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Archives: July 16-22, 2006

Twins to switch broadcast partner after 46 seasons
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It's increasingly looking like the Minnesota Twins will sign a broadcast deal with KSTP-AM beginning with the 2007 season, terminating the team's 46-season association with CBS-owned WCCO-AM. The deal with KSTP reportedly calls for the locally owned station to pay the team $1 million annually in rights and almost all the proceeds from game-day advertising. Yes, it will be a loss leader for KSTP, but look for the station to boost its sports broadcasting (it recently dumped Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity in an attempt to move past a right-wing-talk identity). The Twins signed with WCCO-AM when Calvin Griffith moved the team from Washington, D.C.; at the time the clear-channel station was a broadcasting giant, and generations of Minnesotans grew up tuned to Boone and Erickson in the morning, Steve Cannon in the afternoon, Herb Carneal and Halsey Hall calling the Twins game action, and Franklin Hobbs lulling you to sleep after the final out. Even as WCCO's ratings diminished over the years, its emphasis on Twins broadcasts was a promotional plus for the team. But we're in a new era, one where the suits in New York City allow a broadcast giant to wither on the vine with bad (and cheap) programming decisions, and one where revenue from game broadcasts trumps the promotional value of being on the likes of a WCCO or a KMOX. On the plus side, KSTP-AM is still a locally owned station (Hubbard Broadcasting), which counts for something, and its signal can be heard throughout the entire metro region (letting the Twins avoid a St. Louis-like fiasco, where the team was forced to provide XM Radio units to fans after they discovered the new broadcast partner's signal extended a whopping 15 miles away from the new Busch Stadium) and as far west as Montana (we've tuned it in at Yellowstone Park). And, truth be known, Twins broadcasts and post-game discussions could use a little kick in the pants. The official announcement is expected Aug. 1.

Rainiers to be sold, but they’ll stay in Tacoma
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Tacoma Rainiers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) today announced that George and Sue Foster, the current owners of the franchise, have reached an agreement to sell the Rainiers to a group led by Kirby Schlegel, the current owner of two minor-league sports franchises. The sale is pending review of the transaction by the Pacific Coast League, Minor League Baseball and the Office of the Commissioner of Major League Baseball. Terms of the deal were not released. Schlegel owns the Texas Tornado (NAHL) and is vice chairman of the ownership group of the Iowa Stars (AHL). Schlegel is apparently promising to keep the Rainiers in Tacoma; the city is making some improvements to Cheney Stadium this coming offseason, but there are no plans for either a new ballpark or significant enhancements (i.e., suites) past that. Still, one issue for the team will be improving attendance: The team ranks 13th in the 16-team PCL with an average attendance of 4,488 per game. The league-wide average is 6,490. More from the Tacoma News Tribune.

Several key issues for spring training in Bonita Springs
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There's a lot of work to be done before Bonita Springs can begin to work on a concrete plan to build a new 80-acre, $50-million spring-training complex. First, the city would need to determine how it would be used the rest of the year: if a Cleveland or a Baltimore wished to bring in a High Class A Florida State League team, they'd need to negotiate with the Fort Myers Miracle ownership, who control the territory. (Though they don't have a veto, the other teams training in the Fort Myers area -- Boston and Minnesota -- will probably weigh in on the proposal, and the Twins front office sounds a little ambiguous about sharing the territory.) Even without a minor-league team, however, there probably would be enough events (youth and AAU baseball) to keep the complex busy. And then there's the timing: a plan and a lease with a team must be completed by Oct. 1 in order to apply for $15 million in state sales-tax rebates. All in all, it is a daunting task, but not undoable. More from the Charlotte Sun-Herald.
    RELATED STORIES: Bonita a 'perfect fit' for spring training; Spring-training queries abound; Bonita sets vote for spring-training pitch; Indians express interest; Ballpark figures in Sarasota; Bonita Springs council looking into luring spring training; Now the real hard part begins on new Reds ballpark; For new Reds ballpark, cash crisis on deck; Indians are likely headed for Disney; Reds swing and miss; Disney may open new world to Indians; New Reds' spring-training ballpark still $16M short; A big boost for spring training in Winter Haven; FAU proposal for $45 million spring-training camp runs into trouble; Bush signs bill funding spring-training complexes; Price for new Reds training facility: $54 million to $62 million; Osceola County wooing Indians; Could Indians end up training at Disney World?; Spring training ballpark, tourism compete for Sarasota bed tax revenue; Spring-training bill awaits Bush signature; Spring-training facilities bill passes Florida House; County money just part of Indians spring site's need; Goodyear's Cactus League radar is pointed directly at Dodgers; Polk County commits $23 million to sports facilities, including new Indians spring complex; Goodyear inviting Dodgers to move; Dodgers confirm contact from Glendale regarding Cactus League shift; Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida; Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Twins, Sox may get more seating for spring training
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Speaking of Boston and Minnesota: Lee County officials are looking at adding more seating to the teams' spring-training homes. At Hammond Stadium, the spring home of the Twins, the county is looking to add a berm down the right-field line for open seating, with a platform for standing-room-only patrons. At City of Palms Park, the spring home of the Red Sox, the county is looking at adding more seating in right field. The Red Sox hope to add perhaps as many as 500 seats to the 7,431-seat ballpark. The new seats would be built around the existing berm, and the berm may be extended around the right-field foul pole and beyond the fence, replacing the current visiting team bullpen.

Charlotte ballpark land swap seen as feasible
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A complicated land swap that could yield a privately financed new ballpark for the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) is seen as doable by land appraisers working on the deal. Basically, the city and Meckenburg County would swap parcels of land in the city's Third Ward and downtown Charlotte worth $28 million, with the Third Ward land being given to the Knights, who would then build a $34 million ballpark on their own. The city would also pay for $7.5 million in improvements to the ballpark area. Also coming out of the deal: two new city parks, a new headquarters for the city's school system, and new land for housing in the Second Ward. The Charlotte City Council is scheduled to discuss the plan Monday night. The Knights are seeking a new home to replace Knights Stadium.
    RELATED STORIES: Charlotte Knights select Barton Malow to oversee ballpark construction; Hard days for Knights; Knights see more fans, but lag league; Knights select Odell Associates, HOK to design new ballpark; Knights meet with potential architects; Competing plans for baseball parks in Charlotte; The big pitch for uptown baseball in Charlotte; Charlotte turns to funding plans for ballpark; Will Charlotte ballpark be magnet for growth?; Third Ward residents object to new Knights ballpark; Uptown baseball in Charlotte may cost city $5 million; Charlotte ballpark plan now turns to question of real estate; Arts package heads the agenda for city funding, but baseball is now up to bat with a new plan; Uptown ballpark plan has some rally-killers; Deal in works for uptown Charlotte ballpark

Fly balls, not flying cows, at scary Busch Stadium
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More on the storm that injured 30 at Busch Stadium on Wednesday night. Though it never came close to reaching tornado proportions, the storm featured some heavy winds that basically lifted and moved anything not bolted to the floor, as well as depositing a lot of sand and dirt from the site of the old Busch Stadium next door. Even a desk used on the Fox Sports pre- and post-game shows went airborne. The rain came down so fast the clubhouses were temporarily flooded a foot or so. Amazingly, more than 30,000 fans stayed in the ballpark to see a game that finally started 2 hours, 12 minutes late.
    RELATED STORIES: High winds damage new Busch Stadium, injure 30; Busch's league; New Busch Stadium brings promise to downtown St. Louis; Cardinals enjoy seeing full house for first time in new ballpark; New Busch Stadium: The name remains the same, but . . .; Cardinals pledge to iron out lingering problems at Busch; Small fire breaks out in new Busch Stadium; Arch-itecture; Not everyone raving about the new Busch; Busch foul poles will be replaced; Backward, march; New Busch Stadium has its own quirks; Fans revel in new Cardinals ballpark; Ready or not....; Ballpark Visit: Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals

Sportsplex could help solidify future of Diamond Jaxx
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) are hoping the addition of a youth-baseball sportsplex next to Pringles Park will help raise attendance. The West Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex is nearing completion, and with it comes a unique opportunity. The $13-million youth baseball and softball facility is expected to host local Dixie Youth games during the week and regional tournaments -- which supporters have said will draw 3,000 to 5,000 players and family members -- to weekend events. Possibilities include cross-promotion of and ticket sales to Jaxx games at Sportsplex events. The team is currently averaging a Southern League-worst 1,536 fans per game, and with the Pringles Park lease expiring after the 2008 season and the team applying to look at another market, traffic from the Sportsplex may determine if the Diamond Jaxx are playing in Jackson in 2009.

