaeger that the Sounds were in default of their agreement with the city and Struever Bros. Eccles & Rouse, the developer that planned to build hotels, condominiums and shops around the ballpark. Cain called their conduct "a total and unqualified refusal to perform" and listed eight things the Sounds had failed or refused to do, including failing to arrange financing for the project, not paying architectural firm HOK Sport, and refusing to work with Struever on the project. The Metro Council unanimously rejected on Tuesday a request by the Sounds and Struever Bros. for another six months to work out financing arrangements and complete land transactions with Metro. Sounds GM Glenn Yaeger says the team will still work on the project despite the city's actions. It was a speculative deal from the beginning: the Sounds were hoping to finance a new ballpark using other peoples' money (most of the Sounds' part of the deal was to be backed by a consortium of local banks and proceeds from associated development), and when the numbers didn't add up the Sounds were forced to back out of the deal, though truthfully progress on the ballpark ended a few months ago when HOK Sport stopped work on the project. We'll see if Struever follows through on its threat to build a ballpark and attempt to bring in another team, but it sounds like the city wants nothing to do with a ballpark downtown. More from Nashville Business Journal, The Tennessean and the Nashville Post.
    RELATED STORIES: Rickey: PCL won't approve Sounds agreement; Key ally fed up with Sounds; 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

Bidders: Cubs, Wrigley go together
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Two potential bidders for the Chicago Cubs said they only want the professional baseball team if the deal includes the landmark Wrigley Field, with one bidder saying he was willing to pay what would be a record price. Sam Zell, who won a bid for the Tribune Company, says he's putting the Cubs and Wrigley Field on the block separately in order to maximize the value of both, but many say the two components are actually diminished when separated. William Marovitz, Jerry Colangelo and Tom Begel say they have groups ready to bid on both and pay upwards of $700 million for the pair or even a billion dollars -- which, as you'll recall, is what we predicted several months ago would be the value of both. (The Sun-Times throws out a few additional names of potential buyers, including Bill Murray, Mark Cuban and Don Levin; Levin has shown lots of interest and apparently Cuban is hinting about being interested as well.) Meanwhile, some needed development at the ballpark in the form of a parking garage with office space will be delayed. The Cubs may be a flop on the field, but they're a huge success when it comes to the bottom line. More from Steve Rosenbloom.
    RELATED STORIES: Cubs on the block

Baseball owner makes the pitch in Bowling Green
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Rick Kelley, chairman of Play Ball! '05, presented city commissioners with a lineup of powerful interested parties at a nonvoting work session Tuesday afternoon, saying the time has come for a city commitment to a six-block complex linking a baseball stadium, a parking garage, retail and high-end residential development, a hotel and ongoing projects such as Circus Square Park and the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center. Investor Art Solomon was on hand to give his commitment to bring a major league affiliate to town for at least 20 years, with the subsequent option for permanent local ownership. Already owner of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League), he has an option to buy a Class A team which would play 71 games a season, he said. DLR Group would be architects for the 4,000-seat ballpark, which could be open for play in April 2008.

MLB, In Demand reach deal
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Major League Baseball announced today that In Demand has entered into a seven-year agreement in principle to carry the MLB Extra Innings subscription package of out-of-market games and will distribute the MLB Channel, which is scheduled to launch in January 2009. The MLB Extra Innings subscription package of out-of-market games is currently available to DirecTV subscribers. In Depend owners Comcast, Cox Communications and Time Warner Cable have agreed to carry the package, effective immediately. In Depend also will offer to make the MLB Extra Innings subscription package available to other cable companies across the U.S. Like all distributors of MLB Extra Innings, these cable operators would also be required to carry the MLB Channel once it is launched. As a result, MLB also amended its agreement with DirecTV, giving it an equity position in the MLB Channel.
    RELATED STORIES: Kerry urges MLB, DirecTV to hold off on deal; Cable, MLB argue over out-of-town games

City strikes out in ballpark ruling
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Civic Stadium, the home of the Eugene Emeralds (short season; Northwest League), won't always have to be used for recreation, a Lane County Circuit Court judge ruled Tuesday. The opinion from Judge Karsten Rasmussen provides a victory to the ballpark owner, the Eugene School District, and hands the city of Eugene a defeat. Rasmussen rejected the city's claim that the 10-acre property in south Eugene can be used only for recreation. He supported the school district's contention that the property is free from such a restriction. That frees up the school district to sell the site and potentially tear down the historic ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Buying time for Civic Stadium; Civic Stadium's future to be settled 'very soon'

Red Sox unveil more seats in 'Conigliaro's Corner'
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The Boston Red Sox have added a new bleacher section on the roof deck at Fenway Park's right field with 200 seats that will be sold for $25 apiece. They're calling it "Conigliaro's Corner" to honor Tony Conigliaro, a promising outfielder whose career was derailed after he was hit in the face by a pitch in 1967. The new seats, marketed specifically for families, are part of an annual offseason renovation that in previous years included the addition of seats above the Green Monster and a batting cage off the Red Sox dugout. This year's project included a batting cage for visiting teams, new standing room behind the third-base grandstand, the addition of cupholders for field-level seats, a women's restroom on the third-base concourse and a locker room for ushers and concession staff.

