Angels, Dodgers poised to snare big events in the next several years
Posted May 23, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Angel Stadium will host the 2010 All-Star Game and Dodger Stadium will host the finals of the 2009 World Baseball Classic, according to a report in today's Los Angeles Times. In addition, the Dodgers are expected to put a bid in for the 2013 All-Star Game, a year after renovations are completed at Dodger Stadium. For Angel Stadium, it would be the third time the Angels have hosted the Midsummer Classic, first in 1967 and then again in 1989, where former Angel Nolan Ryan notched the win and MVP Bo Jackson slammed a homer. Interestingly, Dodger Stadium has hosted the All-Star Game only once, in 1980. Bud Selig is expected to make the announcement next Wednesday.

Ballpark Visit: Veterans Memorial Stadium / Cedar Rapids Kernels
Posted May 23, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It's a working-class ballpark for a working-class city. Veterans Memorial Stadium, the home of the Cedar Rapids Kernels (Low Class A; Midwest League), may not sport the greatest exterior, but inside it's a ballpark with low prices and comfortable seating. More photos and an account of our visit here. Still to come this week and next: Iowa City, Des Moines, Chattanooga, Springfield and Davenport.

Blown call causes changes to Yankee Stadium, discussion of instant replay
Posted May 23, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A blown call on a home run by Alex Rodriguez -- deemed a double by the umps -- has led to some changes at Yankee Stadium and renewed calls for instant replay in MLB. It was an unusual play: Rodriguez hit the ball sharply to right center and it hit a staircase before careening back onto the field. Because of the way the staircase is painted -- yellow -- and the ferocity of the homer, the umpires didn't see where it struck beyond the fence and awarded Rodriguez a double. The Yankees are installing netting over the staircase to stop the ball if something like this happens in the future, a move the umpires said was needed. The whole thing brings back discussion of instant replay, which has been simmering in the last few weeks; owners reportedly will look at experimenting with it in the Arizona Fall League (which shouldn't conclude much, to be honest; AFL games are miles away from major-league matches) and perhaps the 2009 World Baseball Classic. We might see a minor-league trial before a MLB unveiling, according to some MiLB folks who discussed the issue with us.

Today's video: Pensacola Pelicans season opener
Posted May 23, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This video is worth checking out: The commercial promotes Opening Day for the Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association). It was created by a fan as part of the team's TV Commercial contest. The winning person, Erik Forsberg, won $1,000 and two season tickets. We'll be showing videos daily for the next several days, including another from the Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association), two from the Binghamton Mets (Class AA; Eastern League) and a new one from the Fayettteville SwampDogs (summer collegiate; Coastal Plain League). We'd love to share your video with the baseball community, you can send them directly to us at editors@augustpublications.com.

Ballpark Preview: Gwinnett County ballpark, Gwinnett Braves
Posted May 23, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The new home of the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) is expected top open next season. Located in suburban Atlanta, the new $40-million ballpark is being designed by HKS and built by Barton Malow. More renderings and information within. 

Rapidz open new chapter in Ottawa baseball
Posted May 23, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A crowd of 4,246 was on hand at Ottawa Rapidz Stadium to see the expansion Ottawa Rapidz (independent; Can-Am Association) play their first home game and open the season. For a market dulled by the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League) the last several years, the emergence of support for the Rapidz is surely encouraging -- and, of course, cheap beer ($4.50) doesn't hurt. More from the Ottawa Citizen.

Orioles close to final answer on new Fort Lauderdale complex
Posted May 23, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) is close to a final decision on whether the Baltimore Orioles can go ahead with a renovation of Fort Lauderdale Stadium as the team's spring training home. Because the ballpark and expanded complex sits next to an airport on airport property (which is cleared for recreational use), the FAA has been involved and taking their sweet time. Now, this doesn't mean the Orioles will necessarily go ahead with the $48-million plan even if the FAA approves -- they're had informal chats with Sarasota and Fort Myers officials as well as signing an option to move to Dodgertown if need be -- and given that the Orioles have looked at doing some things they can't do in Fort Lauderdale, like owning a Florida State League, it's clear the Orioles are examining all their options. However, despite what others have speculated about in the media, there's no plan to play temporarily at Dodgertown: it will take less than a year to build a new ballpark, so the Orioles could end spring training in March 2009 and then move to the rebuilt facility (which will use the existing steel girders and services as the existing ballpark) in March 2010.