Host of problems at new-look RFK
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Tonight is the first of three games marking the grand re-opening of RFK Stadium, where the Washington Nationals are giving away some serious goodies and unveiling upgrades to the ballpark, including the addition of new food items (crab cakes, riblets, chili, kosher knishes, burritos, stuffed potatoes, beef brisket and microbrews). In-game promotions are added, and the team hopes a "racing presidents" segment can become as popular as the sausage race in Miller Park. Plus, the grimy old ballpark was given a good power wash. These are all great things, but the timing is lousy after MLB filed suit over the new ballpark, alleging DC officials are already violating the agreement. The announcement reflects the deteriorating relationship between the incoming owners of the Nationals and the city and could threaten the long-term health of the franchise. City officials scrambled yesterday to respond to the MLB complaint, but the impasse already has held up the sale of the Nationals to Bethesda developer Theodore N. Lerner, which was supposed to have occurred before today. The point to this column by Thomas Boswell is that the Nationals may be improving the ballpark, but the product on the field needs much improvement. More from the Washington Times. Steven Pearlstein says the Lerner family needs to call off the lawyers and attempt to work with the city on an amicable solution.
    RELATED STORIES: MLB: D.C. government in default of lease agreement; D.C. Council approves parking garage plan; Nats announce 'Grand Reopening' for old RFK; Environmental issues raise concerns on new Nats ballpark; D.C. mayor asks for ballpark plan approval; D.C. parking plan faces significant hurdles; Compromise reached on D.C. ballpark parking; Nats sale targeted for July finalization; D.C. mayor offers proposal to end ballpark parking controversy; Battle brews for control of D.C. ballpark project; Nationals firm on issue of above-ground parking; Hazmat removal at D.C. ballpark site up by $2.9M; Nats ready to pitch sponsorship deals for new ballpark; D.C. ballpark plan clears important hurdle, but concerns linger; D.C.'s Williams creates Office of Baseball; The Nationals' wish list; Nats owners want city to shift gears on parking; Lerner group plans RFK 'grand reopening'; Lerner receives initial approval to buy Nats; full approval expected today; Nats ballpark design up in the air; It's official: Lerner nabs Nats

Official: Don’t expect Springdale team name soon
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The leader of an effort to build a $50-million ballpark in Springdale, Ark., said Thursday he doesn’t expect a team to announce plans to move to Springdale anytime soon. Springdale voters approved the extension of a 1 percent sales tax last week to pay for a $50 million ballpark. Mayor Jerre Van Hoose and other leaders said then they expected to announce the team that would move there -- widely believed to be the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) -- by last Monday. Instead, information about the team and details on a lease agreement likely will trickle out until the Springdale City Council can review contract terms, said Perry Webb, president and chief executive officer of the Springdale Chamber of Commerce. Also, Wichita city officials and business leaders are working on plans to keep the Wranglers in Wichita; though Lawrence-Dumont Stadium needs some TLC, the bottom line is attendance must increase: the Wranglers are dead-last in the Texas League in attendance.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Damon's agent angry with baby bibs
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A Red Sox fan angry that Johnny Damon defected to the New York Yankees has fought off an attempt by his high-powered agent to stop her from selling baby bibs with a very grown-up insult. Tucked among the "I Love My Mommy" bibs and "Pregnant Princess" maternity clothes, Ann Sylvia also offers bibs and onesies adorned with the ballpark epithet "Damon Sucks." Last month, eBay pulled the listings after the Scott Boras Corp. complained that they violated Damon's right of publicity, a legal claim that allows celebrities to control the products they endorse. However, after a phone conference with a Boras attorney where Sylvia pointed out there are more Damons in baseball than just Johnny, the Boras team backed off and set some conditions for the bib sales, all of which Sylvia was already meeting.

Defenders attract a few more fans
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Just past the halfway mark of the season in which the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League) began a concentrated effort to get more fans to Dodd Stadium, the team has hit some roadblocks. The team has made substantial strides in marketing its new name and logo. Corporate marketing partners are happy with the progress made in the first few months as a new entity after years as the Norwich Navigators. The ballpark has had some refurbishments, including a new video scoreboard and an updated store and concession facilities. Still, the team has had only a minor bump in attendance from last year. It is still last in the Eastern League in attendance and its 2,573 average is 29th out of 30 Class AA teams in the country. Only the West Tennessee Diamond Jaxx (1,536) of the Southern League average fewer fans. By the way, it's official: the Defenders and the San Francisco Giants agreed to an extension of their player-development deal through the 2008 season.

A new grand jury impaneled for Bonds
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
While yesterday brought the possibility of some measure of resolution to the Barry Bonds steroids saga, either an indictment by a federal grand jury on charges of perjury and/or tax evasion, or absolution. Instead, it brought neither, and the likelihood is the saga will go on for many more months. The grand jury dissolved with no indictment, but a new one was impaneled. A key witness was released from the prison where he had been serving for refusing to testify, but was immediately served with a new subpoena.
    RELATED STORIES: Bonds plays through amid rumors of indictment

Lugnuts stress entertainment
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The 10-year anniversary is usually a key business landmark for a minor-league franchise: many say a team must go to extra measures to bring fans to the ballpark. For the Lansing Lugnuts (Low Class A; Midwest League), 10 years at Oldsmobile Park doesn't seem to be posing much of a problem. In fact, Oldsmobile Park and the Lugnuts should be an even bigger draw over the next 10 years. Restaurants and bars are being built down the road. Across the street, signs for the Stadium District stand in an eyesore of a parking lot that doesn't get much business. A four-story mixed use project is planned that will include apartments, condominiums, office space, a drive-through coffee shop and an Irish pub.

Foul ball victim sues Scrappers for $75K
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A woman who said she was seriously hurt when she was hit on the head by a foul ball at Eastwood Field in Niles two years ago is suing the Mahoning Valley Scrappers (short season; NY-Penn League) and unidentified Scrappers players, saying the team was negligent. Jane Warga of South Meridian Road said the ball hit her during a game as she was turned away from the field en route to a concession stand July 20, 2004. The suit, filed in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court, seeks more than $75,000 for pain, suffering, lost wages and compensatory damages.

Oneonta, Brooklyn set record for longest NY-Penn game
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It took 26 innings, but the Oneonta Tigers defeated the Brooklyn Cyclones, 6-1, at KeySpan Park. Deik Scram's one-out run-scoring single in the 26th put the Tigers in front and Randor Bierd pitched two scoreless innings to get the win in one of the longest games in the history of professional baseball. Mark Wright gave up all five runs in the 26th innings and was tagged with the loss; he's normally an outfielder pressed into duty as a pitcher when the Cyclones ran out of arms.

