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Archives: Jan. 8-14, 2008

New Richmond plan: tear down Diamond and build new ballpark -- but will the Braves be around?
Posted Jan. 14, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Richmond (Va.) officials want to tear down The Diamond, the current home of the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League), and build a new ballpark next to it as part of a larger redevelopment of the area, but reports in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution indicate the new owners of the Braves have committed to a move to a new ballpark in Gwinnett County in 2009. Regular readers of this site know we've been slamming the Atlanta Braves for opposing the move of an affiliated team to Gwinnett County; it looks like someone out there agreed with us and decided that market was too good to leave for an independent league. The Richmond newspaper has more. A press conference has been scheduled for tomorrow.
    If the Braves move is true, then that leaves Richmond officials in the lurch in terms of pro baseball -- though we don't expect the market to sit open a day. The future of The Diamond has been under some debate in recent years: there are some obvious issues with it in terms of maintenance and ability to generate enough revenues. If the Braves move, you can expect a feeding frenzy for the Richmond market, especially if the city goes ahead with these plans for a new ballpark: it would be a prime area for at least four Class AA and Class A leagues, though we're not so sure the city could attract another International League team, given the current stability in the other franchises. Look for speculation to begin about who would claim the Richmond market; West Tenn and Huntsville, obviously, will be prime candidates; look for some interesting possibilities arise from owners who have some freedom and are looking at development opportunities. Let the speculating begin.
     RELATED STORIES: Can R-Braves score on success?; New R-Braves ballpark on hold; On Boulevard, but where?; Wilder letter demanded deed to Diamond; Officials hold brief meeting on ballpark options; Baseball talks a sign of hope?; Plans pitched for R-Braves ballpark on Boulevard; Status quo endures at The Diamond; Diamond's status is still uncertain; Polishing the Diamond; Atlanta just might hold all the cards; Braves sell out The Diamond -- thanks to American Idol; Wilder tells council that Richmonders have no problems with Diamond; City, R-Braves see need for new talks; City of Richmond, Braves down to last few swings; Richmond talks about new ballpark -- without the R-Braves; What do the Braves mean to Richmond?; R-Braves cite new ballpark proposals; Richmond Braves say concerns go unanswered; Communications breakdown in Richmond; Wilder: Braves balking on downtown ballpark; Wilder worries about silence from Braves; Developer joins ballpark initiative; Fans hail R-Braves' decision to stay in Richmond; Braves to stay in Richmond, Wilder says; Minor attractions in Richmond: Part Three; R-Braves give Richmond ultimatum: new ballpark or we're history; Minor attractions in Richmond; Richmond ballpark search hits rock bottom; New site for Richmond Braves ballpark causes debate; Ballpark project for Richmond's Shockoe Bottom seems dead; Atlanta Braves may be up for sale; News expected in Richmond ballpark situation; Shockoe committee report won’t include ballpark; Developers threaten historic slave-trade site; Richmond hires man who led N.H. projects; Richmond ballpark gets financial backer; Phone isn’t ringing for owner of The Diamond; Richmond Braves back to The Diamond?; Wilder speaks out on proposed Richmond ballpark; Braves again make pitch for ballpark; Richmond putting a squeeze play on Braves?; City says 'show me the money' for arts center and ballpark; Richmond ballpark plan has makings of solid transaction; Richmond ballpark plan strikes out on site, economics, financing; Wilder quits role in Richmond group; Threat not part of deal for Richmond ballpark; Braves getting outside pitches; Braves or bust?; Drains a strain on Richmond ballpark plan?; Wilder: Stadium proposal lacks details; Richmond ballpark questions remain; Richmond Braves assume role as developer; New ballpark plan for Shockoe Bottom; Proposed ballpark may rescue flood-damaged Richmond area; Global ballpark bid asks much from D.C.; Protests drowned out at rally for Shockoe Bottom ballpark; The Boulevard blues

Activists decry development plans around Yankee Stadium
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Neighborhood activists are decrying plans to hand over Parks Department land near Yankee Stadium to developers, saying the city is reneging on its pledge to preserve green space in the area. When the city laid out plans for a new Yankee Stadium, local residents feared the loss of green space and successfully lobbied the city to preserve green spaces in the south Bronx. But now some of that land is being turned over to developers -- who don't need zoning permits for their projects -- who are looking at mixed-use (parking, retail  office) developments. Speaking of Yankee Stadium: the team is involved in talks with the New York Rangers (NHL) about staging a hockey game there next winter, following the success in Buffalo with a nationally televised match at Ralph Wilson Stadium. We're guessing it will not come to be: other teams have looked at this and concluded their old ballparks can't handle the stress on the turf (remember, a baseball turf needs to be ready for play at the end of March; Ralph Wilson Stadium has artificial turf and the Buffalo Bills don't begin play until August), and we're guessing there are some prime parts of the ballpark that aren't winterized. A more likely venue in the New York City area is Giants Stadium.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Naturals ballpark construction on schedule
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Construction of a new ballpark in Springdale, Ark. for the Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Class AA; Texas League) is right on schedule, as the team prepares for an April 10 home opener. Exterior stonework that surrounds the outer perimeter of the ballpark is approaching completion. The decorative stonework will surround the lower level on the first-base side and multiple structures on the third-base side of the complex. The glass curtain structure that adorns the suite levels is complete and the back side of the suites is nearing completion. Seat installation also continues.
    RELATED STORIES: Ballpark gets OK on delay, increase; White likes the Naturals view; Naturals score with strong sales; Foreman says Arvest Ballpark on schedule for completion; New for 2008: The Northwest Arkansas Naturals; Officials dig baseball; Springdale ballpark construction budget approved; Springdale City Council approves ballpark design; Springdale commission approves new ballpark; Wranglers GM has new challenges; City hires consultant to assist on Lawrence-Dumont lease; Wranglers owner says team was Wichita's third baseball option; Council looks at ballpark design; Commissioners begin planning improvements around ballpark site; Wranglers' move big hit with Royals owner Glass; League approval slow but expected for move of Wranglers; Springdale approves Wranglers lease; Texas League executives scrutinize proposed Springdale lease; Springdale officials present Wranglers lease to public; Rich Baseball, Springdale reach agreement on move of Wranglers; City told only voters decide ballpark's user; Springdale aldermen to hear United League pitch for ballpark; What's new in Wichita?; Wranglers president says move is nearly official; Wranglers agreement down to one item; City negotiating terms with Wranglers; Springdale awaits word on getting Wichita's team; Wichita expects to negotiate for Wranglers; Wranglers to move in 2008

Parking to be limited near new Nats ballpark
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A shortage of parking near Nationals Park, the new home of the Washington Nationals, will force many fans to travel to the game via subway or park in a satellite lot, say Nationals officials. No surprise: D.C. and Nationals officials have both said repeatedly parking will be tight in 2008. Things would be better in the future when the market responds with new ramps and parking areas.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Cliff Hawks' suit against former Xanadu developer tossed
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A lawsuit brought by Bergen Cliff Hawks (independent; Atlantic League) owner Steve Kalifer against former Xanadu developers Mills Corp. and Mack-Cali has been dismissed in a summary judgment, as Judge Jonathan Harris says Kalifer had no agreement for the Meadowlands developer to build a new ballpark. Basically, Kalifer asserted Xanadu lawyer Robert DeCotiis and he reached an oral agreement for a new $20-million ballpark. Harris ruled that such a brief discussion was not a binding agreement: "I find that no rational [judge] of fact could conclude that the fleeting encounter between DeCotiis and Kalafer on Sept. 4, 2002, resulted in a binding meeting of the minds to enable [Kalafer] to recover foreseeable damages for breach of contract," Harris wrote. "At best, it was only the opening salvo in what should have become a campaign of discussions that would lead to mutual assent."

