ADVERTISE! | Ballpark Digest | The Baseball Directory | NWLfan | College Baseball Digest | Ballpark Digest Tickets
Spring Training Online | Arena Digest | Football Stadium Digest | August Publications
Search | League Histories | Bookshelf | Forums | Endangered Ballparks | Ballparks of the Past | About | Newsletter | Contact

Archives: Jan. 8-14, 2006

It's official: Midland group buying SW Michigan D-Rays
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Bill Stavropoulos, chairman of the board of The Dow Chemical Co., said that the newly formed non-profit Michigan Baseball Foundation is close to buying the Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Class A; Midwest League), and will begin building a HOK-designed ballpark this April that will be finished in time for the team to play in Midland in 2007. The ballpark is projected to cost between $18 million and $25 million, and will be partially funded by several local foundations. Site plans will be submitted Jan. 16, 2006, to the City of Midland for construction of the stadium on a 20-acre parcel of land immediately adjacent to Business US-10, east of State Street and south of Buttles Street. The Dow Chemical Company owns the land and recently submitted a request to the city to rezone the parcel. Dow has agreed to lease it to the foundation for a nominal annual fee. The Midwest League, MiLB and MLB all must sign off on the deal. More from the Battle Creek Enquirer, which reports local fans don't seem too upset about losing pro baseball. More from the Kalamazoo Gazette, which speculates on how this affects the Kalamazoo Kings (independent; Frontier League) after the 2006 season. Folks in nearby Bay City, who had sought a Midwest League team in the past, were disappointed.
    RELATED STORIES: Owner says he's discussed moving Battle Creek team; Midland officials have seen no plans for baseball team; Will Midland get minor league baseball team?

Jaxx, city settle lease deal
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After attempting several contractual squeeze plays against the owners of the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League), Jackson's City Council members relented Thursday, voting unanimously to accept the latest Pringles Park lease agreement, submitted on Dec. 30 by Lozinak Baseball Properties. The three-year lease (with no extension) includes early termination penalties of $500,000 and $250,000 should the Jaxx leave after the 2006 and 2007 season, respectively and ends the city's $1.6 million lawsuit against the team for the early termination of its previous ballpark lease. More importantly, it clears the way for Overtime Sports to buy the team. Council members had attempted earlier to force Jaxx owners into a long-term lease that would have included more severe early termination penalties. This gives Jackson three years to prove it can support minor-league baseball.
    RELATED STORIES: Council OKs 3-year Jaxx lease at Pringles; Bennett: Jaxx bid not ploy to move; Name of bidder in sale of Jaxx becomes public; Bennett to buy Diamond Jaxx; Council pushes back Jaxx lease deadline; potential buyer emerges; Baseball's future in Jackson up in air; Council faces Jaxx's lease pitch; West Tenn Diamond Jaxx to Macon?; Both sides must give a little to save Jaxx; Deal would keep Jaxx in Jackson for two years; Jaxx submit second lease for city's OK; City keeps getting in way of baseball success; City's demands could force Diamond Jaxx out on Dec. 15; Bottom line in Jackson hasn't met expectations

Residents share ideas on proposed Nashville ballpark
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Nashville residents got another chance to discuss the proposed new downtown ballpark for the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), and their responses were fairly predictable: they were worried about parking and the appropriateness of using a prime downtown waterfront site for the ballpark. There were also concerns about the financing; the ballpark is partially financed using tax-increment financing and a sales-tax rebate. And, of course, there were the usual complaints about rich and greedy baseball owners not deserving a ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Sounds woo minority business owners for ballpark project; Sounds ballpark vote delayed; Museum, dining wanted at new Sounds ballpark; Sounds move ahead with ballpark design; Sounds weak; Sounds ballpark proposal passes first test on Council; Opposition to Nashville ballpark gears up on council; Many good questions raised over Sounds deal; Chamber of Commerce backs Sounds ballpark plan; Downtown merchants rally for Sounds; Board seeks information on Sounds ballpark deal; Neighbors of Nashville ballpark expect project to spark development; Sounds, Nashville sign agreement for new ballpark; Sides close on Sounds ballpark plan; Sounds ballpark plan nearly triples in size; New Sounds ballpark proposal in doubt; Nashville ballpark bill may have to wait until fall; Sounds deal stalls, but still in play; City bobbling save on Sounds’ perfect plan; Sounds ballpark negotiations slow; Will ballpark make SoBro soar?; Sounds swing deal to get new ballpark; Sounds win city approval for new ballpark

Replace the Dome or lose Twins
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here are the standard but sound arguments for a new Minnesota Twins ballpark in downtown Minneapolis, financed via a 0.15 percent sales tax in Hennepin County (excluding food and clothing purchases). The interesting thing is that they're being made by a fiscally conservative aide to Republican Sen. Norm Coleman. The ballpark issue represents a conundrum these days to Minnesota politicians: there are the usually lefty factions and rock-ribbed conservatives decrying corporate welfare. In the middle is a group of fairly moderate lawmakers on both sides of the aisle who see polls saying the public opposes public financing of ballparks -- and then see election results where strongly pro-ballpark candidates were elected in special elections. It would be interesting to see a poll on the subject that went into the specifics of the financing and past just a general sentiment about ballpark financing.
    RELATED STORIES: Twins ballpark lunch ends on glum note; Twins make pitch in court to leave Dome; Small-market Twins might be on verge of being overrun economically; Expect a plan but no ballpark; Pawlenty steps in for Twins ballpark; Twins ballpark financing deal unlikely to be renewed; Minnesota House GOP opposes special session for Twins ballpark; Bonoff won despite supporting ballpark; Hennepin County gives go-ahead for study related to Twins ballpark; Don't leave Twins special session up in air; Selig seeks action on Twins ballpark; Twins to Las Vegas? Looks like a long shot; Twins could be hot commodity; Metrodome board questions Twins' motives in court case; Reggie Jackson: I'll buy the Twins; Stadiums a political juggling act for Pawlenty; Selig keeps close tabs on Twins ballpark situation; Twins sue to get out of Metrodome lease; MLB officials, Pawlenty discuss Twins ballpark; Minnesota stadium special session looks doomed; Minnesota special session may not include Twins ballpark; Twins: Ballpark costs to rise $30 million if approval is delayed; Stadium proposals jostle for support in Minnesota; Twins ballpark may slip this year; Will special session be called to pass Twins ballpark legislations? Odds seem to be dropping; Best-kept secret about the Minnesota ballpark; Possible Twins site has new life; Roof or no? The debate rages in Minnesota; Ballpark deal: Pohlad must share; Hennepin County takes first step toward new Twins ballpark; Few want to pay for Twins ballpark; Minnesota Twins, Hennepin County reach agreement on ballpark funding; Twins back Minneapolis ballpark location; What's up with a Twins ballpark?; Ballpark tax plan is calling for a first