A front-row seat to history in the making
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League) are honoring Jackie Robinson and his shattering of the color line in baseball, and on hand will be Jean-Pierre Roy, who played ball with Robinson when both were with the Montreal Royals of the International League. Roy, who also worked in the Montreal Expos front office, will have a homecoming of sorts: he played three seasons for the Ottawa Athletics when that team played at Landsdowne Park. The Lynx will roll back the clock and wear replica jerseys and caps from the 1946 Royals, and the jerseys will be auctioned off in a silent auction before Sunday's game.

Lacrosse at PGE Park?
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
PGE Park, the home of the Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), already hosts professional soccer as well, so it makes sense it could also host another professional sport: outdoor lacrosse. The Portland LumberJax are one of the most successful teams in the indoor National Lacrosse League, and they are looking at adding an outdoor teams as well (which would not be affiliated with Major League Lacrosse). If several teams in the 13-team NLL add outdoor lacrosse, look for PGE Park to host games.

Ballpark Notes
Posted July 21, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
For the fourth straight year, Isotopes Park, the home of the Albuquerque Isotopes (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) will be the host for the Native American All-Star Baseball Game. This year's game, to be played July 22 at 7:00 p.m., pits a team from the combined Northern and Southern Pueblos against the Navajo All-Stars.  The game, which has become an anticipated annual Albuquerque tradition, is to benefit the New Mexico Highlands University Native American Scholar Athlete Program, which provides support and educational opportunities to Native American college athletes. As usual, the contest will feature some of the finest Native American baseball players from New Mexico and Arizona.

MLB: D.C. government in default of lease agreement
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Major League Baseball has declared the District of Columbia government in default of the lease agreement for the new Washington Nationals ballpark, charging that the city has failed to meet several deadlines for turning over critical documents. In a letter to city officials Tuesday, Tom Ostertag, a lawyer for MLB, said the city had failed to meet 11 provisions called for in the construction administration agreement between the District and MLB. To say this is a bombshell is an understatement: the incoming ownership group has worked to repair relations with city leaders and was using this weekend's homestand to promote the grand re-opening of RFK Stadium as the team's home. The threatened legal action could delay the closing on Ted Lerner's purchase of the team; it could also push back the opening of the new ballpark to the 2009 season. In more than one letter to the city, MLB's lawyers have charged that the city has been delinquent in turning over documents, including the lease of the grounds on which the ballpark will be built, proof that the city has title of the land, soil boring reports, fund balance reports for the project and monthly project schedules.
    RELATED STORIES: D.C. Council approves parking garage plan; Nats announce 'Grand Reopening' for old RFK; Environmental issues raise concerns on new Nats ballpark; D.C. mayor asks for ballpark plan approval; D.C. parking plan faces significant hurdles; Compromise reached on D.C. ballpark parking; Nats sale targeted for July finalization; D.C. mayor offers proposal to end ballpark parking controversy; Battle brews for control of D.C. ballpark project; Nationals firm on issue of above-ground parking; Hazmat removal at D.C. ballpark site up by $2.9M; Nats ready to pitch sponsorship deals for new ballpark; D.C. ballpark plan clears important hurdle, but concerns linger; D.C.'s Williams creates Office of Baseball; The Nationals' wish list; Nats owners want city to shift gears on parking; Lerner group plans RFK 'grand reopening'; Lerner receives initial approval to buy Nats; full approval expected today; Nats ballpark design up in the air; It's official: Lerner nabs Nats

High winds damage new Busch Stadium, injure 30
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Thirty people were injured as high wind blew out press box windows, overturned portable concession stands and ripped the tarp at new Busch Stadium on Wednesday night before the Cardinals' game against the Atlanta Braves was scheduled to start. Five fans were taken to hospitals, according to Norm Corley, a supervisor with Accu-Care, which handles medical issues at the ballpark. One of them had a dislocated hip, another a dislocated shoulder, two had back injuries and a fifth had a seizure apparently unrelated to the storm, Corley said. The start of the game was delayed 2 hours, 12 minutes as crews righted the concession stands, cleaned up debris and mopped flooded areas. More from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
    RELATED STORIES: Busch's league; New Busch Stadium brings promise to downtown St. Louis; Cardinals enjoy seeing full house for first time in new ballpark; New Busch Stadium: The name remains the same, but . . .; Cardinals pledge to iron out lingering problems at Busch; Small fire breaks out in new Busch Stadium; Arch-itecture; Not everyone raving about the new Busch; Busch foul poles will be replaced; Backward, march; New Busch Stadium has its own quirks; Fans revel in new Cardinals ballpark; Ready or not....; Ballpark Visit: Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals

Two groups pitch minor-league ballpark near Boston's BC High
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Two groups seeking to bring a minor-league baseball team to Boston are holding talks with Boston College High School in Dorchester about building a ballpark on or near its campus. The first group, which calls itself Boston Baseball Field of Dreams, wants to open a park in 2008, modeled after Hammons Field, the home of the Springfield Cardinals (Class AA; Texas League). The second group wants to build a stadium it can share with BC High and the University of Massachusetts at Boston, either on land from the high school or the adjacent university on Morrissey Boulevard. Some really big Boston names are involved here, so this isn't just a pie-in-the-sky proposal. Either way, a new ballpark would house independent baseball: the Can-Am Association and the Atlantic League are both involved with bids.

Bonita a 'perfect fit' for spring training
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Cleveland Indians and Baltimore Orioles are possible matches with Bonita Springs for spring training, according to David Cardwell, the Grapefruit League Association’s executive director. The Indians have an agreement with Winter Haven to walk away from their contract at any time, and the Orioles are currently in stalled negotiations with Fort Lauderdale, he told city officials, while there's a long shot the Tampa Bay Devil Rays would be looking to leave Fort Lauderdale. The Indians have most often been discussed in a potential move: their lease at Winter Haven's Chain of Lakes Park can be broken at any time, and Winter Haven officials have been open about wanting to see the team lead. It's interesting about the Orioles being mentioned: team officials there were hot to renovate Fort Lauderdale Stadium, but that talk totally ended, and even with $15 million in state aid available for a spring-training facility, things are fairly dead there. The Bonita Springs City Council voted 6-1 to explore the possibility of moving forward with construction of a $50-million spring-training facility, but the vote is strictly preliminary: no money is yet being spent, and the vote merely authorizes city employees to begin research.
    RELATED STORIES: Spring-training queries abound; Bonita sets vote for spring-training pitch; Indians express interest; Ballpark figures in Sarasota; Bonita Springs council looking into luring spring training; Now the real hard part begins on new Reds ballpark; For new Reds ballpark, cash crisis on deck; Indians are likely headed for Disney; Reds swing and miss; Disney may open new world to Indians; New Reds' spring-training ballpark still $16M short; A big boost for spring training in Winter Haven; FAU proposal for $45 million spring-training camp runs into trouble; Bush signs bill funding spring-training complexes; Price for new Reds training facility: $54 million to $62 million; Osceola County wooing Indians; Could Indians end up training at Disney World?; Spring training ballpark, tourism compete for Sarasota bed tax revenue; Spring-training bill awaits Bush signature; Spring-training facilities bill passes Florida House; County money just part of Indians spring site's need; Goodyear's Cactus League radar is pointed directly at Dodgers; Polk County commits $23 million to sports facilities, including new Indians spring complex; Goodyear inviting Dodgers to move; Dodgers confirm contact from Glendale regarding Cactus League shift; Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida; Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Sarasota finds help for spring-training funding
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
As city commissioners struggled with the idea of raising taxes to pay for a new spring-training complex for the Cincinnati Reds to replace Ed Smith Stadium, two local business groups offered to help raise private money to make the project work. Since they found out that the new complex could cost as much as $54 million, commissioners have said they are unwilling to ask city taxpayers to come up with more than $20 million of those costs. Help will come from The Argus Foundation and the Chamber of Commerce; county officials will also be asked to contribute to the project as well.