Hennepin County says ballpark appraisal process tainted by crooked evaluation
Posted Jan. 14, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Hennepin County, the entity actually building the new Minnesota Twins ballpark, filed suit against appraiser Larry Tucker and the Faegre & Benson law firm, saying neither side had disclosed a business relationship between the two. Tucker was one of three court-appointed commissioners in the condemnation case where Hennepin County and landowners couldn't agree on the pricing of an eight-acre parcel crucial for the Twins ballpark constructions. Tucker had previously consulted for Faegre & Benson in a separate suit against Hennepin County. Faegre & Benson represented the landowners in the Twins suit, and in an oath Tucker said he had no relationship with any of the parties involved in the proceedings -- Faegre & Benson included. It did raise many eyebrows in the local real-estate community when Tucker came back with a much higher valuation for the land ($33.2 million) than the other appraisers ($23.8 million). Tucker says Hennepin County was informed of the potential conflict; Tucker says otherwise. The latest shows how contentious the land-acquisition process was on both sides.
    RELATED STORIES: Twins, ballpark authority to spend $2.5M on "green" features; Twins ballpark design clears big hurdle with quick board vote; New info on Twins ballpark unveiled; Final price tag for Twins ballpark land: $28.5 million; Mediator will try to find a ballpark land solution; Hennepin County makes insulting offer to Twins ballpark landowners; Landowners make settlement offer in Twins ballpark dispute; Twins finally hold groundbreaking for new ballpark; Landowners to appeal valuation of Twins ballpark parcel; A new dispute on ballpark land figures; Twins ballpark site worth $23.8 million, says condemnation panel; Greed circles the plate at Twins ballpark site; Hennepin County, land owners remain far apart on value of ballpark site; Taxpayers' costs for Twins ballpark may be going up; Ballpark land was low-balled; Ballpark designers seek green label, but say effort alone counts; Twins ballpark parcel worth $65.375 million, say owners; Twins ballpark draws development interest; Pohlads lining up land near ballpark; Hennepin County takes control of ballpark land, reaches agreement with railroad; Twins, Hennepin County sign ballpark agreement; now the fun begins; County: Twins' extra donation for ballpark is confidential; Twins unveil ballpark plans; Hennepin County, Twins reach land agreement; vote slated for today; Twins ballpark meeting is delayed; Ballpark impasse solution may be near on Twins ballpark; Twins moving ahead with ballpark plans; Pohlads step up to plate to help county save deal; Possible fix for Twins ballpark impasse arises; Are Twins working to end ballpark impasse?; Building a ballpark may hinge on having the Twins pay more; County officials, landowners of Twins ballpark site remain in a holding pattern; County looking at two new sites for Twins ballpark; Official says changing site of Twins ballpark would mean delays; A great ballpark divide; Twins postpone ballpark unveiling; Hennepin County, Twins say they'll look for a new ballpark site; Draft environmental review for Twins ballpark unveiled; Judge rules Twins ballpark has public purpose; sides still apart on price; Community leaders eager to see Twins ballpark design; Twins ballpark likely to sport modern look; Ballpark site owners put squeeze on Twins; New year brings new ballpark tax for Hennepin County shoppers; Ballpark players ironing out use, development agreements; Twins release more details on new ballpark; New Twins ballpark bypasses standard reviews; Ballpark's link to downtown Minneapolis inadequate, group says; Ballpark should be held to high standards; Twins formally announce design team for new ballpark; Firms lined up early for stadium work; Eminent-domain effort begins for Twins ballpark land; Designing the experience around the Twins ballpark; Ideas for Twins ballpark, some from left field; A freeze frame for Twins; Experts blow hot, cold on ways to heat new Twins ballpark; Appraisal delay puts Twins new ballpark off schedule; Twins pick ballpark designers; As Twins chase playoffs, ballpark preparations push on; Twins ballpark on track to open in 2010; Hennepin County Board approves ballpark sales tax; It's official: Twins to switch broadcast rights to KSTP-AM; Twins to switch broadcast partner after 46 seasons; Twins seek partners for naming rights, sponsorships; Twins searching for trademark ballpark design; Hennepin County OKs spending plan for Twins ballpark; Naming rights options scary; More than a ballpark in Minneapolis

Gwinnett County still working on minor-league baseball
Posted Jan. 14, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Officials in Gwinnett County in suburban Atlanta are close to an agreement for a new $35-million, 7,000-seat ballpark for an independent South Coast League team -- a development that would lend instant life to the small circuit, which is entering its second season. Gwinnett County is a demographically strong area that already supports minor-league sports -- the Gwinnett Gladiators (ECHL) team is among the best-drawing teams in minor-league hockey -- and the Atlanta Braves may have blown it when they decided to pass on allowing an affiliated team in the area. UPDATE: Obviously with the news the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) are interested in a move to Gwinnett County, it would seem talk of an independent team coming from Gwinnett County officials was a little premature.

Suit: Yankees committed "fraud" over steroids
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This is what the folks in the legal trade would call a nuisance lawsuit. Paralegal Matthew Mitchell is suing the New York Yankees for $221 for tickets he purchased over the years, claiming his favorite team committed a form of fraud by profiting from bad actions of others, such as Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte. Really, this isn't about the money, but the principle: Mitchell wants Yankees officials to appear in court (a date has been set for Feb. 20) and explain their actions. We're guessing a motion to dismiss from a first-year associate will short-circuit Mitchell's quest for justice.

Woodchucks eying ballpark enhancements
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The Wisconsin Woodchucks (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) are eying several enhancements to Athletic Park after inspections revealed some noncompliance with local ordinances. But the price tag associated with the improvements -- adding new concession stands and bathrooms alone will cost $373,100 -- is leading the Woodchucks ownership and local officials to ask whether it wouldn't be more cost-effective to look at a new ballpark. Athletic Park was built in 1936; while it's not exactly showing its age, it is definitely a throwback to an earlier era. Though it would be nice to see some sort of renovation, that may not be possible, and some of the more serious issues with the ballpark -- the lack of surrounding land and parking -- can't be addressed with renovation.

Chiefs, Red Wings to play game at Cooperstown's Doubleday Field
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The Syracuse Chiefs and Rochester Red Wings will play a game at historic Doubleday Field in Cooperstown, New York on Sunday, May 18 at 2:00 p.m. The relocation of an International League game to Cooperstown in 2008 honors the circuit’s 125th anniversary.
    "The 2008 season is going to be a very special one in the International League and May 18 is going to be a very special day," International League President Randy Mobley said. "As the second oldest league in all of professional sports [behind only the National League], the International League is expectedly proud of its history. The opportunity for two of the League’s most tenured clubs, Rochester with 121 years and Syracuse with 94 years, to face off in a regular season game at such a sacred location as Doubleday Field is the ultimate way to honor the history of the League and the great game we all love."
    The Cooperstown game will be a highlight of the International League’s 125th campaign. In addition to this historic event, IL fans will have opportunities all season long to participate in the anniversary celebration. Special activities and events are planned throughout the League, including induction of the largest class in the history of the International League Hall of Fame. In the coming days an announcement will be made with further information on purchasing tickets to the Cooperstown game, as well as combination packages that will include a pass to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

Good expansion plan in Kane County -- if ticket prices don't go up
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The local newspaper endorses the financial plan for an expansion of a $10.5-million expansion of Elfstrom Stadium, the home of the Kane County Cougars (Low Class A; Midwest League) with one big caveat: they don't want to see ticket prices go up. We're guessing they won't go up any more than normal in coming years: the whole point of the expansion is to add premium boxes to the ballpark, and generally they can pay for themselves. As for the sale of the naming rights: it's too bad, as Phil Elfstrom was truly a visionary in working to bring baseball to the area, but officials say his name will still be affixed to the complex -- a continuing legacy. More from the Kane County Chronicle.
    RELATED STORIES: Naming-rights sale to bridge funding gap in Kane County renovation

Topeka schedules forums on new ballpark
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The city of Topeka has scheduled meetings on what locals think about the potential of a new minor-league ballpark. We're not quite sure what the outcome is expected to be: given there's no site, no announced league and no funding plan, there's really nothing to determine in the public response -- unless there's widespread opposition to the very idea of baseball in Topeka. We're guessing there's not. Given that, this is like asking local citizens what they think about having a free chocolate-malt dispenser on every corner: it's good PR, but not very useful in terms of generating useful public opinion.

Orioles expand all-you-care-to-eat seating
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The Baltimore Orioles are the latest team to announce an expansion of their all-you-care-to-eat plan, adding 700 club-level seats to the program. All-you-can-eat tickets purchased on a single-game basis prior to the day of the game cost $40, up from $35 last year. Day-of-game tickets for the promotion will sell for $45. For "prime" games, tickets will sell for $55 prior, and $60 on the day of the game, while partial- and full-season all-you-can-eat tickets will cost fans $35 a seat.

