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Archives: Jan. 29-Feb. 4, 2007

Florida legislative leaders back tax help for sports
Posted Feb. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Florida taxpayers could foot the bill for up to $540 million worth of facilities construction and renovations for Florida's nine major-league sports teams under a plan that has won a preliminary nod from Gov. Charlie Crist and legislative leaders. The Florida Marlins would be eligible for up to $60 million in funding from the program. The legislative proposal would require teams to disclose how the money is used and mandates they repay the state if the team moves. Several teams have already received state aid; the proposal from Crist would make all nine major-league teams eligible for another round at what's being sold as a sales-tax rebate. Given there are some serious financial issues facing the state -- including the future of Florida's insurance in the wake of hurricanes -- you can bet there will be some serious opposition to $540 million in state sales-tax rebates.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Wilder letter demanded deed to Diamond
Posted Feb. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In a letter on Wednesday to the regional authority that says it owns The Diamond, the home of the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League), the city demanded the deed to the facility. Yesterday, however, Mayor L. Douglas Wilder backed away from the demand, according to the chairman of the Richmond Metropolitan Authority. Chesterfield and Henrico counties are equal partners with Richmond on ownership and maintenance of the ballpark, but with the demand Wilder has apparently instilled a little bad blood into discussions over a new facility for the Braves.
     RELATED STORIES: Officials hold brief meeting on ballpark options; Baseball talks a sign of hope?; Plans pitched for R-Braves ballpark on Boulevard; Status quo endures at The Diamond; Diamond's status is still uncertain; Polishing the Diamond; Atlanta just might hold all the cards; Braves sell out The Diamond -- thanks to American Idol; Wilder tells council that Richmonders have no problems with Diamond; City, R-Braves see need for new talks; City of Richmond, Braves down to last few swings; Richmond talks about new ballpark -- without the R-Braves; What do the Braves mean to Richmond?; R-Braves cite new ballpark proposals; Richmond Braves say concerns go unanswered; Communications breakdown in Richmond; Wilder: Braves balking on downtown ballpark; Wilder worries about silence from Braves; Developer joins ballpark initiative; Fans hail R-Braves' decision to stay in Richmond; Braves to stay in Richmond, Wilder says; Minor attractions in Richmond: Part Three; R-Braves give Richmond ultimatum: new ballpark or we're history; Minor attractions in Richmond; Richmond ballpark search hits rock bottom; New site for Richmond Braves ballpark causes debate; Ballpark project for Richmond's Shockoe Bottom seems dead; Atlanta Braves may be up for sale; News expected in Richmond ballpark situation; Shockoe committee report won’t include ballpark; Developers threaten historic slave-trade site; Richmond hires man who led N.H. projects; Richmond ballpark gets financial backer; Phone isn’t ringing for owner of The Diamond; Richmond Braves back to The Diamond?; Wilder speaks out on proposed Richmond ballpark; Braves again make pitch for ballpark; Richmond putting a squeeze play on Braves?; City says 'show me the money' for arts center and ballpark; Richmond ballpark plan has makings of solid transaction; Richmond ballpark plan strikes out on site, economics, financing; Wilder quits role in Richmond group; Threat not part of deal for Richmond ballpark; Braves getting outside pitches; Braves or bust?; Drains a strain on Richmond ballpark plan?; Wilder: Stadium proposal lacks details; Richmond ballpark questions remain; Richmond Braves assume role as developer; New ballpark plan for Shockoe Bottom; Proposed ballpark may rescue flood-damaged Richmond area; Global ballpark bid asks much from D.C.; Protests drowned out at rally for Shockoe Bottom ballpark; The Boulevard blues

Mets want All-Stars to light up new park
Posted Feb. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New York Mets have put in their request to host the All-Star Game, but that won't happen until 2011 -- and even that might be a stretch. The St. Louis Cardinals are slated to host the event in 2009, and given that Bud Selig has expressed his determination to alternate host cities between leagues, that would put the Mets in the queue for the 2011 game. But there are many who want to see the Arizona Diamondbacks host the game at Chase Field, and the San Diego Padres are also expected to make a push to host the game. That could conceivable put the Mets in line to host in 2015. We don't expect MLB to wait that long to throw its annual showcase in the world's media center, however.