NLR violates own ordinance with new ballpark's marquee
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The city of North Little Rock has violated its own sign ordinance with a larger-than-allowed marquee on the new taxpayer-funded ballpark for the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League). Mayor Patrick Hays says officials will seek a waiver for the 201-square foot electronic sign in front of Dickey-Stephens Park. City code says the maximum for a sign of that type is 120 square feet. The $33.6 million ballpark officially opens April 12. The park replaces Ray Winder Field in Little Rock, which served as the Travelers' home for 74 years. In case you're wondering: yes, we'll be at the new ballpark opening night. In other Travs news, the front office is a little different after an Executive Committee meeting yesterday. Longtime general manager Bill Valentine is taking the title of Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer. Pete Laven, the 2006 Texas League Executive of the Year, has been promoted to General Manager.

AIG announces minor-league sponsorship deal
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Double-A Baseball today announced that American International Group, Inc. (AIG), has become an official sponsor to 14 Double-A teams playing in the Eastern, Southern and Texas Leagues and six A teams playing in the Sally, Midwest and California Leagues. AIG’s sponsorship will have a fully integrated program for each of the 20 Double-A and A league teams, including outfield signage, full-page program ads, magnetic schedule giveaway cards and a home-run charity program, where $2,500 will be donated to the local Big Brothers Big Sisters affiliate. AIG will sponsor the following Double-A baseball teams: Altoona Curve, Arkansas Travelers, Birmingham Barons, Carolina Mud Cats, Chattanooga Lookouts, Corpus Christi Hooks, Harrisburg Senators, Jacksonville Suns, New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Portland Sea Dogs, Reading Phillies, San Antonio Missions, Tulsa Drillers and the Wichita Wranglers. AIG will sponsoring the following six teams in Class-A baseball: Greensboro Grasshoppers, Kane County Cougars, Lake County Captains, Lakewood Blue Claws, Rancho Cucamonga Quakes and West Michigan Whitecaps.

Added features may help Chase attract crowds
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It's almost time to say hello to the new and improved Chase Field, where most of the changes are subtle, reflecting the transformation in team colors and ownership of the Arizona Diamondbacks. All of the purple and much of the clutter is gone. The Diamond Club in center field -- designed to be a meat-market magnet for the party crowd -- is destined to be a big hit. Meanwhile, the dugouts have been repainted in Sedona red. And a new Wiffle ball field that'll exist in the far left-field corner, on top of a restaurant.

SWB Yankees open season tonight against Norfolk
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Less than two years ago, Erick Burke walked into a Moosic baseball stadium, put on his uniform in the home clubhouse, walked across the field into the bullpen, and got ready for a ballgame. Nineteen months later, only the game remains the same. Burke is back in Moosic, but the ballpark has a new name (PNC Field), the uniform has a new logo, the clubhouse is completely renovated, the field has gone from turf to grass and the bullpen has been moved behind the fence. Plus, there's a new name for the team: the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League). Officials are expecting some parking issues thanks to the increased interest in the team.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

Ole Miss to expand ballpark to 10K
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The University of Mississippi will expand Oxford-University Stadium/Swayze Field to 10,000 seats with work scheduled for completion before the 2008 season begins. The project -- which will be handled by a Jackson architectural firm, Cooke Douglass Farr Lemons -- will cost between $10 million to $12 million, school officials said Wednesday. Some of the new amenities include 880 club seats between first and third base, as well as an increase in box seats from 400 to approximately 1,700. The overall number of chairback seats will rise from 2,951 to over 6,000, and all current chairbacks will be replaced.

Firm with alleged mob ties working on new Yankee Stadium, report says
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A New Jersey construction firm owned by two Staten Island natives who are accused of having mob ties is doing work at the new Yankee Stadium, according to a media report. Interstate Industrial Corp., which is owned by brothers Frank and Peter DiTommaso, both of New Jersey and former captains of Monsignor Farrell High School's football team, was subcontracted by Turner Construction, the lead construction firm on the ballpark project, to do excavation and foundation work, NewsChannel 4 is reporting. There's no wrongdoing alleged; while the firm isn't eligible to bid for any city work, there's no prohibition against it doing work on a private project -- and the Yankees are paying for the ballpark.

Committee explores downtown Augusta ballpark
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A preliminary study estimates that building a new downtown ballpark for the Augusta GreenJackets (Low Class A; Sally League) could bring as many as 400,000 people to the city center, said Mayor Deke Copenhaver. “I don’t want to comment too much on it other than to say that I’m putting together an exploratory committee to look into the possibility of a downtown baseball stadium,” he said. The mayor plans to propose a multi-use facility that can be used year-round.