Council considers consultant on new Nats ballpark
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The D.C. Council met for more than four hours yesterday to discuss several proposals designed to improve the conditions of a lease agreement for the Washington Nationals' new ballpark in Southeast, including hiring an outside consultant and possibly allowing Major League Baseball to build the stadium itself. All 13 members met with lawyers from the Chicago firm of DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary, which has been involved in the construction of several stadiums including FedEx Field in Prince George's County. Some members advocate hiring the firm to help renegotiate the deal with MLB that brought the Nationals to the District, but nothing was decided. Council members said they are exploring the idea of providing a set amount of money directly to MLB and allowing the league to build the ballpark. Under such an arrangement, the city likely would still pay for the land and provide money for all other construction costs, but MLB would be responsible for any cost overruns. More from NBC4.
    RELATED STORIES: Cropp proposes 'compromise' on Nats ballpark; New D.C. ballpark: DOA?; City may put cap on Nats ballpark lease; MLB to seek arbitration over D.C. ballpark; Bob DuPuy: Why the D.C. ballpark plan isn't done; Land sale possible to fund D.C. ballpark; Ballpark costs hinder D.C. lease; Washington ballpark vote delayed until next year; D.C. Council vote on Nats ballpark delayed; Williams, Cropp push to tweak Nats ballpark lease; MLB opposes moving Nats ballpark site; D.C. ballpark price tag rises by millions; True costs of D.C. ballpark go beyond budget; Accord reached on new D.C. ballpark; New cost estimate for D.C. ballpark: $700 million; Washington ballpark 'hurdles' are cleared, Cropp says; Tentative deal reached on lease for D.C. ballpark; MLB does not rule out RFK site for new ballpark; Evans: No need for $20M for D.C.; D.C. lease talks stumble; New hurdle for D.C. ballpark lease deal; D.C. ballpark property takeover delayed; Washington ballpark's rising price tag compels cuts; D.C. ballpark's modern design is clear winner on Council; Baseball hopes to resolve Nationals' lease; D.C. to seek more money from MLB; It's official: no vote on Nats owners next week; MLB, District close to lease; Some D.C. ballpark features may be cut; MLB seeking to merge D.C. bidders; Cropp: D.C. financing agreement fixed; Cropp vows ballpark on Anacostia; D.C. seizes 16 owners' property for Nats ballpark; D.C. ballpark property owners balking; D.C. landowners face deadline today; Williams defends Anacostia site for Nats ballpark; Cropp to limit exposure of ballpark plan; Cropp stands by Anacostia ballpark site as Council debate on financing looms; D.C. Council seeks to revisit ballpark deal; Nationals more profitable than budgeted; D.C. will earn less, though; MLB sets price tag of $450 million for Nats; As ballpark clock ticks, D.C. officials bicker; D.C. lease progress is slow; MLB is thinking locally for Nats; Nats sale could come quickly now that lease is done; MLB likely to pick Nats owner soon; MLB owners eager to sell Nationals, soon; Nationals' sale mixes sports, politics; D.C. ballpark architect has towering test; Judge dismisses suit against D.C. ballpark; Cropp still talking private financing for D.C. ballpark; D.C. Council members push bid of Nats suitor Ledecky; Nationals at RFK Stadium is summer's hottest ticket; Problems at RFK typical of District; Washington's team is political football; Issues continue to build at RFK; Plans to build ballpark in D.C. receive a boost from Supreme Court; Businesses resist as D.C. collects on ballpark fee; D.C. ballpark deal calls for union workers; Is D.C. private financing finally dead? Finalists for Nats ownership due soon; Private ballpark funding lacking in D.C.; Gandhi defends ballpark figures; Ballpark financing plan goes to D.C. Council

New Rays executive focuses on the Trop
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Darcy Raymond is the new  vice president of branding and "fan experience" for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His goal: improve the fan experience at Tropicana Field from top to bottom with the addition of more between-innings entertainment, pregame activities, and a greater emphasis on fan services. The team also named Tom Hoof, previously brand manager for Disney's Wide World of Sports, as director of marketing.
    RELATED STORIES: Outback chief feels hope, fear for Rays; Making a tip-top Trop

Will Charlotte ballpark be magnet for growth?
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One issue as Charlotte officials work a complicated land-swap deal to bring a new ballpark for the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) to the city's Third Ward: whether or not the facility will be a magnet for future growth. In this case, it may not: the ballpark is being shoehorned into a small space surrounded by immovable buildings (power plants, parking ramps), and there may not be enough available land to make an impact with new development. One firm is in the process of adding housing to the area; the developer says the ballpark gives his project a nice boost.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Bears hope for piece of surplus
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Yakima Bears (short season; Northwest League) are one of the five Washington state teams seeking state aid for ballpark improvements. State budgeters are forecasting a surplus, and the fact that the budget requests are fairly modest -- team officials are seeking $2 million for renovations to the 2,654-seat, county-owned ballpark the Bears have called home since it opened in 1993 -- would seem to provide a decent chance at passage. In Yakima, the ballpark improvements would include metal light poles to replace the existing wooden ones, replacing the playing surface and outfield wall while upgrading sun protection for fans, electrical systems, seating, concession stands, dugouts and clubhouses.
    RELATED STORIES: Baseball teams ask Olympia for funds

Panel moves forward on Cobb Field renovation
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A ballot issue to fund rebuilding Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League), could be on the ballot this fall, but city leaders vow there will be at least a dozen opportunities for public comment before then. The committee is also considering conducting a random telephone survey to determine how much money residents are willing to spend on revamping Cobb Field, one of the most popular venues in the Pioneer League. A study conducted by Gateway Consultants Group, HNTB Architecture and CTA Architects Engineers estimated that the aging Cobb Field could be replaced for between $10 million and $12 million. Options in the report include rebuilding the field at its current location or moving it closer to North 27th Street. The study recommended not trying to repair the existing ballpark.
    RELATED STORY: Make new game plan for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

With Red Barons, this time there’s no blame
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A local columnist examines why the Philadelphia Phillies are probably severing ties with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons (Class AAA; International League) at the end of the 2006 season. The biggest reason may be the simplest: that the opportunity to be part of a new team in Allentown was simply too good to pass up, particularly with the construction of a state-of-the-art ballpark and close proximity to Philadelphia. (We suspect you'll see another big reason for the shift later.) And, let's fact it: the Red Barons ballpark, with its artificial turf and cramped clubhouses, isn't the most inviting of venues, although the county has taken some steps to address that this offseason.
    RELATED STORIES: Phillies reiterate plans for big move; Red Barons fans play waiting game; Phillies farewell an opportunity; Phillies close to a triple-A shift to Allentown; Money mounts for Lehigh Valley minor league baseball; Tropicana plans to create lots more than slots parlor in Allentown; Casino owner to unveil Allentown proposal

For Brewers, it's game reset
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Mark Attanasio enters his second season as owner of the Milwaukee Brewers with something not seen in Miller Park for a while: high expectations. The team finished 81-81 last season and added some new talent in Corey Koskie and Dan Kolb while retaining almost all of their young talent. Also, Attanasio made some changes in the way Miller Park is run, putting an emphasis on the fan experience (we didn't visit last season, but we had many reports of a more pleasant experience at the park).