Startup Seatsub aims to fill seats at minor-league games
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We chatted with these guys at the Winter Meetings and were impressed with their plan to help teams monetize unused, already-sold tickets. Austin's Seatsub has a program to allow season-ticket holders to give unused tickets to clients, family members or whoever else they designate. The independent Golden Baseball League has already signed up to try the technology. Teams know selling a ticket is just one part of the sales process: the other part is getting the fan to actually show up at the ballpark.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Jan. 14, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Edwin Rodriguez returns as the manager of the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Low Class A; Sally League). Joining Rodriguez will be pitching coach John Duffy, hitting coach Jorge Hernandez and athletic trainer James Stone. This marks Rodriguez’s second season at the helm of the Grasshoppers, after a successful 71-69 campaign with the team last year. He previously spent two seasons as manager of the Marlins’ Gulf Coast League affiliate from 2005-06 and served as hitting coach for the Carolina Mudcats (Class AA; Eastern League) in 2004....Vince Moore returns as field manager for the Edinburg Coyotes (independent; United League Baseball)....

New for 2008: Progressive Field
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Cleveland Indians have sold naming rights to Jacobs Field to Progressive Insurance, with the new name to be Progressive Field. The Jake has been known as Jacobs Field since 1994 when it first opened. Richard and David Jacobs, the owners of the Indians at that time, bought the naming rights for $10 million. That deal expired in 2007, and the Indians retained IMG to shop naming rights. Progressive Field just doesn't have the same snap that the Jake or even Jacobs Field has; we're guessing it will take Indians fans years to come to grips with the new name, although as a plus Progressive Insurance is a Cleveland-area firm. No word on how much the insurance giant is paying, although we're guessing between $2 million and $3 million annually. UPDATE: The Indians did better than we anticipated. The deal calls for an average of $3.6 million annually through 2023.

Mets interested in switch to Syracuse: Schumer
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You don't find many United States senators involved in minor-league affiliations, but apparently U.S Sen. Chuck Schumer has injected himself into the plans of the New York Mets for their 2009-10 affiliations. Currently the Mets are affiliated with the New Orleans Zephyrs (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), but Schumer wants to see them switch to the Syracuse Chiefs (Class AAA; International League). Schumer has gone to the point of discussing it with Mets owner Fred Wilpon, who says the Mets are indeed interested in a switch. It probably was a little impolitic of Wilpon to discuss the matter with the senator; in theory no one is supposed to be discussing affiliation shifts until August 2008 (unless you're discussing an extension of a current affiliation), and other Mets officials declined to comment because of these tampering rules. Still, discussions do happen; that's just the reality of the situation. We've reported several times about hearing the same thing about the Mets wanting to move to upstate New York on the Triple-A level: it would benefit the team's marketing efforts and also give them a good fit with the Binghamton Mets (Class AA; Eastern League). We expect the Buffalo Bisons (Class AAA; International League) to be in play as well if the Cleveland Indians go ahead and switch their Triple-A affiliation to the Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League), as many expect.

Diamondbacks to go hi-def -- in a big way
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Daktronics has entered into a contract with Mortenson Construction to design and manufacture one of the world’s largest true high-definition video displays for the Arizona Diamondbacks, with installation at Chase Field scheduled for completion prior to the start of the 2008 baseball season. The new board, to be the widest in Major League Baseball, will have the capability to display two, true high-definition, 16:9 images side by side. The display will be one of only a handful of true high definition LED boards in the world and will measure approximately 136 feet high by 46 feet wide, populated with millions of red, green and blue LEDs. With 880 native lines of resolution, the new display will provide high-definition video in up to 4.4 trillion colors. The display will be approximately eight times larger than the existing CRT video board and will be attached to the existing structure after the original components are removed. The existing main scoreboard behind centerfield was completed in 1998 as part of the original ballpark construction.

Reese offers to settle lawsuits over new Knights ballpark
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Real-estate developer Jerry Reese has offered to settle three lawsuits he has pending against Mecklenburg County over funding of land acquisitions for a new Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) ballpark. Reese's complaint: the county is issuing bonds to fund the land swap; the county is prohibited from issuing bonds to fund a ballpark (under the current plan, the Knights are actually funding the ballpark), and Reese says it's basically the same thing. However, a judge has thrown out two of the three lawsuits (he's appealing) and insiders we've talked with say the third has little chance of prevailing, either. (His larger motivation: he wants to bring a Major League Baseball team to Charlotte, and he thinks a new Knights ballpark would hinder those plans -- and presumably cause taxpayers not to support a publicly funded facility.) Settlement offers often are bogus, but this one is being taken seriously by the county: Commissioners will discuss the settlement on Tuesday. At that time they're also expected to discuss a lease for the new ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Vote on new Charlotte ballpark delayed; Mecklenburg County approves land swap for new Knights ballpark; With lease deal close, Knights ready ballpark plans; Appeal filed in Charlotte land-swap case; Charlotte ballpark lawsuit tossed; Council action aids Charlotte baseball deal; Knights say downtown site squeeze is OK; Much up in air with uptown baseball plans; County waves Knights toward uptown; County details Knights ballpark numbers; Knights now pushing to get ballpark in play by 2009; Charlotte approves Knights ballpark deal; Knights in talks on financing new ballpark; Schools agree to role in land swap for baseball; County moves forward on Knights ballpark plan; A new season for Knights, but same old battles; More time wanted for Charlotte baseball deal; Officials: Arts sale not about sports; Ballpark land swap still in play for reshaping Charlotte; Could new Charlotte ballpark be delayed by lawsuit?; Land deal for Charlotte ballpark advances; Diehl plans fight over Charlotte ballpark; Mecklenburg County set for baseball deal role; Charlotte Council seeks answers on baseball; Uptown park for Knights makes sense; Charlotte council gets update on baseball plan; Chamber: poll shows overwhelming support for Knights ballpark; Backers urge: Make noise for Charlotte ballpark; A slow curve in Charlotte; Charlotte ballpark land swap seen as feasible; 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

Staff reorganization announced at MiLB
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A slew of staff announcements was released by the folks at Minor League Baseball. Congrats to all.
    First, John Cook and Scott Poley have been promoted to Vice President in the administration of Pat O’Conner, the new President of Minor League Baseball. Cook is now Senior Vice President, Business Operations and Poley is Vice President, Legal Affairs & General Counsel. They will join the leadership team of O’Conner, who was elected to a four-year term as President in December; Tim Purpura, named last month as Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer; and Stan Brand, long-time Vice President.
    Second, Tim Brunswick, Brian Earle, Justin Klemm and Rod Meadows have been promoted to leadership roles on the staff of Minor League Baseball. Brunswick is Executive Director, Baseball Operations; Earle is Executive Director, Branded Properties; Klemm is Executive Director, Professional Baseball Umpire Corporation (PBUC); and Meadows is Executive Director, Sales & Marketing. Brunswick, Earle and Meadows are moving into new positions. Klemm replaces Mike Fitzpatrick as Executive Director of PBUC. Fitzpatrick moves to a newly created position as Special Assistant to MiLB President Pat O'Conner.
    Finally, Tina Gust and Jonathan Shipman have been promoted to department Directors and six staff members moved to new roles in a staff reorganization. Gust is Director, Licensing, moving up from Associate Director, Licensing, after serving on the staff since June, 1998, while Shipman, a staff member since May, 2006, is Director, Accounting. He had been Assistant Director, Business & Finance.
    The new managers are: Melissa Keilen, Senior Manager, Sales & Marketing; Casey Boudrot, Manager, Special Operations; Nicole Ferro, Manager, Sponsor Relations; Mary Marandi, Manager, Team Relations; and Mary Wooters, Manager, Baseball Operations/Executive Assistant to the President.
    Jill Rusinko becomes Manager, Durham Operations, a new initiative for Minor League Baseball, and will move to Durham, NC, future home of a laboratory designed to teach, recruit and diversify the Minor League work force.
    Other new titles on the Minor League staff are: Lillian Patterson, Special Assistant, PBUC; on the staff since 1998; Heather Raburn, Assistant to Marketing Director, Sponsorship Development, on the staff since 2005; and Mike Felt, Chief of Instruction, PBUC. Felt, a Minor League umpire for nine seasons, has been a Field Evaluator for PBUC (Professional Baseball Umpire Corporation) since its inception in 1997.