Once again, it’s all about the Yankees
Posted Feb. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The renaming of Lackawanna County Stadium to PNC Field didn't please everyone in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, as some feel too much emphasis is being placed on the affiliation of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League) with the New York Yankees. Indeed, the northeast regional president of PNC Bank -- a native of Scranton, no less -- admitted the $1.1 million naming-rights purchase was due more to the Yankees than anything having to do with the minor-league club. More on the deal, which also calls for the installation of PNC ATMs in the ballpark and a payout system where the New York Yankees, Mandalay Sports and the county divvy up the revenues equally, from the Scranton Times-Tribune.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

Mets look to explore Ghana
Posted Feb. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New York Yankees established a training facility in China, and the New York Mets are heading in a different direction: Ghana. Mets general manager Omar Minaya was part of a contingent of major-league representatives who traveled yesterday to the African nation of Ghana on a four-day goodwill tour. The group, which includes major-league executive Bob Watson, Hall of Famer Dave Winfield, former Dodger players Dusty Baker and Reggie Smith, and former Mets pitcher Al Jackson, will distribute baseball equipment and conduct clinics, with the intent of generating interest in the sport.

Delegation seeks funds for Harry Grove Stadium renovations
Posted Feb. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Frederick County lawmakers are seeking $2 million in state funding for renovations to city-owned Harry Grove Stadium, the home of the Frederick Keys (High Class A; Carolina League). The $2 million request in state money for the ballpark may replace $500,000 in funding cut by the county, Weldon said. Originally, Comcast -- which owned the Keys baseball team before selling it to Maryland Baseball Holding -- lobbied the city, county and state to contribute $9 million to refurbish the facility. A new board of county commissioners struck the $500,000 from the fiscal 2007 budget in December 2006.

Team pushing ahead on mixed-use ballpark plan
Posted Feb. 2, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The developer working with the independent American Association on a mixed-use development that includes a new ballpark says it will drop all options for a downtown Dallas facility and will instead work with surrounding communities on the project. Transwestern's Urban Advisory Group, working since June 2006 to assemble the site, doesn't sound confident of having something in place by the 2008 season; the mixed-use development was slated to have retail space, the ballpark and 1,400 apartments on 20 acres of land.
    RELATED STORIES: Ownership group revises Dallas ballpark plans; Homeless center plan may doom proposed Dallas ballpark

Governor boosts ballpark funding formula
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In a complicated deal like the one envisioned by MLB, Miami-Dade County and the city of Miami to finance a new ballpark for the Florida Marlins, the devil is in the details -- as this inaccurately upbeat article on progress shows. First, none of the three main players have stepped up to increase their contributions to the ballpark project; all they've done is work to identify other funding sources. Touted in this article is the potential of including Community Redevelopment Authority money, but CRA board members have been adamantly on the record as opposing any such support. Gov. Charlie Crist has expressed general interest in state funding for a ballpark (indeed, despite the headline and the breathless tone of the "scoop," Crist already expressed support for the project last month), but the real power is with the Florida Legislature -- and it remains to be seen whether the projected $2 million yearly payment toward a ballpark is viable. (Two issues: whether the Marlins would qualify for a second bite at the apple -- Dolphin Stadium already receives funds targeted for the baseball team -- and whether expanding it would leave the door open for other sports franchises, like the NBA's Orlando Magic, to request the funds.) And it's doubtful whether a new retractable-roof ballpark would come in at $420 million, a number the Marlins have used for several years now. So the devil is truly in the details, and a lot of things need to happen before any ground is overturned in downtown Miami for a new ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Vancouver Canadians sold
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
For a reported $7 million, Fred Herrmann has sold the Vancouver Canadians (short season; Northwest League) to Vancouver business leaders and baseball fanatics Jake Kerr, managing partner of Lignum Forest Products LLP, and Jeff Moody, executive chairman of A&W Food Services Canada. The two men have formed the Vancouver Professional Baseball Partnership to manage the team and operate venerable Nat Bailey Stadium. With a long-term renewable lease from the park board and pending approval from Major League Baseball, Kerr and Moody have made plans to spruce up the old place and continue the summer tradition of pro-ball at the Nat. The group plans to make the Nat Bailey Stadium exterior look like it did when it opened, with flags, graphics and baseball art. A baseball museum will be set up to display memorabilia. There will be more barbecue space, additional parking, an improved children's play area, a renovated concourse and enhanced food offerings.

Snag in talks delays hearing on project
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A snag in negotiations over Ballpark Village, the proposed development next to Busch Stadium, the home of the St. Louis Cardinals, forced a City Hall hearing to be canceled on Wednesday, a move that threatens to delay the project for more than two months. The mayor's office attributed the holdup to haggling over legal language. A key alderman said the delay came from significant changes sought by the developer. Neither city officials nor members of the Cardinals' development partner would say what, exactly, was being discussed. Five bills regarding Ballpark Village were submitted Friday to the Board of Aldermen. The measures are aimed at helping the Cardinals and their development partner, Baltimore-based Cordish Co., get more than $115 million in public subsidies for the $387 million first phase of the project. Plans for Ballpark Village include six blocks of stores, condos and restaurants on the land next to the new Busch Stadium, the same spot where the old ballpark once stood. The Cardinals own the real estate and have teamed up with Cordish, a firm that has built urban entertainment districts around the country.