Minor attractions in Richmond
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's an excellent overview of the ballpark situation in Richmond, where a proposal new ballpark for the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) in the city's Shockoe Bottom has apparently died, with the city and the team now looking at city-owned Fulton Gas Works. Don't wait for a new ballpark in the next few years: the site is a former coal gasification site, and you can bet there will be some environmental issues associated with the site, which will require EPA and state participation in cleanup efforts. Then again, with the Atlanta Braves and the entire Braves organization being evaluated for potential sale by Time Warner, it may take a while for anyone on the baseball side to make a huge commitment.
    RELATED STORIES: 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 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

Pelicans sale good news for city, fans
Posted January 13, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The sale of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (Class A; Carolina League) to a group already owning the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League) and the State College Spikes (short season; NY-Penn League) is being hailed as a good thing for Pelicans fans. Don't expect much to change in 2006: Chuck Greenberg's group plans on watching things and learning more about the market before doing anything for the 2007 season.
    RELATED STORIES: Myrtle Beach Pelicans sold: Group had long coveted team

New D.C. ballpark: DOA?
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Washington Times says efforts to persuade D.C. councilmembers to approve a lease for a new Washington Nationals ballpark have completely ended, with proponents realizing they can't pick up votes from the eight councilmembers opposing the current lease deal. That doesn't necessarily mean the deal is dead: indeed, Mayor Anthony Williams continues to express optimism about the chances of final passage with a new deal and says he should have something by the end of the week. The Times may be a little alarmist: MLB has filed for arbitration to settle the issue, but that could take months and end up only with a financial penalty assessed against the District (although MLB officials have stated they believe an arbitrator could force construction of a new ballpark). Both sides are in a difficult situation. MLB really can't threaten to move the Nationals: the team was financially successful in RFK Stadium, generating a healthy profit for the other MLB owners. D.C. city government surely will lose a little of its new reputation for being easier to work with, and city residents might not be thrilled about paying a multimillion-penalty to get out of what is arguably a very bad lease. This all could have been avoided if MLB had not been greedy and sold the Nationals before now; a real owner could have better handled the politics of the situation.
    RELATED STORIES: City may put cap on Nats ballpark lease; MLB to seek arbitration over D.C. ballpark; Bob DuPuy: Why the D.C. ballpark plan isn't done; Land sale possible to fund D.C. ballpark; Ballpark costs hinder D.C. lease; Washington ballpark vote delayed until next year; D.C. Council vote on Nats ballpark delayed; Williams, Cropp push to tweak Nats ballpark lease; MLB opposes moving Nats ballpark site; D.C. ballpark price tag rises by millions; True costs of D.C. ballpark go beyond budget; Accord reached on new D.C. ballpark; New cost estimate for D.C. ballpark: $700 million; Washington ballpark 'hurdles' are cleared, Cropp says; Tentative deal reached on lease for D.C. ballpark; MLB does not rule out RFK site for new ballpark; Evans: No need for $20M for D.C.; D.C. lease talks stumble; New hurdle for D.C. ballpark lease deal; D.C. ballpark property takeover delayed; Washington ballpark's rising price tag compels cuts; D.C. ballpark's modern design is clear winner on Council; Baseball hopes to resolve Nationals' lease; D.C. to seek more money from MLB; It's official: no vote on Nats owners next week; MLB, District close to lease; Some D.C. ballpark features may be cut; MLB seeking to merge D.C. bidders; Cropp: D.C. financing agreement fixed; Cropp vows ballpark on Anacostia; D.C. seizes 16 owners' property for Nats ballpark; D.C. ballpark property owners balking; D.C. landowners face deadline today; Williams defends Anacostia site for Nats ballpark; Cropp to limit exposure of ballpark plan; Cropp stands by Anacostia ballpark site as Council debate on financing looms; D.C. Council seeks to revisit ballpark deal; Nationals more profitable than budgeted; D.C. will earn less, though; MLB sets price tag of $450 million for Nats; As ballpark clock ticks, D.C. officials bicker; D.C. lease progress is slow; MLB is thinking locally for Nats; Nats sale could come quickly now that lease is done; MLB likely to pick Nats owner soon; MLB owners eager to sell Nationals, soon; Nationals' sale mixes sports, politics; D.C. ballpark architect has towering test; Judge dismisses suit against D.C. ballpark; Cropp still talking private financing for D.C. ballpark; D.C. Council members push bid of Nats suitor Ledecky; Nationals at RFK Stadium is summer's hottest ticket; Problems at RFK typical of District; Washington's team is political football; Issues continue to build at RFK; Plans to build ballpark in D.C. receive a boost from Supreme Court; Businesses resist as D.C. collects on ballpark fee; D.C. ballpark deal calls for union workers; Is D.C. private financing finally dead? Finalists for Nats ownership due soon; Private ballpark funding lacking in D.C.; Gandhi defends ballpark figures; Ballpark financing plan goes to D.C. Council

Myrtle Beach Pelicans sold: Group had long coveted team
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Capitol Broadcasting, which has owned the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (Class A; Carolina League) since its inception in 1998, is selling the club to the owners of the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League) and the State College Spikes (short season; NY-Penn League). The team will remain in Myrtle Beach and stay affiliated with the Atlanta Braves, according to Chuck Greenberg, the president and managing partner of the new ownership group, Myrtle Beach Pelicans LP. Neither party in the transaction would divulge the sale price. Single-A franchises generally sell for $4 million to $6 million, and it appears his group is paying at or above the upper end of that range.

Developer to seek bids for Xanadu ballpark
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After failing to reach a financial agreement with Steve Kalafer on a new ballpark for an independent Atlantic League team at the Meadowlands Sports Complex, developers Mills Corp. and Mack-Cali Realty now say they'll open the ballpark up to all bidders. It sounds like the financial terms will be simple: the developers will contribute $5 million to the ballpark, but the winning bidder will build the ballpark -- which should cost a minimum of $20 million -- and keep all revenues, including naming rights. Kalafer, who owns several Atlantic League franchises (including the Bergen Cliff Hawks), says he has an agreement for a ballpark as part of the Xanadu project and may go to court over the issue. Not sure whether there will be a lot of other bidders: anyone seeking to put an affiliated team there will need to clear things with both the Mets and the Yankees (which will take time, but a decision will be made by April 1, although the ballpark wouldn't open until 2008 at the earliest), and with Kalafer such an important figure in the Atlantic League, it's doubtful anyone else will seek to build a ballpark for an Atlantic League team. More from the Newark Star-Ledger.
    RELATED STORIES: Xanadu builders can toss ballpark; Baseball for Bergen stuck in rent dispute; Ballpark at Xanadu is thrown a curveball

Springdale ballpark site under contract
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Northwest Arkansas Sports Authority has secured a contract to purchase 40 acres near Interstate 540 in Springdale, Ark. and plans to build a $10 million to $15 million ballpark on the site. The ballpark will not be part of a two-facility sports complex, as planning has also been done for a new arena as well. The land could be purchased in the next few weeks and an announcement concerning a Class AA minor-league baseball team, expected to be the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) is expected in three to four months.
    RELATED STORIES: Springdale: Chamber fielding baseball inquiries; Texas League boss dispels baseball chatter; Public money may be needed to build Springdale ballpark; Springdale: Sports park feasible, study claims