Blue Jays unveil new team shop at Rogers Centre
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The Toronto Blue Jays announced the opening of the largest official team shop in Canada, Jays Shop Stadium Edition at Rogers Centre. The store opens to the public on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. Located beside Gate 5, the new 8,000-square-foot store features some of the most unique design elements in retail shopping. Shoppers can enter through the stadium concourse under a 21-foot retractable roof store entrance, modeled after the roof of Rogers Centre. Inside, they will find branded boutique areas, a 40-foot display wall featuring over 150 different caps and Ace's Clubhouse, a mascot themed children's shop with a life-size statue of the Club's official mascot.

Snappers continue on their quest for a new ballpark
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The Beloit Snappers (Low Class A; Midwest League) are still actively working to find a site and financing for a new ballpark. That's the word from Dennis Conerton, chairman of the Snappers' board of directors. The team appeared on the verge of breaking free of Pohlman Field last year, but a controversial Rock County land swap fell through, killing the team's hopes of relocating to a new site near the Avalon Road exit on Interstate 90/39. The franchise is now re-visiting previous locations, including one in the Gateway project east of Beloit and another piece of property along Interstate 90/39 closer to the Illinois border.

Snow halts ballgames across the northern United States
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It was a bad day to be a baseball fan in the northern part of the United States, as snow and inclement weather forced the cancellation of a slew of games, including the Tigers-Blue Jays matchup at Comerica Park and games in Buffalo, Portland, Akron, Lansing and Beloit. In Manchester, today's game at MerchantsAuto.com Stadium was scrapped after a good amount of snow fell on the field. A Zamboni was borrowed from the Manchester Monarchs of the AHL to no avail, as the following photos show. (Thanks to Rick Brenner of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.)

Baseball rivalry blooms in Pennsylvania
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Oldtimers will remember of the great rivalries in minor-league baseball between the Lancaster Red Roses and York White Roses of the Eastern League, last played in 1959. (Both team names referred to the War of the Roses between the House of Lancaster and the House of York.) In an effort to drum up competition between the York Revolution and the Lancaster Barnstormers (both independent; Atlantic League), the teams are instituting their own war of the roses. The mayor of the city that loses the series will plant a rose garden, using the winner's choice of rose, in front of the winner's ballpark. The losing mayor also will sing "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" at a game in the city on the other side of the Susquehanna River, and the winning team's banner will hang above the losing town's City Hall for a week. Meanwhile, Revolution officials expect their new ballpark to open on May 15.

Ballpark renovations to enhance season opener in Myrtle Beach
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The Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) open their 2007 season at Coastal Federal Field on Thursday night and there will be much that is new. The new digital, high-definition scoreboard is up and operating, and the fences in left field have been brought in. The expanded concession area along the third base side is on schedule to be completed before the first pitch is thrown Thursday night. The expanded concession area along the first base side and the 450 new bleacher seats in left field are scheduled to be completed by June 1. The new visitor's bullpen has been relocated to the area along the third base line formerly known as the Shark Tank and the former grassy knoll down the left field line has been cleared to make room for the beach. More on the new Pelicans ownership.

New Swing GM promises exciting promotions
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If Ben Burke has anything to say about it, a John O'Donnell Stadium experience is going to be a memorable one as long as he's around. Hired last month as the new general manager of the Swing of the Quad Cities (Low Class A; Midwest League), Burke promises seasons filled with exciting promotions that will leave fans wanting for more. Burke comes to the Swing as the first hire by the soon-to-be new ownership group of Main Street Baseball LLC from the Schaumburg Flyers (independent; Northern League), where he served as an assistant GM.

Kids to help design play area at Coca-Cola Field
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The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League) announced that Sacred Heart Hospital will be the exclusive sponsor of the yet-to-be-named Kids Zone at Coca-Cola Park. In addition, the two partners released details of a contest for children to help select what component they would like to see included in the Kids Zone. Voting will be conducted on the hospital’s web site, located at www.shh.org. The announcement included children from Sacred Heart School, who came up with a number of Kids Zone ideas as part of a school project. The six choices that people will be able to vote on include: a basketball shooting game, jungle gym, speed pitch, art center, arcade and ball pit. Voting will take place from now until the end of this school year in June, when the winning selection will be announced. The Kids Zone is located behind the left field section of the outfield.