Nationals demanding $100,000 daily because new ballpark offices weren't completed
Posted May 22, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The owners of the Washington Nationals are demanding $100,000 a day in damages because they say Nationals Park wasn't completed on Opening Day -- a shock to the 40,000-plus folks in attendance that day. The claim hinges on the fact that the team offices were not totally completed and ready for occupancy. Now, technically speaking, the Lerners are probably correct that the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission did not fully meet the specifics of the team lease. But it seems rather harsh to occupy a $611-million ballpark with 100 percent public funding (though some improvements were funded by the Lerners) and then make a big deal over what is essentially a minor concern. No surprise that the Nationals ownership refuses to discuss this in the press: they look pretty mean-spirited, and baseball hasn't been such a hit in the new ballpark that the team can afford to alienate its fans.
    RELATED STORIES: Nationals launch new era with opening of ballpark; Early reviews on new Nats ballpark: mixed; Nats unveil new ballpark with test run; Doubts linger over Nats; Feds deny use of key parking garage to Nats fans; Crews pick up pace to renovate Metro station; 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

Ballpark Visit: LaGrave Field / Fort Worth Cats
Posted May 22, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It is one of the most unique facilities in pro ball: LaGrave Field, the home of the Fort Worth Cats (independent; American Association), sits where the original LaGrave Field sat from 1926 through 1967. The dimensions are the same as in the original facility, home plate sits in the same place, and the dugouts of the old ballpark have been converted to dugout suites. And, being Texas, there's a hitching rail beyond the outfield for folks riding to the games on horseback. More photos and an account of our visit here. Still to come this week and next: Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Des Moines and Davenport.

RedHawks explore changes to Bricktown Ballpark
Posted May 22, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Oklahoma City is spending $66,000 on a consultant to see if there are way to draw more fans and events to AT&T Bricktown Ballpark, the home of the Oklahoma RedHawks (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League). The issue is big now because the ballpark is hosting the high-profile Big 12 Tournament, which should fill up the place. Adding more seats probably isn't the answer: Oklahoma City was never mentioned as a possible new home of the College World Series when Omaha was debating a new ballpark, and RedHawks management is against adding many more seats. Concerts and winter events seem to be the answer -- for now.

Parking key to new Rays financing plan
Posted May 22, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One interesting way the Tampa Bay Rays are proposing to fund a new $450-million waterfront ballpark on the Al Lang Field site in downtown St. Petersburg is by raising $35 million in parking fees. Here's the plan: the Rays would lease up to 2,000 downtown parking spots, currently unused at night, from the city. The city would then put that lease money toward a new ballpark. Currently revenue from those parking spots is used to pay down city debt, but to be blunt there's precious little additional revenue because most of the spots sit empty during the nighttime. The team is also proposing a parking surcharge to raise another $20 million. More from the St. Pete Times.
    RELATED STORIES: Rays unveil ballpark financing plan; Tampa Bay ballpark status: From simple to complicated in 30 seconds; St. Pete raises objections to Rays ballpark plan; Public: We want new Rays ballpark; Public responds to Rays' ballpark proposal; Rays sweeten pot for new ballpark with additional upfront money; Opposition to new Rays ballpark growing?; St. Pete newspaper: errors plague Rays ballpark debate; 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?

Bouton proposes new ballpark for vintage baseball
Posted May 22, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Author and former major leaguer Jim Bouton made a pitch yesterday to build a new $12-$15-million ballpark in Westfield to host vintage baseball games, his current passion. Under a plan floated by Mayor Michael R. Boulanger, the city would donate the land, Bouton would donate the plans and someone else would provide the money. Not quite sure there are enough vintage-baseball fans out there to support a $15-million ballpark; it seems like the folks who care the most about the sport are all out on the field. More from Mass Live.