Lot C emerges as frontrunner for new Omaha ballpark site
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The committee charged with making a recommendation on the site of a new ballpark in downtown Omaha for the College World Series and possibly the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) is focusing its discussions on the parking lot northwest of the Qwest Center known as Lot C. Originally the committee was looking at Lot D next to Qwest Center, but officials there complained that a ballpark would not allow any future expansion of the facility. The discussion then shifted to Lot C -- another parking lot in the area, closer to the Hilton Hotel -- and the Civic Auditorium as ballpark sites. Apparently the auditorium site is out of the running, leaving Lot C as the focus for the time being. Also under discussion is a renovation of Rosenblatt Stadium, the current home of the College World Series.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Dow Corning to sponsor 2008 MWL All-Star Game
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
No surprise: Dow Corning has signed up as the named sponsor of the 2008 Midwest League All-Star Game, to be held June 17 at the Dow Diamond, the home of Great Lakes Loons. Dow Corning will additionally have title sponsorship of three other key events associated with the game: The All-Star FanFest, powered by Dow Corning; The Hometown Hitter, powered by Dow Corning and The All-Star Home Run Derby, powered by Dow Corning. "Dow Corning has demonstrated a tremendous commitment to the community through a myriad of programs, including a strong commitment to the Loons," said Paul Barbeau, Loons President and General Manager. "We are thrilled to have Dow Corning continue that commitment through their partnership of the All-Star Game, Home Run Derby, Hometown Hitter, and Fan Fest."

Mudcats announce 2008 Southern League All-Star plans
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Speaking of All-Star Games: The Carolina Mudcats announced their plans for the 2008 Southern League All-Star Game, which will be held at Five County Stadium on Monday, July 14. Activities surrounding the 37th edition of the Southern League All-Star Game are set for Sunday, July 13, and Monday, July 14. An All-Star Gala will be held on Sunday night in Raleigh, followed by an All-Star Luncheon on Monday.

Louie goes large for LumberKings; Mitchell to launch probe
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
OK, so George Mitchell won't be launching a steroids probe into the bulking up of Clinton LumberKings (Low Class A; Midwest League) mascot Louie. There's a simple explanation for the new look: the LumberKings' front office embarked on an extreme makeover for Louie for the 2008 season. (The old Louie is on the left, the new Louie on the right.) Thanks to New Era’s design team, Louie has toned up, changed his facial hair and is even equipped with some new gear. Gone is the handlebar mustache, silver crown and green wood plank that epitomized the mascot for 14 seasons. Nowadays, Louie is sporting a new slick goatee, a shiny golden crown, and swings a more conventional wood baseball bat. "With all the changes that have taken place in the last few seasons, we wanted to give Louie a new and fresher look," said Ted Tornow, general manager of the LumberKings.

New turf planned for PGE Park
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The city of Portland and Merritt Paulson, owner and president of the Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), announced that a new FieldTurf field will be installed at PGE Park for the 2008 season.
    The overall project will include the removal of the existing surface; the installation of FieldTurf’s two-and-a-half-inch monofilament playing field atop a porous asphalt base; and the implementation of FieldTurf's infill mix of silica sand and cryogenic rubber. Workers will also repair, resurface and coat the existing warning track at PGE Park.
    FieldTurf replaces the existing NeXturf surface, which was in use for seven seasons after being installed in 2001. The existing playing surface will be reused, as the city of Portland and PGE Park have donated portions of the old turf to area sports programs.

Lehigh Valley broadcast team announced
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League) announced their television and radio broadcast teams. Former Major League All-Star pitcher Ricky Bottalico, who will serve as an analyst, joins play-by-play announcers Mike Zambelli, Sports Director of 2 Sports; Matt Provence, IronPigs Director of Media Relations & Broadcasting; and Troy Hein, Sports Director of WFMZ. In addition, Allentown native Meredith Marakovits will serve as a features reporter for the telecasts. Jon Schaeffer, IronPigs Manager of Media Relations & Broadcasting, will join Provence in handling radio duties on the IronPigs Radio Network during the team’s inaugural season.
    Ricky Bottalico brings 12 years of Major League baseball experience to the booth and will provide color commentary during all 72 IronPigs home games. Originally signed by the Phillies as an amateur free agent in 1991, Bottalico made his Major League debut in 1994. He was named a National League All-Star in 1996 after posting 34 saves and a 3.19 ERA in 61 appearances.
    Zambelli will handle a majority of the play-by-play duties on the IronPigs Television Network. A 20-year veteran of 2 Sports, he has served as the station’s Sports Director since 1994. As part of Service Electric’s local sports coverage, Zambelli has done play-by-play for the Reading Phillies, Allentown Ambassadors, Lehigh University football and basketball and hundreds of sporting events on the high-school level.
    The 2008 campaign will mark Matt Provence’s 12th season in minor-league baseball following stints with the Norwich Navigators (1997), Lynchburg Hillcats (1998-2004) and Daytona Cubs (2005-2006). The New Jersey native will serve as the primary play-by-play voice on the IronPigs Radio Network while having a significant on-air presence on all TV broadcasts.
    Meredith Marakovits joins the broadcast team as a features reporter for the IronPigs Television Network. The role is a familiar one for Marakovits, who has also worked as a sideline reporter for both the Reading Phillies and Lehigh Valley Outlawz (Continental Indoor Football League) on 2 Sports.
    The IronPigs TV Network, powered by Service Electric Cable & Communications, consists of Service Electric Cable & Communications, Service Electric Cablevision, Service Electric Broadband, Blue Ridge Cable and WYLN 35 – which will televise live all 72 IronPigs home games. WFMZ 69 will also join the network for all Saturday home broadcasts and other select games.

Ballpark, housing attract Maryland investors to York
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The new home of the York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League) has lured a pair of new investors into the city. Wesley Myers and Mark Carr are Maryland real-estate investors who hope to renovate a former railroad facility at 50 E. North St. and bring in a restaurant as a tenant. Myers and Carr paid $225,000 to acquire the building from a partnership that included local attorney Frank Countess of CGA Law Firm. The property was once a baggage-handling facility for the old York train station, which is nearby and now serves as a Greyhound bus terminal. The area is seeing a spurt of investment, said Ryan Myers, an agent at Rock Commercial Real Estate in York who worked on the deal. He cited the new ballpark and the Codo development that will offer high-end housing nearby.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Jan. 11, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Quad Cities River Bandits (Low Class A; Midwest League) announced five new additions to their front office staff, adding two new Assistant General Managers while bringing in a significant amount of professional and local experience to Modern Woodmen Park. Cory Howerton brings major-league sports experience to the staff, leaving his position as Group Events Manager with the NBA’s Seattle Supersonics and the WNBA’s Seattle Storm to become the River Bandits’ Assistant General Manager of Corporate Sales. Keith Lucier, a native of Bettendorf, joins the club as the Assistant General Manager of Fan Experience. Lucier already has a past with the River Bandits, having started his professional career as an intern with the organization in 1997 and ultimately rising to become the Director of Group Sales. Shannon Mandsager will be starting her first year in professional sports as the team’s Director of Corporate Partnerships, and brings great experience with the businesses and people of the Quad Cities. Nick Harvey was already a member of the St. Louis Cardinals family, and joins the staff as Ticket Manager. A native of Dayton, Ohio, Harvey earned a Sports Management degree from Ohio University. His professional experience includes a season with the Cardinals’ Triple-A affiliate, the Memphis Redbirds, as a Group Sales Intern. Ben Kratz comes to the Quad Cities to fill the role of Head Groundskeeper/Stadium Operations. Kratz has six years of grounds crew experience at the Triple-A and NCAA Division I levels, including time spent at Omaha’s Rosenblatt Stadium, home of the College World Series....Bienvenido "Bien" Figueroa is the new manager of the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League. He'll be joined by fifth-year pitching coach Bob Stanley, new hitting coach Victor Torres and new trainer Dustin Luepker.....