Bennett: Jaxx bid not ploy to move
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Timothy Bennett, in negotiations to buy the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA: Southern League), says he's buying the team with the intention of keeping the team in Jackson. The team's current owners, Lozinak Baseball Properties, has put forward a new lease for Pringles Park, which will be discussed by the Jackson city council tonight. The team will pay $500,000 if Diamond Jaxx leaves the city after the 2006 season or $250,000 if it leaves after the 2007 season. There is no penalty if the team stays all three years. UPDATE: The city made a counterproposal this afternoon, and it's a doozy: we'll have full details tomorrow.
    RELATED STORIES: Name of bidder in sale of Jaxx becomes public; Bennett to buy Diamond Jaxx; Council pushes back Jaxx lease deadline; potential buyer emerges; Baseball's future in Jackson up in air; Council faces Jaxx's lease pitch; West Tenn Diamond Jaxx to Macon?; Both sides must give a little to save Jaxx; Deal would keep Jaxx in Jackson for two years; Jaxx submit second lease for city's OK; City keeps getting in way of baseball success; City's demands could force Diamond Jaxx out on Dec. 15; Bottom line in Jackson hasn't met expectations

Pickens gift will fund new Oklahoma State ballpark
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Billionaire Boone Pickens is donating $165 million to Oklahoma State University to help create an athletic village north of the football stadium that already bears the name of the 77-year-old Texas oil tycoon. The money will go toward completing the upgrade of Boone Pickens Stadium and fund changes in a 20-year master plan yet to be approved by university regents. Among those changes: $30 million for a new ballpark, scheduled to open for the 2011 season.

Two boos from legislators for stadium tax help
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Two Missouri legislators want to bar the state from giving tax relief to the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs as part of the larger financial plan to renovate the facilities at the Truman Sports Complex, but other legislators say their proposal isn't likely to be passed. The Missouri Department of Economic Development last month announced it had agreed to a proposal to allow up to $50 million in tax credits to the Chiefs and Royals as part of a deal that would require the teams and Jackson County to kick in funding for the renovations.
    RELATED STORIES: Kauffman Stadium renovation sales tax on the way to voters; Kauffman Stadium negotiations near goal; Sizing up challenge of raising the roof; Glass: No thanks to roof for Kauffman Stadium; Kauffman Stadium to get roof?; Summit suggested on Kansas City ballpark proposal; Chairman speaks out about downtown K.C. ballpark; Cost of keeping Chiefs, Royals seems to be in voters' hands; Downtown ballpark idea builds on a KC vision; Downtown ballpark proposal would one-up bistate cost; Downtown KC ballpark dreamers need a reality check; Offensive renewed for downtown KC ballpark; Analyst proposes $357M downtown KC ballpark; Downtown Council shapes plan for new KC ballpark; Residents point out KC stadium benefits; Lend downtown KC ballpark boosters an ear at ‘listening tour’; Kansas City negotiator fired after comments; KC stadium finance tilts toward Chiefs

Towers: Medford could support professional baseball
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Kevin Towers, GM of the San Diego Padres, was in Medford, Ore., for the dedication of the $5.3-million Harry and David Field, located a half-mile south of the now defunct Miles Field, the former home to short-season Northwest League teams. He says Medford could support pro baseball again, although whether Harry and David Field -- projected as a high-school and Legion field -- is equipped to do so is another issue. Perhaps the more likely alternative: a summer collegiate team.

NLR mayor's plan to charge Travs fans for parking just first salvo
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Capitol Broadcasting, which has owned the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (Class A; Carolina League) since its inception in 1998, is selling the club to the owners of the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League) and the State College Spikes (short season; NY-Penn League). The team will remain in Myrtle Beach and stay affiliated with the Atlanta Braves, according to Chuck Greenberg, the president and managing partner of the new ownership group, Myrtle Beach Pelicans LP. Neither party in the transaction would divulge the sale price. Single-A franchises generally sell for $4 million to $6 million, and it appears his group is paying at or above the upper end of that range.
    RELATED STORIES: New Arkansas Travelers ballpark has budget difficulty; Hays says Travelers fans should pay to park; New Travs home to be called Dickey-Stephens Park; Little Rock seeks bids to replace Ray Winder Field; Travelers' home coming into focus; NLR sets ballpark previews; NLR projects set fast, sure course; NLR ballpark planners get right to work; North Little Rock voters approve sales-tax hike for new ballpark; Hays says there is no ‘Plan B' for new Travs' ballpark; NLR’s 1% tax plan sees 254-vote 1st day; A rush act for NLR ballpark; Hays: 2 tax projects’ OK will give NLR ‘a booster shot'; NLR promotion panel salutes stadium, not tax; NLR working on game plan for tax vote; Travelers, North Little Rock agree to 50-50 split; North Little Rock ballpark talks snag over cash; Sales-tax vote favored by most on NLR council; Pitching for Aug. 9 tax vote, Hays says; NLR mayor pitches 2-year sales tax for ballpark; Will the Arkansas Travelers stay in Little Rock after all?; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark delayed; financing is in doubt; Actions to save Ray Winder Field sought; Travs ballpark development moves forward; Plans for new Little Rock ballpark unveiled; New home for Arkansas Travelers?; Little Rock ballpark near river in works; Replacing Ray Winder Field wasn't in my plans

Governor to host Twins ballpark talks over lunch
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Minnesota Gov. Tom Pawlenty will try to broker a new Twins ballpark plan over lunch today with team president Jerry Bell and two Hennepin County commissioners. Pawlenty, Bell and Hennepin County Commissioners Mike Opat and Randy Johnson will dine together at the governor's residence. A financing deal for the proposed downtown Minneapolis ballpark expired at the end of December, and Hennepin County officials are debating whether to extend the financing deal. The governor has said he wants to come up with a new proposal before the Legislature reconvenes in March.

Dawgs lose out on family feud
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Calgary Dawgs (summer collegiate; WMBL) are suspending operations for the 2006 season, accusing the Calgary Vipers (independent; Northern League) of freezing the team out of Foothills Stadium. Vipers President Peter Young said the Vipers lost money when the Dawgs played at Foothills last year and that weekend dates are a high priority for other tenants as well as the Northern League team. The Dawgs will try to build their own facility for the 2007 season.