Veeck-led group get nod for Normal ballpark
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A group led by Mike Veeck landed the key recommendation of an advisory committee planning the future of a proposed ballpark in Normal, Ill. The plan is to build the ballpark on the Heartland Community College campus. It will not be an inexpensive endeavor: Veeck and crew (which may include the Saints' Tom Whaley and River City's Steve Malliet; longtime Veeck partner Marv Goldklang is passing on direct participation in this deal) will need to come up with over $7 million for the project (at least $6.5 million for the ballpark, franchise fees for the Frontier League team, working capital and a cushion for cost overruns), with Heartland Community College contributing $3.5 million and the city coming up with $1.5 million in infrastructure work and sales-tax rebates. Given the credit crunch, this may be a challenge, but some of that could be offset by the sale of naming rights and the presale of suites -- and we all know Mike Veeck can be a persuasive salesman, especially in a market like Normal where his family name is familiar. Truth is, financing would have been a challenge for any of the three groups bidding for the market: we've been told by Normal folks that the other Frontier League group (led by Frontier League veteran Peter Heitman) and the Northern League group (which included four current team owners) had no guarantees of funding in place, either. Look for a 3,500-seat facility with plenty of berm seating and artificial turf; besides being the home of a Frontier League team it would also be home to Heartland's baseball and soccer teams. The decision is the first step in a final decision; Heartland Community College officials must review the deal, and the city must sign off on it as well. But given that the structure proposed by Alan Sender meets all the city criteria for approval (it doesn't require any bonding or spending out of the city's general fund), the only real issue is the college signing off on the deal.

Ballpark Visit: Doug Kingsmore Stadium / Clemson Tigers
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Before its thorough makeover and renaming in 2003, “Beautiful Tiger Field” described the home of the Clemson Tigers. Not surprising, and not an overstated moniker. While the ballpark and other athletic facilities are closely connected to the western edge of campus, the grandstand view features an appealing pastoral feel, and although the ballpark is now named for Tigers alum and contributor Doug Kingsmore, it's still a beautiful field. More photos and an account of our visit here. Still to come this week: Fort Worth, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Des Moines and Davenport.

Summer collegiate leagues prepare for 2008 season
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Don't look now, but it's almost time for the summer-collegiate leagues to begin play. The Northwoods League launches play next week, and the week after sees almost everyone else begin their schedules. There are changes in almost every summer-collegiate league this summer (we have new teams in the Coastal Plain League, Texas Collegiate League and the West Coast Collegiate Baseball League), but the league seeing the most change is the Florida Collegiate Summer League. There are new teams in Clermont and Belleview, and the league is returning to Orlando with a team in venerable Tinker Field. Plus, the Leesburg Lightning has a new coach of some note: Former Mets and Twins great Frank Viola. We'll be down in the first weekend of June to check out some FCSL action.

This week's podcast: Of hockey and ballparks
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
On this week's podcast: Prospects look dim for an NHL game at Yankee Stadium; the Tampa Bay Rays unveil another ballpark funding plan; parents sue over injuries they say were caused by a metal bat; and we visit QuikTrip Park in Grand Prairie, Texas. Publisher Kevin Reichard and Senior Editor Dave Wright review the hot topics in the baseball and ballpark worlds in the weekly Ballpark Digest podcast. We've added the ability to listen directly to Ballpark Digest podcasts from the front page of the site: just click on the audio button in the box directly below this -- no need to load a media player or other software. The Ballpark Digest podcast has proven to be a popular feature of the site: according to the Feedburner stats it's been heard 11,558 (!) times via that service alone since Sept. 17, 2007. To directly subscribe to the feed using Firefox or Internet Explorer, go to this page and click on the "Subscribe Now" button. Comments are welcome. You can listen directly to the podcast on your own PC via this link (it's a standard MP3 file). More on Ballpark Digest podcasts here.

