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

Archives: July 22-28, 2007

Tiger Stadium to be torn down
Posted July 27, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After months of wrangling, the Detroit City Council today approved a plan to sell the seats and other memorabilia inside Tiger Stadium and dismantle the ballpark by the end of the year. By a 5-4 vote the council committed to the following timeline: a demolition contract will be awarded in October with all demolition and site preparation completed by September 2008 and construction on the ballpark's replacement to start in April 2009. The council went ahead with the decision despite today's last-minute plea from retired sportscaster Ernie Harwell to delay a decision until September. What will happen to the land remains in some doubt, as the council separately refused to turn over the land to the quasi-government Detroit Economic Growth Corp. Tiger Stadium is a prominent member of our Endangered Ballparks listings.
    RELATED STORIES: Tiger Stadium demolition plan close to vote; Wreck the old park; praise the new one; Detroit City Council delays action on Tiger Stadium demolition; City: Revisit Tiger Stadium plans; Today's video: The final days of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium plan hits a snag; Tiger Stadium's fate divisive; Tiger Stadium: Up for auction?; Tiger Stadium outta here by '08; Time running out for Tiger Stadium; Dave Wright: Time to let Tiger Stadium go; Razing memories of 95-year-old Tiger Stadium before demolition work begins; Final farewell planned for Tiger Stadium; Old house is hard to forget; Once a baseball cathedral, Tiger Stadium now sits in disrepair; Memories of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium demolition delayed; Progress is in the ballpark; Developers didn't stand a chance with Tiger Stadium; Artifacts from Tiger Stadium to be auctioned off under city plan; Tiger Stadium to be razed: condos, retail to be built on historic site; Detroit should sell Tiger Stadium as is; Historical marker at Tiger Stadium stolen; Tiger Stadium would make fine vacation destination; 8 innings of words get us no closer to a Tiger Stadium fix; Documentary makes case for saving Tiger Stadium; Plenty of options for Tiger Stadium; Detroit Mayor Kilpatrick wants Tiger Stadium razed; Hope fades for Tiger Stadium; Detroit ignores calls to save Tiger Stadium; Save Tiger Stadium as scaled-down ballpark; City should tear down Tiger Stadium; Is it the final out for Tiger Stadium?

Drillers to honor Coolbaugh
Posted July 27, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) announced plans for a "Remembering Mike Coolbaugh" memorial and tribute on Tuesday, July 31 at Drillers Stadium. It will be the first home game for the Drillers since the tragic accident on July 22 that claimed Coolbaugh’s life. Coolbaugh was struck and killed by a line drive while coaching first base during the Drillers game against the Arkansas Travelers in Little Rock. The Drillers will officially retire Coolbaugh’s #29 jersey during ceremonies that will be held prior to the game on Tuesday. In addition, the Drillers players will have memorabilia and autographed items available for a silent auction that will take place during the game on the stadium concourse. All proceeds generated by the auction will go to the Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund that was established to benefit his family. Send a contribution to: Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund, c/o Spirit Bank, 1800 S. Baltimore Av., Tulsa, OK 74119.
    RELATED STORIES: Rockies coach dons helmet after tragedy; Helping kids cope with Sunday's tragic death at Dickey-Stephens Park; Drillers coach Coolbaugh killed after being struck by line drive

Dodd Stadium: An outing worth the 3-hour tour
Posted July 27, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The word in this article is that a game experience at Dodd Stadium, home of the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League), is well worth the drive: "I will accept any chance to go to Dodd Stadium afforded to me in the future. Bring on a torrential downpour and I'll raft my way to Norwich. Dodd Stadium offered the most pleasant baseball experience I've encountered in any stadium built after the signing of the Versailles Treaty (yes, this includes Yankee Stadium)." Noteworthy: the ballpark design and the food choices.

Business fights for parking around York ballpark
Posted July 27, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Such a high-class problem to have. When York City limited parking on the residential streets near the new Sovereign Bank Stadium, the home of the York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League), baseball fans from out of town weren't the only ones shut out. Neighborhood residents got permits that let them park on the street during stadium events, but businesses in the area did not. And while some businesses have the off-street parking they need, at least one is depending on the city for help. City officials said they'll try to work something out in the coming weeks.

Attention! Seats near dugouts in strike zone
Posted July 27, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With all the attention paid to Mike Coolbaugh's tragic death, there's another part of the ballpark world that is potentially at risk: fans. We know baseball teams usually can't be held liable for injuries due to a foul ball, but that doesn't mean fans aren't exposed. Here's a look at how some fans were affected by foul balls.

Munson Stadium race track plans hit a roadblock
Posted July 27, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Plans for a stock-car racing track at Thurman Munson Memorial Stadium, the former home of the Canton-Akron Indians (Class AA; Eastern League) may be off the table. Earlier this week, city officials met to discuss a formal proposal pitched by Randy Smith, a local car lot owner with a background in stock-car racing. Smith proposed a lease-purchase agreement with the city lasting up to 15 years. During that time, Smith would pay the city $2,500 a month to lease the property and baseball stadium with the option to buy the site in the future.

Ballpark Notes
Posted July 27, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Arizona Diamondbacks announced that longtime Major League Baseball executive Roland Hemond will return to the organization as Special Assistant to the President, according to D-backs President Derrick Hall. Hemond has 55 years of professional baseball experience, including five seasons with the D-backs as a Senior Executive Vice President from 1996-2000. Hemond will assist Hall in a variety of capacities, including special projects, industry relationships and international initiatives....The Lexington Legends (Low Class A; Sally League) announced that Deven Brashear of Georgetown was the franchise’s 2,750,000th fan. Brashear was met at the turnstiles with his family at 6:44 pm with cheers and confetti. The 7-year-old threw out a ceremonial first pitch and then dined in the Maker’s Mark Club before the Legends’ game with Lakewood. Brashear also received a Legends prize pack.....The Gateway Grizzlies (independent; Frontier League) will welcome their one-millionth regular-season fan to GCS Ballpark very soon. The team expects to reach the milestone sometime in the next home series. The team is just 8,879 fans away from the historic mark. To date the Grizzlies have drawn 991,171 fans in their history. That total includes the previous five seasons at GCS Ballpark as well as the inaugural season at Sauget Field. They will become just the third Frontier League organization to draw one-million regular-season fans; Evansville and Washington have both previously eclipsed the mark.

Could Sounds leave Nashville?
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) GM Glenn Yaeger sounds serious when he says there's a chance the team could leave town because of the lack of a suitable venue. It's been known for years that Greer Stadium didn't meet MLB facility requirements, but with a new downtown ballpark in the works that didn't matter. Now that the Sounds' quest for a new downtown ballpark is dead, the team is looking at alternatives. The lease at Greer Stadium expires at the end of next season and Yaeger sounds pretty determined to either win approval of a new Nashville ballpark or chat with other middle Tennessee cities about hosting a venue. But when a team is in play, staying in the same area isn't always a given, even though we're pretty sure PCL officials are smart enough to want to keep Nashville as a league city.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Construction shows Citi Field is on schedule
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
As the National League pennant race begins to take shape at Shea Stadium, the Mets' future home is taking shape beyond its outfield walls. With the team due to move into the $700 million Citi Field in time for Opening Day in 2009, construction on the new facility progresses in the Shea Stadium parking lot. According to team officials, the project is on schedule. Steel girders and concrete escalator towers mark progress around the perimeter, with the early makings of the ballparks's concourse and promenade seating levels visible inside. The hub of the new ballpark will be the Jackie Robinson Rotunda, an entry area designed to evoke Ebbets Field, where Robinson played as a member of the Dodgers. The brick and limestone that characterized the legendary Brooklyn park will be featured. On a sadder note, destruction of Shea Stadium will begin in November; that site will be turned into a parking lot for the new ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Yankees, Mets won't sell seat licenses; ballpark funds in place; Whole new ballgame; Willets Point's last man standing defiantly; Naming rights are all about the money; Boro buzzes with talk of new Mets ballpark; Mets break ground on new ballpark; New Mets ballpark to be called CitiField; Yankees, Mets bond sales set, both teams rated junk; Bronx group goes to court vs. new Yankee Stadium; New York City receives IRS approval on ballpark bonds; New York Agency approves ballpark financing for Yankees, Mets; MTA pressed to create shortcut to Shea; Is Steinbrenner house, which Ruth built, poor?; NY City Council easily passes Yankees, Mets ballpark bonding bills; Squeeze play on Mets ballpark; Mets: Forget about naming new park after Jackie Robinson; New Mets ballpark deal is stalled; Squeeze play on the Mets; Strike one for new Mets ballpark; Mets park's name will fetch millions; Mets unveil plans for new ballpark; Yankees, Mets closer to new ballparks; City goes to bat for Yankees, Mets ballparks; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Ebbets' echoes in Queens; At Mets' park, you'll think you're in...Pittsburgh?; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Mets to go old school in new park