Pioneers fans vow to seek new team
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Elmira (N.Y.) officials say they'll seek a team to replace the Elmira Pioneers (independent; Can-Am Association), which suspended operations after the Can-Am Association added a team in Sussex County, N.J.  replaced by a new Sussex County (N.J.) team for the 2006 season. One proposal has a summer-collegiate NYCBL team (organized by owners with ties to the Can-Am Association) playing this season at Dunn Field, but the longer-term solution may be a renovation of Dunn Field.
    RELATED STORIES: No Pioneers in 2006; Can-Am Association will play at Skylands Park this summer; No team on deck to replace Cardinals at Skylands Park; Skylands back in the game; Can-Am close to placing team in Skylands Park; Can-Am Association not done for 2006; Skylands might stay teamless; Pride to play in Can-Am Association in 2006; Nashua baseball fans: don't sell Can-Am short; New owners, league possible for Pride; Pride seeking a league that’s a better fit; Can-Am Association considers Nashua; Pride plan proceeds, but not Hobson

Baseball Notes
Posted January 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jon Peterson is the new general manager of the Visalia Oaks (Class A; California League). He comes to the Oaks from the New Orleans Zephyrs (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and has a slew of projects on his plate: a new state of the art clubhouse for the Oaks players, a new website launching in February, new ticket options for the Oaks fans, and the return of Thirsty Thursdays....Mike deMaine is the new general manager of the Greenville Drive (Class A; Sally League). deMaine joins the Drive from the Frisco RoughRiders (Class AA; Texas League), where he served as assistant general manager for the past 3 seasons. Craig Brown, co-owner of the Drive, will remain in the role of team president, and Nate Lipscomb will continue to lead the business development and public relations activities of the organization as senior vice president, sales & marketing....The Waterloo Bucks (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) announced the hiring of Jeff Opalewski as a coach for the 2006 season. Opalewski, currently in his second season as an assistant at Central Michigan University, will join field manager Cory Allen and coach Josh Simpson for the upcoming season of Bucks baseball....The Potomac Nationals (Class A; Carolina League) announced the P-Nats 2006 field manager and coaching staff: Randy Knorr becomes the manager, succeeding Bob Henley. Charlie Corbell will be the pitching coach, taking over for Ricky Bones, and Troy Gingrich returns for his second season as hitting coach. Knorr moves to Potomac after leading the Savannah Sand Gnats (Class A; Sally League) in 2005....Mark Lee is the new GM of the Amarillo Dillas (independent; United League). Lee is a longtime Amarillo resident and former player with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He also played for the Amarillo Gold Sox and worked with the Dillas before the Central Baseball League franchise disbanded after the 2004 season....John Blake, who has spent 27 years as a professional baseball executive, has been appointed as vice president of communications for Ryan-Sanders Baseball. In that capacity, Blake will oversee public, media, and community relations activities for Ryan-Sanders Baseball's two teams, the Round Rock Express (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and the Corpus Christi Hooks (Class AA; Texas League). He will also be involved in developing and implementing broadcasting, marketing, and special event initiatives for the company....Ryan Radtke is the new broadcaster for the Tucson Sidewinders (Class AAA: Pacific Coast League). Radtke will replace Brett Dolan in the Sidewinders radio booth after he was recently hired by the Houston Astros....Brian Harper is the new manager of the Salt Lake Bees (Class AAA: Pacific Coast League)....

Can-Am Association will play at Skylands Park this summer
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After months of negotiations, a deal has been struck to place an independent Can-Am Association team in Skylands Park in Sussex County, N.J. for the 2006 season. The team will be owned and operated by an investor group called Sussex Professional Baseball, LLC. Larry Hall, president of Sussex Professional Baseball, says the new team will put an emphasis on family entertainment; to emphasize the differences between the new team and the ballpark's former tenant, the New Jersey Cardinals (short season; NY-Penn League), the new team will reduce ticket prices and parking fees, add a new souvenir shop and expand the concessions menu with reduced food and beverage prices. Hall expects Sussex Professional Baseball to spend between $1.2 and $1.5 million to start up the new team. Also, ballpark owners Millennium has committed to numerous facility enhancements including stadium painting, improved picnic areas, field lighting and concessions facilities and many other general improvements. Ben Wittkowski, the 2005 Can-Am League Executive of the Year, has been named general manager of the new team, with a field manager announced shortly. What seems to be lost in the shuffle: the new team replaces the Elmira Pioneers, whose passing from this world doesn't seem to have been noted by anyone in Elmira. More from the Daily Record and the Star Ledger. Sussex Professional Baseball is also holding a name-the-team contest: To enter, participants must pick a team name and include it with their name, address, email address, and phone number and email it with their submission to pickthename@sussexprofessionalbaseball.com by January 13, 2006. Only complete submissions will be accepted. Everyone who enters the contest will receive a team pin. Twenty finalists will be chosen, all of whom will receive four tickets to the opening night festivities. The Grand prize winner will be awarded with a fantastic package including season tickets and parking passes for a family of four. More information at sussexprofessionalbaseball.com.
    RELATED STORIES: No team on deck to replace Cardinals at Skylands Park; Skylands back in the game; Can-Am close to placing team in Skylands Park; Can-Am Association not done for 2006; Skylands might stay teamless; Pride to play in Can-Am Association in 2006; Nashua baseball fans: don't sell Can-Am short; New owners, league possible for Pride; Pride seeking a league that’s a better fit; Can-Am Association considers Nashua; Pride plan proceeds, but not Hobson

City may put cap on Nats ballpark lease
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
D.C. officials say they can gain council support for a lease agreement for the Washington Nationals' new ballpark in Southeast by establishing a cap on the amount of money the city would have to pay toward the project. The biggest issue cited by D.C. councilmembers is the uncertainty surrounding the final costs of the project: the council originally authorized $535 million for the project, but the costs are now estimated to be $667 million. Officials also are asking for written commitments from private developers or the federal government to pay for infrastructure and Metro upgrades and could sell or lease land near the ballpark with the revenues going toward ballpark construction.
    RELATED STORIES:  MLB to seek arbitration over D.C. ballpark; Bob DuPuy: Why the D.C. ballpark plan isn't done; Land sale possible to fund D.C. ballpark; Ballpark costs hinder D.C. lease; Washington ballpark vote delayed until next year; D.C. Council vote on Nats ballpark delayed; Williams, Cropp push to tweak Nats ballpark lease; MLB opposes moving Nats ballpark site; D.C. ballpark price tag rises by millions; True costs of D.C. ballpark go beyond budget; Accord reached on new D.C. ballpark; New cost estimate for D.C. ballpark: $700 million; Washington ballpark 'hurdles' are cleared, Cropp says; Tentative deal reached on lease for D.C. ballpark; MLB does not rule out RFK site for new ballpark; Evans: No need for $20M for D.C.; D.C. lease talks stumble; New hurdle for D.C. ballpark lease deal; D.C. ballpark property takeover delayed; Washington ballpark's rising price tag compels cuts; D.C. ballpark's modern design is clear winner on Council; Baseball hopes to resolve Nationals' lease; D.C. to seek more money from MLB; It's official: no vote on Nats owners next week; MLB, District close to lease; Some D.C. ballpark features may be cut; MLB seeking to merge D.C. bidders; Cropp: D.C. financing agreement fixed; Cropp vows ballpark on Anacostia; D.C. seizes 16 owners' property for Nats ballpark; D.C. ballpark property owners balking; D.C. landowners face deadline today; Williams defends Anacostia site for Nats ballpark; Cropp to limit exposure of ballpark plan; Cropp stands by Anacostia ballpark site as Council debate on financing looms; D.C. Council seeks to revisit ballpark deal; Nationals more profitable than budgeted; D.C. will earn less, though; MLB sets price tag of $450 million for Nats; As ballpark clock ticks, D.C. officials bicker; D.C. lease progress is slow; MLB is thinking locally for Nats; Nats sale could come quickly now that lease is done; MLB likely to pick Nats owner soon; MLB owners eager to sell Nationals, soon; Nationals' sale mixes sports, politics; D.C. ballpark architect has towering test; Judge dismisses suit against D.C. ballpark; Cropp still talking private financing for D.C. ballpark; D.C. Council members push bid of Nats suitor Ledecky; Nationals at RFK Stadium is summer's hottest ticket; Problems at RFK typical of District; Washington's team is political football; Issues continue to build at RFK; Plans to build ballpark in D.C. receive a boost from Supreme Court; Businesses resist as D.C. collects on ballpark fee; D.C. ballpark deal calls for union workers; Is D.C. private financing finally dead? Finalists for Nats ownership due soon; Private ballpark funding lacking in D.C.; Gandhi defends ballpark figures; Ballpark financing plan goes to D.C. Council

