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Archives: Feb. 4-10, 2008

Updated cost of new Yankee Stadium: $1.3 billion
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Not that this should surprise anyone, but the most recent tally of the cost of the new Yankee Stadium is now up to $1.3 billion, up from the original cost estimate of $930 million. It's not surprising for a simple reason: costs usually go up once construction starts, and the derivation here is well within what we're guessing the Yankees front office anticipated. (In other words, we don't think there's a correlation between the increased cost of the ballpark and the Yankees' decision to pass on Johan Santana, who signed a record contract last week with the Mets.) There probably won't be any public outcry, either (past the usual ballpark haters, of course), because the Yankees are picking up the added costs per the team's agreement with the city. Some of the reasons for the increased cost: the Yankees decided on an upgraded scoreboard, which alone added $150 million to the cost of the project, and other upgrades to public spaces and concessions expected to pay for themselves. Otherwise, it sounds like construction of the ballpark is right on schedule. More from the New York Times and AP. The new ballpark may open without the legendary Bob Sheppard, whose health is suffering and may not even return this season.
    RELATED STORIES: Activists decry development plans around Yankee Stadium; New Yankee Stadium goes up, but Bronx still seeks benefits; Yankee Stadium parking fees to double by 2010; For Yankees, the numbers game goes on; Taxpayers footing bill for Yankees' lavish spending, group says; Sponsorships available -- inside the ballpark, that is; Approach of winter a big factor in NYC ballpark race; Finales set for Yankee Stadium, Shea Stadium; Progress report: New York's new ballparks; The stadium chase; Yankees, Mets won't sell seat licenses; ballpark funds in place; Whole new ballgame; Yankees, Mets bond sales set, both teams rated junk; Bronx group goes to court vs. new Yankee Stadium; New York City receives IRS approval on ballpark bonds; New York Agency approves ballpark financing for Yankees, Mets; MTA pressed to create shortcut to Shea; Is Steinbrenner house, which Ruth built, poor?; NY City Council easily passes Yankees, Mets ballpark bonding bills; Squeeze play on Mets ballpark; Mets: Forget about naming new park after Jackie Robinson; New Mets ballpark deal is stalled; Squeeze play on the Mets; Strike one for new Mets ballpark; Mets park's name will fetch millions; Mets unveil plans for new ballpark; Yankees, Mets closer to new ballparks; City goes to bat for Yankees, Mets ballparks; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks

Bowling Green moves forward with downtown development, ballpark
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Bowling Green city commissioners have committed $25 million in bonds for a major downtown redevelopment deal, in the expectation of finding a developer to work with the city on the rest of the deal. Art Solomon, who owns the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League), has promised to sign a 20-year lease on a 4,000-seat ballpark and provide a minor-league team. The deal is different than what was first proposed: initially it was for a private redevelopment using bonds backed with the proceeds of a TIF district.
    This also means Solomon should close on the purchase of a minor-league team, reportedly the Columbus Catfish (Low Class A; Sally League).
    RELATED STORIES: Future of Bowling Green ballpark project to be decided this week

Drive, Red Sox extend PDC through 2012
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The Boston Red Sox and Greenville Drive (Low Class A; Sally League) today announced the extension of their Player Development Contract (PDC) for an additional four years. The extension keeps the Red Sox South Atlantic League Single-A affiliate in Greenville through the 2012 season. The Red Sox originally entered into an agreement with the Drive when the franchise moved from Columbia, SC to Greenville for the 2005 season. The PDC was extended for two years through 2008 prior to the 2006 season.

Do the numbers add up on new Gwinnett County ballpark? NEW!
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If you've been reading our coverage of the new Gwinnett County ballpark for the relocating Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League), you know one thing has bugged us: exactly how the county plans to pay for the new $45-million facility. Officials there sent us some estimates of how they'll be paying for the ballpark, and it seems like there's a large dose of wishful thinking going on. Here's the deal. The county has already committed $12 million from its recreation fund toward the project, with some being used for land acquisition. That's a defensible expenditure. The remaining $33 million (remember, with interest, the ballpark will really cost more than $55 million) will come from revenue bonds.
    But how the county plans to pay off those bonds is where things get interesting, especially when you consider the county has already given the R-Braves a large chunk of the revenues already. The R-Braves will pay $250,000 in rent but will receive all the in-ballpark revenues (concessions, advertising, suite sales). A ticket surcharge is expected to generate $400,000 annually, while a car-rental tax should yield $800,000 annually.
    The tricky spot is with the unusual naming-rights deal. The county -- which is backed by consultants -- thinks it can land one of the most lucrative naming-rights deals in baseball and is expecting $750,000 annually. Of that, the first $250,000 goes to the Braves, with the county then expecting $500,000 yearly (or whatever's left). That would be the second-richest naming-rights deal in minor-league baseball behind Chukchasni Park, home of the Fresno Grizzlies (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League). Consultants say given Gwinnett County's demographics it shouldn't be hard to achieve. Perhaps. But you need to stop and consider that what Fresno has is just more than an Indian tribe throwing their name on the outdoor of the park: it also involves suites, tickets, tons of signage and other ingame promotions. To reach that level of deal, the R-Braves will need to be a pretty active participant in fulfilling any commitments, and it's not known whether the lease with the team ensures that level of commitment. Otherwise, since the R-Braves get the first $250,000 of the naming-rights deal, they have little incentive to give away signage and other amenities that could cut into their revenue streams.
    RELATED STORIES: Gwinnett County back to secret deals; Wilder's take on move troubles Braves official; After Braves lease, what happens in Richmond?; It's official: Gwinnett County building new ballpark for R-Braves; R-Braves: Going, going, gone?; New Richmond plan: tear down Diamond and build new ballpark -- but will the Braves be around?

Hansen: build new ballpark in Henrico County
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Speaking of Richmond: Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) pitching coach Guy Hansen, a year-round resident of the area, says there's only one place to put a new ballpark: in Henrico County, the area's population base. Politically, it will be hard for Henrico County to agree to a multicounty ballpark deal that puts the facility in Richmond, and we're expecting to see multiple ballpark proposals come up before the R-Braves actually leave town.