City may get a chance to counter Wrangler offer
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Wichita could have a chance to keep the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) team in town by matching or beating an expected contract offer from Springdale, Ark. Wranglers president Jonathan Dandes told Wichita officials that if Springdale, Ark., officials offer owner Bob Rich Jr. a contract to move the team to its city to play in a new $33 million ballpark, the Riches will give Wichita a chance to respond, perhaps with a plan to upgrade Lawrence-Dumont Stadium. Dandes also said Wichita could keep from losing the team if there's an increase in attendance, so the city has enlisted the sports commission and the Greater Wichita Convention and Visitors Bureau for help with that. Bob Lutz says it will take a lot, including some extensive renovations to Lawrence-Dumont Stadium, to keep the Wranglers in town.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Wichita pitching to keep team
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The lack of an announcement about a possible tenant for a new Springdale, Ark., ballpark has some local officials wondering if there is indeed a tenant. Right now no one is talking -- which isn't that unusual -- but city officials had expected the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) to step forward and announce they were exploring a move to Springdale. (The news isn't any better in Wichita, where local team officials have not stepped up to definitely say what the future of the team is, either.) None of this seems to be due to secret negotiations on one side or another, however. The new ballpark, which was narrowly approved by local voters last week, could open in time for the 2008 season.

New York City receives IRS approval on ballpark bonds
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service ruled in favor of New York City's plan to issue $1.5 billion of tax-exempt bonds for the New York Yankees and New York Mets to build new ballparks. The long-anticipated ruling follows the approval of the financing package by the New York City Industrial Development Agency July 11 and clears the way for the city to sell the debt next month. The Yankees will get about $920 million in low-interest tax-exempt bonds and $25 million in taxable bonds to build its new ballpark in the Bronx just north of the existing Yankee Stadium. The project will create about 9,700 construction jobs and 615 permanent jobs, according to the development agency. For the new Mets ballpark, the development authority will issue about $528 million in tax-exempt bonds and $104 million in taxable bonds. The new Mets ballpark, to be built in Flushing, Queens, just beyond the centerfield fence at Shea Stadium where the Mets now play, will create about 6,100 construction jobs and 970 permanent jobs, the agency said.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

MTA's $8M targets Shea fixes
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority is stepping up to the plate for the New York Mets, offering to spend $8 million on subway and commuter rail enhancements to Shea Stadium. In addition to the $8 million, the MTA pledges that the Mets will be treated as equals to their crosstown rivals. In April, the MTA committed to shelling out $40 million on a Metro-North station at Yankee Stadium. "A similar level of commitment is anticipated for access improvements for Shea Stadium and the surrounding area," according to an internal MTA summary outlining the proposed Shea Stadium access enhancements.

USC ballpark off to rocky start
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The University of South Carolina still plans to begin construction on its riverfront ballpark in the fall. But university leaders might need to use smaller shovels at the groundbreaking ceremony. Officials were forced to tweak the design of the $20-million ballpark along the east bank of the Congaree River after finding granite not far below the surface of the proposed eight-acre footprint at Williams and Wheat streets. Designers had hoped to carve out the playing surface 12 to 14 feet below the elevation at the corner of Williams and Wheat streets, which will serve as the entrance to the stadium. Officials considered blasting and removing the granite but determined it would be too costly. Instead, the field will be built at a higher elevation, eliminating the possibility for berm seating beyond the left-field fence. Opening is still expected for the 2008 season.

Officials: tainted soil no threat to Allentown ballpark
Posted July 20, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The discovery of contaminated soil at Allentown's future minor-league ballpark site shouldn't hamper the project's timeline, officials said. Old vacuum tubes and other electronic components containing heavy metals were found in a section of the property outside the proposed limits of the ballfield, in an area that will remain undeveloped, said Glenn Solt, Lehigh County's capital projects manager. The area may become a parking lot at some point. Work has begun on a ballpark slated to host an as-yet-unspecified Class AAA International League team beginning in 2008.
    RELATED STORIES: Adding a baseball stadium tax? Thanks for asking, but no; Allentown mayor balks at plan to ban baseball ticket tax; Ballpark Preview: Allentown / Lehigh Valley; Instincts have made Finley a major dealer in the minors; Allentown ballpark plans moving forward; Allentown baseball plans, team announced

Spring-training queries abound
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If there's one thing to be gleaned from this article, it's the somewhat important news that the Cleveland Indians will indeed be spending Spring Training 2007 at Winter Haven's Chain of Lakes Park: the real question is where the Indians train starting in 2008. Bonita Springs? Cape Coral? Disney World? Winter Haven? All is up in the air at the moment. Bonita Springs officials, meanwhile, will decide whether to contemplate hosting spring training. The cost -- $50 million for a complex -- and the land needs -- 80 acres -- are causing them some pause. Meanwhile, Sarasota officials are turning to the county to help out with funding for a new training site for the Cincinnati Reds.
    RELATED STORIES: Bonita sets vote for spring-training pitch; Indians express interest; Ballpark figures in Sarasota; Bonita Springs council looking into luring spring training; Now the real hard part begins on new Reds ballpark; For new Reds ballpark, cash crisis on deck; Indians are likely headed for Disney; Reds swing and miss; Disney may open new world to Indians; New Reds' spring-training ballpark still $16M short; A big boost for spring training in Winter Haven; FAU proposal for $45 million spring-training camp runs into trouble; Bush signs bill funding spring-training complexes; Price for new Reds training facility: $54 million to $62 million; Osceola County wooing Indians; Could Indians end up training at Disney World?; Spring training ballpark, tourism compete for Sarasota bed tax revenue; Spring-training bill awaits Bush signature; Spring-training facilities bill passes Florida House; County money just part of Indians spring site's need; Goodyear's Cactus League radar is pointed directly at Dodgers; Polk County commits $23 million to sports facilities, including new Indians spring complex; Goodyear inviting Dodgers to move; Dodgers confirm contact from Glendale regarding Cactus League shift; Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida; Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Team declaration a waiting game in Springdale
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Now that Springdale, Ark., voters approved $50 million in a tax extension to pay for a new ballpark, they're waiting for a team to step up and announce they're exploring a move. Speculation has centered on the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) as the team in question, but so far no one is talking, and the silence is already starting to rub locals the wrong way. Meanwhile, the Wichita City Council is scheduled tonight to discuss hiring an architecture firm to calculate cost estimates for improvements to Lawrence-Dumont Stadium, including expanded locker rooms and a new infield. George Arnold frames the new ballpark as a quality-of-life issue, not as a purely economic investment.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Sen. Conrad Burns, R-Mont., announced Monday that a $500,000 appropriation to help defray the cost of rebuilding Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League) will be included a federal spending bill. The proposed federal appropriation is included in the 2007 Treasury, Transportation and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill. If approved, the federal money would help offset the cost of rebuilding the aging downtown ballpark. (Of course, this assume Burns is reelected this fall, and he's tangled up in a tight race.) The Billings City Council will consider the issue of a bond issue to fund a new ballpark at next Monday's scheduled meeting.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Dowling cites vandalism as problem for visitors to New Britain Stadium
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
New Britain Rock Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) owner Bill Dowling says problems with vandalism in the parking lot of New Britain Stadium is keeping fans away from the ballpark. Fans apparently are having their cars keyed, and Dowling wants the city to do a better job patrolling the area. According to the team's lease, the city is responsible for all parking issues, and although Dowling has suggested the team take over that responsibility, the city says it will address the issue.