Owner says he's discussed moving Battle Creek team
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Alan Stein, president and chief operating officer of Ivy Walls Management, confirmed what we had reported last week: that his organization is discussing a sale of the Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Class A; Midwest League) to two Dow Chemical executives, who would move the team to a new privately financed ballpark in Midland, Mich. Local officials confirm Dow Chemical has sought the rezoning of 20 acres from light industrial to community in anticipation of a new ballpark. We've heard things are considerably farther along than the local press is reporting in terms of a ballpark design and potential new ownership; you can expect an announcement about the team's future in the next few weeks. As usual, George Spelius knows nothing, nothing. More from the Battle Creek Enquirer.
    RELATED STORIES: Midland officials have seen no plans for baseball team; Will Midland get minor league baseball team?

World Baseball Classic brouhaha over Cuba escalates
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Baseball's world governing body has threatened to withdraw its sanctioning of the World Baseball Classic unless the Bush administration allows Cuba to compete. A letter was faxed from International Baseball Federation President Aldo Notari, informing Major League Baseball of the federation's decision. It is unclear whether the 16-team tournament, scheduled for March 3-20, would go forward without the federation's sanction. Without the sanction, several teams would skip the tourney. More from the Buffalo News.
    RELATED STORIES: Ticket sales suspended for World Baseball Classic in Puerto Rico; Venezuela proposes hosting part of World Baseball Classic; Venezuela, Puerto Rico may boycott World Baseball Classic

Charlotte ballpark plan now turns to question of real estate
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A proposal for a new ballpark for the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) may be complicated, but it does have the advantage of solving three problems simultaneously: keeps the Knights in town, moves a center city park to a better site and redevelops the rundown Second Ward. Among the many challenges: persuading the city and county to cooperate with one another, agreeing on land values for the various sites among private and public owners, and maintaining a newfound commitment from the Knights to fund $34 million in construction costs.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Despite talk, no signal of Angels making move
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With both the city of Anaheim and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim hinting that the team's future lies elsewhere, you'd think some plans to move the team were in the works. The Angels already contract AEG to do some merchandising, but past that the two sides have not discussed a new ballpark. AEG built Staples Center, the home of the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers, and Home Depot Center, the home of MLS's Los Angeles Galaxy, with private financing. Whether there's enough room at the Home Depot Center site in Carson for a new ballpark is debatable -- as well as whether Carson officials would approve such a project -- but with 10 more years to go on the Angels' lease at Angel Stadium, it's probably a little early to begin choosing a new home. Meanwhile, the court battle between the city and Anaheim over the renaming of the team starts today. More from the Los Angeles Times.
    RELATED STORIES: Anaheim may plan on Angels move in 2016

Dream of baseball field in Santa Clarita
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The independent Golden Baseball League wants to place a team in Santa Clarita, Cal., for the 2007 season, but officials are facing one huge obstacle: they've not located a suitable location for a new ballpark, a tall order in this valley of rolling, oak-covered canyons with little flat land. Past proposals of basing the team at College of the Canyons or the William S. Hart Pony Baseball and Softball Complex struck out because of beer sales restrictions, and a plan to redevelop the Saugus Speedway into a field proved cost prohibitive -- the current home of the Saugus Swap Meet is prime real estate along the busy Soledad Canyon Road.

As Marlins go fishing, there's no bite here
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Three members of the Florida Marlins front office will be in Portland today to tour the city, meet with city leaders and assess the potential of moving the team to the Rose City. The argument here is that Portland residents don't desire major-league baseball, but there would be some advantages for a Marlins move there: a suitable temporary facility (PGE Park) is already in place, one piece of funding ($150 million in income-tax revenues) is in place, and there's some energy in the city's Oregon Sports Authority to pursue a deal. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, AP and the Oregonian.
    RELATED STORIES: Portland baseball backers eye Coliseum as stadium site; Miami 'SuperSite' plan put on hold; Miami-Dade seeks solution for a Marlins ballpark; Bad marriage brings fire sale, suitors; Marlins begin relocation tour in San Antonio; Source: Huizenga offers to help Marlins; Seven cities express interest in Marlins; Miami City Manager: Samson lied about Marlins' share; Goodman: Las Vegas is interested in Marlins; Marlins will explore relocation; Our lack of support forces Marlins' hand; Ballpark plans could be latest victim of Wilma; Ballpark as shelter best shot for Marlins; Marlins deserve better market; Weston officials pitch ballpark as Marlins' home and hurricane shelter; Prospects dim for Marlins stadium deal; New Marlins ballpark proposal would tear down Orange Bowl; Marlins, city end ballpark talks; Marlins still talking new ballpark; resolution could be "months" away; Selig: Marlins need new ballpark; Marlins president: Team still reviewing ballpark options; Marlins shortfall still unresolved; Ballpark talks in Florida; Dolphins Stadium with retractable roof may be pitched to Marlins; Miami-Dade extends the clock on plan for ballpark financing; June deadline for Marlins ballpark; Marlins could look elsewhere after another loss in Florida; Marlins will reevaluate ballpark options; Las Vegas smacks its lips; Strikeout for Marlins ballpark as session winds down; Marlins keep pitching for ballpark subsidy; Selig doesn't rule out Marlins move if new ballpark isn't built; The Marlins' toughest foe: Tallahassee; Marlins may get new lease at Dolphins Stadium; Huizenga remarks help undercut Marlins stadium deal in Legislature; Marlins' ballpark plan gets resistance -- again; Las Vegas still willing to gamble on baseball; Miami-Dade OKs financing for $420 million Marlins ballpark; Poll finds little support for public funding of Marlins ballpark; Tentative Marlins ballpark deal announced; State open to Marlins ballpark proposal; Miami gives Marlins ballpark the nod