New for 2007: PNC Field
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lackawanna County Stadium, the home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League), has a new name: PNC Field. The Pittsburgh-based financial services firm is paying $1.1 million for a three-year naming-rights contract. New signage will be in place when the Yankees open their season in April. It's an amazing turnaround for a franchise that many had written off for dead just a year ago: with a new parent, new management team, new naming-rights revenue and ballpark renovations in the works, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre may be one of the new hotspots in minor-league baseball this coming season.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

Renovation work on Pirate City begins
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Demolition work has started on the dormitories at the Pittsburgh Pirates' minor-league spring complex in Bradenton, where a new housing unit is to be built by February 2008. The dormitories and offices needed to be razed after a mold problem that forced the building to be closed in May 2005. The new, three-story building will include offices and 82 housing units, 10 more than in the old complex. With the state of Florida contributing $15 million to the project, the Pirates will get new housing for their minor league players, an additional practice field, a renovated and expanded clubhouse, an expanded parking lot and new fencing. The project also includes an upgrading at McKechnie Field, the Pirates' spring-training ballpark that is located about four miles from the minor-league complex.
    RELATED STORIES: 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, Pirates team up to seek better facilities

Springdale ballpark construction budget approved
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The new Springdale ballpark for the relocated Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) will carry a strong bench when construction starts, with a reserve of $2.8 million. The City Council, in a special meeting Wednesday, approved a construction budget for the baseball stadium that leaves $2.8 million in reserve. The budget calls for construction expenses of $48.09 million and available funds of $50.935 million. The city expected to have slightly less than $50 million available for construction, said Mayor Jerre Van Hoose. The extra funds came from two sources. The bonds sold to raise money for the project received premium prices and the city deposited the bond money and drew better-than-expected rates on certificates of deposit. Allowing for the time when the funds will be needed, projections call for the bond money to draw $1.5 million in interest.
    RELATED STORIES: Springdale City Council approves ballpark design; Springdale commission approves new ballpark; Wranglers GM has new challenges; City hires consultant to assist on Lawrence-Dumont lease; Wranglers owner says team was Wichita's third baseball option; Council looks at ballpark design; Commissioners begin planning improvements around ballpark site; Wranglers' move big hit with Royals owner Glass; League approval slow but expected for move of Wranglers; Springdale approves Wranglers lease; Texas League executives scrutinize proposed Springdale lease; Springdale officials present Wranglers lease to public; Rich Baseball, Springdale reach agreement on move of Wranglers; City told only voters decide ballpark's user; Springdale aldermen to hear United League pitch for ballpark; What's new in Wichita?; Wranglers president says move is nearly official; Wranglers agreement down to one item; City negotiating terms with Wranglers; Springdale awaits word on getting Wichita's team; Wichita expects to negotiate for Wranglers; Wranglers to move in 2008; Ruffin's name comes up as buyer for Wranglers; Chamber, firm hiding the ball on Springdale team talks; Consultant leads Springdale ball team negotiations; Wichita business leaders discuss how to keep Wranglers; Kayser: Wranglers would take Texas League with them; Wranglers' dugout can be the pits; Official: Don’t expect Springdale team name soon; City may get a chance to counter Wrangler offer; Wichita pitching to keep team; Team declaration a waiting game in Springdale; Springdale vote certification put on hold; City officials: Lawrence-Dumont can compete with new ballparks; Wichita awaits sign from Wranglers owner; Interest in Springdale ballpark spreading; Who could step up to the plate to keep pro baseball in Wichita?; Springdale voters narrowly approve ballpark funding; Why don't Wichitans turn out for Wranglers?; Wichita may accelerate improvements to Lawrence-Dumont Stadium; Pastor supports ballpark minus alcohol presence; City caught by surprise on possible Wranglers move; Arkansas town woos Wranglers; Sponsors of Springdale ballpark sure of need; New ballpark to be boon for Springdale, city officials say; Springdale Chamber pushes for support for ballpark; Election Commission finalizes details for Springdale ballpark vote; Springdale ballpark details still under construction; Chamber wants July 11 election on Springdale ballpark tax; If Springdale ballpark built team will follow, planners are told; Royals’ farm club seeks home?; Mayor’s idea: Extend bond, gain baseball; Bond underwriters to study Springdale ballpark funding options; Turn-back funds to go for Springdale ballpark; Springdale ballpark site under contract; Springdale: Chamber fielding baseball inquiries; Texas League boss dispels baseball chatter; Public money may be needed to build Springdale ballpark; Springdale: Sports park feasible, study claims

Rowan County won't partner with sports complex
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The City of Kannapolis and the Kannapolis Intimidators (Low Class A; Sally League) are looking at a multimillion-dollar sports complex at Fieldcrest Cannon Stadium. But Rowan County, which owns a majority of the ballpark, will not go along with the plans.
    RELATED STORIES: Sport complex at Kannapolis ballpark in the works