Stein makes opening-day pledge: a Mohawk if the Legends lose
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It's an annual ritual: Lexington Legends (Low Class A; Sally League) President Alan Stein guaranteed Legends fans that Lexington would win on opening night. If they don’t, Stein vowed to cut and dye his hair into a pink Mohawk.
    "I’m confident that the Legends will win but… I’m willing to do anything I can to help them get a victory on Thursday night," Stein said.
    Winning on opening night hasn’t been easy for the Legends in the past. In fact, Lexington is just 1-5 on opening days causing Stein to make good on several odd and outrageous bets.
    "I’ve eaten cat food and sat in my seat for three days but shaving my head was probably the most memorable stunt," Stein said. "The Mohawk made sense, especially since we are giving away free hair cuts this year thanks to Suburban Barber Shop," Stein added.
    There could be one winner even if the Legends lose on Thursday night. Stein will keep the pink Mohawk until the Legends get a victory or until the Lexington Legends Charitable Giving Foundation raises $5,000 to be donated to the Susan G. Koman Foundation.

Silver Hawks open without contract
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The South Bend Silver Hawks (Low Class A; Midwest League) are safe at home, but still are working on a long-term lease with the city to use Coveleski Stadium. The team's home opener is scheduled for tonight at the Cove. Mayor Stephen Luecke said the city has had very positive discussions with South Bend Professional Baseball Club LLC and expects an agreement to be in place within the next month. The Silver Hawks negotiated an amended agreement with the city to pay $75,000 to play at the Cove during the 2006 season. This will be South Bend Professional Baseball's first official year managing the team, since the closing on the sale of the team wasn't official until Sept. 14, 2006.

Future is now for Clippers
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What the Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League) do on the field beginning today in Indianapolis will play a large role in determining whether the Washington Nationals are just a two-year stopgap or a longtime partner. To that end, the Nationals, who took over as the parent club when the Clippers split with the New York Yankees in September after 28 years, have stocked Columbus with an experienced club that is not only expected to win but provide help to a talent-starved major-league club. It's no secret there will be pressure on GM Ken Schnacke to affiliate with the Cleveland Indians beginning in 2009 when the Clippers move into their new ballpark.

Springfield Cardinals add features at ballpark
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Armed with a marketing plan expected to woo more young families, the Springfield Cardinals (Class AA; Texas League) will install a playground area on the first-base side of Hammons Field. They also have contracted with Ozark-based Amberg Entertainment to provide a variety of carnival-like games during each homestand. Also expected to be in place by the April 12 home opener: a 30-by-60 canopy over the right-field patio; additional cup holders on the railing lining the main concourse; and two plasma-screen televisions anchored over the main concession stands.

Thunderbolts add second Big Splash Day
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Here's a pretty interesting promotion from the Windy City Thunderbolts (independent; Frontier League). Due to popular demand, the team has added a second Big Splash Extravaganza to the schedule. The game on Monday, July 9 against the Gateway Grizzlies will now start at 11:00 a.m. The original Big Splash Extravaganza on Wednesday, July 25 is sold out. For both Big Splash games, Hawk Ford Field will be transformed into a giant water park. Water balloons, squirt guns, hoses, a slip ‘n’ slide, and a dunk tank will be part of the festivities as all areas of the stadium are drenched with water.

On deck: Bombers ready for opener
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For the first time in 13 seasons there won't be professional baseball at Battle Creek's C.O. Brown Stadium, with the Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Low Class A; Midwest League) moving to Midland and becoming the Great Lakes Loons. However, there will be baseball at the old ballpark starting in June when the Battle Creek Bombers (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) open their home schedule.

Completion of Tulane's Turchin Stadium pushed back
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Tulane University announced today that the rebuilding of Turchin Stadium, the home field of the Green Wave’s nationally ranked baseball team, will not be completed for the 2007 spring season and Tulane will not serve as the host site for the 2007 Conference USA Tournament this May. Delays in the completion of the state-of-the art stadium were due to a combination of inclement weather this past winter, design alterations and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The stadium is currently scheduled for completion this summer. The team will play the remainder of its games at Zephyr Field, the home of the New Orleans Zephyrs (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League).

Ballpark Notes
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The Green Bay Bullfrogs (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) will introduce its new mascot at 8:45 a.m. Saturday, just before the annual Easter Egg Hunt at the NEW Zoo near Suamico....The Salem Avalanche (High Class A; Carolina League) announced its entire schedule of games will be broadcast on WWWR Radio, 910 AM. All games will be streamed online via the team’s website at salemavalanche.com. Jason Benetti will handle the play-by-play duties for the Avalanche this season, replacing Adam Pohl. Benetti comes to Salem from North Carolina where he called men’s basketball at High Point University and also served as the studio host for Georgia Tech football and basketball through ISP Sports....The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes (High Class A; California League), in cooperation with their concessionaire Valley Concessions, are unveiling over twenty new food items for the 2006 season, including a Blue Ribbon Tri-Tip Sandwich, a Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich, "Nacho Mountain," fresh spun cotton candy, fried funnel cakes, Kettle Corn, roasted corn, baked potatoes and a new smoothie and ice-cream bar....The Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and Centerplate Concessions announced that Subway restaurants will have a concession stand this season at Rosenblatt Stadium. Subway is also the new sponsor of the Royals Kids Club, which kids 12-and-under may join for free in 2007, and is also sponsoring Kids Eat Free Wednesdays during the upcoming season. The Subway concession stand will feature subs and individual pizzas....The Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) and Aramark announced new food items at The Diamond: Chanellos Pizza, Red Hot & Blue Barbeque, and chicken tenders. Also new this year is Hounds by the Pound and We Pop It! You Top It! Hounds by the Pound will allow fans to load up their hot dog with their favorite toppings. We Pop It! You Top It! will let fans top their popped corn with cheeses and butter....