Orioles on their way to Dodgertown?
Posted Jan. 10, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Scripps Treasure Coast newspapers are reporting the Baltimore Orioles signed an option to move spring-training operations to Vero Beach's Dodgertown complex, a fallback position should their plans to renovate Fort Lauderdale Stadium be scrapped. It's no secret Indian River County officials have been looking for a replacement for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are shifting spring operations to Arizona in 2009 or 2010 (depending on when a new Glendale ballpark and complex are ready). Don't get too excited yet: from what we've been told the Orioles are still pursuing a deal to renovate Fort Lauderdale Stadium, but officials are awaiting FAA approval. Also, the Orioles front office is started to be concerned about the cost of the project rising; a move to Dodgertown and Holman Stadium would surely be cheaper in the short term. But many of the problems plaguing Dodgertown would be present for the Orioles: the city's relatively remote location and the inability of fans and team officials to fly directly there. And remember: this is an option, presumably designed to keep the Cincinnati Reds out of town.

The Allentown IronPigs?
Posted Jan. 10, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski is upset that the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Class AAA; International League) signed a two-year deal to put up visiting players at a nearby Bethlehem hotel. It was just another reminder for Pawlowski that the $49.4-million Coca Cola Park is located in his city, but Allentown isn't sharing too much in the financial bonanza expected to result from the new facility. Here's the deal: At several points Pawlowski worked to have the city involved in the ballpark, but either he pushed the wrong project (he wanted a smaller facility built for the late owner of the Allentown Ambassadors) or the wrong location (Pawlowski's preferred downtown site was to small for a Class AAA ballpark). In fact, the city isn't putting a penny into the project: Lehigh Valley floated $17.5 million in bonds to help build the ballpark, and the team owners are paying well in excess of a million dollars annually in rent. So where does Pawlowski have a complaint?

O's scoreboard demolition begins
Posted Jan. 10, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Workers began the demolition of the center field scoreboard and Sony JumboTron at Oriole Park at Camden Yards yesterday, with the first pieces of the original 1992 scoreboard being removed by crane. It's the latest step in a series of preparations for the installation of upgraded scoreboards around the stadium. Last month, the right field out-of-town scoreboard, along with the club level and upper level auxiliary scoreboards, were removed in preparation for the installation of upgraded LED boards capable of providing more information, animation and statistics for fans.

ULB, GBL to face off in interleague All-Star Game
Posted Jan. 10, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Golden Baseball League (GBL) and United League Baseball (ULB) announced that the independent leagues have agreed on a two-year partnership where they will play their All-Star game against each other this
season and next. The 2008 game will be played on Tuesday, July 15 at San Angelo's Foster Field. The 2009 game will be played in southern California hosted by the Orange County Flyers. The 20-man rosters will be comprised of players from the eight GBL teams in California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and western Canada versus players from the six United League teams in Texas and Louisiana.

So, let's say the Trop's for sale....
Posted Jan. 10, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
St. Pete officials are discussing development possibilities for the Tropicana Field site should the Tampa Bay Rays go ahead with a new $450-million waterfront ballpark on the current Al Lang Field site. Major cities don't get development opportunities like this very often: the Trop site is seen as the gateway to downtown St. Pete, has a great location, is available as one contiguous whole, and has already attracted the interest of multiple developers. There's some pressure here: the proceeds from the redevelopment will help fund the new Rays ballpark, so city officials will need to make sure they chose a safe yet lucrative route. More from the Tampa Tribune.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

Ballpark Notes
Posted Jan. 10, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Reading Phillies (Class AA; Eastern League) have announced that Service Electric Cable TV-2 Sports will serve as the flagship provider for an extensive television network that will carry 23 R-Phils home games live in 2008. The R-Phils and SECTV teamed up in 2007 to broadcast 22 games. SECTV 2 Sports, located in Allentown, will produce the games which will also be carried by network affiliates Service Electric Cablevision, Service Electric Company, Blue Ridge Cable TV-11, Blue Ridge Cable TV-13 and WYLN-35. Overall, R-Phils games will reach over one million homes during the 2008 season....The Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) announced the signing of Ty Cobb to a minor-league contract. No, not the dead guy: this Ty Cobb (yes, Ty is his real first name) has been hired as the team’s marketing and community relations intern. Beginning today, Cobb will have his own blog on the front page of oroyals.com....The Birmingham Barons (Class AA; Eastern League) announced eight new promotions and additions to their front-office staff for the 2008 season. Steve Hamilton (head groundskeeper), Justin Firesheets (director of media relations), and Jo Ann Bragan (accountant) join the front office, while Bill Adema (director of sales), Kyle Krebs (community relations coordinator), Jonathan Howe (corporate event planner), Charlie Santiago (community group ticket representative) and Casey Odom (corporate event planner) return in expanded roles....The Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association) announced that First PREMIER Bank and PREMIER Bankcard will return as the Canaries presenting sponsor for a third straight season in 2008. As presenting sponsor, First PREMIER Bank/PREMIER Bankcard will receive signage as well as its logo on all Canaries print publications and inclusion in all media advertising. They will also be the presenting sponsor of the Canaries 2008 Season Premier, featuring a post-game fireworks display, when the team hosts the Pensacola Pelicans on May 13....The Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) announced that the team has entered into a title-sponsorship agreement with Cricket Wireless for the 2009 Triple-A All-Star Game, which will be held at PGE Park in downtown Portland. It was also announced that the Cricket Wireless Triple-A All-Star Game will take place July 15, 2009; a start time has yet to be determined....The Kansas City Royals announced their broadcasters for the 2008 season headlined by Denny Matthews returning for his 40th season as the Royals play-by-play announcer. The 2007 Ford C. Frick Award winner will be joined by 11-time Kansas Sportscaster of the Year Bob Davis, who will make a full-time move to the radio booth after 11 seasons as the television voice of Royals baseball. The duo will be joined in 2008 by veteran play-by-play announcer Steve Stewart, who will host the pre- and post-game shows on the Royals Radio Network, as well as call the action on selected games throughout the year. Ryan Lefebvre, who was announced earlier today as the lead voice for Fox Sports Net telecasts of Royals baseball, will also provide the play-by-play call on radio when he is not on television....The Evansvlle Otters (independent; Frontier League) announced the following announcements for the 2008 season: Brendan Sagara is the new pitching coach and Bobby Bell is the new hitting coach....

Vote on new Marlins ballpark delayed
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A vote on a final lease and agreement for a new Florida Marlins ballpark has been delayed to give the team, Miami-Dade County and the city of Miami time to work out the final details. No surprise: we're hearing from insiders there's more disagreement over the final terms than you may think, as the team negotiates over the form of its contribution (the plan from Miami-Dade and Miami officials calls for the team to pay $155 million up front; the team wants to spread things out), who receives the proceeds of naming rights, and whether state aid for the new ballpark will be sought. (Given the Tampa Bay Rays have decided to forego state aid for a proposed $450-million waterfront ballpark, it would be in bad form for the Marlins to seek funding, many believe.) In a way, this is standard negotiating procedure, as the Marlins seek the best deal they can get.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Naming-rights sale to bridge funding gap in Kane County renovation
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Kane County Cougars (Low Class A; Midwest League) will sell naming rights to Elfstrom Stadium in an attempt to bridge a $5 million budget gap for a renovation that will add a second deck of seats and an overhang, more concession stands, more restrooms and more private skyboxes. Under the 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. Team owners, meanwhile, have agreed to increase the annual rental fee, ranging from $1.1 million to $1.3 million a year, that they will pay the district through 2028. The increase will come from the team's sale of naming rights to the ballpark. The first two rounds of bids yielded estimates of $12 million; commissioners and the team think they can get the final budget down to $10.5 million in another round of bids. The Elfstrom name will still be present after the naming rights are sold: the entire area will be known as the Philip B. Elfstrom Events Center.