Outdated Yankee Stadium should be history
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Another screed against Yankee Stadium. We're fairly hardcore when it comes to ballpark preservation, but we couldn't muster up enough indignation to oppose the demolition of Yankee Stadium and the construction of a new one across the way. Why? Because the current Yankee Stadium really isn't the same as the original Yankee Stadium; that one died in the 1970s. The best things about the current Yankee Stadium are the memories and the fans, and both presumably will be in abundance when the new Yankee Stadium opens.
    RELATED STORIES: MLB, Yankees officially announce 2008 All-Star Game plans; It's official: Yanks to host '08 All-Star game

Putting the squeeze on college baseball
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A columnist for a Honolulu newspaper complains about the college season starting later next season -- practices will begin February 1, to be exact -- as a way to level the playing field for northern colleges. It will compress the college-baseball season: the new rule will force schools to cram their 56-game regular season into a tighter time frame. Instead of 16 weeks over which to spread the 56 games, next year will mean jamming them into 12. That's still not the greatest solution, but this is a situation where there weren't any great solutions: staying with the status quo would have continued hurting northern schools (giving an incredible recruiting advantage to warm-weather schools), and extending the season into June would cost too much money.

USC delays ballpark building start to June
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
University of South Carolina baseball coach Ray Tanner still expects to open next season at the team’s new ballpark, even though groundbreaking has been delayed until this summer. The pre-construction phase of the project, estimated at $24 million, has taken longer than expected. Bids go out today for demolition of buildings on the property, the area at the intersection of Blossom and Williams street. That means the construction of the yet-to-be-named facility will not start until June or July, according to Tanner. But USC officials have maintained that once groundbreaking takes place, the ballpark can be finished in time for the Gamecocks to play there in February 2008.
    RELATED STORIES: USC riverfront ballpark clears hurdle, could open in 2008

Lynx to honor highlights in team history
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This is the last season for the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League), as the franchise is moving next season to Allentown, Pa. The team is doing a survey of fans to select the highlights of the previous 14 seasons of baseball. As future Lynx players shake off an off-season’s worth of rust, Lynx staff will pore over the entries and pick the best, the funniest, the most heartfelt memories to be featured in the 2007 edition of Grand Slam Magazine, the Lynx program and yearbook. Check out the team's Web site for more information.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Feb. 1, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Binghamton Mets (Class AA; Eastern League) have filled out their full-time employee roster with a pair of new faces: Video Production Director Eric Long and Events Coordinator Heith Tracy-Bronson. The installation of a video scoreboard for the 2007 season necessitated the addition of an accomplished and talented expert in the field that the team discovered in Long. Prior to joining the B-Mets, this Pennsylvania State University graduate with a degree in film worked for the Reading Royals (ECHL) and the Lancaster Barnstormers (independent; Atlantic League). To complete his academic requirements for a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Ithaca College, Tracy-Bronson fulfilled an internship with the ballclub throughout 2006. A lifelong resident of Broome County, this 27-year-old Whitney Point High School alumnus and Binghamton resident will help in the team’s focus on enhanced atmosphere of fun at the ballpark through sponsorships, group sales and promotions....Broadcasters Tom Hamilton and Mike Hegan have signed contract extensions with the Indians Radio Network. Hamilton, entering his 18th season with the Indians, signed a five-year extension to do games through the 2011 season....

CRA board members: Look somewhere else for ballpark funds
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A plan to use community redevelopment funds to help pay for a downtown Miami ballpark for the Florida Marlins has already hit a snag: A majority of members of the Miami Community Redevelopment Agency said they would not support using agency money to close a funding gap for the project on nine acres downtown. Officials from MLB, Miami-Dade County and the city of Miami have been working to close a funding gap between existing revenue sources and the cost of a retractable-roof ballpark. Using CRA money was a plan thrown out by county and city officials -- apparently without consultation with agency officials. There's still a good chance some sort of state funding will come through (Gov. Charlie Crist has already spoken generally in favor of state aid), so the project is certainly not doomed.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Ivy Walls, Ripken Baseball among four bidders for Harrisburg Senators
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Two established minor-league operators, Ivy Walls Management and Ripken Baseball, were among the four bidders for the Harrisburg Senators (Class AA; Eastern League). City officials aren't releasing the names of the other two bidders, citing confidentiality requirements. From what we've heard the bids did not approach the city's asking price of $16 million -- a number apparently plucked from the air by Mayor Stephen R. Reed because the city still owes $6.7 million on the franchise and has a citywide budget gap of 7.2 million. The team's current home, Commerce Bank Park, is actually seen as a liability by many financial observers, comments from the bidders not withstanding. Ivy Walls owns the Lexington Legends (Low Class A; Sally League) and the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League); Ripken Baseball owns the Aberdeen IronBirds (short season; NY-Penn League) and the Augusta GreenJackets (Low Class A; Sally League).
    RELATED STORIES: Reed: Interest in Senators' sale is on rise; Harrisburg to sell Senators