Minor-league ballpark may not come
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Plans for dismantling Vacaville's Nut Tree Stadium, trucking it to Redding and reassembling it at Tiger Field may have been a bit premature, City Councilman Rick Bosetti said Wednesday. A meeting with the ballpark owners, Golden Baseball League (GBL) CEO David Kaval and contractors was to be held Wednesday in Vacaville to discuss the cost and feasibility of the plan. However, it's not clear how advanced talks were between Kaval and the owners of the ballpark were: Bosetti says there's been no contact, the owner says he's not really interested in moving the ballpark, and even if he were there was another city interested in buying it.
    RELATED STORIES: Baseball league throws a sweet pitch to the city; GBL ballpark offer lets Redding join municipal big leagues

Harwell to make last pitch for old ballpark
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Legendary sportscaster Ernie Harwell on Friday will become the voice of Tiger Stadium when he urges the city to delay a decision on the ballpark's fate until September. Harwell is scheduled to address the City Council at 10:30 a.m., invited by his longtime friend, Councilwoman Martha Reeves, to share what he thinks should happen to the vacant ballpark. The City Council had planned to vote Friday morning on a proposal by Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick to demolish most of the stadium by the end of the year, to clear the path for stores and homes. Harwell told The Detroit News on Wednesday that the city should put the brakes on knocking down the stadium, which has been empty since the Tigers moved to Comerica Park in 2000. Meanwhile, some neighbors of Tiger Stadium are telling the city to raze the venerable old facility, which opened on the same day in 1912 as Fenway Park. Tiger Stadium is a prominent member of our Endangered Ballparks listings.
    RELATED STORIES: Tiger Stadium demolition plan close to vote; Wreck the old park; praise the new one; Detroit City Council delays action on Tiger Stadium demolition; City: Revisit Tiger Stadium plans; Today's video: The final days of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium plan hits a snag; Tiger Stadium's fate divisive; Tiger Stadium: Up for auction?; Tiger Stadium outta here by '08; Time running out for Tiger Stadium; Dave Wright: Time to let Tiger Stadium go; Razing memories of 95-year-old Tiger Stadium before demolition work begins; Final farewell planned for Tiger Stadium; Old house is hard to forget; Once a baseball cathedral, Tiger Stadium now sits in disrepair; Memories of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium demolition delayed; Progress is in the ballpark; Developers didn't stand a chance with Tiger Stadium; Artifacts from Tiger Stadium to be auctioned off under city plan; Tiger Stadium to be razed: condos, retail to be built on historic site; Detroit should sell Tiger Stadium as is; Historical marker at Tiger Stadium stolen; Tiger Stadium would make fine vacation destination; 8 innings of words get us no closer to a Tiger Stadium fix; Documentary makes case for saving Tiger Stadium; Plenty of options for Tiger Stadium; Detroit Mayor Kilpatrick wants Tiger Stadium razed; Hope fades for Tiger Stadium; Detroit ignores calls to save Tiger Stadium; Save Tiger Stadium as scaled-down ballpark; City should tear down Tiger Stadium; Is it the final out for Tiger Stadium?

Installation of McKechnie lights delayed
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Installing lights at McKechnie Field, one of the most sought-after improvements at the 84-year-old spring home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, is scheduled to begin Aug. 16, about three weeks behind schedule. The changed date doesn't affect the overall renovation's completion, said Ron Allen, president of NDC Construction, the contractor doing the work. The city must complete the project by the start of spring training in 2008. A new 30-year lease with the Pirates goes into effect once the work is complete next year, a commitment the city needed from the Pirates to receive $15 million in state grant money for improvements to McKechnie Field and Pirate City, the organization's practice facility on 27th Street East. Concrete is expected to be poured within several days for the new visitors clubhouse at McKechnie. Other improvements for Pirate City include a fifth practice field, an expanded parking lot and a new fence. The home clubhouse at McKechnie also is getting an upgrade.

Augusta leaders tour North Carolina ballparks
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Augusta leaders say they are moving forward with plans for a downtown ballpark for the Augusta GreenJackets (Low Class A; Sally League). But, they're making sure their ideas for Augusta are already working at ballparks in other cities.  The group spent Tuesday night attending baseball games at Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Durham and Greensboro's First Horizon Park. Both are minor league ballpark located downtown.

Nothing's too good for their Yankees
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Three hours before the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League) were to play Charlotte Sunday, every recliner in the clubhouse had been staked out by a player, and others had gathered to watch as former SWB Yankee Shelly Duncan belted the first of his two home runs against Tampa Bay. These Yankees cheered and whooped, sharing in his good fortune. But these Yankees, unlike the parent club, are in first place in their division in their first year in town, and the players say the clubhouse is one reason why. They come to the ballpark earlier and leave later, and they think the camaraderie has led them to play better than they did when their Class AAA team was in Columbus, Ohio.
    RELATED STORIES: Law firms hired in Yankees flap; Mandalay eyes expansion; Value of Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees questioned; Sale of Harrisburg franchise raises questions about Yanks; Luzerne County officials finally out of the bullpen; County rejects Triple-A agreement; Potential sale of SWB Yankees approved; Luzerne County explores options on baseball deals; Blaum wants 1986 ballpark contract honored; Potential sale of the SWB Yankees approved; Lackawanna County minority commissioner wants stadium authority to pay off county; Yanks filling seats in Moosic; Once again, it’s all about the Yankees; New for 2007: PNC Field; Work on Lackawanna County Stadium progresses; New for 2007: the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees; End of Astroturf at Lackawanna County Stadium; Here to stay, keep baseball fifty-fifty; Red Barons will stay, Mandalay vows; Moosic councilman presses county on amusement tax; New grass field, fixing leaks are ballpark priorities; Hard-nosed Mandalay known for investments in minor-league teams; Will Moosic get a new ballpark?; Yankees' Triple-A affiliate, California management firm heading to Moosic; Mets representatives expected to tour Lackawanna County Stadium today; Proposal would combine front offices of Barons and Pens; It's official: Yankees leaving Columbus; move to Scranton a done deal?; Authority will consider giving Cordaro power; Yankees to SWB?

JMU hires architect for ballpark
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
James Madison University officials don’t know what their new baseball and softball complex will look like yet, but they’ve decided who they want to create it. JMU vice president Charlie King said Wednesday that the school has selected the architectural firm of Clough Harbour and Associates LLP to design the complex. Clough Harbour – based in Albany, N.Y., with an office in Richmond -- designed the school’s track/field hockey/lacrosse facility off of Reservoir Street in 2001. King said Clough Harbour was one of three companies the school interviewed to design the stadium, which will be built on the site of Memorial Stadium, home of the Harrisonburg Turks (summer collegiate; Valley Baseball League).

The glow of history
Posted July 26, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It's been 20 years since the Salt Lake Trappers (rookie; Pioneer League) went on a record-breaking 29-game winning streak. They were popularly labeled and self-described "rejects," players who had gone undrafted by major league organizations out of college. While full leagues of independent teams exist now -- thanks partly to the Trappers' influence -- the team was a rarity then, competing in the rookie Pioneer League against clubs stocked with drafted prospects. They were discovered and signed by Van Schley, a part-owner of the Trappers, who was well established in independent baseball and remains involved today as owner of a Massachusetts team in the Can-Am League.