In memoriam: Keith LeClair
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Keith LeClair, East Carolina University's former baseball coach who inspired many while facing the crippling effects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), known as Lou Gehrig's disease, died Monday. He was 40. LeClair announced on Aug. 17, 2001 that he had began suffering from ALS symptoms, and by Christmas that year doctors officially diagnosed him with the disease. LeClair's health deteriorated quickly, forcing him in June 2002 to resign his position as head baseball coach to become a special consultant to ECU's athletic department. The new ballpark at ECU is named for him.

New Tulsa GM relishes role
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
New Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) general manager Mike Melega's predecessor, team president Chuck Lamson, broke into pro baseball as a pitcher. Melega's first pro baseball job wasn't quite as glamorous, interning with the Erie Sailors (short season; NY-Penn League). Now Melega is the new GM of the Drillers, taking on the role after Chuck Lamson closed on his purchase of the team. Tulsa is an extremely stable situation: Melega is only the third GM of the team since 1984.
    RELATED STORIES: Sale of Drillers finalized

One Monster of a success in Greenville
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The State continues its tour of ballparks in the region, this time visiting West End Field, the new home of the Greenville Drive (Low Class A; Sally League). Another nice article about a ballpark we were very impressed with when we visited earlier this season. The Drive staff has done an outstanding job integrating the ballpark into the neighborhood, and its contribution to the social life of Greenville can't be underestimated.
    RELATED STORIES: Fans flock to see downtown baseball in Greenville; Sox of the South; Leave, and they will build it; Baseball Web site gives West End Field top grade; A city getting it right

Goldklang Group to be featured on NBC Nightly News
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
he Goldklang Group, a sports marketing and consulting firm that owns and operates several minor league and independent baseball clubs, today announced that NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams will profile the Group in their "Making a Difference" segment on July 21.
    The Goldklang Group has long held the belief that giving back to the communities they work and live in should be one of the primary focuses of the clubs. NBC decided to profile the Goldklang Group after learning of the Group's policy under which each full time employee is expected to dedicate a minimum of 25 hours of service per year, with pay, to one or more worthy causes in his or her community. The choice is made by the individual, with guidance from management, and carried out at the discretion of the charitable organization or community group. The policy extends all the way down to the initial hiring process, when potential employees are educated on the importance of establishing and building the relationships the club has with local causes.
    The Goldklang Group owns the Charleston RiverDogs (Low Class A; Sally League), the Fort Myers Miracle (High Class A; Florida State), the St. Paul Saints (independent; American Association) and the Hudson Valley Renegades (short season; NY-Penn League).

Ballpark boxing will be back in Grand Rapids
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The West Michigan Whitecaps (Low Class A; Midwest League) brought boxing back to the ballpark, in this case a seven-fight card that ran almost five hours but came off without any major glitches Saturday night. Dennis Baxter, the Whitecaps co-owner who worked a year on the event, doesn't "see any reason why" more shows won't be held at the ballpark. There's a long tradition of boxing at the ballpark, mostly heavyweight matches held at Yankee Stadium and the Polo Grounds.

River City Rascals sold to private investment firm headed by Malliet
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Steve Malliet, the highly regarded former GM of the Joliet JackHammers (independent; Northern League), has surfaced as the buyer of the River City Rascals (independent; Frontier League). His group, PS and J Professional Baseball, is buying the team from the ownership group headed by Harold Burkemper. Other members of the ownership group include Timothy Hoeksema, currently president and CEO of Midwest Airlines of Milwaukee, and Fred Stratton, chairman of Briggs and Stratton of Milwaukee. The Rascals play at T.R. Hughes Ballpark in O'Fallon, Mo., a suburb of St. Louis. More from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Conseco to pitch in GBL All-Star Game
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The independent Golden Baseball League announced that Jose Canseco will make his GBL pitching debut on Tuesday, July 18th, during the league’s All-Star Game. Canseco will pitch a minimum of one inning during the game being held at Nettleton Stadium, home of the Chico Outlaws. Canseco has been added as an honorary member of the South Team, led by Terry Kennedy. After a slow start, including striking out 11 times in his first 13 at bats, Canseco's hitting has greatly improved over the last week. In the last five games with the Long Beach Armada, he has hit .333 with two home runs and seven RBI. We're in the midst of All-Star season: tonight the independent Northern League (in Kansas City, Kan.) and summer collegiate Coastal Plain League (in Fayetteville, N.C.) are holding their midsummer classics. We're seeing some pretty good attendance figures at All-Star Games this season: last week, for example, the independent United League Baseball had a sellout crowd of 6,000 on hand at Edinburg Baseball Stadium.

Minor deals in major area
Posted July 18, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Speaking of the Golden Baseball League: officials there say the league will be playing in the Bay Area beginning in the 2007 season, though they're not ready to announce a venue. The plan is to launch one team in 2007 -- probably in Santa Clara or Vacaville -- and then launch an East Bay team in 2008. The issue with the East Bay: the lack of a playing facility in Pleasanton, Livermore or Antioch. One quote here that has us puzzled: founder Dave Kaval says other leagues have adopted the GBL business model of centralized ownership and management, but we don't know of any other indy leagues current or planned that follow this model.

Bonita sets vote for spring-training pitch; Indians express interest
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In the never-ending Cleveland Indians spring-training saga, we have a new contender to host the team: Bonita Springs, as local officials will decide Wednesday if they wants to join the league of Florida cities hosting spring training. An affirmative vote Wednesday gets the ball rolling to find a location for the 80-acre, $50-million facility. The likely locations are east of Interstate 75 along Bonita Beach Road and Bonita Grande Drive. The Indians would join the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins as teams training in the greater Fort Myers area. Cleveland has been rumored to be looking at a move to Disney's Wide World of Sports, but apparently Disney didn't offer terms (or, more than likely, a schedule) to the Indians' liking. This article doesn't say when the Indians could move, but we're guessing it's a little too late to have a practice facility and ballpark ready for February 2007.
    RELATED STORIES: Ballpark figures in Sarasota; Bonita Springs council looking into luring spring training; Now the real hard part begins on new Reds ballpark; For new Reds ballpark, cash crisis on deck; Indians are likely headed for Disney; Reds swing and miss; Disney may open new world to Indians; New Reds' spring-training ballpark still $16M short; A big boost for spring training in Winter Haven; FAU proposal for $45 million spring-training camp runs into trouble; Bush signs bill funding spring-training complexes; Price for new Reds training facility: $54 million to $62 million; Osceola County wooing Indians; Could Indians end up training at Disney World?; Spring training ballpark, tourism compete for Sarasota bed tax revenue; Spring-training bill awaits Bush signature; Spring-training facilities bill passes Florida House; County money just part of Indians spring site's need; Goodyear's Cactus League radar is pointed directly at Dodgers; Polk County commits $23 million to sports facilities, including new Indians spring complex; Goodyear inviting Dodgers to move; Dodgers confirm contact from Glendale regarding Cactus League shift; Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida; Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Metal bats are an issue of life and death
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Each season a baseball player is either killed or crippled after an accident involving a metal bat. This season we've already seen 12-year-old Steven Domalewski struck by a line drive hit off a metal bat in a New Jersey Police League game, knocking him down and stopping his heart for a few minutes. He was revived on the field and taken to a hospital, where he was put in a medically induced coma, placed on a feeding tube and hooked to electrodes to stimulate his brain. He is still in a coma. Manufacturers say metal bats are no more dangerous than wood bats, but we all know that's a load of hooey: anyone who watches the college game knows the balls hit off metal bats are hit much harder than those hit off wooden bats in summer collegiate leagues -- in the hands of the same players. The final word in this article comes from  Scott Kvernum, whose son plays Legion ball in Montana. His son is a homer-hitting catcher, so he's a fan of metal bats -- but he admits he'd be leery of letting his kid pitch in a metal-bat league.