Royals' training-system proposal upsets county
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Kansas City Royals want to install a state-of-the-art video training center at Kauffman Stadium -- complete with new control room, hardware and software -- at a cost of $900,000. The catch: The team expects taxpayers to foot the bill as part of the $250-million overhaul of Kauffman Stadium. Jackson County officials say they don’t begrudge the Royals getting better, but some of them question paying for the system with voter-approved bonds. County Executive Mike Sanders said he "absolutely" questions public funds going for the project because it does not directly benefit fans. Sanders has asked county attorneys to review whether the lease with the Royals requires paying for the video and computer project with bonds.

Lookouts home due a new name
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
BellSouth Park, the home of the Chattanooga Lookouts (Class AA; Southern League) since 2000, could be renamed AT&T Field or AT&T Stadium within a couple of weeks. "All indications are that it will be AT&T something," Lookouts owner Frank Burke said Tuesday. Since cups, pocket schedules and tickets for the 2007 season must be produced soon, Burke is eager to learn the new name. Burke said the schedules and tickets have a relatively quick turnaround, but ordering cups requires an eight-week lead time. The renaming of Bell-South Park became likely last summer when BellSouth shareholders overwhelmingly approved a buyout by AT&T.

RCN rips IronPigs' TV deal
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Cable provider RCN issued a statement Tuesday criticizing the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League) and Service Electric for their exclusive agreement to broadcast all of the team's home games. The company called the team's 10-year deal with Service Electric, the only other cable company that serves the Lehigh Valley, exclusionary and a disturbing precedent. The agreement will create the IronPigs Television Network. Starting opening day in April 2008, the network will broadcast live all 72 home games of the Philadelphia Phillies' top minor league affiliate. The games will reach nearly 1 million subscribers on Service Electric TV2 and three other networks.
    RELATED STORIES: IronPigs announce landmark TV deal

MLB, Yankees officially announce 2008 All-Star Game plans
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Major League Baseball, the City of New York and the New York Yankees jointly announced on Wednesday that the 2008 major league All-Star game would emanate from Yankee Stadium in 2008. New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and baseball commissioner Bud Selig made the announcement at City Hall. This AP dispatch is a tad off in the details: many in the baseball-history world do not consider the current Yankee Stadium to be the original Yankee Stadium, which opened in 1923 -- the mid-1970s renovation made extensive changes that removed most of the original facility.
    RELATED STORIES: It's official: Yanks to host '08 All-Star game

Pro baseball returning to Montreal?
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We're written before on attempts by the independent Can-Am Association to bring professional baseball back to Montreal, and here's an update. Robert Poirier says he is moving forward with the construction of a 5,000-seat ballpark, with luxury boxes, in suburban Boisbriand, a town conveniently located along the Laurentian Autoroute. He plans on calling the team the Montreal Royals -- which is more than a tad sacrilegious to us, considering the noble history of the original International League Montreal Royals -- and play could begin as early as next season. A suitable facility has prevented minor-league ball from returning: Olympic Stadium is too expensive and Jarry Park isn't usable for baseball.

Stars in hard hats
Posted Jan. 31, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's a look at the roster of construction workers currently plying their trades at the new Washington Nationals ballpark. Most of them are veterans of ballpark construction, with experience that includes Jacobs Field, Comerica Park and University of Phoenix Stadium. It's interesting to see many of the construction workers are sports fans; one can't help but note the economics of the game -- partially fueled by expensive ballparks -- make it increasingly difficult for fans like these to afford more than a game or two each season.
    RELATED STORIES: Nats ballpark cost tops cap, council members say; Nats owners to pay $20 million for ballpark upgrades; With new Nats ballpark, name of the game is money; D.C. Council approves ballpark parking garages; The D.C. ballpark parking debate; Severe penalties await city if parking garages aren't provided, Gandhi warns; Ballpark garages proposal rejected; Fenty promotes aboveground parking to end fight over new Nats ballpark; New Nats ballpark construction on schedule for 2008 opening; Cropp pushes for decision on parking at DC ballpark; Mayor proposes lifting cap for DC ballpark parking; DC ballpark to be first LEED-certified ballpark in country; Legislation would revive condo and garage development at new DC ballpark; New focus at D.C. ballpark: parking; D.C. parking issue threatens budget; Development plan near new Nats ballpark falls flat; Garage plan at new D.C. ballpark at risk

Storm cited as local business of the year
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Local businesses were recently recognized for their economic and charitable contributions in 2006 at the 58th Annual Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce Installation Dinner and Awards Ceremony. The Lake Elsinore Storm (High Class A; California League) took home top honors as they were named the 2006 Large Business of the Year, edging out their neighboring competitors including Lowe’s, Costco, and Wells Fargo Bank. "We’re proud to be recognized for our efforts and accomplishments during the past year, but this award is also an inspiration to exceed expectations in 2007. Our goal is always to be among the best run organizations not only in Minor League Baseball, but in the community as well," said Storm General Manager Chris Jones.