Preview of Oakland ballpark plan isn't a home run
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Oakland A's previewed their vision for a new $1.8-billion ballpark village development in Fremont to decidedly mixed reviews Tuesday night, prompting team owner Lew Wolff to promise changes will be made before he submits a development application. Councilwoman Anu Natarajan declared her disappointment with the densities, walkability and lack of concern for environmental principles in the residential portion of the proposed 174-acre village. That village would also include a new 32,000-seat A's ballpark, Cisco Field, at the center of the development and large Santana Row-style retail-residential component. It sounds like the basic ballpark plan is the only part of the development with any degree of certainty; what remains are details like how children will be educated, how people will get around and park, and how the development will adhere to green principles. More from Inside Bay Area.
    RELATED STORIES: Ex-mayor: Ballpark still makes no sense; A's ready to make noise and not just ballpark construction; A's ballpark vision takes shape; Wolff takes hands-on approach to A's Fremont ballpark; A's Wolff sees new ballpark as super site; A's sign contracts for land in Fremont to build new ballpark; Entitlements key in funding Cisco Field; Study: A's ballpark worth $109 million to economy; Toxic hazard creates bump in road to new A's ballpark; A's tout Cisco Field in ticket mailer; Will global warming swamp AT&T Park, new A's ballpark?; A's owner not sweating lack of BART at Fremont ballpark site; A's owner raises more questions than answers; Wolff seeks tax rebate for new ballpark village; Oakland A's owner buys office park near proposed Fremont ballpark; Fremont, A's continue talks for new ballpark; If Selig's coming, A's must be going; Wolff ready to go public on ballpark; Cisco blending tech and baseball; Records show evolving talks between A's, Fremont; Are the A's worth it to Fremont's neighbors?; More meetings with A's slated after new year; Fremont kicks off negotiations with the A's; A's detail Fremont plans down to the letter; San Jose still ponders illusory ballpark; Transit teams try to solve Cisco Field 'challenges'; A's Fremont ballpark must field host of hurdles; A's plan $400 million to $500 million ballpark village in Fremont; New A's ballpark would boast heavy Cisco tech; The next big thing: the San Jose A's?; A's ready to pull trigger on new Fremont ballpark; Oakland City Council grants A's extension; A's could move away; A's owner Wolff buys prospective ballpark land in Fremont; Fremont looking more and more like future home of Oakland A's

International League announces 125th anniversary plans
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Class AAA International League announced plans to celebrate its quasquicentennial season (125th Anniversary) in 2008. The International League traces its roots back to 1884, which makes it the second oldest league in all of professional sports, second only to the National Baseball League, which began in 1876. Fifty-nine different cities -- including seven major-league cities -- have fielded IL clubs over the years. A total of 97 former International League players, managers, umpires and club executives are enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, including 2007 inductee Cal Ripken, Jr. Co-Chairmen of the League’s Anniversary Committee, Syracuse Chiefs executives Tex and John Simone unveiled the 125th Anniversary logo that in 2008 will adorn official game balls, uniforms, ballparks, merchandise and much more. Included in his remarks, Chiefs’ GM John Simone explained the significance of the League making the announcement in Rochester. "The International League has a great history of success in many cities over the years, but the longterm support and resulting history that you find in Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse is unmatched. Upstate New York has been very good to the League over the years and we are here today due to the fact that Rochester has been in the League longer than any other team, 120 of 124 years. Both Buffalo and Syracuse have been League members for 93 years." Plans call for a traveling exhibit to visit each of the League’s ballparks, which will include the original and current Governors’ Cup trophies as well as the League’s Hall of Fame plaques denoting all members. Also, beginning with opening day, a series titled "This Day in International League History" will run in ballparks, on radio and television broadcasts and on team websites.
    As part of the festivities, the league is reviving its Hall of Fame, which last saw an inductee in 1963. As part of the revival the league is enshrining former International League General Managers and League Presidents Harold Cooper, Jr. and George Sisler, Jr. An August 20 ceremony has been scheduled for Cooper Stadium in Columbus prior to the evening’s Clippers vs. Louisville Bats game at which time Cooper and Sisler (posthumously) will be formally inducted.

Today's video: New Britain Stadium
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Speaking of New Britain Stadium: here's a video tour of the ballpark courtesy of the New Britain Rock Cats (Class AA; Eastern 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.

Today's bonus video: Willie Horton discusses the 1967 riots
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Detroit Tiger great Willie Horton describes what it was like when the Detroit riots of 40 years ago caused the Tigers to move a series to Baltimore. He was speaking with Tiger broadcaster Rod Allen at Home Plate 2007, a Christian outreach gathering held April 28, 2007 before the Tigers-Twins game at Comerica Park. If you want to share your videos with the baseball community, drop us a line at editors@augustpublications.com.

Rockies coach dons helmet after tragedy
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Colorado Rockies first base coach Glenallen Hill isn't taking any chances following the death of Mike Coolbaugh from a line drive in a minor-league game: he donned a helmet while on the field. However, as it turns out, a helmet wouldn't have saved Coolbaugh: according to the coroner he was struck on the neck (not the head) and died after a ruptured artery cut off the blood supply to his brain. Still, the issue of on-field safety remains an important one. Remember, you can contribute to a fund aiding the Coolbaugh family. Send a contribution to: Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund, c/o Spirit Bank, 1800 S. Baltimore Av., Tulsa, OK 74119. Despite the tragedy, fans didn't abandon their front-row seats at Dickey-Stephens Ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Helping kids cope with Sunday's tragic death at Dickey-Stephens Park; Drillers coach Coolbaugh killed after being struck by line drive

Twins ballpark land dispute in court today
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Closing arguments in a condemnation hearing to determine the actual value of the land where the Minnesota Twins' new ballpark will be built began at 9 a.m. today. Hennepin County took title of the parcel of land in May through the eminent domain process and valued it at $13.75 million; the landowners are asking for more than $65 million in what's proven to be a contentious legal case.
    RELATED STORIES: Greed circles the plate at Twins ballpark site; Hennepin County, land owners remain far apart on value of ballpark site; Taxpayers' costs for Twins ballpark may be going up; Ballpark land was low-balled; Ballpark designers seek green label, but say effort alone counts; Twins ballpark parcel worth $65.375 million, say owners; Twins ballpark draws development interest; Pohlads lining up land near ballpark; Hennepin County takes control of ballpark land, reaches agreement with railroad; Twins, Hennepin County sign ballpark agreement; now the fun begins; County: Twins' extra donation for ballpark is confidential; Twins unveil ballpark plans; Hennepin County, Twins reach land agreement; vote slated for today; Twins ballpark meeting is delayed; Ballpark impasse solution may be near on Twins ballpark; Twins moving ahead with ballpark plans; Pohlads step up to plate to help county save deal; Possible fix for Twins ballpark impasse arises; Are Twins working to end ballpark impasse?; Building a ballpark may hinge on having the Twins pay more; County officials, landowners of Twins ballpark site remain in a holding pattern; County looking at two new sites for Twins ballpark; Official says changing site of Twins ballpark would mean delays; A great ballpark divide; Twins postpone ballpark unveiling; Hennepin County, Twins say they'll look for a new ballpark site; Draft environmental review for Twins ballpark unveiled; Judge rules Twins ballpark has public purpose; sides still apart on price; Community leaders eager to see Twins ballpark design; Twins ballpark likely to sport modern look; Ballpark site owners put squeeze on Twins; New year brings new ballpark tax for Hennepin County shoppers; Ballpark players ironing out use, development agreements; Twins release more details on new ballpark; New Twins ballpark bypasses standard reviews; Ballpark's link to downtown Minneapolis inadequate, group says; Ballpark should be held to high standards; Twins formally announce design team for new ballpark; Firms lined up early for stadium work; Eminent-domain effort begins for Twins ballpark land; Designing the experience around the Twins ballpark; Ideas for Twins ballpark, some from left field; A freeze frame for Twins; Experts blow hot, cold on ways to heat new Twins ballpark; Appraisal delay puts Twins new ballpark off schedule; Twins pick ballpark designers; As Twins chase playoffs, ballpark preparations push on; Twins ballpark on track to open in 2010; Hennepin County Board approves ballpark sales tax; It's official: Twins to switch broadcast rights to KSTP-AM; Twins to switch broadcast partner after 46 seasons; Twins seek partners for naming rights, sponsorships; Twins searching for trademark ballpark design; Hennepin County OKs spending plan for Twins ballpark; Naming rights options scary; More than a ballpark in Minneapolis