Waukesha moves forward with new NWL ballpark
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Speaking of the summer-collegiate Northwoods League: the Waukeska (Wis.) Common Council gave Mayor Larry Nelson authority to establish an ad-hoc committee to research a proposal by Chad Bauer to build a ballpark for a summer-collegiate Northwoods League team in Frame Park. Previously city officials had passed on such a proposal, but the committee will review the financial proposal in hopes of a ballpark opening in 2009. Bauer and his crew are offering $1 million toward the project.
    RELATED STORIES: Waukesha approached once again for Northwoods League ballpark

Groundbreaking for Clemens Field renovations set
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Hannibal Sports and Entertainment will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of Clemens Field on June 10 at 3 p.m. The goal is to renovate the WPA-era ballpark for use by a summer-collegiate Central Illinois Collegiate League for the 2009 season. It's a pretty cool project, and we're honored to have publisher Kevin Reichard named to the advisory board of the project. Rollie Hemond, Bob Hemond, Larry Owners and Dave Trogan are heading the project; joining Reichard on the advisory board are Reds GM Walt Jocketty, former Royal Frank White, former Phillies GM Lee Thomas, Hall of Famer Red Schoendist, Art Stewart of the Royals, and former major leaguer Rick Reichardt (interestingly, no relation to Kevin Reichard). Those are some pretty big names collaborating on any sort of ballpark endeavor, much less a summer-collegiate project.

Today's video: I would hug a firework!
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This enthusiastic fan of the Clearwater Threshers (High Class A; Florida State League) loves fireworks so much he'd hug a firework -- which is good thing thing, as he can see them regularly at Bright House Networks Field. We'll be showing videos daily for the next several days, two from the Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association), another from Keith Olbermann and two from the Binghamton Mets (Class AA; Eastern League). We'd love to share your video with the baseball community, you can send them directly to us at editors@augustpublications.com.

Legislation would give boost to new Tulsa ballpark
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A bill granting matching state funds with local sales-tax revenues was signed by Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry yesterday, giving Tulsa an additional revenue stream as city officials and the Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League) continue to work on a financing plan for a new downtown ballpark. Technically, the state money matches local sales-tax revenues in tax-increment-financing (TIF) districts in very specific circumstances (only tourism projects in an enterprise district can be funded), so obviously this is a proposal with very limited applicability -- and obviously tailored for Tulsa. The Drillers and the city have proposed a downtown ballpark, and one developer has broached the possibility of creating a downtown entertainment district built around a new ballpark. More from Tulsa World.
    RELATED STORIES: Lodging leaders await specifics on proposed tax for new Drillers ballpark; Initial Drillers ballpark plan released; city waiting for more details; Drillers, city agree on ballpark talks; Drillers, Tulsa reach agreement on new downtown ballpark negotiations

Ballpark Notes
Posted May 21, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Modern Woodmen Park’s newest attraction is the brand-new Jumer’s Casino Rock Island Hot Tub Deck located at the back end of the Party Plaza down the right field line, officially unveiled in a ribbon cutting ceremony at the ballpark on Tuesday afternoon. Following this week’s set of games, the Hot Tub Deck will be available to be rented out for groups of 10-30 people starting on Wednesday, May 28, with the Quad Cities River Bandits (Low Class A; Midwest League) end-of-month homestand at Modern Woodmen Park. A Hot Tub Deck outing comes complete with wait-service and food provided by an adjoining barbeque pit, priced at just $29 per person...,The St. Paul Saints (independent; American Association) will reach the four million fan mark in just its 16th season. The Saints are currently less than 16,000 fans shy of the incredible feat and should hit the mark during the second half of the current homestand which goes until May 25...Speaking of the Saints: the team will honor "tappers" during National Tap Dance Day by giving away a bobblefoot to the first 2,500 fans in attendance on May 25. The design is a bathroom stall, with a foot that peaks out of the bottom and "taps" up and down. While many people tap their foot because they are impatient, others may do it because they are nervous. It doesn’t matter if your tapping style is done with a “wide stance” or is used as some sort of code, the Saints are asking all fans to tap to their heart’s content on May 25. Any Larry Craig comparisons, of course, are strictly accidental. See the image below....Minor League Baseball is partnering with the Baseball in Wartime organization this Memorial Day to remember all war veterans, especially those Minor League players who served in World War II.  On Monday, May 26, there will be a public address announcement at ballparks throughout the country that will honor all veterans and highlight the 4,000 Minor League Baseball players who served during World War II, including the 113 who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, losing their lives in military training and combat....