Ownership group revises Dallas ballpark plans
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Apparently plans for a downtown Dallas ballpark aren't quite dead, as Scott Berry of Southern Independent Baseball continues to work on city funding of the project, which would house an independent American Association team. (Or an independent United League Baseball team; though this article concerns the American Association, we're guessing ULB will be a player in the process before all is said and done.) Still, there doesn't seem to be a lot of meat on those plans yet -- and we're assuming once a formal plan is in place funding issues will pop up.
    RELATED STORIES: Homeless center plan may doom proposed Dallas ballpark

Tigers, Mud Hens extend PDC through 2010
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The Detroit Tigers announced today the club has extended its working agreement with the Toledo Mud Hens (Class AAA; International League) for two years, extending the agreement through the 2010 season. "We are thrilled and delighted to be entering into this agreement to extend our affiliation an additional two years,” Tigers Director, Minor League Operations Dan Lunetta said. “The Mud Hens represent everything a major league organization looks for in an affiliate relationship and this is and has been a perfect fit for each other for many years and hopefully for many more years to come. Toledo is an integral part of our developmental process and the fan support we have received has certainly played a role in the success of our back-to-back championships."

Fort Wayne ballpark just a start in renewal endeavor
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The argument here is that a new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League) is the start in an urban renewal process. Now, ballparks don't always drive a lot of economic revival in a downtown, and even when they do there can be multiple years between the opening of a ballpark and any economic activity. But ballparks certainly have worked well in other downtown markets when it comes to economic development -- Dayton, Memphis -- and the feeling here is that a ballpark is the first step in a longer process.
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EKU unveils plans for new campus ballpark
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Eastern Kentucky University announced plans to construct a new $2 million ballpark. The new ballpark will be located at the current home of the Colonels, adjacent to Alumni Coliseum. The name of this pristine park is still to be determined; however, the playing surface will remain Turkey Hughes Field. The new facility will feature chairback seating, bleachers and two patio areas. A refurbished field, netted back stop and new outfield fence will also add to the modern feel. Although lighting is not included in the original renderings, it will be considered with appropriate financial support.

Sam Houston ballpark to be named after Don Sanders
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Houston entrepreneur and philanthropist Don Sanders has donated $1 million to establish an endowment fund to enhance the baseball program at Sam Houston State University, Sanders's alma mater. The university recently received word that the Texas State University System Board of Regents had approved the naming of SHSU's one-year-old ballpark in honor of Sanders. Sanders is founder and chairman of the investment firm Sanders Morris Harris. He is a former owner of the Houston Sports Association and the Houston Astros Baseball Club and currently, along with Nolan Ryan, is co-owner of Ryan-Sanders Baseball. Ryan-Sanders Baseball owns the Round Rock Express (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and the Corpus Christi Hooks (Class AA; Texas League).

UK looking at new ballpark
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The best season in the 102-year history of Kentucky baseball has been followed with a refurbished Cliff Hagan Stadium. A video scoreboard and right-field deck are among the improvements for a team that won a school-record 44 games last year, along with a share of the Wildcats' first Southeastern Conference regular-season title. However, renovation may be just a temporary fix for a capacity- and parking-pinched home. Speaking at the team media day yesterday, Coach John Cohen confirmed speculation that a new ballpark is being seriously considered for one of three sites on Alumni Drive, to be completed within two years.

City balances CWS beer, neighbors' good cheer
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Anyone who has attended the College World Series knows that the party doesn't stay inside the gates of Omaha's Rosenblatt Stadium. Streets lined with tailgaters, merchandise tents, beer gardens and other businesses help create a festival atmosphere outside the ballpark. Alcohol is not allowed inside Rosenblatt Stadium during the CWS. What's fun for college baseball fans isn't always fun for residents who live in the area, some of whom have complained about noise, litter, traffic and revelers urinating in their yards. Two members of the Omaha City Council are now searching for ways to lessen the negative impact of the tournament on homeowners, and they hope to unveil a plan in several weeks.