Tight schedule for Billings' new ballpark
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Billings Gazette takes note of the tight construction schedule for a replacement for Cobb Field as the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League): the old ballpark will be demolished in September and construction of the new $12 million immediately afterwards. It can be done -- look at how Idaho Falls came up with a lovely new ballpark in the same time frame -- but it also depends on how much of the existing infrastructure (plumbing, wiring, etc.) can be kept.
    RELATED STORIES: Council awards ballpark contracts; City looks to cut cost of ballpark; Ballpark bids throw curve to officials; City OKs ballpark bond bids; Park plans head for home; City, Mustangs watching ballpark plans; Old-time ballplayers join groundbreaking for new Billings ballpark; Billings ballpark design allows future amenities; Plan for new baseball park has sunken, realigned field; Planning for new Cobb Field gets on fast track; Cobb Field planning kicks into high gear; Billings voters approve new Mustangs ballpark; Donors pitch $210K more toward new ballpark; Join local teams in support for new ballpark; Three groups, family pledge $200K for maintenance of new Cobb Field; New vote on an old park; Two more pitch in on new Cobb Field; Musburger urges support for Cobb Field replacement; Baseball fan boosts Billings ballpark campaign; Gaming operator donates $1 million toward Billings ballpark; Cobb backers unveil campaign; Lots to learn about new plan for Cobb Field; Bond issue for Cobb Field replacement on ballot; Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field; Potential gift could pare price of Cobb Field; Funding dominates Cobb discussion; Billings needs ballpark to be proud of, not field of dreams; Panel details ways to cut Billings ballpark costs; Cobb Field panel pursues closer look at costs; Billings panel asks for Cobb Field tax measure; Forums planned on Cobb Field proposal; Poll finds support for bonds for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

Selig will try to attend Bonds record-setter
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In the end Bud really couldn't avoid an appearance, especially when he has no conflicts to avoid. MLB commissioner Bud Selig was at home watching Barry Bonds and the Giants play when he decided he needed to be at the ballpark to see San Francisco slugger break Hank Aaron's career home run record. Selig arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday, and said he'll try and be present when Bonds passes Aaron. In a statement earlier in the day, Selig said he decided to attend "out of respect for the tradition of this game, the magnitude of the record, and the fact that all citizens in this country are innocent until proven guilty."

Thanks, Morrie Silver, for golden baseball memories
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Rochester Red Wings (Class AAA; International League) are planning to unveil a statue of Morrie Silver at Frontier Field, leading one local writer to pass along his remembrances of Silver, who almost single-handedly saved baseball in Rochester. He also served as president and GM of the Red Wings for many years, becoming the face of baseball in the upstate New York community. Though Silver Field doesn't stand, it's a classy move by the Red Wings to erect the memorial.

Ballpark Notes
Posted July 25, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Morning Call announced that it is a Founding Partner Sponsor for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League). The announcement was made jointly with Lehigh Valley IronPigs officials during a news conference at the Allentown Arts Park. Details of the long-term, multi-year agreement were not disclosed. The Morning Call is the only newspaper to sign a Founding Partner agreement with the IronPigs. The Morning Call will have exclusive rights to sell and distribute newspapers in Coca-Cola Park. Although full details of the agreement were not disclosed, The Morning Call announced that it will sponsor The Morning Call Home Run Inning during every IronPigs home game. If a home run is hit during that inning, someone attending the game will have an opportunity win a cash prize. The Morning Call also will sponsor the reporting of league scores during game broadcasts. The Lehigh Valley IronPigs will begin playing their home games at Coca-Cola Park in April 2008....The Madison Mallards (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) expect to draw their one-millionth fan around Aug. 9....Texas Star Sports has been awarded the contract for the scoreboard at the new Grand Prairie Air Hogs (independent; American Association) ballpark scheduled to open next season. The project consists of a new scoreboard 30-feet tall x 60-feet long and will showcase a 19mm full-color 18-foot-tall x 26-foot-tall videoboard....This Friday 2008 Presidential hopeful John McCain will be in attendance for the Greenville Drive (Low Class A; Sally League) game with the Charleston RiverDogs. McCain, however, will not just be stashed in one of the luxury boxes, taking in the game. Instead, he will be taking his views, both political and baseball, to the fans at West End Field....Frank Reberger was fired as manager of the Edmonton Cracker-Cats (independent; Northern League) on Tuesday. Cracker-Cats coach Gord Gerlach has been promoted to manager of the team....

Tiger Stadium demolition plan close to vote
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Detroit City Council is slated to vote on the future of historic Tiger Stadium Friday, but after a contentious debate last night it's not clear which way the vote will go. Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick wants to tear down the ballpark, which opened on the same day in 1912 as Fenway Park, in anticipation of a developer taking over the property. Trouble is, there's no developer lined up, and some on the council want to wait and see what plans come along for the property before committing to tear down a landmark. There's also a certain level of distrust between the council and the mayor: Kilpatrick is accused of ignoring viable redevelopment plans that call for parts of Tiger Stadium to remain standing. The city also says it can't afford the $25,000 a month it takes to keep Tiger Stadium standing, but that seems to be a pittance compared to the potential payoff of a high-profile redevelopment down the line. Tiger Stadium is a prominent member of our Endangered Ballparks listings.
    RELATED STORIES: Wreck the old park; praise the new one; Detroit City Council delays action on Tiger Stadium demolition; City: Revisit Tiger Stadium plans; Today's video: The final days of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium plan hits a snag; Tiger Stadium's fate divisive; Tiger Stadium: Up for auction?; Tiger Stadium outta here by '08; Time running out for Tiger Stadium; Dave Wright: Time to let Tiger Stadium go; Razing memories of 95-year-old Tiger Stadium before demolition work begins; Final farewell planned for Tiger Stadium; Old house is hard to forget; Once a baseball cathedral, Tiger Stadium now sits in disrepair; Memories of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium demolition delayed; Progress is in the ballpark; Developers didn't stand a chance with Tiger Stadium; Artifacts from Tiger Stadium to be auctioned off under city plan; Tiger Stadium to be razed: condos, retail to be built on historic site; Detroit should sell Tiger Stadium as is; Historical marker at Tiger Stadium stolen; Tiger Stadium would make fine vacation destination; 8 innings of words get us no closer to a Tiger Stadium fix; Documentary makes case for saving Tiger Stadium; Plenty of options for Tiger Stadium; Detroit Mayor Kilpatrick wants Tiger Stadium razed; Hope fades for Tiger Stadium; Detroit ignores calls to save Tiger Stadium; Save Tiger Stadium as scaled-down ballpark; City should tear down Tiger Stadium; Is it the final out for Tiger Stadium?

Helping kids cope with Sunday's tragic death at Dickey-Stephens Park
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One of the tougher issues associated with the on-field death of Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) coach Mike Coolbaugh is explaining the tragedy to children. It's been hard to avoid TV news coverage of the event, and this article suggests some strategies for discussing it with kids, who undoubtedly will have some fears about the game. Players and coaches, too, reflected on safety on the field, with some coaches deciding to wear plastic inserts under their caps (the Texas League won't make the use of helmets mandatory, however, and neither will the Cal League); the issue of keeping fans safe emerged as a concern as well. Vin Scully, who has been calling for coaches to wear helmets for years now, called Bud Selig's office to lobby his case yet again. Coolbaugh's career was remembered by former teammates; he was the sort of guy you run across all the time in baseball -- a devoted career minor leaguer who got a short shot at the majors -- but baseball couldn't survive and thrive without their commitment to the game. Meanwhile, the Drillers decided to go ahead with tonight's game in Wichita after talking with the Coolbaugh family, who urged the team to go on. Minor League President Mike Moore asked that all teams fly their flags at half-staff and observe a moment of silence in memory of Coolbaugh. More on Amanda Coolbaugh and the Coolbaugh family here. More from the Wichita Eagle.
    RELATED STORIES: Drillers coach Coolbaugh killed after being struck by line drive

Cubs draw more than a dozen 'credible' bidders
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Chicago Cubs, being sold by media group Tribune Co., has attracted credible interest from about 15 parties, and a deal for the baseball team and other assets is expected to top $1 billion, according to Reuters. First-round bids are likely due after the Sept. 3 Labor Day holiday, with a winner expected to be picked in October. A deal is expected to close by the end of the year. The winner must be approved by Major League Baseball. The three assets being sold -- the Cubs, the team's landmark Wrigley Field and an interest in sports cable network SportsNet Chicago -- could go as a package or be split up. We've already reported on several of the groups interested in a bid -- those led by Mark Cuban, Thomas Ricketts, John Canning, Jerry Colangelo, William Marovitz -- and we're eagerly waiting to see what other surprises pop out as Labor Day approaches.
    RELATED STORIES: Stodgy baseball owners don't want Cuban, Colangelo; Cuban applies to buy Cubs; Roster of Cubs bidders expands