Billy Joel to play last concert at Shea Stadium
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Long Island native Billy Joel will play the last concert at Shea Stadium before the ballpark closes. Scheduled for July 16 -- the day after Yankee Stadium hosts the All-Star Game -- the concert will be billed as a celebration of all the noteworthy concerts held at Shea Stadium over the decades, beginning with the landmark Beatles concert that established ballparks and stadium as acceptable music venues.
    RELATED STORIES: Approach of winter a big factor in NYC ballpark race; Finales set for Yankee Stadium, Shea Stadium; Progress report: New York's new ballparks; The stadium chase; Yankees, Mets won't sell seat licenses; ballpark funds in place; Whole new ballgame; Yankees, Mets bond sales set, both teams rated junk; New York City receives IRS approval on ballpark bonds; New York Agency approves ballpark financing for Yankees, Mets; MTA pressed to create shortcut to Shea; Is Steinbrenner house, which Ruth built, poor?; NY City Council easily passes Yankees, Mets ballpark bonding bills; Squeeze play on Mets ballpark; Mets: Forget about naming new park after Jackie Robinson; New Mets ballpark deal is stalled; Squeeze play on the Mets; Strike one for new Mets ballpark; Mets park's name will fetch millions; Mets unveil plans for new ballpark; Yankees, Mets closer to new ballparks; City goes to bat for Yankees, Mets ballparks; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks

New Billings ballpark ahead of schedule
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Construction of a new Billings ballpark is ahead of schedule, with Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League) Gary Roller estimating the ballpark is 70 percent complete. That's pretty good considering the ballpark isn't slated to open until June, as the local college and Legion programs will be playing elsewhere next spring. Roller also says the Mustangs have sold more season tickets than anticipated.
    RELATED STORIES: In memoriam: Bob Wilson; Billings ballpark receives $328,000 in federal funds; Ballpark shapes up, stays on schedule; Warm weather allows headway on new Billings ballpark; It's a bittersweet moment for fans of Cobb Field; RIP: Cobb Field; Last baseball game in Cobb Field is in the books; Tonight's the last night for Cobb Field; An extra inning to raise funds for new Billings ballpark; Billings looks at cutbacks to new ballpark; Tight schedule for Billings' new ballpark; Council awards ballpark contracts; City looks to cut cost of ballpark; Ballpark bids throw curve to officials; City OKs ballpark bond bids; Park plans head for home; City, Mustangs watching ballpark plans; Old-time ballplayers join groundbreaking for new Billings ballpark; Billings ballpark design allows future amenities; Plan for new baseball park has sunken, realigned field; Planning for new Cobb Field gets on fast track; Cobb Field planning kicks into high gear; Billings voters approve new Mustangs ballpark; Donors pitch $210K more toward new ballpark; Join local teams in support for new ballpark; Three groups, family pledge $200K for maintenance of new Cobb Field; New vote on an old park; Two more pitch in on new Cobb Field; Musburger urges support for Cobb Field replacement; Baseball fan boosts Billings ballpark campaign; Gaming operator donates $1 million toward Billings ballpark; Cobb backers unveil campaign; Lots to learn about new plan for Cobb Field; Bond issue for Cobb Field replacement on ballot; Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field; Potential gift could pare price of Cobb Field; Funding dominates Cobb discussion; Billings needs ballpark to be proud of, not field of dreams; Panel details ways to cut Billings ballpark costs; Cobb Field panel pursues closer look at costs; Billings panel asks for Cobb Field tax measure; Forums planned on Cobb Field proposal; Poll finds support for bonds for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

Crews pick up pace to renovate Metro station
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Given the lack of parking around Nationals Park, the new home of the Washington Nationals, mass transit is going to be a key part of bringing fans to the games. That's why the opening of the Metro Navy Yard Station is key: the station on Metro's Green Line is being expanded to handle 15,000 passengers an hour from the current level of 5,000. That probably won't be enough for sellout games, and Metro plans 14 extra trains on game days.
    RELATED STORIES: Nationals ready for opening of new ballpark; Land acquisitions push up price of new Nats ballpark; Parking to be limited near new Nats ballpark; Nationals to open regular season at home on March 30; DC ballpark neighbors fear fan inundation; PNC Bank buys naming rights for Nationals' seats; Nats to open new ballpark March 29; Photo tour of new Nats ballpark; Nationals make effort to address parking woes at new ballpark; On deck: Playing field for new Nats ballpark; Goals unmet on ballpark construction jobs for D.C. workers; RFK is full of concrete memories; Nationals choose Centerplate to manage concessions at new ballpark; Lessons for the Lerners: what to steal from other ballparks; Nats ballpark to have extensive seating for wheelchairs; Metro, District and Nationals talking possible 'ballpark fare'; Signing off on the last beam; Top price for ducats at new Nats ballpark: $400; Nationals' transition extends off field; National crisis: Capital franchise in turmoil; Ballpark brings hope but no guarantee; Nationals ballpark 'on time, on budget' for 2008 opening; Future distinctly on rise for Nationals; District not over park cap; New Nats ballpark to feature cherry blossoms beyond left-field fence; As ballpark rises, battles over land continue; For Nats' home, a rapid ascent; Nats ballpark cost tops cap, council members say; Nats owners to pay $20 million for ballpark upgrades; With new Nats ballpark, name of the game is money; D.C. Council approves ballpark parking garages; The D.C. ballpark parking debate; Severe penalties await city if parking garages aren't provided, Gandhi warns; Ballpark garages proposal rejected; Fenty promotes aboveground parking to end fight over new Nats ballpark; New Nats ballpark construction on schedule for 2008 opening; Cropp pushes for decision on parking at DC ballpark; Mayor proposes lifting cap for DC ballpark parking; DC ballpark to be first LEED-certified ballpark in country; Legislation would revive condo and garage development at new DC ballpark; New focus at D.C. ballpark: parking; D.C. parking issue threatens budget; Development plan near new Nats ballpark falls flat; Garage plan at new D.C. ballpark at risk

County: Chiefs need to work with us
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The Onondaga County committee that's supposed to oversee marketing and finances at Alliance Bank Stadium has never met in the 11 years since the county signed the stadium lease with the Syracuse Chiefs (Class AAA; International League). That will change if county Legislature Chairman Bill Meyer gets his way. Meyer announced Thursday that he had sent a letter to Charlie Rich, board chairman of the Syracuse Chiefs, telling him this stadium committee's annual meeting is coming up and reminding him that the Chiefs' marketing and promotions plan is to be submitted to the panel by March 1.