Tennessee announces upgrades to Lindsay Nelson Stadium
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The University of Tennessee Athletic Department announced plans for improvements to Lindsey Nelson Stadium. With the addition of a lead contribution from Robert M. Lindsay, a long time supporter of Tennessee athletics, the UT administration is able to move forward with plans to upgrade the 14-year-old ballpark. Construction on the facility will be completed in two phases. Phase I, which will begin in June once the baseball season is complete, will include a new clubhouse, locker room, weight room, batting cages, coaches offices and additional seating down the first-base line. Phase I will be completed prior to the 2008 baseball season. Phase II, upon funding approval, will include resurfacing the playing field, a new press box with elevator and additional permanent stands down the third-base line.

In memoriam: Bing Devine
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Bing Devine, who transformed the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets into World Series champions in the 1960s in a career spanning seven decades as a baseball executive, died Saturday in St. Louis. He was 90.  Devine played only a few games in professional baseball -- as a second baseman in the low minors -- but he became a highly successful judge of talent in the major leagues. In his first stint as the Cardinals' general manager, Devine shaped their World Series champion teams of 1964 and ’67, and the ’68 National League winners. He also created the foundation for the Mets' stunning championship season of 1969.

In memoriam: Art Fowler
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Art Fowler, who became George Steinbrenner’s sixth, ninth, 17th and 26th Yankees pitching coach in a turbulent baseball pairing with his often hired and fired manager and drinking buddy Billy Martin, died Monday  in Spartanburg, S.C. He was 84. Fowler, a native of Converse, S.C., made his major-league pitching debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 1954 and also pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Angels, appearing often in relief. He had a career record of 54-51. He was also pitching coach for Martin during his tenure with the Minnesota Twins and Detroit Tigers.

Ballpark Notes
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Grant Dorn has been promoted to pitching coach for the Washington Wild Things (independent; Frontier League) coaching staff in 2007. Dorn was a member of the coaching staff during the 2006 season as first base and infield coach. Dorn pitched for the Wild Things in 2004 when he went 4-5 in 79 innings pitched, allowing 89 hits, and striking out 74 with a 4.52 ERA....The Corvallis Knights (summer collegiate; West Coast Collegiate) announced that all home games and most road games for the 2007 season will be broadcast on KTHH (990 AM), with Oregon State athletic broadcaster Mike Parker handling the play-by-play....Jim Bowie returns as hitting coach for his third consecutive season with the Fresno Grizzlies (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League). Former Giants pitcher Mike Caldwell will become the team's pitching coach and Jim Simmons will take over as the athletic trainer.

Rangers might build bunker suites
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The Texas Rangers are considering building five bunker suites that wrap behind home plate at Ameriquest Field. Also under consideration is the introduction of a new ultra-premium ticket package that would contain 16 field-level seats. The Rangers hired marketing consultant PC Sports and sports architect HKS, the Dallas-based firm that helped design the Arlington ballpark, to study the issue and determine the investment and revenue return, said Rick McLaughlin, Rangers executive vice president of business operations. If they give the Rangers the thumbs-up, construction would span the next two off-seasons and be completed for the 2009 season. There's currently one bunker suite built for George W. Bush when his ownership group controlled the team (Tom Hicks currently uses it). The new bunkers would be twice the size of the original 500-square-foot unit, McLaughlin said.

New museum part of Winston-Salem ballpark?
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There's now talk of making a Carolina League Hall of Fame museum part of a new ballpark for the Winston-Salem Warthogs (High Class A; Carolina League). The ballpark project being pushed by Mayor Allen Joines and developer Billy Prim would anchor a $189 million residential and commercial development. Inserting a museum into the project would certainly raise the project's popularity, and it could lead to a nice little baseball-museum trail in North Carolina: there's already a North Carolina baseball museum in Wilson, and MiLB officials are talking about a minor-league museum in Durham Athletic Park. The Winston-Salem franchise is the only one in the Carolina League that has been with the league since its inception in 1945.
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Draft environmental review for Twins ballpark unveiled
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A draft environmental review of the new Twins ballpark contains details about everything from jammed intersections to bad odors. The large scale of the ballpark project requires Hennepin County to create an environmental impact statement (EIS) that evaluates the project’s prospective impact on the neighborhood and suggests how to mitigate that impact. The study encompasses air quality, traffic congestion, site contamination, lighting, noise and construction-related impacts. The biggest issue for many Minnesotans: the ballpark will be located next to a rather large garbage burner, and the assumption is that bad smells from the facility will waft into the ballpark. The study found some evidence of odors, but the conclusion is that they are barely detectable. The new ballpark is apparently helping the Twins sell some tickets this season as well.
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IronPigs announce landmark TV deal
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The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League) and Service Electric Cable TV, Inc. (SECTV) have officially announced an agreement to televise all IronPigs home games on a four-station network starting in 2008. In addition to the games airing on SECTV TV2, the telecasts will also be carried live on Service Electric Cablevision, Blue Ridge Cable and WYLN35. It is believed the IronPigs will become the first minor-league baseball team ever to have its entire 72-game home schedule televised. "We are extremely excited about this partnership -- not only for the IronPigs and Service Electric, but for our fans and sponsors," said IronPigs General Manager Kurt Landes. "We want to offer our community and fans as many Major League amenities as possible. To offer a service like this allows for everyone to follow the IronPigs closely regardless of how many times they can make it to the ballpark." The deal also provides for SECTV to be the team’s Official Communications Provider. The IronPigs will utilize SECTV for all phone, high-speed internet and cable television services inside the new ballpark.