New York State League folds
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit
After working so hard to get a lease at Utica's Murnane Field -- displacing the plans of a more established summer-collegiate league -- the independent New York State League folded this past weekend. The league drew well on opening night (July 3) with a crowd of 2,677, but things went quickly downhill, with crowds reportedly under 100 at the end. The players received their first, and final, paychecks Saturday, five days after they were promised. To receive a $250 check, each player first had to have their living quarters inspected for damages and turn in their jersey, pants, belt and socks. It's safe to say the experimental setup of four teams sharing one venue failed pretty miserably. Look for the NYCBL to make another run at Murnane Field, though it sounds like there's some nasty small-town politics involved: the same city employee who rejected the NYCBL in favor of the NYSL now says the failure of the NYSL is a good reason to reject the NYCBL as a tenant. In other words: he really messed up the situation and now would rather close the ballpark to a paying tenant rather than admit he screwed up in the first place.

Today's video: Swing of the Quad Cities "Rocky" intro
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit
Here's another pregame video from a minor-league team. This is another pregame video from the Swing of the Quad Cities (Low Class A; Midwest League), rallying the crowd with imagery from Rocky. Also worth noting: the views of John O'Donnell Stadium. 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.

Council awards ballpark contracts
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Billings City Council made some financial decisions in awarding the contracts to tear down Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League), and replace it with a new ballpark on the same site. The council awarded a construction contract to Billings-based Langlas & Associates, which submitted a bid of $11,467,000. City officials said work will begin immediately on the new ballpark. The contractor hopes to have construction well under way by the time the 2007 baseball season wraps up in September. Magnum Contractors LLC of Boise, Idaho, received the $198,500 contract to tear down Cobb Field. The wooden ballpark will come down after the Billings Mustangs complete their 2007 season in September. The council trimmed $564,287 from the project in order to bring expenses in line with money that's available; a major change the Mustangs may regret is the downgrading of the light system. Given that more and more minor-league games are being televised, the downgraded light system may be something the team will regret in the future. Other items that may be substituted for less expensive equipment include vandal-resistant lighting fixtures, cup holders attached to seats and auto-flush toilets and urinals. Decorative wrought-iron fencing can be replaced with less expensive chain-link fencing. However, there's a chance the scaled-back features may be restored if Congress approves a $500,000 appropriation for the ballpark. Sen. Conrad Burns championed the appropriation before he was voted out of office, but his replacement has vowed to carry on the request.
    RELATED STORIES: City looks to cut cost of ballpark; Ballpark bids throw curve to officials; City OKs ballpark bond bids; Park plans head for home; City, Mustangs watching ballpark plans; Old-time ballplayers join groundbreaking for new Billings ballpark; Billings ballpark design allows future amenities; Plan for new baseball park has sunken, realigned field; Planning for new Cobb Field gets on fast track; Cobb Field planning kicks into high gear; Billings voters approve new Mustangs ballpark; Donors pitch $210K more toward new ballpark; Join local teams in support for new ballpark; Three groups, family pledge $200K for maintenance of new Cobb Field; New vote on an old park; Two more pitch in on new Cobb Field; Musburger urges support for Cobb Field replacement; Baseball fan boosts Billings ballpark campaign; Gaming operator donates $1 million toward Billings ballpark; Cobb backers unveil campaign; Lots to learn about new plan for Cobb Field; Bond issue for Cobb Field replacement on ballot; Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field; Potential gift could pare price of Cobb Field; Funding dominates Cobb discussion; Billings needs ballpark to be proud of, not field of dreams; Panel details ways to cut Billings ballpark costs; Cobb Field panel pursues closer look at costs; Billings panel asks for Cobb Field tax measure; Forums planned on Cobb Field proposal; Poll finds support for bonds for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

Drive bring back a touch of Spartanburg's baseball past
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
For Dixie Pinson, it felt like old times. The Spartanburg Peaches were once again taking the field, although this time in the form of the Greenville Drive (Low Class A; Sally League). The Drive honored Spartanburg as part of its Upstate Community Night series by wearing 1950s-style Peaches jerseys on Monday for their game against the Savannah Sand Gnats at West End Field. A silent auction was held for the Peaches jerseys worn by Drive players and coaches during Monday's game with proceeds going to Friends of Duncan Park, a nonprofit organization trying to preserve the historic Spartanburg ballpark.

Recreation Park drawing more fans
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Attendance is up at Recreation Park this season, but so is the projected cost of improving the home of the Visalia Oaks (High Class A; California League). Improvements already in place -- including a new Hot Corner Lounge and a "dugout suite" along the third-base line -- have been big hits with fans, Oaks owner Tom Seidler said. He projects 2007 attendance to top 80,000, more than a 30 percent increase over that of previous years. Improvements planned over the next two years -- including a new grandstand -- should boost attendance even further.

Seattle fans can take DS out to the ballgame
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We covered this when it was first announced; here's an account of how the system works in real life. The Seattle Mariners introduced a wireless electronic system to Safeco Field allowing fans to order concessions via a handheld Nintendo DS Lite. (The Mariners are partly owned by Nintendo.) The available concessions are limited -- no Ivar's clam chowder, no Ichirolls -- but there are other benefits, including instant-replay video and games. Apparently you can also play non-baseball games against other DS Lite users within the ballpark; whether or not this is good news for baseball remains to be seen.

Chiefs are ready with red hots
Posted July 24, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Tonight should be an epic event at O'Brien Field, the home of the Peoria Chiefs (Low Class A; Midwest League): In addition to the regularly scheduled free all-you-can-eat hot-dog and popcorn night, two special guests will be on hand. Former Cubs great Ernie Banks will be signing a limited number of autographs, while pitcher Kerry Wood is slated to throw in a rehab appearance. The Chiefs are laying in a supply of 12,000 red hots; that probably won't be enough.

Drillers coach Coolbaugh killed after being struck by line drive
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) hitting instructor and first-base coach Mike Coolbaugh died Sunday night after a foul line drive struck him in the head in the top of the ninth inning during a game against the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock, Ark. Coolbaugh, 35, was struck in the left temple by a hard-hit line drive from Tulsa's Tino Sanchez and immediately fell backward. Coolbaugh reportedly lost consciousness and stopped breathing. He was administered CPR on the field and was taken by ambulance to Baptist Medical Center in North Little Rock where he was pronounced dead at 9:47 p.m., said Terry Kuykendall, a spokesman for the North Little Rock police department. The game was suspended at that point. Coolbaugh had joined the Drillers staff on July 3; he played 44 games in the majors, and a broken wrist ended his playing career last season. More from the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

UPDATE 1: The Drillers have issued a press release about the tragedy. "The entire Drillers family is devastated by last night's terrible tragedy," said team President Chuck Lamson. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Coolbaugh family, but especially to his wife Mandy and sons Joseph and Jacob.
    "The Coolbaughs have been a big part of our organization, with both Mike and his brother Scott playing for us. I know that Mike was very excited to become a coach and to begin this new chapter in his baseball career. Even in his short stint with us this year, he had provided a very positive influence on our club. We also want to ask that everyone please respect the team’s privacy at this difficult and trying time."
    Lamson also announced that the Drillers and Spirit Bank have set up a memorial fund to benefit the Coolbaugh family. Checks can be made payable to the Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund and sent to:
    Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund
    c/o Spirit Bank
    1800 S. Baltimore Ave.
    Tulsa, OK 74119
    Donations can also be made in person at any Tulsa area Spirit Bank location. All proceeds collected will go directly to the Coolbaugh family. Spirit Bank began the fund with a $5,000 donation.