More Red Sox memorabilia buried at Yankee Stadium?
Posted May 20, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This is turning from an interesting little news story into a farce, as Red Sox jokester Gino Castignoli now claims he buried a 2004 Red Sox/Yankees scorecard from the ALCS in the new Yankee Stadium when he was there as a day worker. As you'll recall, Castignoli made headlines when he buried a David Ortiz jersey, which construction workers eventually unburied. It may be harder for workers to find a smaller scorecard (which probably isn't intact anyway), but we really are wondering if anyone really thinks the Yankees will be jinxed because of this.

Ballpark Visit: Dickey-Stephens Park / Arkansas Travelers
Posted May 20, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We were on hand at North Little Rock's Dickey-Stephens Park Saturday night to present the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League) with the 2007 Ballparkdigest.com New Ballpark of the Year Award in a nice on-field ceremony before the game. (Thanks to the entire Travs staff for making us feel very welcome at one of our favorite ballparks, and thanks to Travs broadcaster Phil Elson for putting us on the air for two innings.) We also took the opportunity to check out one of the best ballparks in the minors. New since our last visit: a fully finished clock tower, additional seating direct from Ray Winder Field, the opening of the Travelers Baseball Museum; the addition of a huge kids' play area beyond the right-field concourse, and the opening of Bill Valentine's restaurant. We've updated our Dickey-Stephens Page and added some photos. Still to come this week: Fort Worth, Clemson, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and Davenport.

Ferguson retiring; Densa promoted
Posted May 20, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Minor League Baseball Director of Media Relations Jim Ferguson, who has spent his last 50 years working in baseball, is retiring at the end of this month. Ferguson, who joined the MiLB staff in 1995, worked for 22 years in media and public relations for the Cincinnati Reds (1972-90) and San Diego Padres (1991-94).
    The man known as "Fergie" to many of his peers was with Cincinnati throughout the "The Big Red Machine" days when they won World Championships in 1975 and 1976. Ferguson left the team after it won another title in 1990. Before joining the Reds, he covered them for 14 years as a sports writer for the Dayton Daily News.
    "I want to thank Jim Ferguson for his years of service to professional baseball, but especially Minor League Baseball and our staff in St. Petersburg," said Minor League Baseball President Pat O’Conner. "A 50-year career in this sport just doesn't happen.
    "Jim will be greatly missed for the insights and wealth of experience he brought to the office everyday. Jim was always a good teammate to people around him and that, too, will be greatly missed," added O'Conner.
    Associate Director of Media Relations Steve Densa has been promoted to director. Densa joined the MiLB licensing department in January, 1997, after working in media relations for Fayetteville in the South Atlantic League for two seasons. The Cleveland, Ohio, native has been working in the Minor League Baseball media relations department since May 1998.
    "I am pleased to see Steve Densa work his way into replacing Jim Ferguson as Director, Media Relations for Minor League Baseball," stated O’Conner. "Steve has been involved in several aspects of our company and worked exclusive in Media Relations of late, as he honed his skills for this opportunity. Steve earned the right to succeed Jim through his hard work and professional development. We are confident Steve will continue the traditions of service and quality to our supporting media outlets, clubs, leagues and fans."

Decision on Normal ballpark builder due today
Posted May 20, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A committee headed by Alan Sender will make a recommendation today on what group should be allowed to build a new ballpark on the Heartland Community College campus in Normal, Ill. Two groups with ties to the independent Frontier League have submitted bids: one led by veteran Frontier League investor Peter Heitman (who is also working on a ballpark project in McHenry County) and another with the participation of Mike Veeck. A group of Northern League owners -- Sam Katz (Winnipeg), Pete Ferro (Joliet), Rich Ehrenreich (Schaumburg) and Pat Salvi (Gary) -- put together a group in the form of a limited corporation with lead investor Merrill Lynch VP Craig Struble of Barrington, Ill. The plan, we assume, would be to win the recommendation and work to arrange additional local investors and a naming-rights deal without having to put up the $5-$6 million the Frontier League groups are willing to put up.