Cubs on the block
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With Chicago's Tribune Co. passing into the hands of entrepreneur Sam Zell, the firm will also sell the Chicago Cubs and its 25 percent stake in local sports cable channel Comcast SportsNet Chicago before the start of the 2008 season. Only the Cubs are for sale at the moment, setting up the potential of Wrigley Field being sold in a separate transaction. The move breaks apart one of the most synergistic arrangements in sports/broadcasting: Tribune Co., which owns the Chicago Tribune, the Los Angeles Times, WGN-Ch. 9, WGN-AM 720 and other media properties, has long-term contracts in place for Cubs programming on WGN television and radio, as well as with Comcast SportsNet Chicago, which Tribune helped launch in 2004. Whether these contracts survive a sale remains to be seen. Here's a look at some potential buyers. More from the Chicago Sun-Times.

Balking at the first pitch
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For the second year in a row President George Bush has declined to throw out the first pitch at the Washington Nationals home opener at RFK Stadium. The reason? His busy schedule won't allow him to take time off to head to the ballpark, located about five miles from the White House. Last season the White House sent Vice President Dick Cheney in Bush's place, a move that didn't go over too well with fans. We're not going to get political here and take a shot at Bush -- a former owner of the Texas Rangers, no less -- but hunkering down in the White House isn't the best way to make friends.

Rickey: PCL won't approve Sounds agreement
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The board of directors of the Pacific Coast League (PCL) likely will not approve the offer a Baltimore developer has made the Nashville Sounds for building the team’s proposed downtown ballpark unless changes are made. PCL President Branch Rickey III told Nashville's City Paper late last week that the agreement, according to his understanding of it, would expose the Sounds to a financial risk he believes the league’s board of directors would find unacceptable. When questioned further, he said it is the agreement’s requirement that the Sounds ultimately repay Baltimore’s Struever Bros., Eccles & Rouse for ballpark construction costs higher than the original $43 million price tag that would likely be the league’s greatest cause for concern.
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New signs, team museum to greet Mariners faithful at Safeco Field
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The biggest change to Safeco Field, the home of the Seattle Mariners: the addition of a Hall of Fame/Baseball Museum area, a walk-through exhibit off the concourse just down the third-base line from the main entrance. The display includes life-size cutouts and plaques for the three current members of the Mariners Hall of Fame -- Alvin Davis, Jay Buhner and Dave Niehaus -- with new addition Edgar Martinez set to join on his June 2 induction. The museum consists of two display cases containing Northwest memorabilia belonging to sports historian Dave Eskenazi, as well as a couple interactive features, including a replica of the outfield wall that serves as a backdrop for photos. Another photo opportunity for kids -- and kids at heart -- has been added in the center-field concourse area with a new "Moose Den" adjacent to the children's play area. The "den" is a small room with a fake fireplace and family photos of the Mariner Moose.

Winston-Salem ballpark put off to 2009 season
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Not a surprise, really: the Winston-Salem Warthogs (High Class A; Carolina League) announced a new ballpark probably wouldn't open until the 2009 season. The developers of a proposed $189-million ballpark and retail-office development now plan to open the stadium in time for the Warthogs' 2009 season. The original goal was to open the stadium in 2008. Billy Prim, the project's lead developer and co-owner of the Warthogs, recently said that construction on the ballpark would start in late spring or early summer. He has said that construction will take 12 to 14 months. The Warthogs currently play at Ernie Shore Field, and part of the financial plan calls for the sale of that facility to Wake Forest.
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Rays sales up again, focus remains on building community goodwill
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More progress has been made on the business side by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, as season-ticket sales for Tropicana Field are up 10 percent and sponsorships are up 20 percent this year, said Mark Fernandez, VP and chief sales officer for the Rays, at a meeting of the Kiwanis Club of St. Petersburg Tuesday. He said the Rays are trying to change the corporate culture and connect with the community, a common lecture-circuit theme for Rays' executives.

Golden Baseball League eyes Santa Clara
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Placing a franchise in the Bay Area has always been a goal of the independent Golden Baseball League, so a plan to upgrade the baseball facilities at Santa Clara's Mission College for use by the college and a league team makes sense. Stan Arterberry, the chancellor of the West Valley-Mission Community College District, who met with league officials and city leaders last month. "If a professional baseball team comes along and wants to help make it Triple-A, we're definitely interested in talking." We're not quite sure the GBL will be financing the equivalent of a Class AAA ballpark, but we'll give Arterberry credit for thinking big; he plans to discuss the idea at the next board meeting to see whether the trustees, the president and the rest of the college community share his enthusiasm.