County: We need to close Marlins ballpark deal
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Negotiations between Miami-Dade County and the Florida Marlins over the cost of building a new ballpark in Little Havana must be complete by the end of the month, county commissioners, led by Jose ''Pepe'' Diaz, demanded Thursday. Since County Manager George Burgess came forward with a preliminary outline for a $525 million retractable-roof stadium financing plan between the county, city of Miami and the Marlins in November, negotiations have been at a standstill. A vote on the county's end of the deal has been deferred three times, mainly over differences between the Marlins and the two governments over how to pay for a $20 million parking garage. Miami commissioners also must still vote on their end of the financial package. There appears to be a high level of optimism for the plan passing, however.
    RELATED STORIES: Marlins ballpark plan hits parking snag; More specifics revealed on new Marlins ballpark proposal; Miami mayor swings for the fences with ballpark plan; Vote on new Marlins ballpark delayed; Braman makes pitch against new Fish pond; Marlins to seek state aid for new ballpark; New ballpark could be suite deal for commissioners; Plan for Marlins ballpark gets support from Miami-Dade; Marlins funding closer to reality; Marlins' ballpark plan gets new life; New Marlins ballpark funding plan proposed; Marlins: Ballpark woes led to trade; Marlins ballpark negotiations continue; Marlins' share key to ballpark deal; DuPuy: Marlins ballpark top priority; Ho hum: Marlins hand county yet another ballpark deadline; Marlins may get $50 million for new ballpark; DuPuy meets with Crist about new Fish ballpark, says MLB will make use of Dodgertown; Marlins about to bring ballpark deal in from the bullpen; Selig receptive to Orange Bowl site for new Marlins ballpark; UM exit from Orange Bowl paves way for new Marlins ballpark; Selig: Relocation an option if ballpark issue not settled; University of Miami might leave Orange Bowl by '08; Is there room for Marlins in South Florida?; Moss to seek changes in Marlins' name, spring training; Marlins' reaction to no state funding of ballpark: muted; State funding for Marlins ballpark dies when session ends; Senate leader: no deal with slots, Marlins ballpark; Slots, Marlins ballpark financing in tax-bill mix; Vote on Marlins ballpark financing again comes late in legislative session; New Marlins ballpark bill likely to strike out; State House endorses $60 million for Marlins ballpark in Miami; Marlins' pitch for ballpark cash apt to fall short; Dade lawmaker unsure about Marlins subsidy; Miami officials offended at Loria's insistence on downtown ballpark

Public steps up to the plate to discuss Al Lang Field
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Moving to appease residents who want the site of Al Lang Field preserved as parkland, the city council decided Thursday to seek community input on the fate of the 10-acre waterfront site if it does not become a new $450-million waterfront ballpark for the Tampa Bay Rays. The council approved a resolution to solicit public feedback on alternative uses for Al Lang Field, including a public park, if the Rays' proposal to build a $450 million ballpark at the downtown spring training site fails to get on November's ballot or is defeated at the polls. The so-called visioning process would occur while the city continues to evaluate the Rays' ballpark proposal and seeks bids from developers to remake the team's current home at Tropicana Field.
    RELATED STORIES: Proposal for Al Lang park land conversion tabled for Rays ballpark plans; City lays out vision for Tropicana Field site; So, let's say the Trop's for sale....; Opponents say Rays, manatees don't mix; Rays will not seek state aid for new ballpark; Rays brass willing to be stakeholders in Trop site; It's outta here! But what's next?; Parking for proposed Rays ballpark an issue; Key player in Rays ballpark proposal won't show his hand; Rays' land request for ballpark may be hard to fill; Rays unveil plans for new ballpark; Rays: New ballpark could pump $1 billion into local economy; Rays ballpark plan kept secret for months; Land under the Trop is a developer's dream; Tampa Bay ballpark cost looms as curveball; Rays on the bay?

Steinbrenner Field?
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It doesn't sound like the New York Yankees are behind this move, as the Hillsborough County Commission and the Tampa City Council both passed non-binding resolutions this week asking the Yankees to rename their spring home, Legends Field, after owner George Steinbrenner. The Yankees have the ultimate say on the name of the ballpark, which is also home to the Tampa Yankees (High Class A; Florida State League). Given that Steinbrenner has had chances to affix his name to other facilities -- most notably the new Yankee Stadium, but also other college ballparks where he and his family have made large financial contributions -- the renaming probably won't happen. 

In memoriam: Ed Vargo
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One of the most respected major league umpires of all time, Ed Vargo passed away Feb. 4 at age 77 in Butler, Pa. Vargo worked in the National League from 1960-84 and was a supervisor for 13 years after that. He was behind the plate when Sandy Koufax threw his perfect game against the Cubs in 1965 and was in the spot for the first night game in World Series history. More importantly, he had the respect of his colleagues and the players. As ex-Pirate pitcher Steve Blass put it, "He ran ballgames the way like they should be run."

Ballpark Notes
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Service Electric Cable TV 2 Sports, located in Allentown, will broadcast the Capital BlueCross exhibition game between the Reading Phillies (Class AA; Eastern League) and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League), live from FirstEnergy Stadium, on Tuesday, April 1 at 6:30 p.m..  Mike Zambelli and Steve Degler will be in the booth to call the game. SECTV will carry 23 regular season R-Phils games and all 72 IronPigs games...