LSU ballpark project pushed back
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The upcoming college baseball season might not be LSU’s last in the current Alex Box Stadium. Construction, scheduled to begin last fall, won’t start until at least late March because of delays to a design upgrade and to state bureaucracy, LSU officials said. The Tigers could open the 2008 season in the present Alex Box Stadium and move into the new Alex Box Stadium weeks later. The worst-case scenario: LSU would delay the move until the 2009 season if the logistics of switching venues in-season are too problematic for the university and for fans. Local architecture firm Grace & Hebert Architects is working on the design in conjunction with DLR Group.

Vero Beach mayor speculates on future of Dodgertown
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Vero Beach Mayor Tom White hints about other teams looking to relocate spring-training operations to Dodgertown after the Los Angeles Dodgers move spring operations to Arizona in 2009. That may be a little hard to believe: while there's a lot to like about Dodgertown (the practice fields and support facilities are very good) there's also a lot to dissuade teams from a move: Holman Stadium is in pretty bad shape and there's few of the amenities MLB teams and fans expect during spring training. He also hints at converting it to an NFL training camp.

Costs for new Travelers ballpark rising
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North Little Rock officials say the cost of building a new ballpark for the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League) has gone up by about $250,000. The Dickey-Stephens Park ballpark in North Little Rock will replace Ray Winder Field in Little Rock, the long-time home of the Travelers. Seats, the playing surface and scoreboard will be installed at the new park within the next month, and the ballpark is scheduled to open April 12. The park was estimated to cost $32,000,600. Revised figures, including the increase, are to be presented to the North Little Rock City Council this month.

Hotel holds the key to downtown plans
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There's a lot of sentiment against a new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League), but public officials say it's partly because most people do not understand the financing plan. This article lays out the financing plan: basically, there's the potential for a larger downtown redevelopment that includes a new downtown hotel, and increased tax revenues from the hotel will help pay off the bonds for a new ballpark. The hotel is a $120-million project, but it is tied somewhat to the new ballpark. Meanwhile, Allen County commissioners agreed Friday to work with Fort Wayne and Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne officials to study the use and costs of maintaining Memorial Stadium if a downtown ballpark is built.
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A very full home plate
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Now that the Staten Island Yankees (short season; NY-Penn League) are under new ownership (the New York Yankees) and management (Mandalay Sports), things appear to be changing, beginning with the 2007 ticket plans. One offers all-you-can-eat ballpark fare (hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, soda and water) for $15 per seat, per game. The package also includes regular season-ticket holder benefits, including tickets to the New York Yankees Old-Timers' game at the St. George stadium on July 8; an invitation to a VIP event and game at Yankee Stadium, and a free gift. And for devotees of all Yankees: Staten Island season-ticket holders and package buyers will have a chance to purchase regular season tickets to Bronx Bomber games the day before they go on sale to the general public.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Jan. 29, 2007 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lancaster Barnstormers (independent; Atlantic League) pitching coach Rick Wise will return for a third season and Glenn Murray will be the team’s new hitting coach, the team announced today. Wise and Murray will join manager Frank Klebe on the bench for the 2007 season. Wise, 61, is the only pitching coach in Barnstormers history. He played 18 seasons in Major League Baseball, becoming the only pitcher to throw a no-hitter and hit two home runs in a game, and he has spent the past 22 seasons as a coach. In 2006, his staff posted a league-best 75-51 record with a combined 4.15 ERA. Murray brings a wealth of Atlantic League experience to the coaching staff having played for the Nashua Pride from 1999-2005. He is the league’s career leader in home runs (158) and RBIs (528)....The Shreveport Sports (independent; American Association) field staff will have some familiar faces for the 2007 season. Bob Flori will return for his third season as the Sports manager. The Sports finished 54-39 last year under Flori and won the South Division first-half title. Shreveport then lost to league champion Fort Worth in the first round of the playoffs. Eddie Gerald will return as the hitting coach and first base coach for the 2007 season. This will be Gerald’s second season with the Sports. The newest member of the 2007 staff will be pitching coach Bert Snow. Snow, who has been a starting pitcher for the Sports the past two seasons will assume the dual role of pitcher and pitching coach for the Sports.