Pima County to spend a million more on TEP maintenance
Posted May 20, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Pima County will spend $900,000 more for maintenance on Tucson Electric Park next year even though there's the chance spring tenants White Sox and Diamondbacks may be bailing on the facility. Some of the maintenance is needed no matter if the two teams stay, such as new paint and roof repairs, items that eat up most of that $900,000 increase. In the short term, it looks like both the White Sox and the Diamondbacks will be there next spring (the tentative spring schedule we've seen shows both there), as the White Sox have not been successful in finding a replacement or convincing Pima County officials to substitute a White Sox-subsidized youth tournament. The White Sox want to move to a new Glendale spring-training facility, but their TEP lease is pretty clear about penalties for early withdrawal. More from the Arizona Daily Star.

Ballpark Visit: QuikTrip Park at Grand Prairie / Grand Prairie AirHogs
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The aviation theme is strong at QuikTrip Park at Grand Prairie, the new home of the Grand Prairie AirHogs (independent; American Association), but it's not overwhelming and gimmicky. We were there opening night: it's an impressive facility that raises the bar for indy facilities and should allow the team to be competitive in the increasingly crowded Dallas-Fort Worth market. A full account and photos here. This is the week for ballpark visits: on the same trip we hit North Little Rock's Dickey-Stephens Park and Fort Worth's LaGrave Field, and we will also be posting accounts of visits to Clemson, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and Davenport.

Today's video: Major entertainment at minor-league prices
Posted May 20, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The theme this season for the Tri-City ValleyCats (short season; NY-Penn League): major entertainment at minor-league prices. This 30-second spot highlighting the team's June season opener highlights how inexpensive a ValleyCats game can be. We'll be showing videos daily for the next several days, including another from the Clearwater Threshers (High Class A; Florida State League) and two from the Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association). We'd love to share your video with the baseball community, you can send them directly to us at editors@augustpublications.com.

Bettman doubts NHL game for Yankee Stadium
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman sounds pretty sour on the prospects of a New Year's Day game at Yankee Stadium featuring the New York Rangers and another Original Six team. The issue: whether or not Yankee Stadium could be opened in the midst of winter given winterization issues -- a point we've been making for months. The best bets for a winter NHL game are either a college stadium or a CFL facility; quite bluntly, the NHL got lucky the Buffalo Bills didn't finish in the playoffs when it scheduled this year's Buffalo-Pittsburgh match. Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell may have a good idea in proposing a Pittsburgh-Philadelphia game for Penn State's Beaver Stadium: there's no chance the Nittany Lions will be playing there on Jan. 1 and and winterization shouldn't be an issue. Newsday suggests Soldier Field is a possibility, but the Chicago Park Board passed on a New Year's Day game before and as the Bears are potentially a playoff team we don't see anything changing.

Curve ownership questions field condition; landlord says not his fault
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The ownership of the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League) isn't happy about drainage issues at Blair County Ballpark, but landlord Ralph Albarano of the Lakemont Partnership says drainage is a maintenance issue and the responsibility of the Curve. Brave words, but we're pretty sure there's a clause in the team's lease somewhere guaranteeing a usable facility, and if water's not draining off the field, a persuasive legal argument could be made that it's not usable. It also sounds like the Curve owners want to discuss other ballpark improvements this offseason as part of negotiations on a new lease. More from the Altoona Mirror.