All of the old ambience in new Yankee Stadium
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Fans attending the season opener in Yankee Stadium today will get a glimpse of the new ballpark under construction just a short distance away. It is being erected across the street from the current Yankee Stadium, with its new bleachers on the site of the current Macombs Dam Park. In fact, the infamous Bleacher Creatures are being honored in the new Stadium with a special concession area dedicated to those passionate, occasionally raucous fans. Architectural features will include the renowned facade and the return of several features from the original Stadium built in 1923 -- the old auxiliary scoreboard in right-center, the identifiable frieze atop the roof and the large cathedral windows. The latter features were not retained as part of the 1974-75 re-construction. More on the new Yankee Stadium from AP. Apparently Centerplace won't make the move to the new ballpark, however.

Out of the park: The old Yankee Stadium will soon be no more
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Actually, the old Yankee Stadium went away in the 1970s, so we're not quite so sanguine about the final two seasons of the current iteration of Yankee Stadium. (Neither, apparently, are the good residents of New York City; we've been consistently amazed by the lack of protest from Yankee fans and preservationists.) If you've never been, Yankee Stadium is worth a visit before it's torn down after the 2008 season.

Boss: I don't need a successor yet
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George Steinbrenner may not know who his successor will be with the New York Yankees, but for now, that doesn't matter. He doesn't plan to need one in the near future. Despite occasional rumors to the contrary, Steinbrenner, 76, remains active in his role as principal owner of the Yankees. His spokesman, Howard Rubenstein, told Newsday by phone Friday: "George said that he's going to continue to run the Yankees. He's absolutely not retiring." The future of the Yankees became murky last week when Steinbrenner's daughter Jennifer filed for divorce from Steve Swindal, who was to succeed Steinbrenner. Swindal no longer has a future at the top of the organization. Donald Trump says he's interested in buying the Yankees.

Pre-Opening Day jitters for establishments that live in Yankee Stadium’s shadow
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Louie Dituri stood in front of his restaurant, the Yankee Eatery, across River Avenue from Yankee Stadium, on Sunday and ran through a mental checklist of last-minute preparations. His guys were precooking several batches of their famous shish kebabs, and the fresh rolls he ordered were to be delivered this morning. The bar in the back of the place was loaded, and after five days of spring cleaning, each crack and crevice was spotless. This section of the South Bronx was awakening, and there was nothing left for Dituri to do but wait for today, when the New York Yankees open their season at home against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Dituri’s business, like others along the River Avenue corridor, depends on Yankees baseball to survive.

Ballpark Village could be ready for shoppers in '09
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If all plans come together, customers could begin shopping in June 2009 at new retail stores where a public housing project now stands near Fifth Third Field, the home of the Dayton Dragons (Low Class A; Midwest League). A first wave of development -- offices, restaurants and shops -- also could open to the public that same summer at Ballpark Village, a proposed downtown waterfront development. The $230 million project was proposed in November by Bear Creek Capital of Cincinnati and Ballpark Consultants Inc., a subsidiary of Mandalay Baseball Properties of Los Angeles, which owns the Dragons. The developer plans to meet with Dayton officials in mid-April to review environmental and financial feasibility studies.

Diamondbacks courting Hispanic fans
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As the Arizona Diamondbacks open the 2007 season, the team has a renewed mission and strategy to draw more Latinos to watch Phoenix's professional team. Those initiatives include broadcasting 50 games on a Spanish network television station, hiring more bilingual stadium workers and installing Spanish signs at Chase Field, and reaching out to a network of influential Hispanic leaders to spread the word of D'backs baseball. A Scarborough Research study of the team's existing fan base describes the team's core fan base as mainly older and white, but the fastest-growing demographic in Phoenix is younger Hispanics. Meanwhile, a team that actually markets to Hispanics, the Florida Marlins, apparently is having problems bringing them to the ballpark.

Baseball team digs in its cleats at Lynx Stadium
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The front office of the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League) says it's not a foregone conclusion the Lynx will be moving to a new ballpark in Allentown next season, and the city says it hasn't been informed about the team moving two years before the Lynx Stadium lease is slated to expire. That's probably posturing from both sides in anticipation of a lease buying and a resolution to a suit filed by the Lynx over the loss of parking spots at the ballpark. We know there has been talk from the independent Can-Am Association about placing a team there in the future (setting up a nice little rivalry with the Quebec franchise and a potential team in Montreal), but the city first needs to clear up the legal situation and then decide what the future of the ballpark is.