New Arkansas Travelers ballpark has budget difficulty
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Higher costs for construction materials have pushed the price of a new baseball park being built in North Little Rock to $2 million over its $28 million budget. North Little Rock Mayor Patrick Hays says cuts have been made in the construction plan. That includes trimming the number of corporate luxury suites from 26 to 24. Other reductions will involve the drainage system for the playing field, elevator interiors, security fencing and concrete paving at the main entryway.
    RELATED STORIES: Hays says Travelers fans should pay to park; New Travs home to be called Dickey-Stephens Park; Little Rock seeks bids to replace Ray Winder Field; Travelers' home coming into focus; NLR sets ballpark previews; NLR projects set fast, sure course; NLR ballpark planners get right to work; North Little Rock voters approve sales-tax hike for new ballpark; Hays says there is no ‘Plan B' for new Travs' ballpark; NLR’s 1% tax plan sees 254-vote 1st day; A rush act for NLR ballpark; Hays: 2 tax projects’ OK will give NLR ‘a booster shot'; NLR promotion panel salutes stadium, not tax; NLR working on game plan for tax vote; Travelers, North Little Rock agree to 50-50 split; North Little Rock ballpark talks snag over cash; Sales-tax vote favored by most on NLR council; Pitching for Aug. 9 tax vote, Hays says; NLR mayor pitches 2-year sales tax for ballpark; Will the Arkansas Travelers stay in Little Rock after all?; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark delayed; financing is in doubt; Actions to save Ray Winder Field sought; Travs ballpark development moves forward; Plans for new Little Rock ballpark unveiled; New home for Arkansas Travelers?; Little Rock ballpark near river in works; Replacing Ray Winder Field wasn't in my plans

A's owner's new plan for ballpark
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
How committed is Lew Wolff to keeping the Athletics in Oakland? These days there doesn't seem to be a high level of commitment. The managing owner of the A's is now proposing a new-ballpark plan where the city of Oakland would find land for a ballpark, acquire it and figure out how to pay for a new ballpark. Wolff has pledged to chip in toward any land purchases needed to make the plan fly, and suggests the city sell development rights to developers -- who would build the "village" surrounding the ballpark -- to finance construction. Mayor Jerry Brown is a lame duck and there doesn't seem to be any other city officials stepping up to push for a new ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Talks for new A's ballpark sputter; Soccer stadium throws curve at San Jose baseball plan; A's ownership group wants to buy MLS expansion team for San Jose; Athletics denied 3-year Coliseum lease extension; A's ballpark: 'Baseball Village' in the vision stage; Planning ahead to get A's to San Jose; San Jose buys first parcel of land for ballpark; Land acquisition for San Jose ballpark may cost $100 million; San Jose goes to bat for ballpark property; Fremont will consider a pitch for A's; Wolff on the hunt for more A's fans, new ballpark; Oakland ballpark village plan designed to win allies, public funds; Wolff's vision of ballpark raises questions; Wolff unveils plans for 35,000-seat ballpark near Coliseum; A's owner to offer specific ballpark plan to keep team in Oakland; Have A's settled on new ballpark site?; Smallball suits Lew Wolff just fine; A's think small with stadium plans; Fremont politicians make a pitch for A's; A's say Coliseum lot isn't feasible; Athletics announce committee to plan new Oakland ballpark; Another San Jose site eyed for baseball; The time has come for new A's ballpark; No specifics on new Oakland ballpark, but plans in the works; San Jose quits discussions on cannery; Wolff about to take over; Going to bat for A's is big opportunity for San Jose mayor; Wolff: A's ballpark already in works; Deal near for San Jose cannery site; For A's, way to San Jose paved with uncertainty; San Jose baseball crusader makes his pitch; A's sale could happen quickly; Sale of A's to heighten San Jose intrigue; BART to the ballpark, what a vision; Another San Jose pitch for baseball; San Jose mayor makes his pitch; Q&A with A's new owner Lew Wolff

League looking to bring pro baseball to Greenville
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The South Coast League, planning for a 2007 launch, is looking for a facility in Greenville, N.C., with one possibility being Guy Smith Stadium, the former home of the Greenville Greenies of the original Class D Coastal Plain League in 1937-1941. Of course, the local parks and rec department head is against the idea of pro baseball (it will, after all, complicate his life), so that is one large obstacle. Apparently the new ballpark at East Carolina University is out of the questions as well.
    RELATED STORIES: South Coast League contacts Wilmington officials; Macon moves toward bringing baseball back to the city; Minor-league baseball in Macon -- again?; Macon ponders two baseball proposals; City explores baseball's return to Macon; Baseball team could slide home to Bluffton; South Coast League announces 2007 launch

Baseball fans have hard pick
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If you've considered going to spring training but worried about obtaining tickets, this may be the year for you: though ticket sales for the World Baseball Classic have been mixed (good for the finals, bad for some preliminary-game venues), they are siphoning off enough fans to put a dent in spring-training sales. "We'll be OK. We understand we won't set the world on fire," said Robert Brinton, executive director of the Mesa Convention and Visitors Bureau and vice president of the Cactus League Association. "It's going to be a weaker schedule all the way around." The Cactus League set attendance records the past two years, drawing 1.27 million fans in 2005 and 1.25 million in 2004, but it sounds like 2006 won't see that level of support.

Baseball teams ask Olympia for funds
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Five Washington state minor-league baseball teams will be asking the state Legislature for $25 million to cover ballpark maintenance and upgrades. The group -- consisting of the Tacoma Rainiers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), the Everett AquaSox, the Yakima Bears, the Spokane Indians and the Tri-City Dust Devils (all short season; Northwest League) -- tried something similar last year, but failed. Cheney Stadium, home of the Rainiers, needs $10 million to replace its roof and to improve clubhouse and concession areas. Avista Stadium, home of the Indians, needs $8 million of structural work. The Dust Devils want $2 million for a roof that can protect spectators and players from the intense heat of the Yakima Valley.

Spring-training facility not in city's best interests
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A Cape Coral (Fla.) city councilmember lays out the arguments against the city pursuing a spring-training facility for the Cleveland Indians. You really don't need to read the article to know where he stands: "Grown men with uncontrolled egos who dress up in children's uniforms to play a game for enormous compensation while ingesting performance-enhancing drugs and destroying their bodies in the process are not heroes."
    RELATED STORIES: Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Deal made in Miller Park tragedy
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Sources tell the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that lawyers for the widows of the three ironworkers killed in the July 1999 collapse of the Big Blue crane during the construction of Miller Park, the home of the Milwaukee Brewers, have reached an out-of-court settlement for additional damages with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries of America and insurance companies involved in the case. The tentative agreement, which is expected to be announced on Monday, calls for the widows of Jeffrey A. Wischer, William R. DeGrave and Jerome W. Starr to receive millions of dollars in additional damages as a result of the accident.

Potomac Nationals announce major-league/minor-league doubleheader
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Potomac Nationals (Class A; Carolina League) will take on the Salem Avalanche as part of the first major-league/minor-league doubleheader in Washington, D.C. on May 21. The Washington Nationals, parent club of the Potomac Nationals, will take on the Baltimore Orioles at 1:05 p.m., followed by the Potomac Nationals taking the field against the Avalanche. The minor-league game will be an official Carolina League game and will be considered a Potomac home game.

