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Archives: April 9-15, 2006

New Mets ballpark deal is stalled
Posted April 14, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If the New York Mets didn't anticipate this happening, they haven't paid attention to the history of New York City politics over the last 200 or so years. The team and local Queens political figures are at loggerheads over how the Mets will give back to the community after gaining approval on a new ballpark to replace Shea Stadium. Never mind the majority of the costs of the new ballpark will be borne by the team: the city will be committing land and infrastructure costs (so there's a sense of entitlement), and the New York Yankees did set a precedent by promising millions in community spending as a condition of city approval of the new Yankee Stadium. So far, the Mets have rejected a $1 million request for community support, countering with a $200,000 offer. A million is cheap compared to what the Yankees are paying; the two sides are talking, but we're guessing the Mets will cave fairly quickly.
    RELATED STORIES: Squeeze play on the Mets; Strike one for new Mets ballpark; Mets park's name will fetch millions; Mets unveil plans for new ballpark; Yankees, Mets closer to new ballparks; City goes to bat for Yankees, Mets ballparks; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Ebbets' echoes in Queens; At Mets' park, you'll think you're in...Pittsburgh?; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Mets to go old school in new park

Hennepin County board OKs revised Twins ballpark plan
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A divided Hennepin County Board of Commissioners approved a revised Minnesota Twins ballpark proposal yesterday that increases the project's budget to $522 million, and sets up a key showdown at the State Capitol. The board voted 4-3 to increase the county's total construction commitment for the proposed stadium in downtown Minneapolis to $392 million. The Twins would pay $130 million, or about a quarter of the ballpark's construction. Hennepin County needs permission from the state to levy a 0.15 percent sales tax (excluding food, clothes and medicine) to pay for the ballpark as well as avoid a countywide referendum on the matter; the House Tax Committee is expected to discuss the matter next week. More from the Pioneer Press. The dour Joe Soucheray comments as well.
    RELATED STORIES: Politics, tax tangle Twins' quest for new park; Senate panel OKs Twins ballpark plan; Twins ballpark initiative resuming; Supporters say Twins ballpark bill has enough votes to pass; Twins ballpark proposal picking up steam in Minnesota Legislature; Twins laying off threats, for now; It's back! Twins ballpark issue still with us; Twins are hearing dreaded 'C' word again; 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

Loria wants Marlins' fate decided soon
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Standing in the corner of the Florida Marlins' clubhouse an hour before their home opener Tuesday, owner Jeffrey Loria renewed his threat to move the team. Loria said the Marlins will find another home if they're unable to swing a deal soon for a new ballpark in South Florida; the team has already said it won't stay at Dolphin Stadium. And he acknowledged that talks with local officials remain at a standstill, as a flirtation with San Antonio failed to stir local officials to sweeten their financial offer for a new ballpark. We're guessing Loria knows San Antonio is not the answer -- local officials are delusional if they think they can build a new ballpark for $300 million, and there's no way the Fish will land a good cable-TV contract -- but his options are few as Las Vegas continues to be off-limits and Portland elected officials show no interest. More from the Miami Herald and the San Antonio Express-News.
    RELATED STORIES: House-hunting for Marlins on hold, for now; Willis, ballpark deal key issues for Marlins; Is Texas big enough for three MLB teams?; San Antonio makes first pitch to Marlins owner; Loria: Marlins seriously talking with San Antonio; Will Florida Marlins jump into San Antonio's net?; San Antonio officials get an invite Nolan Ryan backs San Antonio Marlins idea; City and county forming teams to lure Marlins; San Antonio bid for Marlins on hold; Wolff reveals site possibilities for San Antonio ballpark; Plan would provide $200 million toward new Marlins ballpark; Spurs looking to be part of ownership if San Antonio lures Marlins; San Antonio to Marlins: Include locals; Marlins move may spur border battle; Wolff makes ballpark pitch to Marlins; San Antonio under 'serious consideration' for Marlins relocation; Marlins front office meets with Homestead officials; Marlins to Oklahoma City?; Half-cent hike in Miami-Dade might help fund a Marlins ballpark; Owner laughs off idea of his track as Marlins ballpark site; Marlins, FAU to discuss stadium options; Norfolk session pleases Marlins; Possibility of Marlins ballpark deal called remote

Construction starting on Midland ballpark
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A ceremony was held yesterday to commemorate the start of construction on a new  5,488-seat ballpark in Midland, Mich, to house the relocated Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Class A; Midwest League) next season. More than 100 people from the Tri-Cities attended a ceremony as officials served ballpark-style food and gave away goodie bags with peanuts, bubble gum and baseballs. Dow Chemical has purchased naming rights to the ballpark; the privately financed ballpark is being funded by local foundations, Dow Chemical Co. and Dow Corning Corp.