Ballpark Visit: Wade Stadium, Duluth Huskies
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We begin our updates of the ballparks of the Northwoods League with a visit to Wade Stadium, the home of the Duluth Huskies. The former home to original and independent Northwoods League teams, Wade Stadium has been around for decades and become an essential part of summer living in the Twin Ports. Sure, there's no exploding scoreboard and the seating isn't the greatest, but Wade Stadium represents everything great about a traditional ballpark: it's a beloved institution in a very traditional community.

Corporate boxholders waiting to see how new Columbus ballpark plays out
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Corporate owners of rooftop suites at Cooper Stadium say they're pleased the Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League) will be moving to a new ballpark in 2008, but need more information about the facility before deciding whether they'll continue to purchase the luxury boxes. The Clippers announced plans for the park in February, a project which Nationwide Realty Investors will guide and 360 Architecture will design. Plans for the appearance of the structure, seating capacity and ticket and parking prices have yet to be announced. Not surprising: with no model of the ballpark and no specifics about the suites, there's really nothing for current suiteholders to react to.
    RELATED STORIES: Clippers ballpark back on track; County picks 360 Architecture to design Clippers ballpark; Clippers ballpark sponsors balk at labor plan; Clippers' new home should have real baseball feel; Nationwide to oversee Clippers’ stadium construction

Birds consider minor adjustment
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We're seeing a lot of speculation about minor-league affiliations already for next season, but much of the talk is premature: teams technically can only be talking with existing affiliates about renewals, not seeking out new affiliate deals. (Philadelphia's announcement they probably will not return to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre is a special circumstance, as we'll see over time.) The speculation here is who the Baltimore Orioles would sign as a Class AAA affiliate should the Ottawa Lynx indeed move to Allentown and sign on as a Phillies farm team. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre would appear to be an obvious choice, but you can bet the Washington Nationals will be talking with the Red Barons front office. We can't see the New York Yankees dropping the Columbus Clippers: given George Steinbrenner's ties to the region and the new ballpark coming online in 2008, a shift would make little sense. More on our Affiliates page.

Springdale vote certification put on hold
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Hours after certifying the election approving a 1 cent sales tax to build a new ballpark in Springdale, Ark., Washington County officials found out their certification was premature. One Springdale voting area is located in Benton County, and those votes were not included in Friday's certification. As a result, the certification is on hold until Benton County can certify its votes, which will take place Tuesday morning. Washington County will re-certify the votes on Wednesday. It doesn't sound like the final margin, which shrunk to 15 votes in the recount, will change.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

City officials: Lawrence-Dumont can compete with new ballparks
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
City of Wichita officials say that even though Lawrence-Dumont Stadium will soon be the oldest ballpark in the Texas League, it's still an excellent facility for minor-league baseball. All that's needed is money -- a relatively small amount when compared to the cost of a new stadium, they say -- for renovations, changes they hope will keep the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) in town. The Wranglers front office has already laid out what it would like to see in a renovated facility, and nothing is pie in the sky -- widening of the concourses, expansion of concessions, etc. (People get hung up on the age of the facility, but we were impressed during a visit to Lawrence-Dumont Stadium.) It may come down to what the Wranglers owners consider a better market and the future of the National Baseball Congress.

Talking trash in Springdale
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Don't know why Bob Caudle feels the need to talk trash to Wichita residents over the passage of a tax for the construction of a new ballpark in Springdale, Ark., that could someday house the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League). Wichita officials say they won't give up the Wranglers without a fight, and while most assume Springdale is a good location for a Class AA team, a deal for a Wranglers move is certainly not done yet.

Xanadu won't kick out baseball team -- for now
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Bergen Cliff Hawks (independent; Atlantic League), on the verge of being shut out by the Meadowlands Xanadu developers -- received up to a two-week reprieve on Friday. Mills Corp. and Mack-Cali agreed to postpone the issuance of a request for proposals seeking an alternative baseball team and owner. The delay was sought by Bergen County Executive Dennis McNerney and backed by two state senators from Bergen County and a key board member of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority. The developers and the owner of the Cliff Hawks have been at odds over a lease for a proposed ballpark, and the developers have threatened to seek another tenant for the ballpark.

Three inducted into Reds Hall of Fame
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Tom Seaver, Tom Browning and Lee May were inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame this weekend. The three become the 69th, 70th and 71st members of the team's hall, which took in its first class in 1958. If you visit Great American Ball Park, a visit to the Reds museum and hall of fame is essential: it's one of the best museums run by a pro baseball team, highlighting the fascinating history of baseball in Cincinnati from the earliest professional days to today.

City seeks right pitch on Ray Winder future
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More than a year after the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League) made it known they were leaving Little Rock’s Ray Winder Field, the old stadium’s fate is still unknown. The Travs will leave the 74-year-old ballaprk at the end of this season to move to the under-construction Dickey Stephens Park in North Little Rock. As the city continues to look at Ray Winder’s future, an informal group is emerging that hopes to keep it as a baseball venue. Other ideas have called for an expanded Little Rock Zoo elephant exhibit and a commercial and residential development. John Hoal's H3 Studio, a St. Louis urban design firm, has been charged with mapping some potential futures of the area, but he won't have a report until next year. It's a tricky situation: the entire War Memorial area serves several constituencies, and the ballpark is merely one part of that.
    RELATED STORIES: Ray Winder Field may be coming down; Construction of ballpark in NLR gets running start; Travelers GM offers up some new details on Dickey-Stephens Park; Last at-bat for Ray Winder Field; Arkansas's Screen Monster: One of baseball's great home-run alleys; North Little Rock ballpark builders face challenges; Travs ballpark plans intact, on track; Ballpark's rising costs to force a decision in North Little Rock; The future of Ray Winder Field under debate; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark has budget difficulty; Hays says Travelers fans should pay to park; New Travs home to be called Dickey-Stephens Park; Little Rock seeks bids to replace Ray Winder Field; Travelers' home coming into focus; NLR sets ballpark previews; NLR projects set fast, sure course; NLR ballpark planners get right to work; North Little Rock voters approve sales-tax hike for new ballpark; Hays says there is no ‘Plan B' for new Travs' ballpark; NLR’s 1% tax plan sees 254-vote 1st day; A rush act for NLR ballpark; Hays: 2 tax projects’ OK will give NLR ‘a booster shot'; NLR promotion panel salutes stadium, not tax; NLR working on game plan for tax vote; Travelers, North Little Rock agree to 50-50 split; North Little Rock ballpark talks snag over cash; Sales-tax vote favored by most on NLR council; Pitching for Aug. 9 tax vote, Hays says; NLR mayor pitches 2-year sales tax for ballpark; Will the Arkansas Travelers stay in Little Rock after all?; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark delayed; financing is in doubt; Actions to save Ray Winder Field sought; Travs ballpark development moves forward; Plans for new Little Rock ballpark unveiled; New home for Arkansas Travelers?; Little Rock ballpark near river in works; Replacing Ray Winder Field wasn't in my plans

The unfinished ballpark deal in D.C.
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Though the D.C. Council agreed to a renegotiated parking deal calling for both aboveground and underground parking, there's still serious reservations from many in government and the Washington Nationals offices about the ability of the city to actually complete a ballpark by the 2008 season opener. Considering the design is still not totally finished, it's hard to believe a MLB facility can be built under such time constraints. Plus, the parking deal is not final -- the developer still needs to arrange financing for an ambitious plan -- and any delays there could delay ballpark construction as well.
    RELATED STORIES: D.C. Council approves parking garage plan; Nats announce 'Grand Reopening' for old RFK; Environmental issues raise concerns on new Nats ballpark; D.C. mayor asks for ballpark plan approval; D.C. parking plan faces significant hurdles; Compromise reached on D.C. ballpark parking; Nats sale targeted for July finalization; D.C. mayor offers proposal to end ballpark parking controversy; Battle brews for control of D.C. ballpark project; Nationals firm on issue of above-ground parking; Hazmat removal at D.C. ballpark site up by $2.9M; Nats ready to pitch sponsorship deals for new ballpark; D.C. ballpark plan clears important hurdle, but concerns linger; D.C.'s Williams creates Office of Baseball; The Nationals' wish list; Nats owners want city to shift gears on parking; Lerner group plans RFK 'grand reopening'; Lerner receives initial approval to buy Nats; full approval expected today; Nats ballpark design up in the air; It's official: Lerner nabs Nats

Kasten is building foundation for Nats
Posted July 17, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Though the sale of the Washington Nationals to the Ted Lerner family is still not final, incoming Washington Nationals president Stan Kasten is already working on the issues facing the team. The biggie, really, is the design of the new ballpark: though site preparation has started, a final design is not finished, and Kasten sounds like he has some definite visions for the ballpark -- like ensuring it's a good park for pitchers, as opposed to some of the "bandboxes" (in his words) in Major League Baseball today.