Ballpark still shows up in the 'win' column
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Steve Pearlstein, business columnist for the Washington Post, says the District of Columbia's handling of budgeting and negotiating for a new Washington Nationals ballpark isn't as bad as most people assume: there's still a lot of give and take with the budget despite the fact that costs have risen since the original cost estimate. Plus, there's the whole image thing: sometimes the District is regarded as being unfriendly -- or even openly hostile -- to economic-development proposals, but the whole ballpark initiative has been framed as a economic-development issue.

Red Barons fans play waiting game
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Fans and management of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons (Class AAA; International League) are in a tough position: even though they know the Philadelphia Phillies are pulling their affiliation after this season, the team can't begin looking for a new parent team until mid-September, when the International League season ends. The most likely suitors are the Washington Nationals, now affiliated with the New Orleans Zephyrs (Class AAA; International League), and the Baltimore Orioles, who will lose their affiliation with the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League) once the Phillies switch.
    RELATED STORIES: Phillies farewell an opportunity; Phillies close to a triple-A shift to Allentown; Money mounts for Lehigh Valley minor league baseball; Tropicana plans to create lots more than slots parlor in Allentown; Casino owner to unveil Allentown proposal

Small-market Twins might be on verge of being overrun economically
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We do like the Pioneer Press's Gordon Wittenmyer, but any article suggesting Minneapolis-St. Paul is a small market is based on a fallacy. The issue is whether the Twins can compete with their current economic structure; they can't, mostly because the team is at a competitive disadvantage in the Metrodome. The team receives a cut of concessions, all gate receipts and no suite revenues -- easily the worst deal in the majors. But the ballpark situation has nothing to do with the size of the Minneapolis-St. Paul market, and to suggest that the Twin Cities is a poorer market than Cleveland is just ludicrous.

Bluefish ownership group comes full circle
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Jack Foster and Mary Ann McGregor are part of Get Hooked! LLC, the multi-investor group that recently purchased the Bridgeport Bluefish (independent; Atlantic League) from Mickey Herbert. They are also the people who founded the team, and sold their controlling interest to Herbert in 1999.  In addition to the Bluefish owners group, they are principals in the development and investment companies Freeborn Investors and Westchester Baseball, through which they are attempting to bring an Atlantic League baseball team to Yonkers, N.Y.
    RELATED STORIES: 'Fish tale has happy ending -- for now; Bluefish to remain in Bridgeport; Couple behind Yonkers baseball project buys Bluefish; Bridgeport Bluefish sold to local group

O'Neil in a league of his own
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One of the best things about the recent baseball Winter Meeting was the appearance of Buck O'Neil at the trade show, as HOK Sport+Venue+Event brought in the legend for a meet and greet. O'Neil is now 94 years old, but he's still working the circuit and promoting the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (a must-visit if you're ever in the Kansas City area, by the way). Thirty-nine former Negro Leagues players, including O’Neil, are on a special ballot for entry into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., but he's got plenty else on his plate: he's launching a new Buck O’Neil Education and Research Center, a $15 million project expected to break ground in late spring at the old Paseo YMCA, where the Negro Leagues were founded.

These developers are a work in progress
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
HollyHills Development has proposed an ambition development plan in San Antonio:  Near the SBC Center, the company has proposed a rodeo village, a NASCAR track, professional football and baseball stadiums, and condominium towers.  The East Side complex would cost more than $3 billion, the company estimates. And HollyHills officials have said public funding would have to pay for part of it. Whether or not the firm has the financial wherewithal to make such a project happens remains to be seen.

Levi Strauss lands SBC's right field
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One of the more interesting things about SBC Park, the home of the San Francisco Giants, is that the team has sold naming rights to everything nailed down, earning $24.7 million annually in these naming-rights deal. There's a new one: The Giants and Levi Strauss & Co. on Friday announced they are entering a five-year strategic partnership that includes sponsorship of the right-field section of SBC Park, renaming it Levi's Landing. This replaced the Old Navy naming-rights deal, which had been estimated as a million-dollar-a-year deal.

In memoriam: Rod Dedeaux
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Rod Dedeaux, who coached Southern California to a record 11 NCAA baseball championships and turned out a parade of future major leaguers, died Thursday. He was 91. Dedeaux, who coached the Trojans for 45 years before retiring in 1986, died in suburban Glendale of complications from a stroke that he had on Dec. 2, the school said. Dedeaux had a record of 1,332-571-11, the most wins in Division I history until Cliff Gustafson of Texas surpassed him in 1994.

Baseball Notes
Posted January 9, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Todd Claus will return to manage the Portland Sea Dogs (Class AA; Eastern League) in 2006. Russ Morman returns as the team's hitting coach, and Masai Takahashi will once again serve as trainer. Ace Adams joins the club as the pitching coach, replacing Fernando Arroyo....When the Greenville Drive (Class A; Sally League) open up the 2006 season in their new downtown ballpark, former major leaguer Luis Alicea will be the Drive’s first manager, replacing Chad Epperson, who will now manage the Wilmington Blue Rocks (Class A; Carolina League). Alicea will be joined by Upstate residents Randy Phillips and Bob Kipper who will returning to the coaching staff in 2006. The Drive will also have a new head trainer in Paul Buchheit. The Waterloo Bucks (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) announced the hiring of Josh Simpson as a coach for the 2006 season. Simpson, currently an assistant at New Mexico University in Albuquerque, will join field manager Cory Allen for the 12th season of Bucks baseball. Allen and Simpson worked together on the Bucks staff during the 2005 season....St. Paul Saints (independent; American Association) manager George Tsamis announced his entire 2005 coaching staff will return for the 2006 season, including third-base coach Jackie Hernandez (back for his 46th season in pro ball), pitching coach Jason Verdugo, coach Lamarr Rogers and bullpen coach T.J. Wiesner....The Swing of the Quad Cities (Class A; Midwest League) announced the hiring of three new employees Wednesday, including the addition of a new radio voice for the 2006 baseball season. Ben Chiswick, Megan Freer and Brad Hurt have all begun working for the Swing, rounding out the team’s 12-person full-time staff. Chiswick, who spent the 2005 season as a broadcasting/public relations Intern, has rejoined the Swing by filling the position of director of broadcasting and media relations. In addition to his duties involving public relations and media requests, the graduate of George Washington University will also serve as the radio voice of the Swing for all 140 games. Freer, a graduate of Towson University, will take over the role of group sales manager. Born and raised in Maryland, she is also a graduate of Game Face Executive Academy, a program that specializes in training professionals for sales in the sports industry. Hurt joins the Swing as the banquet and premium suites manager after spending three years as a supervisor for Old Chicago, a restaurant and bar in Bettendorf, Iowa....The Albuquerque Isotopes (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) announced the club’s field staff for the 2006 season with manager Dean Treanor taking the helm as manager for the second consecutive campaign. Steve Phillips will be Albuquerque’s new hitting coach, while Tom Brown joins the Marlins organization handling the pitching-coach duties. Trainer Steve Miller is also slated to return to the Isotopes in 2006, reprising his role from a year ago....Hall of Famer Gary Carter is the new manager of the St. Lucie Mets (Class A; Florida State League)....