UPDATE 2: The Drillers and parent team Colorado Rockies announced Monday evening that the Drillers will resume their regular-season schedule on Tuesday, July 24 in Wichita. "After consulting with the Coolbaugh family, we have decided to get back on the field as quickly as possible," said Colorado Rockies Player Development Director Marc Gustafson. "We feel it is the best way for the team to start the healing process."
    The Texas League, after encouragement from both the Rockies and the Drillers, has decided to not continue Sunday evening’s game that was postponed in Little Rock when Coolbaugh was struck with a line drive. The Drillers were batting in the top of the ninth inning and were trailing the Arkansas Travelers 7-3. It will now be declared a final.
    "I feel that it is in the best interest of all the players and staffs on both clubs to declare the contest an official and completed game," said Texas League President Tom Kayser.

Yankee Stadium cost up, mayors blamed: study
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New York Yankees will get taxpayer subsidies worth $217 million more than first estimated for a new ballpark, a civic group said on Friday, blaming ex-Mayor Rudolph Giuliani and Mayor Michael Bloomberg for the ballooning cost. City, state and federal taxpayers will pay $663 million in today's dollars for development surrounding the new ballpark in the Bronx, according to Good Jobs New York, a nonpartisan group. That is $217 million more than its April 2006 estimate. Some $69 million of this rise stems from a decision by the city's Independent Budget Office to hike its estimate of how much tax revenue the city, state and federal government lost by letting the Yankees sell tax-free bonds. Some of the increased costs, however, were hailed by the group as progressive: for instance, the increased costs include a new Metro North train station that will encourage mass transit to the ballpark and to the area -- the train station probably would not have been built without the ballpark, but in the end the area will benefit from it. Much of this is misleading, however: the Yankees are actually paying for the ballpark itself, while the city is paying for infrastructure improvements and the cost of borrowing money.
    RELATED STORIES: Yankees, Mets won't sell seat licenses; ballpark funds in place; Whole new ballgame; Willets Point's last man standing defiantly; Naming rights are all about the money; Boro buzzes with talk of new Mets ballpark; Mets break ground on new ballpark; New Mets ballpark to be called CitiField; Yankees, Mets bond sales set, both teams rated junk; Bronx group goes to court vs. new Yankee Stadium; New York City receives IRS approval on ballpark bonds; New York Agency approves ballpark financing for Yankees, Mets; MTA pressed to create shortcut to Shea; Is Steinbrenner house, which Ruth built, poor?; NY City Council easily passes Yankees, Mets ballpark bonding bills; Squeeze play on Mets ballpark; Mets: Forget about naming new park after Jackie Robinson; New Mets ballpark deal is stalled; Squeeze play on the Mets; Strike one for new Mets ballpark; Mets park's name will fetch millions; Mets unveil plans for new ballpark; Yankees, Mets closer to new ballparks; City goes to bat for Yankees, Mets ballparks; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Ebbets' echoes in Queens; At Mets' park, you'll think you're in...Pittsburgh?; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Mets to go old school in new park

Council to review Billings ballpark bid
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Construction on the new $12.5-million Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League) downtown ballpark could start as soon as this week if the City Council decides to award a construction contract during tonight's council meeting. On July 10, the city opened three bids for building the new ballpark and two bids for demolishing Cobb Field. Langlas & Associates of Billings submitted a bid of $11,467,000. That was the lowest of the three bids submitted, but the city still has to reduce ballpark costs by $564,287 in order to balance the budget. The cut list includes using less expensive lighting fixtures, reducing the height of buildings included with the ballpark, cutting back on landscaping and using less expensive building materials. (More on the proposed cuts here.) A proposal to eliminate cup holders from seats would save about $5,600. Speaking of Cobb Field: here's a history of the grand old ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: City looks to cut cost of ballpark; Ballpark bids throw curve to officials; City OKs ballpark bond bids; Park plans head for home; City, Mustangs watching ballpark plans; Old-time ballplayers join groundbreaking for new Billings ballpark; Billings ballpark design allows future amenities; Plan for new baseball park has sunken, realigned field; Planning for new Cobb Field gets on fast track; Cobb Field planning kicks into high gear; Billings voters approve new Mustangs ballpark; Donors pitch $210K more toward new ballpark; Join local teams in support for new ballpark; Three groups, family pledge $200K for maintenance of new Cobb Field; New vote on an old park; Two more pitch in on new Cobb Field; Musburger urges support for Cobb Field replacement; Baseball fan boosts Billings ballpark campaign; Gaming operator donates $1 million toward Billings ballpark; Cobb backers unveil campaign; Lots to learn about new plan for Cobb Field; Bond issue for Cobb Field replacement on ballot; Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field; Potential gift could pare price of Cobb Field; Funding dominates Cobb discussion; Billings needs ballpark to be proud of, not field of dreams; Panel details ways to cut Billings ballpark costs; Cobb Field panel pursues closer look at costs; Billings panel asks for Cobb Field tax measure; Forums planned on Cobb Field proposal; Poll finds support for bonds for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

Reds official sizes up Sarasota
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A top Cincinnati Reds official was in Sarasota last week trying to figure out the next steps in what appears to be an uphill effort to save the $45-million spring-training deal. Cincinnati Reds chief operating officer John Allen met with business and community leaders and elected officials to talk about the ballpark deal. Allen said the team would hire a local firm to conduct focus groups to determine residents' attitudes toward the team and the proposed overhaul of Sarasota's spring training complex. The original plan has been scaled down from a new ballpark and complex to a renovation of Ed Smith Stadium.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Charlotte OKs design for major overhaul of Devil Rays facility
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Tampa Bay Devil Rays' new spring-training facility in Charlotte County will incorporate many of the hottest new trends in stadium design, giving the team and fans one of the top facilities in the state. Plans for the $27-million ballpark renovation feature a children's play area known as the "Kid Zone" and a tiki bar in center field. The two areas will be linked by a circular boardwalk that allows fans to walk around the entire complex. Other features -- including an "autograph alley," a team store and individual seating -- are all part of a fan-friendly design for the El Jobean Road facility that team officials say will enhance the spring-training experience. The Texas Rangers formerly trained in Charlotte Sports Park; the D-Rays expect to begin training there in 2009 and will likely move a High Class A Florida State League team there as well.

Phillies' old spring training home demolished
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jack Russell Stadium, the Philadelphia Phillies' longtime spring-training home and the former regular-season home of the Clearwater Phillies (High Class A; Florida State League), was demolished Saturday. The Phillies played exhibition games at the quirky ballpark from 1955-2003 before moving into Bright House Networks Field. The destruction of the stadium's main structure took almost 4 hours. With the demolition, we've removed Jack Russell Stadium from our Endangered Ballparks listings.
    RELATED STORIES: Memories linger at Jack Russell Stadium

Backers: Minor-league franchise and ballpark on deck
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A group of Waterford businessmen say they are weeks away from completing groundwork to bring an independent Frontier League franchise and a brand-new $10-million ballpark to Oakland County in suburban Detroit. Long discussed about as a potential solution for redeveloping the aging Summit Place Mall area in Waterford Township, Baseball Heroes of Oakland County LP says professional baseball is a reality here, and they'll be playing ball at Telegraph and Elizabeth Lake roads by 2009. The new team will play in a 4,000-seat stadium, for now dubbed Diamond at the Summit, which will offer eight corporate suites, ticket prices ranging from $5-$10 and picnic areas down both foul lines. The enthusiasm is admirable, but there's an awful lot of work to be done in terms of acquiring land and arranging financing.