O-Royals ready to bail on new downtown ballpark?
Posted Feb. 6, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Are Omaha officials in danger of losing the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) because of their unwillingness to acknowledge the team's needs in the wake of a search for a new ballpark? It looks like that might be the case. The mayor's office has been obsessed with a 25,000-seat ballpark in downtown Omaha for both the Royals and the College World Series, but that plan has met with opposition from the board running the Qwest Center. Now it looks like the city may need to move ahead without the O-Royals, as we've heard the team is looking at alternatives to the new downtown ballpark, engaging in discussions and meetings with officials from nearby Council Bluff and Sarpy County about the prospect of a new ballpark. We've also heard the team continues to look at the Woodlands (Texas), Vancouver and Tucson markets, but that dramatic a move might be more complicated based on the past ownership of the team. It still seems to us the wisest investment of public monies would be a new downtown ballpark for the O-Royals -- something that can be built on a smaller parcel of land that won't impact the Qwest Center -- and renovating Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium for the NCAA College World Series, moves that can be done for $50 million less than what the mayor is proposing. Shoehorning the needs of the NCAA and the Royals in a single facility doesn't seem to make much financial sense for anyone, and we're not surprised to see the Royals continuing to look at their options.
    RELATED STORIES: Downtown ballpark remains choice of Omaha officials, despite higher price tag; Nebraska Legislature enters Omaha ballpark fray; Lot C emerges as frontrunner for new Omaha ballpark site; Two sites emerge as frontrunners for new Omaha ballpark; Omaha ballpark panel picks architects to evaluate sites; Save Rosenblatt Committee wants representative on mayor's ballpark committee; NCAA's feelers out for CWS sites; Omaha mayor's public pitch for ballpark begins; More options introduced for new home of College World Series; Skeptics of Omaha ballpark proposal look for return on funding; Public to have say on Omaha ballpark proposal; Omaha restaurant owners vow opposition to ballpark tax; Omaha mayor unveils $117-million ballpark plan; Rosenblatt group sends petitions to NCAA; Omaha and the CWS: City bids for 20-year deal; Omaha Royals support plan for new ballpark; NCAA ties College World Series to new ballpark; Today's video: Kevin Costner: Save Rosenblatt Stadium; Costner: Save Rosenblatt Stadium; New downtown Omaha ballpark would be near Qwest; Rosenblatt fans try to draft Costner; Rosenblatt demolition among Omaha ballpark suggestions; Royals president says two baseball facilities can work; Petition drive aims to save Rosenblatt; Could Indy someday be host for CWS?; New Omaha ballpark could feature other pastimes; Coaches reminisce as talk turns to proposed downtown ballpark; Plan B: Fix up Rosenblatt; Omaha wants at least 10-year CWS extension before ballpark work; Mayor: NCAA shows interest in new Omaha ballpark; Omaha floats new ballpark for CWS, O-Royals

Marlins ballpark plan hits parking snag
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This isn't the only issue surrounding negotiations between the city of Miami, Miami-Dade County and the Florida Marlins over a new ballpark on the Orange Bowl site, but it's turning into a bigger one than anticipated. A preliminary agreement in December gave the city the responsibility to build a 6,000-space garage near the ballpark at the Orange Bowl site and find 6,000 more spaces nearby. But city officials, including Manager Pete Hernandez, have maintained since last month they plan to provide only the 6,000 garage spots. It's a big issue: the project needs revenue from parking spots and the team doesn't want to see fans park offsite in a residential area. The delay caused by the disagreement could force the construction of the ballpark to be delayed a year: meeting a 2011 deadline is already problematic, and further delays into March or even April could mean a 2012 opening.
    RELATED STORIES: More specifics revealed on new Marlins ballpark proposal; Miami mayor swings for the fences with ballpark plan; Vote on new Marlins ballpark delayed; Braman makes pitch against new Fish pond; Marlins to seek state aid for new ballpark; New ballpark could be suite deal for commissioners; Plan for Marlins ballpark gets support from Miami-Dade; Marlins funding closer to reality; Marlins' ballpark plan gets new life; New Marlins ballpark funding plan proposed; Marlins: Ballpark woes led to trade; Marlins ballpark negotiations continue; Marlins' share key to ballpark deal; DuPuy: Marlins ballpark top priority; Ho hum: Marlins hand county yet another ballpark deadline; Marlins may get $50 million for new ballpark; DuPuy meets with Crist about new Fish ballpark, says MLB will make use of Dodgertown; Marlins about to bring ballpark deal in from the bullpen; Selig receptive to Orange Bowl site for new Marlins ballpark; UM exit from Orange Bowl paves way for new Marlins ballpark; Selig: Relocation an option if ballpark issue not settled; University of Miami might leave Orange Bowl by '08; Is there room for Marlins in South Florida?; Moss to seek changes in Marlins' name, spring training; Marlins' reaction to no state funding of ballpark: muted; State funding for Marlins ballpark dies when session ends; Senate leader: no deal with slots, Marlins ballpark; Slots, Marlins ballpark financing in tax-bill mix; Vote on Marlins ballpark financing again comes late in legislative session; New Marlins ballpark bill likely to strike out; State House endorses $60 million for Marlins ballpark in Miami; Marlins' pitch for ballpark cash apt to fall short; Dade lawmaker unsure about Marlins subsidy; Miami officials offended at Loria's insistence on downtown ballpark

Ryan named new Rangers president
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The Fort Worth Star-Telegram is reporting Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan will be named the next president of the Texas Rangers, with a formal press conference schedule for this afternoon.  Hicks and Ryan had met in Georgetown, along with Tom Hicks Jr. and media relations director Jim Sundberg, for lunch on Jan. 25 to talk about the possibility of Ryan forgoing the final year of his personal services contract with the Houston Astros in order to return to the Rangers’ fold. Ryan has had success on the business side with his ownership of the Round Rock Express (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and the Corpus Christi Hooks (Class AA; Texas League).

Rockies adding super suite to Coors Field
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The Colorado Rockies are converting nine Coors Field luxury boxes into one super suite that can accommodate larger groups upwards of 200 fans, something that is a definite trend in baseball these days. The nine suites are located on the first-base side of the ballpark. Access to the suite -- which is aimed toward groups -- will be $110 to $140 a person, including food but not beverages. Smaller groups can be accommodated, as the suite can be divided into three smaller areas. The team is picking up the tab and has already sold naming rights to RocHenge, an area design firm.