Opponents say Rays, manatees don't mix
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Environmental leaders in St. Petersburg want to make sure a new $450-million waterfront ballpark for the Tampa Bay Rays on the current Al Lang Field site doesn't impact manatees, sea grass beds and a spring in Tampa Bay. Rays officials say filling in six-tenths of an acre -- about three house lots -- for a rerouted Bayshore Drive is necessary to procure enough land for the ballpark. It sounds like some opponents purely oppose the ballpark and are using the environment as a weapon -- for instance, the aforementioned spring is 1,000 feet from the seawall and unlikely to be impacted by any fill -- but to their credit other environmentalists say the issue needs to be studied before a final decision on the ballpark is made.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

Judge blocks Columbus ballpark contract
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A day after he said he wouldn't prevent Franklin County Commissioners from changing the terms of a bid process concerning a new Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League) ballpark, Judge Richard A. Frye did step in block and block the bid after it was technically awarded by the commissioners. Here's the deal. TP Mechanical Contractors Inc., a nonunion shop, bid $4,349,874 for both the plumbing and ventilation jobs at the new ballpark. It had the lowest combined bid, but commissioners decided to split the bids -- which, apparently, they can do and show no cause -- and awarded part of the work to a competing union shop whose bid was higher. Frye then blocked the award, saying it's not clear to him the county could eschew the low bid. There are some other factors involved, besides the union status (or lack thereof): commissioners say TP doesn't pay the state-required prevailing wage and has too many safety violations in its history. This shouldn't hold up construction of Huntington Park, slated to open in 2009.
    RELATED STORIES: Judge won't stop ballpark contract; Ballpark bidding challenged again

Dodger fan seeks $1 million over parking lot punch
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Marta Parra Helenius, a 31-year-old nurse, is suing the Los Angeles Dodgers for $1 million, alleging the team didn't follow its own rules on how to handle unruly fans at Dodger Stadium, paving the way for an attack that left her legally blind in one eye. On July 17, 2005, Helenius and her husband attending a Dodgers-Giants game; she was wearing a Dodgers jersey, while he was sporting the Giants' colors. A group of Dodgers fans took umbrage at the presence of a Giants fan and started harassing the couple, leading security to move the Dodgers fans. After the game -- won by the Dodgers in dramatic fashion -- the groups met up in the Dodger Stadium, with the end result a scuffle that led to an enraged female Dodgers fan attaching Helenius, causing the permanent eye injury. Helenius's attorney says the team should have done more to protect here, but judging by what the Dodgers say the only way they could have prevented the fight would be to escort fans to their cars -- an unrealistic solution.

Hannibal group to renovate ballpark, join CICL
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A distinguished group of investors and advisors -- including Larry Owens, Lee Thomas, Red Schoendienst, Frank White, Walt Jocketty and Rollie Hemond -- are putting together a franchise for the summer-collegiate Central Illinois Collegiate League and renovating Clemens Field in Hannibal, Mo. for play in 2009. Clemens Field is a WPA-era ballpark; if you want an idea of what it looks like, check out our photos of Eau Claire's Carson Park, as both ballparks were based off the same plans. Local officials are enthused about the plan; they say the ballpark renovation should bring more fans to downtown Hannibal. More from the Quincy Herald Whig.

Firebirds grounded after short but sweet flight
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The owners of the Farmington Firebirds (summer collegiate; Kitty League) are pulling the plug on the team, but are willing to sell it or lease it under the right circumstances. The discontinuance by the present investors does not necessarily mean the end of the Firebirds. The present investors have been seeking a person or persons who might be willing to operate the team on a commission basis. Several persons and entities have been approached but without success. If the team doesn't play this season, the league will be forced to come up with a new schedule based on five teams.

Parker not coming back as Jaxx GM
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jeff Parker has resigned as GM of the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League), turning down an offer from the new team owners to stay on. (Speaking of the new owners: they've not yet received MiLB and MLB approval to take control of the team, but both are expected within a month.) Parker doesn't have a job lined up yet. Its a shame: Parker did a pretty decent job under some lousy circumstances.

In memoriam: Buddy LeRoux
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Edward "Buddy" LeRoux, former part owner of the Boston Red Sox, has died of natural causes. He was 77. LeRoux died Monday in a New Hampshire hospital, according to the Lord Funeral Home in Wolfeboro. LeRoux started as a trainer for the Red Sox from 1966-74. He served as the team's vice president from 1978-79, then became an owner as part of a group that included Haywood Sullivan and Jean Yawkey, widow of longtime team owner Tom Yawkey. He was forced to sell his share of the team after a failed attempt to wrestle control from Sullivan and Yawkey.

Ballpark Notes
Posted Jan. 9, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jeffrey Leonard is the new manager of the Reno Silver Sox (independent; Golden Baseball League). The 14-year major-league veteran returns to managing, as he previously skippered both Single-A and Double-A teams in the Oakland Athletics organization and the Sonoma County Crushers (independent; Western Baseball League). "We are excited to hire Jeffrey Leonard as our new manager," said Silver Sox GM Curt Jacey. "He's a proven minor league manager who will bring excitement to the ball park. He is also very active with youth sports and the community a main focus of our team and league."...Travis Kiewiet is the new bench coach of the Waterloo Bucks (summer collegiate; Northwoods League). In 2006, Kiewiet was the head coach at Dike-New Hartford and has also spent time as an associate head baseball coach for Cedar Falls....Miss Babe Ruth, one of the mascots for the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Low Class A; Sally League), has spent the past two seasons entertaining fans by retrieving bats, taking balls to the umpire and running the bases. Now, Minor League Baseball’s "Youngest Bat Girl" is taking that momentum to the Onternet with one of her most prized possessions. Fans can now bid on eBay for the chance to own her game-used collar from her rookie season, with all proceeds of the auction to benefit the Animal Rescue and Foster Program of Greensboro. "Fans are always looking to find unique baseball items to add to their collection," said Grasshoppers President and General Manager Donald Moore. "With such a worthwhile charity and Babe’s breakout season last year, it is just a natural connection." Bidders can link to the auction, which ends January 17, through the Grasshoppers website, www.gsohoppers.com....Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller will be the featured guest at this year’s 62nd Annual Awards Banquet held by the Pitch & Hit Club of Chicago on Sunday, January 20 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. Feller will be the 29th inductee into the club’s prestigious "Lou Boudreau Hall of Fame," joining greats such as Ernie Banks, Jack Brickhouse, Andre Dawson, Billy Williams, Billy Pierce, Ron Santo and many other great baseball names from the Midwest. The Pitch & Hit Club, founded in 1942 by a group of Chicago area professional baseball scouts, has held the annual banquet for more than six decades to honor baseball people at all levels, including players, coaches, umpires, executives and members of the baseball media. It is the oldest, longest running and only industry-wide winter baseball banquet in the Chicago area. Proceeds from the dinner go to benefit the club’s youth scholarship program as well as worthy baseball related causes including Cubs Care, White Sox Charities, the Near West Little League, Marquis Grissom Baseball Association and the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation. Fore information, check out the group's Website at pitchandhitclub.org.

Rays will not seek state aid for new ballpark
Posted Jan. 8, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Tampa Bay Rays say they won't seek state aid for a new $450-million waterfront ballpark on the current Al Lang Field site in downtown St. Petersburg. The original plan was to seek $60 million in state sales-tax rebates, similar to what other sports-facilities owners have received in the past, but given the shaky finances of Florida state government these days approval in the upcoming legislative session would be iffy at best, especially without the support of the Pinellas County delegation. Given that the team is working on early financial estimates (the final price of the ballpark hasn't been determined, and no one knows how much revenue a redevelopment of the Tropicana Field site will yield), the team can work around this early roadblock. It also casts a pall on the Florida Marlins' plan to seek a similar sales-tax rebate: it will be extremely hard for the team and Miami-Dade to ask for $60 million when the Rays have passed this time around. (And, don't forget, the move by the Rays doesn't preclude coming back in 2009 for funding, should the state's financial situation reverse.) More from the Tampa Tribune.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

SCL places team in Jackson
Posted Jan. 8, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Officials in Jackson, Miss., are expected to announce today at a press conference that the independent South Coast League is placing a team at Smith-Wills Stadium, formerly the home of affiliated and independent baseball in the city. It's an interesting move for the league, which enters its second season: the move stretches the league's footprint quite a ways (it's over seven hours from Georgia's Macon or Albany to Jackson), and it also puts the league in direct competition with an affiliated team in nearby Pearl, the Mississippi Braves (Class AA; Southern League).