Fremont council to hear A's 'ballpark village' plans
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Facing criticism from a former Fremont mayor about the lack of public information on a proposed new Oakland A's ballpark and adjoining "ballpark village," A's owner Lew Wolff and his son Keith are scheduled to preview their long-awaited development plan Tuesday night at a Fremont council meeting. In comments to reporters and a recent e-mail to the City Council, former Mayor Gus Morrison, who served on the council for a quarter-century, accused Wolff of engaging in "an active public relations campaign to sell the project to the community" without actually submitting a development plan the community could evaluate. We don't think the criticism will derail the plan, but we expect Fremont officials to give it much, much more scrutiny.
    RELATED STORIES: Ex-mayor: Ballpark still makes no sense; A's ready to make noise and not just ballpark construction; A's ballpark vision takes shape; Wolff takes hands-on approach to A's Fremont ballpark; A's Wolff sees new ballpark as super site; A's sign contracts for land in Fremont to build new ballpark; Entitlements key in funding Cisco Field; Study: A's ballpark worth $109 million to economy; Toxic hazard creates bump in road to new A's ballpark; A's tout Cisco Field in ticket mailer; Will global warming swamp AT&T Park, new A's ballpark?; A's owner not sweating lack of BART at Fremont ballpark site; A's owner raises more questions than answers; Wolff seeks tax rebate for new ballpark village; Oakland A's owner buys office park near proposed Fremont ballpark; Fremont, A's continue talks for new ballpark; If Selig's coming, A's must be going; Wolff ready to go public on ballpark; Cisco blending tech and baseball; Records show evolving talks between A's, Fremont; Are the A's worth it to Fremont's neighbors?; More meetings with A's slated after new year; Fremont kicks off negotiations with the A's; A's detail Fremont plans down to the letter; San Jose still ponders illusory ballpark; Transit teams try to solve Cisco Field 'challenges'; A's Fremont ballpark must field host of hurdles; A's plan $400 million to $500 million ballpark village in Fremont; New A's ballpark would boast heavy Cisco tech; The next big thing: the San Jose A's?; A's ready to pull trigger on new Fremont ballpark; Oakland City Council grants A's extension; A's could move away; A's owner Wolff buys prospective ballpark land in Fremont; Fremont looking more and more like future home of Oakland A's; A's not ready to slide out of Oakland yet; A's pass on longer lease for McAfee Coliseum; Owner gives up on moving A's to San Jose; A's to decide ballpark fate by end of season; Fremont's attempt to lure A's running into obstacles; 'Let's plan for A's move,' Coliseum agency told; San Jose voters jeer ballpark plan; Wolff wants to keep A's in Bay Area; A's, Fremont near deal; A's must stay, Oakland mayor candidates say; A's close to deal for Fremont ballpark, officials say; Rumors trail A's search for new ballpark; A's owner in Fremont for meetings; Wolff says there's land for new A's ballpark in Fremont; A's officials confirm interest in new Fremont ballpark; A's take long look at Fremont ballpark site; The San Jose A's of Fremont?; San Jose will buy land for A's ballpark; Will smaller mean better for the A's?; A's committed to intimate 34,000 park in '06; A's owner's new plan for ballpark; Talks for new A's ballpark sputter; Soccer stadium throws curve at San Jose baseball plan; A's ownership group wants to buy MLS expansion team for San Jose; Athletics denied 3-year Coliseum lease extension; A's ballpark: 'Baseball Village' in the vision stage; Planning ahead to get A's to San Jose; San Jose buys first parcel of land for ballpark; Land acquisition for San Jose ballpark may cost $100 million; San Jose goes to bat for ballpark property; Fremont will consider a pitch for A's; Wolff on the hunt for more A's fans, new ballpark; Oakland ballpark village plan designed to win allies, public funds; Wolff's vision of ballpark raises questions; Wolff unveils plans for 35,000-seat ballpark near Coliseum; A's owner to offer specific ballpark plan to keep team in Oakland; Have A's settled on new ballpark site?; Smallball suits Lew Wolff just fine; A's think small with stadium plans; Fremont politicians make a pitch for A's; A's say Coliseum lot isn't feasible; Athletics announce committee to plan new Oakland ballpark; Another San Jose site eyed for baseball; The time has come for new A's ballpark; No specifics on new Oakland ballpark, but plans in the works; San Jose quits discussions on cannery; Wolff about to take over; Going to bat for A's is big opportunity for San Jose mayor; Wolff: A's ballpark already in works; Deal near for San Jose cannery site; For A's, way to San Jose paved with uncertainty; San Jose baseball crusader makes his pitch; A's sale could happen quickly; Sale of A's to heighten San Jose intrigue; BART to the ballpark, what a vision; Another San Jose pitch for baseball; San Jose mayor makes his pitch; Q&A with A's new owner Lew Wolff

City paying more than developers for Harrison Square
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The city of Fort Wayne will pay more for Harrison Square than developers of the $120.4-million downtown project, which includes a new ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League).  New figures compiled by Controller Pat Roller showed public support for the project now is $64.3 million. That includes funding from a tax increment financing district and the county economic development income tax, and some downtown economic development revenue sources. Private spending on the project will be $56.1 million. The city now is responsible for more than 53 percent of the total cost. Estimates released in April showed the city paying about 49 percent of the mixed-use development. The new ballpark will cost $30 million, with the Wizards owners paying $5 million. There have already been some cost overruns -- in response to heavy demand, four more luxury suites have been added.
    RELATED STORIES: City pressed for more details on Harrison Square; Hardball unveils more ballpark details; A home run for downtown; City ready to deal with developers; 6-3 vote favors new Wizards ballpark; City offers details of Harrison Square deal; Fort Wayne ballpark deal needs more private money; 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

Threat suspends Mud Hens- Richmond game
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In the top of the sixth inning yesterday with the Mud Hens leading Richmond 6-0 in Class AAA International League play, fans and players were evacuated from The Diamond after stadium workers received a bomb threat. The stadium and parking lot areas were searched, but no bomb was found, authorities said. At 4:07 p.m., the fifth inning was completed and Braves players had taken the field to begin the sixth when the order was given to evacuate.

Looking to residents to step up to the plate
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A group that has worked for several years to build a minor-league ballpark in Boston is now considering a site in Charlestown on land controlled by Bunker Hill Community College, even though the school's board of trustees has already voted against the proposal. The group, Boston Baseball Field of Dreams, made its pitch for a 6,000-seat, $50-million ballpark for either an independent Atlantic League or Can-Am Association team at a public meeting in Charlestown last Wednesday. Going directly to residents after the college rejects the idea probably won't work. We're also a little curious as to how an Can-Am Association team would generate enough revenue to justify a $50-million ballpark. More from the Boston Herald.

At Lakewood, glimpse of IronPigs?
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Allentown Morning Call continues its tour of area ballparks, looking at FirstEnergy Park, home of the Lakewood BlueClaws (Low Class A; Sally League) and liking the experience: "The 7-year-old FirstEnergy Park in Lakewood, N.J., is major in every way. There are tiered picnic areas up both foul lines; a 360-degree concourse that takes you by two grass seating berms in the outfield; two more picnic areas in center field; a towering scoreboard with a giant-screen TV; and two play parks to entertain kids for hours. There also are five oversized lifeguard chairs big enough to seat three comfortably. All this is for a single-A ballclub." The conclusion is that Joe Finley and Craig Stein have done a great job in Lakewood; they can be expected to do the same with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League) next season. In that same series the Morning Call takes in a game at Lackawanna County Stadium, home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League) and Commerce Bank Park, home of the Harrisburg Senators (Class AA; Eastern League).

Governments push developers to go green
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Going green is the biggest trend in sports facilities these days. The Washington Nationals are going for LEED certification for their new ballpark, and while the Minnesota Twins have scaled back their intent to go for LEED certification, they still should end up with a very green facility.

Wreck the old park; praise the new one
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Drew Sharp argues that Tiger Stadium is a dilapidated mess and should be torn down: "I don't care that Babe Ruth once walked those hallowed grounds more than 80 years ago. It's time to move on. As long as Tiger Stadium still stands, Comerica Park will never be fully embraced as the Tigers' home. It'll just be considered a second residence." Perhaps that's true, but forcing folks to embrace a new ballpark usually doesn't lead to business success -- and we're guessing this is one reason why Tigers fans were so slow to embrace the new ballpark. Shawn Windsor agrees that Comerica Park is a better venue than Tiger Stadium. The debate over the future of historic Tiger Stadium spills onto the pages of the Free Press, where reporters debate how good the ballpark really is (their conclusion is that it could be better; the Freep asked our opinion, and our conclusion was that it's a middling ballpark). One important reason to keep Tiger Stadium: it served as a gathering place during racial riots in the 1960s -- riots that almost tore Detoit apart. More on the battle over the future of Tiger Stadium. Tiger Stadium is a prominent member of our Endangered Ballparks listings.
    RELATED STORIES: Detroit City Council delays action on Tiger Stadium demolition; City: Revisit Tiger Stadium plans; Today's video: The final days of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium plan hits a snag; Tiger Stadium's fate divisive; Tiger Stadium: Up for auction?; Tiger Stadium outta here by '08; Time running out for Tiger Stadium; Dave Wright: Time to let Tiger Stadium go; Razing memories of 95-year-old Tiger Stadium before demolition work begins; Final farewell planned for Tiger Stadium; Old house is hard to forget; Once a baseball cathedral, Tiger Stadium now sits in disrepair; Memories of Tiger Stadium; Tiger Stadium demolition delayed; Progress is in the ballpark; Developers didn't stand a chance with Tiger Stadium; Artifacts from Tiger Stadium to be auctioned off under city plan; Tiger Stadium to be razed: condos, retail to be built on historic site; Detroit should sell Tiger Stadium as is; Historical marker at Tiger Stadium stolen; Tiger Stadium would make fine vacation destination; 8 innings of words get us no closer to a Tiger Stadium fix; Documentary makes case for saving Tiger Stadium; Plenty of options for Tiger Stadium; Detroit Mayor Kilpatrick wants Tiger Stadium razed; Hope fades for Tiger Stadium; Detroit ignores calls to save Tiger Stadium; Save Tiger Stadium as scaled-down ballpark; City should tear down Tiger Stadium; Is it the final out for Tiger Stadium?