Southern Indiana limestone forming new Yankee Stadium
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Hundreds of panels of southern Indiana limestone have been making their way to New York, where they are forming the new Yankee Stadium's outer facade. Indiana Limestone Fabricators has already shipped more than 600 stone panels, each 5 feet by 3 feet, to the Bronx for the new $800 million ballpark, set to open for the 2009 season. Work continues at the company on preparing the ballpark's 93,000 square feet of limestone from Empire Quarry in Oolitic, about 20 miles south of Bloomington. The ballpark's stone is coming just a few hundred yards from that quarried for the Empire State Building in 1931.

River Bandits, Cardinals extend PDC through 2010
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The Quad Cities River Bandits (Low Class A; Midwest League) and the St. Louis Cardinals extended their PDC through the 2010 season. The Cards have sent some attractive players through Modern Woodman Park and supported the team with some rehab assignments. One concern expressed by the Cards: the playing condition of the field. A new groundskeeper should address that, although it may take a little work to change the center-field drainage issue.

Man charged with harassing officials over Twins ballpark vote
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An opponent of public funding of a new downtown Minneapolis ballpark has been charged with sending harassing, anonymous letters to elected Hennepin County officials. A Nov. 27 search warrant executed at the home and vehicle of Steven Wellens in Golden Valley, Minn., included saliva and fingerprint samples found to match those collected from the mailings. The search also yielded a handgun -- which Wellens had a legal permit to carry -- and a handwritten note that read, "Have you ever heard the phrase 'Death to tyrants?'."

Butte plans upgrades to Alumni Coliseum, wants to attract minor-league team
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We're not quite sure how realistic this is, but officials with the Butte-Silver Bow Planning Department are looking at spending $62,000 on new seats at Montana Tech's Alumni Coliseum in hopes of attracting another minor-league team to the Mining City. The money would buy some 230 bleacher seats for the coliseum, install fencing on the outfield and provide better lighting during games. We actually attended some Butte Copper Kings (rookie; Pioneer League) games; it will take more than just some bleachers to attract a minor-league team. Now, if anyone wants to invest some money with us, we're guessing a successful summer-collegiate league could be established in the region -- Butte, Bozeman, Twin Falls and Pocatello would be a decent base.

New Scranton ballpark not a done deal
Posted Feb. 5, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
New commissioners on the Lackawanna County board now say they want to reconsider the plan for a new ballpark for the Scranton-Wilkes Barre Yankees (Class AAA; International League). The previous board Cordaro said he had agreed in 2006 that the county would build a $50-million baseball ballpark as part of the deal that brought the Yankees to town, but the new board says they're not bound by this commitment and want to study the issue further. The as-yet-unhired consultant will review agreements signed between the board, the Yankees and Mandalay Baseball Properties, as well as evaluate the condition of PNC Field and the competitive landscape in Triple-A ball.
    RELATED STORIES: Lawmakers amend budget to include funds for Moosic ballpark; Mandalay promised new ballpark in SWB?; Baseball study: Sale of SWB Yankees risky; Cordaro claims a role in minor-league turnaround; Is PNC Field debt-free? Sides disagree; Commissioners postpone decision on baseball suit; Yankees set to break attendance record; Law firms hired in Yankees flap; Mandalay eyes expansion; Value of Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees questioned; Sale of Harrisburg franchise raises questions about Yanks; Luzerne County officials finally out of the bullpen; County rejects Triple-A agreement; Potential sale of SWB Yankees approved; Luzerne County explores options on baseball deals; Blaum wants 1986 ballpark contract honored; Potential sale of the SWB Yankees approved; Lackawanna County minority commissioner wants stadium authority to pay off county; Yanks filling seats in Moosic; Once again, it’s all about the Yankees; New for 2007: PNC Field; Work on Lackawanna County Stadium progresses; New for 2007: the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees; End of Astroturf at Lackawanna County Stadium; Here to stay, keep baseball fifty-fifty; Red Barons will stay, Mandalay vows; Moosic councilman presses county on amusement tax; New grass field, fixing leaks are ballpark priorities; Hard-nosed Mandalay known for investments in minor-league teams; Will Moosic get a new ballpark?; Yankees' Triple-A affiliate, California management firm heading to Moosic; Mets representatives expected to tour Lackawanna County Stadium today; Proposal would combine front offices of Barons and Pens; It's official: Yankees leaving Columbus; move to Scranton a done deal?; Authority will consider giving Cordaro power; Yankees to SWB?

Future of Bowling Green ballpark project to be decided this week
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An ambitious plan to redevelop downtown Bowling Green and build a new 4,000-seat ballpark depends on whether city officials can work out a funding plan by this Friday. Art Solomon, who has pledged to sign a 20-year for a new ballpark that would be primarily funded with bonds backed by the creation of a TIF district, says he needs to know by Friday if financing is finalized; other developers are setting forth the same deadline. We're been hearing recently that this deal is in some jeopardy: though all sides have agreed upon the broad outlines of a plan -- a $251 million project covering 100 acres -- the city has not yet signed any papers or set up a specific financial deal to sell bonds.

Sale of Diamond Jaxx could be finalized Friday
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Another Friday deadline: the sale of the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) should be finalized Friday, as a new ownership group led by Reese Smith III and Josh Beard say they've received the necessary permissions from Minor League Baseball and Major League Baseball. The new ownership group hasn't done much to promote the team; you can expect a lot of activity beginning next week.

Normal is 'an untapped gem' for baseball: consultant
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A consultant who was hired Monday night to gauge the feasibility of attracting a privately owned minor-league baseball team to the Noirmal area believes there’s "a tremendous amount of potential." The Twin City area is a “fast-growing market; one of the faster growing in the whole state,” said Mike Thiessen of The Madison Group LTD of Chicago. Heartland Community College is looking at expanding its athletic facilities to include a new ballpark.