Judge won't stop ballpark contract
Posted Jan. 8, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A judge has told a jilted low bidder that he won’t stop Franklin County commissioners from voting Tuesday morning on a more-costly contract for the new home of the Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League).Common Pleas Judge Richard A. Frye had a simple rationale: as the commissioners had not yet voted, he could do nothing to stop the vote. However, Frye told TP Mechanical Contractors Inc. that the company could sue after the vote. TP submitted the lowest combined bid to install plumbing and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems at Huntington Park, but commissioners say they will split the two bids, spending a little more on the work but avoiding doing business with TP, which is a nonunion shop.

C's top job a Dunn deal
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Andy Dunn is the new president of the Vancouver Canadians (short season; Northwest League). He's spent the last few years with the Washington Nationals working on the operations side after heading the Brevard County Manatees (High Class A; Florida State League). He's walking into a situation that's been described to us as chaotic, to say the least: the team was jolted last year when Aileen McManamon (who had little baseball experience; she was touted by some because of her marketing expertise) quit right before the start of the season, and the Canadians never really recovered. More from the Vancouver Province.

Some see 51s, some see Stars
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The new owners of the Las Vegas 51s (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) are talking about changing the team's name, either reverting back to the old Las Vegas Stars moniker or choosing a new one. The Stevens Baseball Group could learn as soon as this week whether its purchase of the 51s from Mandalay Baseball Properties has received approval from the minor league and major league commissioners. Once the sale is final, according to president and GM Don Logan, he and new owner Derek Stevens would examine all facets of the organization -- including the team's nickname.

Fan facilities are next for Oaks ballpark renovation
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Competitive bids for the second of three phases in an $11.6 million renovation of Recreation Park are on schedule, which means Visalia Oaks (High Class A; California League) baseball fans should have sparkling new restrooms and concession stands down the right-field line come opening day April 17. Owner Tom Seidler said he's optimistic that much of the construction will be completed on the right-field improvements --0 including an enclosed VIP area that will seat up to 100 people for special events, additional fan seating, an improved bullpen area and souvenir shop. Team officials said last year's first phase of improvements contributed to a whopping 34 percent attendance increase (from 61,958 in the 2006 season to 83,452 in the 2007 season) as fans enjoyed renovated restrooms in the left-field area along with a "dugout suite" and the Hot Corner Lounge.

A changeup for Bud's boys
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One of the more intriguing possibilities has Mark Cuban land the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field and a chunk of a local sports cable network. Cuban has been outspoken as owner of the Dallas Mavericks (NBA), but to his credit he's toned down the rhetoric and genuinely seems committed to pleasing fans. But is that really necessary in Chicago? We're not taking about a situation where fans need to be treated better: Wrigley Field is one of the best places to watch a baseball game and we've always found the gameday staff to be friendly and responsive. While it would be fun to see some of the oldtimers in baseball react to Cuban, the truth is the Cubs really don't need him.

Ice park gliding along at mid-point
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Here's an interesting use of a ballpark in winter: setting up an ice park in the outfield. The Lancaster Barnstormers (independent; Atlantic League) set up a skating rink in the right field of Clipper Magazine Stadium this winter and last winter. So far bad weather has been the biggest problem for the team, but an average of 200 or so customers have shown up to take advantage of the skating rink, with a crowd of 1,000 there on opening night. The ice rink is mostly open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Officials see renderings of minor league ballpark in Avon
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Avon (Ohio) officials are starting to get an idea of what the new minor-league ballpark for an independent Frontier League team could look like. The ballpark could feature a brick entryway opening to seating area encompassing home plate and along the first and third bases lines. There will be grassy areas along the right and left field lines and behind right field where fans could sit, according to renderings submitted to city council. Christopher Wynn, lead architect for the project and director of design for Osborn Architects and Engineers, said the stadium could look similar to older ballparks. The stadium would have seating for about 3,500 people, including seats in the stands and table seating, Wynn explained. There is room for an additional 1,500 people sitting on the grassy berms or walking around.

SFA ballpark: yes or no?
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Stephen F. Austin President Dr. Baker Pattillo will present a recommendation regarding the proposed Bo Pilgrim Ballpark to the SFA board of regents at the board meeting later this month. The regents are scheduled to meet Jan. 28 and 29, and during that time, Pattillo will present a recommendation about the ballpark, according to Andy Kesling, SFA executive director of marketing. The proposed ballpark would occupy a 22-acre site at the corner of University Drive and Starr Avenue and will include a baseball and softball facility. The estimated cost to build the ballpark is about $14 million, and 25 percent of that, about $3.5 million, should have been raised through private donations during the fundraising months, which kicked off in November 2006 and ended in December 2007. At of the end of 2007, about $1.94 million in gifts and pledges for the ballpark had been raised, which is about $1.56 million less than what was originally projected as the goal for the private donations.

Ballpark Notes
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The Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Class AA; Texas League) will reveal the identity of the official team mascot at a special gathering to be held at The Jones Center, at 922 East Emma Avenue in Springdale, at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 11. The event will take place in the food court and is free and open to the public....The Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) announced the hiring of two new employees and the promotion of two others in the club’s front office. Lesley Crutcher joins the team as its director of community relations. The Royals added Michael Jermain as a corporate sales executive. Jason Kinney has been promoted to the club’s full-time merchandising manager, after serving an internship in that position in 2007. Andrea Stava will begin her third season with the Royals as a group sales executive, after spending last season as an intern in the group sales department and the 2006 campaign with the team’s apprentice program....Derek Ingram returns as the voice of the Daytona Cubs (High Class A; Florida State League) in 2008. Two newcomers will join Ingram, the director of broadcasting and media relations for the upcoming season. Seth Millhoan and Brian Chapman join the Cubs as co-assistant directors of broadcasting for their first season in professional baseball. A native of Bowling Green, Mo, Ingram, 26, returns to Daytona for his third season with the Cubs. He was selected to broadcast the 2006 and 2007 Florida State League All-Star Games.

New Yankee Stadium goes up, but Bronx still seeks benefits
Posted Jan. 7, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When the New York Yankees came to a final agreement for a new Yankee Stadium, the team would give roughly $1.2 million a year, starting when the work began, to various community groups through a special panel. But nearly 17 months after construction began, as workers race to complete the new Yankee Stadium by opening day 2009, none of that money has been distributed, and the group responsible for administering it has never met. The Yankees say they've placed the money in an escrow account and are waiting for the city to act; Bronx borough president Adolfo Carrión Jr. won't comment, which leads one to believe there are some New York City politics playing out totally unrelated to the Yankees.
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Mallards ballpark renovation now estimated at $5.6 million
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A plan to renovate Warner Park, the home of the Madison Mallards (summer collegiate; Northwoods League), prompting team and city officials to take a second look at the project, which would include the installation of new bleachers and a reorientation of the playing field. The City Council approved a $4 million financing package for the project in its 2008 capital budget, including $800,000 in city money to renovate the aging bleachers and a $1.2 million city loan to the Mallards, with the remainder to be covered by the team. This leaves a $1.6 million funding gap -- which is probably pretty doable, according to the team officials we've chatted with -- but the larger issues involves politics, as Alderman Michael Schumacher says there should be a study of how the project impact the local area. As anyone who's been around Madison know, projects there can get "studied" to death. The team is still looking at a 2009 timetable for completing the project.

Delegation uninterested in Rays' wish
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The 12 members of the Pinellas County legislative delegation don't seem interested in carrying water for the Tampa Bay Rays as they seek $60 million in sales-tax rebates ($2 million a year for 30 years) for a new waterfront ballpark on the current Al Lang Field site in downtown St. Petersburg. None of the legislators interviewed was in favor of the proposal, much less sponsoring it. The Rays have said all along this wasn't an essential part of the ballpark funding package, and they've done little to lobby members of the Pinellas County delegation. Contrary to what this article reports, the current plan for Miami-Dade County is to seek similar funding for a new Florida Marlins ballpark; don't be surprised if Gov. Charlie Crist pushes for both and adds some additional venues to the mix to broaden the appeal.
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Braman makes pitch against new Fish pond
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Luxury auto dealer Norman Braman doesn't want to see a new $525-million Florida Marlins ballpark -- so much so that he's buying airtime in Miami to rally public opinion against the project. Last month, county commissioners voted 9-4 in favor of the massive agreement with the city to finance billions in new downtown spending that would also help build the ballpark. Thursday's financing vote will include a detailed contract that, among other items, makes cost overruns the team's responsibility. Braman, as you'll recall, is the former owner of the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL).
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Ballpark bidding challenged again
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Franklin County commissioners, accused two months ago of trying to steer a construction contract on the new Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League) ballpark to a union company, are being challenged by another low bidder crying foul for the same reason. Commissioners expect to hire W.G. Tomko on Tuesday, opening the county to a possible lawsuit that could delay construction of Huntington Park. TP Mechanical submitted the low bid for the plumbing job and a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning package, but county officials are splitting the jobs and awarding them separately. The $55-million ballpark is set to open in the Arena District for the 2009 baseball season, though that will be a fairly tight schedule.