Playing a numbers game: If teams build, fans will come
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Baseball in the Washington, D.C., area certainly has changed since 1989, when there were only three teams -- the Prince William (now Potomac) Cannons (High Class A; Carolina League), the Frederick Keys (High Class A; Carolina League) and the Baltimore Orioles -- within an easy drive. Now there are six, and when the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs (independent; Atlantic League) come online either in 2007 or 2008, another team will be in the mix.

Venerable Civic Stadium could use some TLC
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Eugene Emeralds (short season; Northwest League) General Manager Bob Beban has a new landlord in mind if his present one decides to sell Civic Stadium. Beban would like the city of Eugene to acquire the stadium from the Eugene School District because he believes the city would be willing to renovate the aging ballpark. School officials have declined to improve the wooden stadium, which they declared surplus property four years ago. The stadium needs a new roof, bathrooms, concession areas, lights, box seats and ballfield with drainage system, Beban said. The locker rooms, with anemic showers, are cramped and old. Beban estimates that the improvements would cost about $4.5 million. Some citizens agree with the Ems about the need for the city to buy the ballpark.

Study argues that incentives for pro teams are waste of cash
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Tampa Bay area taxpayers spend at least $27 million a year keeping their professional sports teams housed in state-of-the-art stadiums and arenas. They should have held on to their dough, according to a new study by two economists at the University of South Florida. The authors think the same sports teams would find it profitable to locate in the same cities even if taxpayer handouts vanished. However, the "study" appears to be more political than economic, decrying tax subsidies to millionaire team owners.

Barbeau's busy spreading the word of baseball in Midland
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Paul Barbeau has one of the best gigs in baseball: start a baseball team from scratch. He's head of the new team in Midland, Mich., which will enter the Midwest League with the move of the Southwest Michigan Devil Rays at the end of the season. He's in charge of hiring staff, overseeing construction of a new ballpark, and doing all the little things that goes along with running a baseball team. Midland officials, meanwhile, are looking to Lansing to see how the Lansing Lugnuts (Low Class A; Midwest League) and Oldsmobile Park interact with the community.
    RELATED STORIES: Midland to pick up infrastructure costs for new ballpark; Michigan Baseball Foundation asks city for financial help; Midland ballpark takes shape; Sale of Southwest Michigan Devil Rays finalized; Fever pitch in Midland; Midland ballpark should be team's jewel; Final count: More than 3,000 baseball team name suggestions; Construction starting on Midland ballpark; Michigan Baseball Foundation to hold "name the team" competition; New D-Rays owners meet with Midwest League; Midland planners approve ballpark site plan; Michigan Baseball Foundation signs purchase agreement for D-Rays; New Midland ballpark a big -- and exciting -- undertaking; It's official: Midland group buying SW Michigan D-Rays; Owner says he's discussed moving Battle Creek team; Midland officials have seen no plans for baseball team; Will Midland get minor league baseball team?

Power of promotions: Special features help Bats appeal to broader audience
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The Louisville Bats (Class AAA; International League) seem to be fielding the benefits of a broad array of promotions. Thursday happy hours, which the ballclub began in 2002, feature live music and $1 Budweisers on the Overlook Deck beyond the right-centerfield wall. The happy hours were designed to bring a younger clientele to Louisville Slugger Field, and it appears to be working: at a recent game, there were plenty of twentysomethings hanging out at the ballpark. The Bats achieved a goal many minor-league teams are now aspiring to: hosting a promotion every game of the season.

They'll do anything for fans
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We've already covered some of the noteworthy promotions thrown this season by the Kansas City T-Bones (independent; Northern League). The T-Bones are launching their most noteworthy promotion during the Northern League All-Star Game, to be held tomorrow night: The T-Bones signed baseball icon Buck O'Neil to a one-day contract, effective Tuesday, July 18. O'Neil will become the oldest professional baseball player in history, at 94 years, seven months and 28 days, surpassing Jim Eriotes, who played earlier this season for the Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association) at the age of 83. The All-Star festivities begin today, along with an owners' meeting we assume will be interesting, to say the least. Here's a report from something called the Winnipeg Sun.

Baseball and a three-ring circus
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Fifteen years ago the theatrics at a Charleston RiverDogs (Class A; Sally League) game may have been unusual, but these days it's not unusual at all to see a game announcer wander the stands with a wireless mike and watch odd clips played on the scoreboard between innings. That's because the influence of Mike Veeck, RiverDogs co-owner, really has spread through the minors: you can look at teams across independent leagues and affiliated leagues buying into his philosophy of pushing entertainment and fun at the ballpark. It's not necessarily anything new -- heck, his father was flamboyant promoter Bill Veeck -- but Mike certainly honed the formula.

Hot dogs, family atmosphere abound at Diablos games
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The new El Paso Diablos (independent; American Association) seem to be doing well in their season year as an independent team. El Paso was formerly a solid Texas League area before the original Diablos moved to Springfield, so the team's success isn't a surprise. The way they're doing it may be, though: when Jim Paul owned the original Diablos he was somewhat of a maniac (and we mean this in a good way) in terms of promotions and giveaways, but the current Diablos front office has done things differently, stressing Cohen Stadium as a family destination.

Major attractions in the minor leagues
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Here's a pretty good overview of what's happening in the minor leagues these days: thanks to an abundance of new ballparks and solid promotional strategies, attendance at minor-league baseball games is booming. More and more ballparks are being integrated into the community, not located in an industrial area on the edge of town. Oklahoma City's ballpark is the anchor of the town's entertainment district. Louisville Slugger Field is a short trolley ride from the bat maker's museum. And Brooklyn's KeySpan Park is steps from New York's famed Coney Island boardwalk.

Reuss takes stroll down memory lane
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We had no idea former major leaguer and current Dodgers broadcaster Jerry Reuss was a ballpark buff, but that's pretty clear in this article, telling how he toured the new Busch Stadium and hearkened back to his St. Louis childhood, attending games at Sportsman's Park and the former Busch Stadium. It's funny how few broadcasters are actually ballpark buffs: they may remember the quirks of the ballpark and the excitement surrounding big games, but many never take the time to tour the ballpark and see how the crowds interact with their surroundings.