SCL interested in Ed Smith Stadium
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The independent South Coast League is interested in leasing Ed Smith Stadium should the Sarasota Reds (High Class A; Florida State League) move as part of the spring relocation of the Cincinnati Reds. Sarasota officials say it's too soon to consider a replacement for the Reds. Traditionally the S-Reds have been one of the poorest-drawing teams in the FSL.

In memoriam: Glynn West
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Glynn West, who helped integrate Birmingham professional baseball on the field and in the stands, died Monday after a brief illness. He was 75. West served in various capacities with the Birmingham Barons (Class AA; Southern League), beginning as a scoreboard operator and climbing to the post of general manager of Charlie Finley's Birmingham A's during the turbulent 1960s. West helped Finley bring championship baseball to Rickwood Field with a talent-rich lineup that included Reggie Jackson. West was also the force behind opening seats to all comers, regardless of race, during the midst of the Civil Rights movement.

Nationals ready for opening of new ballpark
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Much of the work at Nationals Park, the new home of the Washington Nationals, is done: the seats and field are in, the large scoreboard is installed, and the clubhouses are prepared. But there's still a lot of work to be done before the ballpark opens in late March: there are stacks of cinder blocks where the "baseball-themed jungle gym" is supposed to go. Wires are dangling along certain walkways. There is wet concrete around one corner, icky mud around the next. Big red 'X's mark the spots where cherry trees will be planted beyond the left-field seats. All of this is fairly standard for ballparks on the verge of opening, and we're guessing there will be a feature or two not ready for the end of exhibition season. More on the new ballpark here.
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Quakes, Angels extend PDC
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The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes (High Class A; California League) have signed a two-year extension to the current Player Development Contract. The announcement ensures that future Angels will continue to play at the Epicenter through the 2010 season. "The Angels are excited to continue their relationship with the Quakes and the City of Rancho Cucamonga," said Angels General Manager Tony Reagins. "The Epicenter is a first-rate facility and the close proximity to Angel Stadium makes this an ideal situation." More on the affiliation front here.

New Arizona spring-training venues on schedule; Reds eye move west
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Construction of a new spring-training ballpark for the Cleveland Indians in Goodyear, Az., is on schedule, and now there's the chance the Cincinnati Reds could be joining the Cleveland Indians as a tenant after the team signed an agreement to exclusively negotiate a lease with Goodyear officials for 75 days. News of the construction came before a meeting of the Cactus League Committee of the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority last week, paving the way for the Indians to formally move spring operations to Arizona in 2009. It's not yet clear whether the new Glendale ballpark will be ready for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox in 2009; a report from the builder was supposed to be done by now, but we've seen no sign of one. Right now the interesting move is from the Reds; a move of the team's spring operations would leave an odd number of teams in each spring league. Reds officials say there are no MLB rules forcing an even number of teams in each spring league, but going with an odd number of teams does create a whole realm of logistical problems. First, you can't schedule split squads every day of spring training, which could increase the number of off days in each circuit (right now each team generally takes just a single off day around the 19th or 20th). Second, it's not just the major-league teams that schedule games; remember, around March 12 or so each MLB team has four minor-league squads (AAA, AA, low A and high A) in the complex as well. These teams play other minor-league squads; AAA and AA in one camp, the A teams in the other camp. While typically these schedules are simpler -- involving just four MLB camps -- they are a consideration as well. Then there's the cost: Goodyear officials estimate it would cost $32 million to add facilities for a second team to the complex, and with the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority seemingly tapped out, it would be the city's responsibility to come up with the funding. If the money is found and the Reds agree, the team could move to Arizona as soon as 2010.

UO announces plan for new ballpark, lease deal with Ems
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The University of Oregon announced the school is ready to move forward with a new $15-million on-campus ballpark north of Autzen Stadium. The ballpark is expected to be built in two parts, with the first phase hoping to start no later than fall 2008. The first construction phase of the ballpark will cost in the range of $3 million to $4 million and meet minimum requirements, inclding an artificial playing field, temporary seating for between 1,000 and 2,000 fans, lights and dugouts. The second part will include a grandstand that will seat between 4,000 and 5,000 fans, luxury suites next to right field, a video board, picnic areas, locker rooms, clubhouses and an Oregon baseball history area. The school also announced a lease with the Eugene Emeralds (short season; Northwest League) to play in the new ballpark, which should be fully open in the 2010 season. The move by the Ems probably means historic Civic Stadium, which has hosted Pacific Coast League and Northwest League baseball for decades, will be on a short track to demolition. More from the Oregonian.
    RELATED STORIES: UO leaning toward new on-campus ballpark: report

Twins see brisk sale in suite sales
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The Minnesota Twins say suite sales at their new downtown Minneapolis ballpark is going well, with 42 of the 55 luxury boxes already sold to local corporations. At this rate -- two years before the opening of the ballpark -- it would be highly surprising if the rest of the suites didn't sell out, and the Twins front office is considering adding five more. With only 55 suites, the new Twins ballpark is a little lighter than most new MLB ballparks; the real mark of whether the ballpark succeeds financially is how well the club seats sell. There is only one property in Minneapolis-St. Paul with club-level seating -- the Minnesota Wild (NHL) offers them at the Xcel Energy Center -- and those tickets are hot properties. Technically, selling suites is something new for the Twins: the luxury boxes at the Metrodome are controlled by the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), even for Twins games. Speaking of the Twins, the New York Times looks at the economics of the team in the face of the Johan Santana trade. The assumption here is that the Twins could have paid enough to keep Santana in Minnesota when the new ballpark opens. We're not so sure that's true: from our chats with baseball officials it was pretty clear Santana wanted out of Minnesota for other reasons and was unlikely to sign any new deal with the team.
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Downtown ballpark remains choice of Omaha officials, despite higher price tag
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A new downtown ballpark remains the first choice of Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey and Ken Stinson, chairman of the mayor's ballpark review committee, despite the higher price tag for such a facility. The options are down to a new downtown ballpark or a renovation of Rosenblatt Stadium for the NCAA College World Series and the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League); The latest estimate is $130 million to $140 million to build a new ballpark on parking lots northwest of the Qwest Center Omaha, as opposed to $80 million for a Rosenblatt Stadium renovation. Funding for the project remains problematic: a 2 percent restaurant/entertainment tax is not a possibility, and raising hotel/motel taxes would place those among the highest in the country. There's the chance the Rosenblatt Stadium property could be sold to defray part of the costs as well.
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Cheney Stadium may be center of Tacoma redevelopment
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Cheney Stadium, the historic home of the Tacoma Rainiers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), may be the centerpiece of a big redevelopment in Tacoma, as a consultant looks at whether the ballpark site and surrounding land could be better utilized for redevelopment. The urban planner will determine whether the cluster of properties on city property -- including Cheney Stadium -- would be better off moved or redeveloped. The owners of the Rainiers sound like they would prefer a new ballpark; Cheney Stadium was built in 1960 and does lack many of the revenue-enhancing amenities found in newer ballparks. But Tacoma is not exactly wealthy, and with the state already committing $5 million toward a renovation of the ballpark, city officials sound like they'd rather continue with a renovation.