Wall of fame: Fans flock to where Aaron hit No. 715
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
For a decade, baseball fans, especially out-of-towners, have brought their cameras and respect to the Atlanta marker where Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth's all-time home run record. This summer, that trek captured the end of an era, as Barry Bonds chased Aaron's star. It's an easy stroll before a ballgame at Turner Field to the chunk of fence and wall from old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium where Aaron blasted his famous homer back in 1974. In fact, if you arrive early enough, there's a good chance you could end up parking close to the old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium infield diamond, with the outfield fence in close proximity.

Dodgers working to improve their traffic game
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When the Los Angeles Dodgers unveiled their new parking system at the beginning of the season, we predicted it would be a disaster. Apparently it has been, so the Dodgers are taking some steps to clean up the postgame gridlock. The biggest step has been setting up a Transportation Center with the aid of KFWB-AM (980), the California Department of Transportation and the Los Angeles Police Department. Traffic information will be transmitted to drivers via KFWB and Dodger Radio-AM (1610) every 10 minutes around game time. To aid the effort, a significant number of cameras have been installed to monitor all 255 acres of the stadium's parking lots. This is a band-aid solution; the better answer is to go back to the old way of parking at Dodger Stadium.

Xanadu signs first tenants; no progress on ballpark
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The developers of the Meadowlands Xanadu complex ended eight months of public silence Thursday by unveiling several new attractions and additional details about the $2 billion project. The most pertinent detail for baseball fans: there's no work being done on a new ballpark for the Bergen Cliff Hawks (independent; Atlantic League), though developers say they are definitely planning a 6,000-seat ballpark somewhere down the line.

Ballpark gets mixed reviews for group accommodations
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When York City's Sovereign Bank Stadium was just a plan on paper, supporters said the project would create not only a site for family entertainment, but a place where businesses and organizations could hold their get-togethers and employee picnics. Now that the ballpark is open, businesses and organizations have been buying baseball tickets by the dozen. But groups who have visited the unfinished stadium have given mixed reviews; while some have raved about the wonderful time they had, one group representative said more than 70 members of his organization didn't get the good time they'd been expecting. Despite some problems, work continues to proceed on the ballpark; we'll be out there in August.

Diehard Expos fans wax nostalgic
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Ottawa Lynx's Tribute to the Expos day yesterday brought out the diehards with their cherished powder-blue paraphernalia one more time, for one more goodbye, and the biggest crowd of the season at Lynx Stadium. The irony, of course, was that the fans wore their tri-colored caps in a city whose own team also seems doomed to leave for greener pastures. We used to love going to Expos games at Olympic Stadium; baseball is diminished without a team of any sort in Montreal.

Quincy's baseball treasure
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's a look at QU Stadium, home of the Quincy Gems (summer collegiate; CICL). With lime stone lining the exterior and outfield walls, the ballpark shows off its blue collar heritage. In addition, the ballpark has become and identity for great baseball. "It's amazing. Hank Bauer, Bruce Suter, Tony Kubeck, Whitey Herzog, Kirby Puckett. You got hall of fame guys who have played here in Quinc," said Quincy Herald-Whig sports writer Matt Schuckman.

Money men
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jon Heyman of si.com ranks the best and worst owners in baseball. We all know a column like this is supposed to generate controversy and (presumably) page views, but there's also a lot of B.S. connected to this kind of rant. Ranking Detroit's Mike Ilitch as the third-best owner in baseball in laughable, and ranking Minnesota's Carl Pohlad as the third-worst owner is even more laughable. Look, we know Carl is tight with a dollar, but as far as fans are concerned the Twins have been one of the best teams to follow for the last five or six years. One year of winning doesn't make Mike Ilitch a great owner, and his utter contempt for the future of Tiger Stadium should immediately take him off the list.

Ground broken for new Yankee Stadium train stop
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Baseball fans in the suburbs should be able to ditch their cars and take the Metro-North Railroad directly to the new Yankee Stadium by mid-2009, officials said. State and city politicians grabbed ceremonial shovels Friday to perform the official groundbreaking for a $91 million Metro-North station to be built at the new stadium in the Bronx. It is expected to be ready about two months after the Yankees move to their new home.

Man builds ballpark to give back to community
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Stan Keim decided his local Sabetha (Kan.) Legion team needed a better home, so he stepped up and built Somerset Park, complete with its expansive brick walls, cozy setting and big-time look could easily be considered northeast Kansas' version of baseball heaven. Sabetha had a ballpark, one that was functional and has served its purpose and inhabitants well. Keim grew up playing on the field, as did others in the community well before him and well after. But at the same time, Keim felt the city needed -- and deserved -- something better.

A swing and a hiss
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Before a Mets-Yankees game at Shea Stadium in May, ESPN’s cameras caught a moment that quickly became a YouTube classic. As a groundskeeper unrolled a tarp, a black kitten with white paws that had been hiding inside was flung into the air. Landing spread-eagled but on its feet, the cat froze for a moment, then bolted. Both cat and groundskeeper looked slightly freaked out. While that particular incidence was funny, there's a more serious issue at play: between 20 and 40 feral cats live in Shea Stadium, and some animal activists are wondering what will become of them once the ballpark demolition begins. We expect many to set up shop in Citi Field.

Legion ball birthplace maintaining its tradition
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The northeastern South Dakota town of Milbank -- population 3,640 -- is regarded as the birthplace of American Legion baseball in 1925. It says so on road signs at the edge of town and on the granite monument on the corner of "Unity Square." The city office building, across the street from the aptly named Legion Field, features a display case with mementos of the town's baseball tradition. Legion baseball is played by high school-aged kids in all 50 states. Many of the game's biggest names -- Yogi Berra, Frank Robinson, Ted Williams, Johnny Bench, Roger Clemens and Albert Pujols -- all graduated from Legion programs.

Ballpark Notes
Posted July 23, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) set an unofficial Guinness Book of World Records mark for largest number of people simultaneously donning Groucho Marx glasses, as 2,513 fans signed the roll denoting participation in the mass wearing of the specs at the end of the fifth inning of Saturday’s game between the Braves and Toledo Mud Hens at The Diamond. The current record of 1,463 people wore the glasses at the Goreham, Maine Family Festival on July 30, 2006. According to the Guinness Record Book, participating fans had to wear the glasses for a minimum of 10 minutes. The Braves will now submit signatures of participants, video and photos of the event, and notarized witness statements to Guinness for verification of the record....Super Splash Day was a huge success in beating the afternoon heat, but the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Low Class A; Sally League) announced that their Guinness World Record attempt fell short. Following a day game last Monday, the Grasshoppers attempted to break the Guinness World Record for the Largest Squirt Gun Fight, inviting players, staff and fans alike to take part in the action. The current record of 1,173 participants was set on April 28th, 2005 at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California....The Amarillo Dillas (independent; United League Baseball) announced that the game broadcasts of Dillas baseball will now be streamed across the World Wide Web. Audio Sports Online will simulcast the broadcast of 1010 AM The Canyon onto their website, which can be accessed for free....Major League Baseball drew 639,628 fans to Saturday's 16 games, the second largest single-day attendance total in its history, according to research. The record for attendance for a single day was established on July 3, 1999, when 640,412 fans attended 17 games....Former St. Louis Brown Rollie Stiles, believed to be the oldest former major leaguer, passed away in his sleep yesterday. He was 100. He once pitched against the likes of Babe Ruth....