Rangers throw a new pitch to fans
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Could you use some baseball? The Texas Rangers certainly hope so. The team has launched a marketing campaign to lure more people to Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Billboards, TV ads and radio spots featuring the Rangers' new slogan, "You could use some baseball," started appearing around the Metroplex in December. So far, ticket sales are up about 8 percent over last year's preseason sales, Rangers President Jeff Cogen said.

A new season for Knights, but same old battles
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As the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) begin a new season next week, the minor-league franchise faces familiar challenges: no new ballpark and few fans willing to travel across the state line to visit the team's home in Fort Mill. Despite those handicaps, the Knights made some financial strides last season, posting a break-even performance in operations for the first time in more than a decade. Team executives anticipate a similar result in 2007, forecasting revenue of $4 million, up 5 percent from last season. The team is now looking at 2010 for the opening of a new ballpark.
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Better to feel crowded
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The early days in Denver were pretty heady for the Colorado Rockies: remember when they were adding temporary bleachers to Mile High Stadium to help the team set a regular-season attendance record? (It's interesting that the largest crowds to see a MLB baseball game for an exhibition, a regular-season game and a postseason game all came in football facilities: Mile High Stadium and the Los Angeles Coliseum.) In this article John McHale -- now working in the commissioner's office -- talks about how Coors Field came to be. He's right: Blake Street was the perfect place for the new ballpark, and it's still one of our favorites in the majors.

Fort Wayne ballpark deal needs more private money
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Ed Rousseau, a former Allen County commissioner, argues more private money needs to put into a new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League), saying the $5 million promised by Hardball Capital isn't enough. This is a somewhat disingenuous argument: besides the money devoted to the ballpark, Hardball is also investing in an adjoining hotel project, so their involvement in the project is considerably higher that Rousseau lets on.
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Companies, Brewers find value in sponsorships
Posted April 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Milwaukee Brewers have renewed 97 percent of the club's business sponsors for the upcoming season and have used a planned celebration of the team's only World Series appearance as a way to enhance several existing corporate partners. In addition, the team has signed several new sponsors for the 2007 season, including "The Brew" radio station 97.3 (WQBW-FM); CarMax Auto's Milwaukee dealerships; Dole Food Co.; Wisconsin Department of Tourism; and Brakebush Chicken. In a typical Milwaukee-area deal, the annual cost of a sponsorship ranges from $25,000 for small signage to more than $800,000 for a major sponsor deal. We'll be at Miller Park tomorrow night to check out what's happening this season at Miller Park.

Ballpark lease renewal faces Bisons in 2007
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We rather doubt the Buffalo Bisons (Class AAA; International League) will be leaving Dunn Tire Park anytime soon, so negotiations between the team and the city really are a matter of details, not whether a deal will be reached. There are a few moving parts: the naming-rights agreement with Dunn Tire is up in 2008, but it sounds like both sides are happy with that arrangement as well.

Sponsors are ready for Beavers' opening day
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As Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) attendance rises, corporate sponsors are taking note. Beavers officials said they've attracted 15 new sponsors that will display their names during the PGE Park's seventh post-renovation season. The team opens at home April 13; the United Soccer Leagues' Portland Timbers team opens on April 21. The sponsor boost gives the stadium more than 40 corporate backers, said Ryan Brach, the team's vice president of corporate partnerships and suite sales. In each of Brach's three years with the Beavers, the team has seen double-digit growth in sponsorship revenue.

Ripken's empire gets a boost from election to Hall of Fame
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Since retiring from baseball in 2001, Cal Ripken Jr. has taken his talent for grind-it-out reliability on the field and turned it into a sports business empire. Now his upcoming induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame is giving him the chance to leverage his reputation once again. Next week, he begins a 10-city tour to promote his two new books -- "Get in the Game," a motivational book about his rules for success, and an illustrated children's book, "The Longest Season," about the Baltimore Orioles' 21-game losing streak in 1988. Not everything is cause for celebration. Ripken is in the middle of discussions with Aberdeen, Md., over the six-figure losses that the town is footing as his partner in Ripken Stadium, home to Ripken's Aberdeen IronBirds (short season; NY-Penn League). Ripken put up more than $7 million toward the $18 million cost of the 6,000-seat stadium, and he is considering buying out the town's interest and taking over the entire facility.
    RELATED STORIES: Aberdeen ballpark deal is taking shape; Senator pushes plan for Ripken Stadium; Aberdeen may sell Ripken ballpark

Setbacks fuel determination to finish Sovereign Bank Stadium in time
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The site of York City's future Sovereign Bank Stadium, the home of the York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League) has been humming with the activity of more than 120 workers at once as they try to make up lost time. Late winter storms set the project back by as much as 10 days, first covering the construction site in snow and ice and then leaving a muddy mess when everything melted, said project manager Blanda Nace. Now contractors hope they can catch up, working 10-hour instead of 8-hour days, Nace said. Good weekend weather also enabled a 30- to 40-member crew work Saturday, their first in what is to be a series of six-day construction weeks. The team should know in the next few weeks whether a May 15 opening date is feasible.