Chesterfield may seek replacement for R-Braves
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Many in baseball expect it to be a complicated situation when the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) leave the city for Gwinnett County, but it could be even more complicated now that Chesterfield County --- where officials don't like the idea of helping to pay for a ballpark in Richmond -- may make their own play for a team and a new ballpark. Chesterfield County is the largest municipality in the Richmond area and will naturally have a lot of say as to where a new ballpark ends up.
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HKS, Barton Malow to oversee new Gwinnett County ballpark
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The Gwinnett Convention and Visitors Bureau has selected HKS Architects and Barton Malow to design and build a new ballpark in Gwinnett County for the relocated Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League), slated to open in 2009. Barton Malow, a construction management company with a distinguished portfolio in building stadiums, is nationally recognized with such projects as Camden Yards, Coors Field, Jacksonville Suns AA Ballpark, and Turner field in their portfolio. HKS's most recent minor-league ballpark, Dickey-Stephens Park, opened last season as the home of the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League) and was named by this site as the co-winner of the best new ballpark in professional baseball for the 2007 season.

Portland Beavers unveil new logo, unis
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The Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) unveiled new official logos, color schemes and on-field uniforms that will be in use during the 2008 season and beyond. The new identity system was created by Portland-based Sandstrom Design.. Building on more than 90 years of franchise history, the Beavers’ visual identity signals a new direction for the team while at the same time blending elements of the considerable past of the Portland club that was a charter member of the Pacific Coast League in the early 1900s. A large part of the re-branding initiative is centered on the emphasis of this unique charm, showcasing the Beavers as "Portland’s Team Since 1903." The new identity for the Beavers includes a complete color change; new primary, secondary and cap logos; and new home, road, alternate and batting practice uniforms and hats. You can see them all on this PDF.

St. Paul proposes new $25 million facility for Saints
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The city of St. Paul is proposing a new $25 million facility for the St. Paul Saints (independent; American Association) and potentially the Minnesota Thunder soccer team as part of an expanded sports complex at the Midway Stadium site. Here's a PDF outlining what the city has proposed to the Minnesota Legislature. If you think the request is vague, you're right: we've been unable to get a firm sense of exactly what the city is asking for, and from what we've been told most recently the facility would house both teams. Jay Weiner gets snookered because of his political agenda; he's also wrong on many of his facts (hell, he's wrong about who actually owns the team), including his assertion that the Saints are picking up $10 million of the cost of the new facility. They're not: using revenue from suites to pay for the ballpark doesn't mean the Saints are paying for the ballpark.

Daktronics to supply new Mets scoreboard
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Daktronics will provide nearly 12,000 square feet of integrated scoring and video display technology at Citi Field, the new home of the New York Mets, opening in 2009. Installation of the multi-million dollar system will begin this spring and is expected to be substantially complete by August 2008. The scope of Daktronics' work at Citi Field includes the design, manufacture, and installation of the system. This system will incorporate multiple high definition video boards, one of the nation’s largest and most capable out-of-town scoreboards, large screen LED video displays, and numerous other displays throughout the facility.

Chlapaty commissions study on Dubuque's interest in baseball
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Joe Chlapaty, the man who last year declared his interest in bringing affiliated baseball to Dubuque, Iowa, has hired real-estate consultant NorthMarq Advisor to determine the level of interest of local residents regarding pro baseball. The study, we're guessing, will find a high level of support among local residents if they don't have to pay for a new ballpark. A vote two years ago on public funding of a new ballpark for a Low Class A Midwest League team was defeated by voters, but Chlapaty has talked about privately funding a ballpark if the city will provide land. We continue to hear the Beloit Snappers (Low Class A; Midwest League) would be available.

Future of Bernie Robbins Stadium in doubt
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Bernie Robbins Stadium, the home of the Atlantic City Surf (independent; Can-Am Association), could be torn down under a redevelopment of the former Bader Airport site. The ballpark would make way for a megadevelopment featuring more casino and hotel space. Mark Schuster, owner of the Surf, doesn't sound like he wants to leave Atlantic City and is looking at ways to incorporate a ballpark into the mix.

Fort Wayne ballpark steel bids under budget
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Fort Wayne received lower-than-expected bids for its new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League), continuing the good news on the cost of the project. The Fort Wayne Redevelopment Commission opened three bids for structural steel to be used in the stadium centerpiece of the Harrison Square project. Almet, of New Haven, was the apparent low bidder, submitting a base price of $1.7 million. Greg Leatherman, executive director of redevelopment, said the estimate for the work was $1.8 million. The $30 million ballpark is expected to be open for the 2009 season.

In memoriam: Bob Wilson
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Bob Wilson, whose long association with the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League) dated back to the early 1970s, passed away late last month at the age of 71. He was most recently the team's president and chief operating officer, but spent most of his years as the Mustangs' president and general manager. No cause of death was given in a statement posted on the team's Web site, but Wilson combated a heart ailment over the years and also waged a battle against Parkinson's disease later in life. His health problems dramatically affected his workload with the rookie-league ballclub in recent seasons. In 2003 Wilson was named King of Baseball at the Winter Meetings; he was a great advocate for baseball in Billings, and the new ballpark under construction wouldn't have been possible without his passion for the game.