Rumors trail A's search for new ballpark
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Is Oakland A's managing partner Lou Wolff merely using Fremont as a pawn while he seeks a more lucrative new ballpark in Oakland, Las Vegas or San Jose? That's the suspicion in this article, as Wolff continues to negotiate for Cisco-owned land in Fremont while meeting with Fremont city leaders. There is some logic to assuming Wolff might be holding Las Vegas in his hip pocket: it would explain why the Florida Marlins have not received permission from MLB officials to negotiation with Sin City reps.

Indians, Pirates extend player development deal
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Indianapolis Indians (Class AAA; International League) signed a two-year extension on their player development contract (PDC) with the Pittsburgh Pirates, the club announced Tuesday afternoon. The new agreement will run through the 2008 season. Indianapolis posted a 78-66 regular-season record in 2005 -- its first season as a Pirates affiliate. The Triple-A Indians also qualified for postseason play for the first time since 2000, advancing to the International League Governors' Cup Finals. Fourteen players were promoted from Indianapolis to the big leagues during the 2005 campaign. Pittsburgh's 2006 Opening Day roster also included 12 individuals who played for the Tribe a season ago. More on affiliation deals here.

Fans take themselves out to the Nats ballgame
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Washington Nationals ended up about 1,000 tickets short of selling out RFK Stadium yesterday -- not bad for a team that started the season slowly. (We're guessing Dick Cheney, who threw out the first pitch, wasn't exactly a draw: the vice president's approval rating have dipped below 20 percent in recent months, and he received a decent amount of boos when he delivered the pitch, much to the delight of the tabloids and the chagrin of the Washington Times.) We're guessing the Nats will be in a lull period before a new ballpark is built: fans tend to ignore teams with new ballparks in the works until the season before the ballpark opens. (A new local owner may spur interest in the team, though.) It may be easier to get to Nats games this season: Metro is experimenting with express trains that skip some stops to speed riders on to special events. Metro offered baseball fans express trains Tuesday, dubbed Fastball Express, for the Washington Nationals' home opener, though some fans were confused. It sounds like the Nats and Aramark upgraded the food offerings at RFK Stadium: good thing, because they sucked last season.

Ripken's insight benefits Augusta
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A crowd of 5,239 was on hand to see the beginning of the Ripken era for the Augusta GreenJackets (Class A; Sally League). From the new party pavilion deck down the right field line to the kids' inflatable fun zone in left, Ripken baseball has put a touch of class in Lake Olmstead Stadium. Energy was circulating through the record 5,239 fans like the breeze from six massive propeller fans underneath the bleacher canopies.
    RELATED STORIES: Ripken era begins for GreenJackets

Famed voice of Yankee Stadium sorely missed
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Legendary Yankee Stadium announcer Bob Sheppard missed his first Opening Day in more than a half century with a minor hip injury -- and fans said yesterday his trademark booming voice was missed.  Sheppard, 95, had never missed a home opener since he started working as the Bombers' public address announcer in 1951. He hurt his hip at home Monday night and hopes to return by the next homestand. More from the New York Times. Ed Lucas, who hasn't missed an Opening Day in 51 years, was there. Connecticut fans could find attending a Yankees game easier once a new ballpark opens if a proposed Metro North facility is built.
    RELATED STORIES: Yankee Stadium still has special allure

Catfish fans come out, but will it continue?
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Columbus Catfish (Class A; Sally League) got off to a good start at its Golden Park home opener, drawing a crowd of 2,765. New GM Ken Clary was handing out schedules and working the crowd, but he and owner David Heller have the tough task of selling the team while opening looking for a new home elsewhere. We're not sure Columbus is the perfect place for Class A baseball, but we'd love to be proven wrong.