Forest District seeks expansion of Elfstrom Stadium
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The Kane County Forest Preserve District will go out for a third round of bids on the expansion of Elfstrom Stadium, home of the Kane County Cougars (Low Class A; Midwest League). The district and the Cougars want to add a second deck of seats and an overhang, more concession stands, more restrooms and more private skyboxes. They've budgeted $5 million for the work, but the first two rounds of bids yielded estimates of $12 million. It's hard to tell what the district expects to go differently this time, although now officials say they're more likely to see a bid of $10 million as being acceptable. More from the Kane County Chronicle.

Tunney wary of Wrigley deal
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Ald. Thomas Tunney, who represents Wrigleyville and whose participation was key in getting the area to agree to more Chicago Cubs night games, says he's skeptical about the prospects of the state buying and running Wrigley Field. One objection is philosophical -- there are private firms willing to step up and buy both Wrigley Field and the Cubs -- and the other is purely logistical, wondering how the state could afford to buy the facility. Here's why Sam Zell is so hot to have the state buy the Friendly Confines: he says the state can pay more than a private individual because the state can borrow money at a lower interest rate. It's purely a play to put more money into Sam Zell's pocket and does nothing to "protect" Wrigley Field: it already has historic-landmark designation and cannot be significantly be altered without an oversight process.
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Reno will get franchise, but with what affiliation?
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When the Tucson Sidewinders (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) move to Reno for the 2009 season, the team may have a new affiliate. Currently the Sidewinders are affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks, but that arrangement won't make logistical sense when the team is in northern Nevada. Reno is in Giants territory, but the team seems pretty happy with its Triple-A affiliate, the Fresno Grizzlies. It's way to early to discuss affiliate changes; we're guessing the Grizzles wouldn't have switched colors to the Giants colors if they didn't expect a longer-term relationship, however.

Merchandise director has high hopes for the Brewers
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You know your team is getting pretty good press coverage when the local business magazine does a big article on your new merchandise director. Here's a profile of Jill Aronoff, who joined the Milwaukee Brewers six months ago as director of merchandise branding. She joined the team in July after six seasons with the Oakland Raiders as director of marketing for The Raider Image, the Raiders' official team store. Currently, the team is expanding its retail operation by building a 3,100-square-foot store at the main entrance to Miller Park to go along with the 4,500-square-foot store now in the leftfield corner. The Brewers' retail sales increased 40 percent in the 2007 season, due in part to the team's on-field success.

Community must face up to future of Ed Smith Stadium
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Kerry Kirschner, executive director of the Argus Foundation, says the city of Sarasota must face the consequences of the future of Ed Smith Stadium, the spring home of the Cincinnati Reds and the regular-season home of the Sarasota Reds (High Class A; Florida State League). When the Reds leave -- and it seems inevitable they will -- the maintenance costs for the ballpark will rise from $500,000 annually to $1.3 million annually. In addition, local businesses will miss out on spring-training revenues.

Ballpark Notes
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Vice President of Baseball Operations Chris Hall is the new general manager and VP of baseball operations of the Nashua Pride (independent; Can-Am Association). "Chris Hall played an integral role in fielding a championship team for the Pride last season, all the while contributing to the Pride’s off-the-field efforts to raise the organization’s profile within the Nashua community. Through this experience, Chris has garnered a unique, working knowledge as to what is required to keep professional baseball alive and well in Nashua for years to come," said team owner John Stabile. Hall joined the Pride front office in 2006 as the vice president of baseball operations. While he conducted corporate sales and spearheaded community relations, he most notably worked hand in hand with manager Butch Hobson assembling Pride player personnel. After the Pride experienced some growing pains in making the leap from the Atlantic League to the Can-Am League in 2006, Hall identified and signed a number of players that went were instrumental in Nashua’s 2007 championship run....Bill Masse is the new manager of the San Antonio Missions (Class AA; Texas League). Joining Masse on the field staff will be hitting coach Terry Kennedy, pitching coach Steve Webber and athletic trainer Wade Yamasaki. Masse joins the Missions after serving last season as the manager of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League), leading them to a 70-73 record. Kennedy most recently was the manager for the San Diego Surf Dawgs (independent; Golden Baseball League) in 2005, where he earned Manager of the Year honors in their inaugural season. Webber served as the pitching coach for Lake Elsinore (Class A; California League) in 2006-2007 and for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League) in 2004-2005....Dan Rohn will return for his second season at the helm of the Fresno Grizzlies (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and will be joined again on the bench by pitching coach Mike Caldwell and hitting coach Jim Bowie. Anthony Reyes will join the club as athletic trainer. Rohn’s first term in Fresno was highly successful, as he guided the Grizzlies to a 77-67 (.535) record in 2007, the second best winning percentage in franchise history....John Shoemaker return as manager of the Jacksonville Suns (Class AA; Southern League). Shoemaker is joined by hitting coach Luis Salazar, back for his second season in Jacksonville. Glenn Dishman makes his Jacksonville debut as pitching coach while Carlos Olivas returns to the Suns for his second season as athletic trainer....Megan Dimond is the new PR director for the Louisville Bats (Class AAA; International League)....Brian Irizarry is the new director of media relations & broadcasting for the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League). Irizarry will be the lead play-by-play voice for all 142 Defenders games this season. He will also handle all media relations and contribute to the organizations sales efforts. This year will mark Irizarry’s fourth year in minor league baseball as a front-office staff member. He began working in minor-league baseball during his college days for the Hudson Valley Renegades (short season; NY-Penn League) as the team’s public-address assistant. He joins the Defenders after spending the past three seasons (2005-07) with the New Haven County Cutters (independent; Can-Am Association). He was group sales manager & broadcaster for the Cutters....Mike Sarbaugh has been named manager of the Akron Aeros (Class AA; Eastern League). Sarbaugh will be joined on the staff by new pitching coach Tony Arnold, as well as returning hitting coach Lee May, Jr. Trainer Michael Salazar also returns for a second season....Fort Worth Cats (independent; American Association) first-base coach Wayne Terwilliger will return for the 2008 season, the club announced today. It will be his 60th season in professional baseball and sixth year with the Cats.  Terwilliger, 82, was the team’s manager from 2003-05. He was named the Central League’s 2005 Manager of the Year after leading the Cats to a franchise-best 60 wins. The team eventually won the championship that year, their first of three consecutive league titles.  He stepped down as manager following the 2005 season and joined the Cats’ coaching staff two months later.  On June 27, 2005, Terwilliger turned 80 years old and joined the legendary Connie Mack as the only two 80-year-old managers in baseball history. When he took over the Cats in 2003, he became the oldest skipper in minor-league history....Scott Bush, who began his baseball career as an intern with the St. Paul Saints (independent; American Association) four years ago, has returned to run the team’s corporate sales department. The 25-year-old Bush joins the Saints from the Stockton Ports (High Class A; California League), where he spent the last two years first as director of special events and then as as director of corporate sales....Rick Heines is the new pitching coach for the Waterloo Bucks (summer collegiate; Northwoods League). Currently Heines is in his first season as an assistant coach at Purdue University....The Stewart Sports Group announced five teams -- the Lakewood BlueClaws (Low Class A; Sally League), Trenton Thunder (Class AA; Eastern League), Wilmington Blue Rocks (High Class A; Carolina League), Midland RockHounds (Class AA; Texas League) and New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) -- have signed up as customers for the the new Stewart Sports Group Call Center, which will work as an extension of each team’s ticket sales staff to reach more prospective customers. Stewart Sports Group provides sales and marketing services to sports teams as well as ballpark development services to communities. The firm is assisting the City of Topeka, Kansas as it develops a vision for a new ballpark.....