Revolution unveils new mascot: Downtown
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After an extensive search that led to much anticipation and speculation, Downtown was welcomed to the York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League) family during a special performance of "Mascot: The Musical" at the DreamWrights Theater on Saturday afternoon. The introduction of Downtown Yorkie, which is the full name of the Revolution mascot, came on the heels of a series of peculiar sightings around town throughout last week.  During Saturday’s production, which was set at a York City town meeting, members of the York Revolution staff played the roles of townspeople, while Marketing Manager Greg Vojtanek acted as Mayor. Adults and children alike filled the theater and enjoyed the performance, along with other activities and special appearances. The production highlighted the mysterious sightings and culminated with the introduction of Downtown Yorkie by Revolution on-field host Stu-pendous, to the strains of, what else but -- "Downtown."

Spring training can't be over
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Yesterday saw the final spring-training games played in both the Grapefruit League and the Cactus League. By all accounts it was another successful spring, with the Grapefruit League setting an all-time attendance record. (We're waiting to hear about the final stats for the Cactus League as well.) It was also a year of individual records. The Pittsburgh Pirates set a record for attendance, with 82,000 fans through the turnstiles at McKechnie Field. The Chicago Cubs set a record for the biggest crowd at a Cactus League game, as 12,917 fans showed up to Hohokam Park on Wednesday.

Baseball season starts with good things ahead for Lorain and for Avon
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The baseball atmosphere certainly has changed for the better in Ohio's Lorain County. In Lorain, a youth field is being transformed into the "Pipe Yard" and the home of the Cleveland State University baseball team. In Avon, city voters will be asked to pay more in payroll taxes to fund a new ballpark for an independent Frontier League team. Should it pass, a team could be there as early as 2009.
    RELATED STORIES: Frontier League, Avon announce ballpark plans; Baseball sliding into Avon; Ballpark project may not sit well with builder's ex; Avon nears deal with Frontier League; County may help fund Lorain ballpark; Avon takes a swing at baseball; U.S. Steel donates for Lorain ballpark; Baseball slides into Lorain; Foltin: Avon also eyeing ball team; Foltin faces opposition over upgrades at park

Tragedy hangs over team
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Some players who survived a bus crash that killed five teammates said they wanted their first game since the accident to be about baseball, but it was much more than that. "The whole season is for the five of them," team captain Ryan Baightel said after the game. "We owe it to them not just to play but to compete." Opening day came a month later than it should have for Bluffton University. The Beavers took the field Friday in black jerseys to honor the five teammates. Some of the starters still had scars and bruises from that awful morning in Atlanta.

Millersville U opens new ballpark
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Two years of development and four years of planning came to fruition Saturday with the opening of Millersville University's new ballpark for a doubleheader against Kutztown. The ballpark, not yet named, cost $1.7 million to build and features brick dugouts, batting cages beyond the outfield fence, visiting and home bullpen areas, a new scoreboard and a temperature-controlled press box.

Game over in Medford
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It's been eight years since the Southern Oregon Timberjacks (short season; Northwest League) moved to Vancouver, and many in Medford miss the team. The team's home, Miles Field, is no more -- torn down to make way for a Wal-Mart -- and even though the city now has a smaller facility, the loss of pro baseball still stings the team boosters. They were the ones who built fences and storage sheds, painted buildings, repaired the bleachers and kept the grass mowed.

Ex-speedway owner eyes Munson Stadium for track
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Randy Smith says he could rev up Thurman Munson Memorial Stadium by turning it into a stock car racing track. The concept is still preliminary, but Smith, a Plain Township resident who has raced stock cars, has discussed the idea with city officials. Mayor Janet Weir Creighton and Service Director Joseph Concatto say they are open to the idea, but are waiting for Smith to study it further before deciding whether to recommend to council that the city sell the old minor-league ballpark, the former home of the Canton-Akron Indians (Class AA; Eastern League), the Canton Crocodiles (independent; Frontier League) and the Canton Coyotes (independent; Frontier League).

Ballpark Notes
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The first pitch to be thrown from the mound at Coastal Federal Field, the home of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League), in 2007 will come from the hand of Presidential hopeful and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. This Thursday night Giuliani will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Myrtle Beach Pelicans home opener. Giuliani, an avid baseball fan, is slated to be in attendance at Yankee Stadium on Monday afternoon for the Yankees opener against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. He will then travel to South Carolina to visit Myrtle Beach, where he’ll meet and greet fans attending the Opening Day festivities at Coastal Federal Field on Thursday....The Colorado Rockies announced this morning that Executive Vice President/General Manager Dan O’Dowd and Manager Clint Hurdle have agreed to two-year extensions covering the 2008 and 2009 seasons.