Upstairs at Fenway Park
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A world away from the gritty bleacher seats and snaking sausage lines, the inhabitants of the exclusive new EMC Club yesterday did something that once would have been unthinkable at Fenway Park: They sat in a restaurant with white tablecloths, nibbled sesame-seed tuna (pan-seared with a roasted tomato and ginger sauce for $32), and sipped pinot grigio. The Red Sox's new $275-a-game haven is perfectly designed to appeal to the rich, the very rich, and the merely well connected. The little touches are everywhere. Valet parking attendants stand ready to take ticket holders' cars. Heaters above the seats -- think french-fry warmers -- protect the bigwigs from Boston's often-chilly weather. They can be escorted to batting practice and visit the Green Monster to get their photos taken. Even the restrooms come with fresh flowers and scented soap. No troughs here. More from the Boston Herald.

Renovated Fenway eateries stepping up to the plate
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We'll miss the grimy and cramped atmosphere, but many fans will probably prefer the renovated Cask and Flagon, a popular watering hold across the street from Fenway Park and a must-visit for many fans. The result is a more open bar and restaurant complete with 60 high-definition plasma screen televisions so that fans never have to miss a second of the game. Even if you have to go to the bathroom you’re covered: screens are being installed in the restrooms. Other local pubs and restaurants have been upgraded as well. (Thanks to John Cerone.)

Jacksonville eyes MLB spring training 2007
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Jacksonville Economic Development Commission’s Sports and Entertainment Board is working to bring a pair of major league teams to the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville for a spring season-ending series. The board is targeting teams a little further down MLB's pecking order: the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Florida Marlins and Washington Nationals, midlevel teams that would charge from $100,000 to $150,000 a piece in appearance fees. A similar arrangement exists in Las Vegas and has been profitable both for the city and the teams involved.
    RELATED STORIES: Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida; Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Nine years enough to shed daylight on tradition
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Home openers tend to be taken for granted by some teams. Take the Arizona Diamondbacks, who don't seem to do much special at Chase Field for opening day past some additional music. True, no one does Opening Day like Cincinnati, where a traditional weekday parade precedes the game, or the Yankees, where Opening Day is a time-honored ritual. The Diamondbacks toyed with the idea of moving the Opening Day game to the afternoon, but decided against it.
    RELATED STORIES: Kind move helps cancer-stricken fan heal

New Busch Stadium has its own quirks
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Now that the St. Louis Cardinals have played a few games at the new Busch Stadium, the players have started to identify some of the quirks there. The biggest one is due to the new ballpark's open design: the wind will be much more of a factor there than in the more enclosed old Busch Stadium. That's good news for fans: cooling breezes will be there throughout much of the season, as it could get pretty toasty at the old Busch in August. The outfield fence is lively, keeping balls in play, and foul territories at the new Busch Stadium are smaller than at the old Busch: good news for fans (they're closer to the action) and batters, bad news for pitchers.
    RELATED STORY: Fans revel in new Cardinals ballpark; Ready or not....; Ballpark Visit: Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals

Arlington gets first peek at town center next to ballpark
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After 12 years of looking at empty green fields and vast parking lots circling the Texas Rangers’ home, Arlington residents can now see the first drawings of a town center planned next to Ameriquest Field. The designs are "85 to 90 percent final," according to developer Yaromir Steiner, who will talk about the project at an Arlington Conservation Council meeting Wednesday night. The first phase, which will have more than 1.1 million square feet, will replace the parking lots on the ballpark’s west and south sides.

Carneal in fine form for his 51st season as broadcaster
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Herb Carneal showed up at the Metrodome Tuesday night for the beginning of his 51st season broadcasting baseball games. Carneal, who turns 83 this year, has called Twins games on the radio since 1962 -- their second season in Minnesota -- after spending time as an Orioles broadcaster. He needs a walker to get around, his voice is not as strong as it was and his role is limited -- to the first three innings of Friday, Saturday and Sunday home games as well as weekday afternoon starts.

High Point University baseball complex to be named Williard Stadium
Posted April 12, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Coy Williard, president of Williard-Stewart Inc., and his wife, Susan, have donated $1 million to High Point University to name the baseball complex Williard Stadium in honor of Williard’s late father, Coy O. Williard Sr. Williard Stadium will feature 500 chair-backed seats, a press box, special guest seating, concessions and marketing areas, and restrooms. Construction on the stadium will begin after the current baseball season ends and is expected to be complete before the 2007 season gets under way.