Local nonprofit wins pact to clean ballpark
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The Maryland Stadium Authority approved a new contract for cleaning Oriole Park at Camden Yards.  The approval is another step in response to an effort this past summer -- including a threatened hunger strike -- by janitorial workers to get a "living wage." In September, the authority agreed to pay $11.30 an hour, the living wage figure set for other state contracts in the Baltimore-Washington region, up from the current $7/hour wage.

Lodging leaders await specifics on proposed tax for new Drillers ballpark
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Tulsa city officials raised the possibility of increasing hotel/motel taxes to help pay for a new Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) ballpark, but some lodging owners say any tax hikes should be used to promote tourism instead. The city has signed a four-month exclusive agreement to negotiate with the Drillers on building a downtown, city-owned ballpark, expected to cost no more than $70 million. While the city would own the ballpark, it would be the Drillers' home and have a maximum seating capacity of 10,000. At this price and at that capacity one must wonder if this is being built to house Triple-A baseball someday. Here's a look at part of the debate over the usefulness of a ballpark as an urban-development tool.
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Big names go public with investment fund for sports-franchise acquisitions
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Henry Aaron, Randy Vataha and Tony Tavares are just some of the names behind Sports Properties Acquisition Corp., which went public last week on the American Stock Exchange (HMR.U) in its plan to generate capital to buy sports-related properties. The total amount raised was $200 million, which sounds a lot but really isn't when you consider the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field and a stake in a local sports cable network will probably go for over a billion dollars, either separately or collectively, and an NHL franchise now goes for between $150 million and $200 million, as evidenced by the recent sales of the Minnesota Wild and Tampa Bay Lightning. Andrew Murstein, the brains behind the effort, says sports franchises are a perfect investment vehicle: there are a limited number of them no matter what the sport and they almost always appreciate in value. That's certainly true, but playing at the major-league level may require more than $200 million, even when you use it to leverage a bigger deal.

Kane County ready to go ahead with Cougars ballpark renovation
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Kane County officials are ready to award a $10.7 million bid to Skender Construction for a renovation of Elfstrom Stadium, the home of the Kane County Cougars (Low Class A; Midwest League). The renovation will add a second deck of seats and an overhang, more concession stands, more restrooms and more private skyboxes. Under the financial agreement reached with the Cougars, the forest district will cover $8 million in improvements, up from the $5 million to be derived originally from the sale of revenue bonds, and the Cougars will kick in more in rent. The work is expected to be complete for the 2009 season. More from the Courier News.
    RELATED STORIES: Naming-rights sale to bridge funding gap in Kane County renovation

NJ sports authority still expects minor-league baseball at Xanadu
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The New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority still expects developers of the $2-billion Xanadu retail/entertainment complex to build a minor-league ballpark, even though the facility was not included in a recently released list of tenants at the complex. Construction of a ballpark for the proposed Bergen County Cliff Hawks (independent; Atlantic League) was a centerpiece of the plans approved by the sports authority in 2003. The ballpark idea helped the developers -- at the time, Mills Corp. and Mack-Cali Realty -- win out over competing bids, said Carl Goldberg, the authority's board chairman. Colony Capital has since taken over the project. The authority cannot force the developer to build the ballpark because the 2005 lease gave the developers the right to drop it from their plans and a court ruled last year that there was no formal agreement with the Cliff Hawks to develop a ballpark. Even so, Goldberg said he hopes a stadium will eventually rise on the site. Xanadu is expected to open in November.

Chico still yearns for affiliated baseball
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It's a little surprising the Chico market hasn't been studied more closely by High Class A California League teams, given the strength of its teams in the independent Western Baseball League and Golden Baseball League. Chico and Yuma, Az., are clearly the cream of the crop in the GBL, despite sharing a college facility that the Outlaws can't truly market as its home. The lack of a suitable facility does dampen affiliated interest, but given the market surely some entrepreneurial owner could make things work.

Brett Sports buys Bellingham Bells; Lewis named GM
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Brett Sports and Entertainment, a group led by Bobby Brett and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer George Brett, has purchased the Bellingham Bells (summer collegiate; WCBL). The club also introduced Dave Lewis, who served as the general manager of the Tacoma Rainiers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) for the past eight years, as the Bells new general manager and a minority owner in the team. Bobby Brett said that the team is close to signing a contract extension with the city of Bellingham to continue playing at Joe Martin Stadium for two more years with two five-year options. The groundwork for the deal has been laid out by the previous owners, Brett said, and would include the team investing at least $50,000 in capital improvements for the ballpark.

President shoots down new SFA ballpark
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Stephen F. Austin State University President Dr. Baker Pattillo shut down development of a proposed Bo Pilgrim Ballpark, saying there just wasn't enough money to proceed. About 25 percent of the $14 estimated total cost, or $3.5 million, was to have been raised through private donations during the campaign, which began in November 2006 and ended in December 2007. But only $1.94 million in gifts and pledges for the ballpark had been raised by the end of December, which was about $1.56 million short of the goal.

Bill Meyer Stadium field renamed for Helton
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The baseball playing field at the site of old Bill Meyer Stadium in Knoxville's Caswell Park was renamed Ridley/Helton Ballfield during a ceremony there last week.  Former Tennessee baseball standout Todd Helton -- a Knoxville native who played numerous games at the site while he was growing up -- generously provided funds for improvements to the venue and will share in the new namesake honors with late local businessman Neal Ridley.

University hopes Blue Raiders can play in unfinished ballpark
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Middle Tennessee State is in the midst of renovating Reese Smith Field to the tune of $6.6 million, but the changes won't be done until the 2009 season. That leaves the university baseball team in a pinch this upcoming season, so officials want to see the team play at Reese Smith Field anyway and are planning on makeshift gameday facilities.