Rays unveil ballpark financing plan
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The ownership of the Tampa Bay Rays has unveiled a new financing plan for a proposed $450-million waterfront ballpark on the Al Lang Field site in downtown St. Petersburg. The biggest change: instead of using the proceeds of the redevelopment of Tropicana Field for a new ballpark, those proceeds would be used to immediately pay off debt on the Trop. Instead, partial funding for the new ballpark would come from extending the current hotel tax used to remodel Tropicana Field. The specific funding plan: $150 million from the Rays, $70 million from the sale of the Trop, $55 million in parking revenues, $100 million from the county and $75 million from St. Petersburg. "This financing plan will create the most beautiful ballpark in America and generate millions of dollars for our schools and public services by redeveloping Tropicana Field and its surrounding parking lots," said Rays President Matt Silverman. "The new ballpark and the redevelopment of Tropicana Field not only provide St. Pete two new treasures but also serve as a much needed economic stimulus for our community." You know, there's always a lot of (mostly empty) rhetoric surrounding any ballpark financing, and we get tired of it coming from both sides of the fence. That's why we were pleased to see Andrew Zimbalist, normally a critic of ballpark financing plans, tell the St. Pete Times this is an encouraging plan. The first test of this funding plan will come tomorrow when the Pinellas County Board of Commissioners hears the proposal from the Rays.
    RELATED STORIES: Tampa Bay ballpark status: From simple to complicated in 30 seconds; St. Pete raises objections to Rays ballpark plan; Public: We want new Rays ballpark; Public responds to Rays' ballpark proposal; Rays sweeten pot for new ballpark with additional upfront money; Opposition to new Rays ballpark growing?; St. Pete newspaper: errors plague Rays ballpark debate; 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?

Parents sue bat maker over injury due to metal bat
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A New Jersey family is suing bat maker Hillerich and Bradsby, as well as Little League, over injuries suffered by 12-year-old Steven Domaleski after he was struck in the chest by a line drive hit with a metal bat. The impact was so severe it caused Domaleski's heart to stop beating, causing a deprivation of oxygen in his brain, leading to permanent brain damage. The suit alleges Hillerich and Bradsby is selling an unsafe product; Little League is named in the suit because the organization approved the use of this particular metal bat, although Domaleski was not competing under the auspices of the organization. This will surely refuel the controversy over the use of metal bats, especially among youth. More from AP.

BB&T the hot ticket this season
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Improvements made to BB&T Coastal Field are apparently having a dramatic effect on the bottom line of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League), as attendance is up 25 percent this season. Last season saw GM North Johnson and crew focus on ballpark upgrades (a large video screen, left-field bleachers, a beach area and additional concessions were all added in 2007), while the focus this season has been additional promotions and marketing. It's all apparently working; the ballpark will host the Cal League-Carolina League All-Star Game later this season. More from Myrtle Beach Online.

Waukesha approached once again for Northwoods League ballpark
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A group has made a third pitch to Waukesha, Wis. officials about a new ballpark in the city to house a summer-collegiate Northwoods League team. Chad Bauer is proposing a $1 million ballpark in Frame Park, but this time city officials are showing some cautious enthusiasm for the project; it's estimated $310,000 is needed for park improvements, and this is a way for the city to fund it using private investment. The Milwaukee suburbs have been eyed by the Northwoods League and other indy circuits for years; this is the closest anyone has come at gaining Waukesha's approval. More from the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

Today's video: Thirsty Thursday, the musical
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Who doesn't love Thirsty Thursday? Fans of the Clearwater Threshers (High Class A; Florida State League) are encouraged to come out to the ballpark in this 2008 commercial spot created by Plan B. Branding. We'll be showing videos daily for the next several days, including another from the Threshers, the Tri-City ValleyCats (short season; NY-Penn League) and the Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association). We'd love to share your video with the baseball community, you can send them directly to us at editors@augustpublications.com.

Ballpark Notes
Posted May 19, 2008 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Stewart Sports Group has announced it has retained three new clients to its Six-Week Surge program. The Stewart Sports Group Six-Week Surge program provides their clients the benefit of having trained executives with a focused calling program that focuses on select ticket packages to boost ticket sales in-season. The new additions to the growing sports marketing agency include the Everett AquaSox (short season; Northwest League), Lancaster JetHawks (High Class A; California League) and the Lake County Captains (Low Class A; Sally League)....The St. Louis Cardinals renamed the street in front of Busch Stadium Stan Musial Drive....Peter Magowan has retired as managing general partner of the San Francisco Giants. Of course, the construction and financing of AT&T Park has to be considered to be his greatest achievement....