Fort Wayne ballpark report due
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Mayor Graham Richard is scheduled to receive the recommendations from a committee researching the practicality of a new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League) on Friday. Members of the BaseballPLUS committee met last Friday to review a draft of the report. The committee members have been researching the viability of a downtown ballpark, including possible locations. If, as expected, the committee recommends the city go ahead with a new downtown ballpark, a new issue surfaces: what would happen with the team's current home, Memorial Stadium. The Fort Wayne paper says advocates for a new ballpark should be allowed to make their case.
    RELATED STORIES: Fort Wayne looks at improvements to Memorial Stadium; A new(er) ballpark in Fort Wayne?; Ballpark panel sees one diamond in future; New owners bring fresh ideas to Fort Wayne; Fort Wayne's baseball future may be downtown; A new downtown castle?; Memorial Stadium far from obsolete; Fort Wayne Wizards sold; Fort Wayne ballpark has 50 years of usability left, says architect; Debate begins on proposed downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Group set to discuss downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Field of dreams in Fort Wayne?

Full count: Teams tally up no-shows
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There's always a discrepancy between the announced attendance and the tickets sold at a baseball game, and this article explains why in an analysis of Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League) games. The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette analyzed 224 games over four seasons, finding the average announced attendance was 4,032 fans per game and the average turnstile count was 2,406. Wizards officials say the numbers take into account tickets sold for canceled games: Because they still want their attendance figure to be representative of their ticket sales at the end of the season, the Wizards will build in the numbers from canceled games over time.

Hard days for Knights
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This seems to be a recurring theme in coverage of the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) this season: even though the team's new front office has made some needed changes to Knights Stadium and how the team does business, fans still aren't flocking to Fort Mill, S.C., to see the team in action. It's even more mystifying when you consider many former Knights played in the World Series last year for champ Chicago, and the team is doing quite well on the field this season. If the team lands a new ballpark in town -- which looks like a distinct possibility -- you can expect baseball fans to flock to Knights games once again, but in the meantime the front office has to pay the bills and balance the books.
    RELATED STORIES: Knights see more fans, but lag league;

Pittman Stadium only a memory
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Here's a look at Pittman Stadium, the former home to minor-league baseball in Fayetteville, N.C. Part of the old ballpark still remains: an old cinder-block wall, which has since been painted and turned into a storage shed, is located between Alger Wilkins Elementary School and Crown Ford, was part of the concession stand. The ballpark stood for only 10 years -- 1946-1956 -- and no one quite remembers why it was torn down, as the Fayetteville Hilanders were a good draw even to the end. Speaking of Fayetteville: we'll be there Tuesday for some of the Coastal Plain League All-Star festivities.

Heart of the team in Indy
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Max Schumacher was honored over the weekend for his service with the Indianapolis Indians (Class AAA; International League). His license plate "VIC FLD" is a tribute to Victory Field, the Indians' downtown ballpark that he persuaded city officials to build. The street leading to the park, which opened a decade ago, was renamed Schumacher Way. Growing up a baseball fan, he's now president and chairman of the board for the Indians. He joined the team in 1957 as a ticket manager after graduating from Butler University, where he was a middle infielder, and a stint in the U.S. Army. A corporal, he was stationed in Illinois and looking for a job to bring him home when he saw the Indians' one-paragraph advertisement in The Indianapolis Star. Four years later, he became the team's general manager. In 1969, he was named president. In 1997, Warren handed him the chairman title.

Postal Service putting a winning team in play today
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Ceremonies are scheduled for Yankee Stadium today to release new 39-cent stamps and 24-cent postal cards honoring Mickey Mantle, Roy Campanella, Hank Greenberg and Mel Ott. Campanella played in five World Series and hit 242 home runs during a decade with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Ott was a star for the New York Giants for 22 seasons, leading the league in homers five times. He was the first National League player to hit 500 home runs. Mantle was -- well, he was the Mickster -- and Greenberg was the first Jewish superstar in the major leagues. He was named most valuable player at first base and a second time as an outfielder.

From state of the art to state of flux
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When it opened in 1989, Lackawanna County Stadium was one of the premier venues in minor-league baseball. As if swallowed by a hillside, the ballpark was a modern baseball cathedral engulfed in nature. Its driveway was a winding mountain road, its backdrop a mixture of trees and rocks. Today, the remote location of the home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons (Class AAA; International League) is seen by some as a drawback, and while many changes have been made to the ballpark over the years, county officials are looking at more.

Grrrounder unveiled in Harrisburg
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The Harrisburg Senators (Class AA; Eastern League) announced the name of the team’s new mascot during Friday’s game at Commerce Bank Park. The name was selected by a vote and the winner was Grrrounder. More than 1,400 fans voted in the name the mascot event with Grrounder receiving more than 40 per cent of the vote. The only name close was Southpaw, which received 32 per cent of the total votes. Grrrounder is a dog-like character, who will be on hand at all Senators games. Grrrounder will join long-time Senators’ mascot Rascal in making Commerce Bank Park a fun place to be and both will make public appearances.

Checketts off base on claim about Bees' ballpark lease
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Here's your daily dose of local politics. Real Salt Lake (MLS) owner Dave Checketts has been working toward a new soccer stadium for his team, but so far the effort has come up short, and he's alleging one of the reasons why is the sweetheart deal Larry Miller has to rent Franklin Covey Field -- a dollar a year, Checketts alleges. The reality is the deal is much more expensive: the Salt Lake Bees (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) do indeed rent the ballpark at a reduced rate -- $7,500 a year versus the $300,000 paid by the previous owners -- but under the new lease Miller picks up maintenance costs (saving the city $400,000 a year) and gives the city first crack at buying the team should Miller want to break the lease.

Pro ball belongs in Halifax
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Here's a call for the independent Can-Am Association to expand to Halifax, Canada, as well as other cities in the region. After all, the Quebec Capitales are a great draw, and other Canadians could be persuaded to come out to a ballgame. One issue: there's no ballpark in Halifax capable of supporting professional baseball.

Fans feeling summer baseball void in Richmond
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Former fans of the Richmond Roosters (independent; Frontier League) are feeling sad this summer, the first in many seasons where the Roosters were in town. The team, which moved at the end of last season, left a void in their lives, and they'd like to see minor league or summer collegiate baseball return to McBride Stadium. Minor-league baseball may be a stretch, but Richmond may be a perfect market for a summer collegiate team.

Missing its swing in Rocky Mount
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Here's a call for baseball in Rocky Mount, N.C., the former home to summer-collegiate Coastal Plain League and High Class A Carolina League teams. The ballpark housing both leagues -- Gryphon Stadium -- still stands, but it's not even up to CPL standards (1,200 seats, covered roof, locker rooms, umpire dressing rooms, concessions), much less Class A standards. Though you could argue Rocky Mount has the minimum population for the Class A team, it would appear the city is in the territory of the Carolina Mudcats (Class AA; Southern League), located just 26 miles away. The best bet for baseball in Rocky Mount would be at a renovated Gryphon Stadium hosting a CPL team.

This space could be for rent
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Naming rights are always a tricky deal, especially for a ballpark that's been around for a year or two. It happened this year in Missoula, when Play Ball Missoula formally named the home of the Missoula Osprey (rookie; Pioneer League) Ogren Park at Allegiance Field. That's not a bad names as far as commercialization goes: we've seen a lot worse.

Hawaii baseball takes a swing where others have struck out
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With a 40-game season in place, the finishing touches are being put on the marketing plans for Hawaii's newest baseball league before its October debut. The $1 million-plus venture, led by Honolulu entrepreneur Duane Kurisu, aims to combine a roster of 112 international players with an array of affordable family entertainment. It sounds like the promotions are fairly standard in terms of minor-league baseball -- some giveaways, some freebies should a designated batter strike out, etc. The league also is working on an aggressive campaign to help sell at least half the seats at its two ballparks: the 4,312-seat Les Murakami Stadium at the University of Hawaii and the 2,000-seat Hans L'Orange Field in Waipahu. Hawaii Winter Baseball made a run in the 1990s but faded about eight years ago. The difference now: the league is underwritten both by MLB and by Japanese baseball teams.