Fans revel in new Cardinals ballpark
Posted April 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Yesterday was a good day to be a scalper in St. Louis, as fans swamped the new Busch Stadium to witness the grand opening of the ballpark. There were more buyers than sellers outside the ballpark, and nosebleed seats were going for upwards of $160. Fans reported themselves pleased with the new ballpark; after years of attending games at the old Busch Stadium, they seemed happy to be in a real ballpark -- which pretty much confirmed our original look at the ballpark. Red Schoendienst gave his approval. Players seemed pleased, too, but they realize there will be some work in learning about the ballpark's twists. It seemed like all of St. Louis's movers and shakers were at the game. (To make thing better, the Cardinals defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 6-4.) For those who wonder about the connection between ballparks and economic development, the folks in St. Louis say the ballpark is an important cornerstone for the redevelopment of a moribund downtown, with several projects big and small already in the works. Would this redevelopment come without a ballpark? It's a chicken-or-the-egg scenario, to be sure, but it's hard to think it all would have happened without the Cardinals. More from the Kansas City Star.
    RELATED STORY: Ready or not....; Ballpark Visit: Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals

Ballpark Visit: RFK Stadium, Washington Nationals
Posted April 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Washington Nationals open their second season today against the New York Mets at RFK Stadium, one of the original cookie-cutter stadiums: a circular facility designed to host both pro football and baseball, with the fences and stands reconfigured depending on the use. While RFK is a serviceable ballpark, it's not a great facility, and while it holds pleasant memories for those of us lucky to see Washington Redskins games in the 1980s, it is seriously lacking when it comes to baseball. Good thing it's a temporary facility while D.C. builds a real ballpark.

House-hunting for Marlins on hold, for now
Posted April 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After a month of flirting and San Antonio offering up a letter jacket, the Florida Marlins have decided not to go steady with the Alamo City and will wait before making any moves toward a possible relocation. One issue is that the Marlins have not received permission from MLB to explore a move; the other is that the Marlins brass seems to genuinely want to work on a new ballpark solution in Miami. Marlins ownership met with San Antonio political leaders during the team's opening games at Houston's Minute Maid Park, and those San Antonio officials now sound pessimistic about the chances of luring the Fish to the 37th-largest television market. Eleven Marlins will be seeing Dolphin Stadium for the first time tonight -- such as it is -- but the rest of Miami doesn't seem to care, reports Dan Le Batard.
    RELATED STORIES: Willis, ballpark deal key issues for Marlins; Is Texas big enough for three MLB teams?; San Antonio makes first pitch to Marlins owner; Loria: Marlins seriously talking with San Antonio; Will Florida Marlins jump into San Antonio's net?; San Antonio officials get an invite Nolan Ryan backs San Antonio Marlins idea; City and county forming teams to lure Marlins; San Antonio bid for Marlins on hold; Wolff reveals site possibilities for San Antonio ballpark; Plan would provide $200 million toward new Marlins ballpark; Spurs looking to be part of ownership if San Antonio lures Marlins; San Antonio to Marlins: Include locals; Marlins move may spur border battle; Wolff makes ballpark pitch to Marlins; San Antonio under 'serious consideration' for Marlins relocation; Marlins front office meets with Homestead officials; Marlins to Oklahoma City?; Half-cent hike in Miami-Dade might help fund a Marlins ballpark; Owner laughs off idea of his track as Marlins ballpark site; Marlins, FAU to discuss stadium options; Norfolk session pleases Marlins; Possibility of Marlins ballpark deal called remote

Canaries to hold tryouts during exhibition game
Posted April 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association) are holding tryouts in an unusual way: Nine winners selected in a pregame workout will be given the chance to play for the Canaries in the game against Sioux City. The tryout begins at 11 a.m. and is open to anyone over the age of 18 that has purchased a ticket to the exhibition game. Each of the amateurs selected will get the opportunity to play one inning in right field and, if fortune permits, they may even get a chance at the plate.

Politics, tax tangle Twins' quest for new park
Posted April 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
State approval of a new sales tax in Hennepin County to help pay for a new Minnesota Twins ballpark looks likely to pass, leaving Hennepin County Commissioners the task of working out the finances with the Twins. Estimates for the new ballpark have risen since the county first proposed a 0.15 percent sales tax increase (excluding food, clothes and medicine) to help pay for the downtown Minneapolis Warehouse District ballpark. Ballpark proponents held a rally yesterday at the site of the proposed ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Senate panel OKs Twins ballpark plan; Twins ballpark initiative resuming; Supporters say Twins ballpark bill has enough votes to pass; Twins ballpark proposal picking up steam in Minnesota Legislature; Twins laying off threats, for now; It's back! Twins ballpark issue still with us; Twins are hearing dreaded 'C' word again; 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

Yankee Stadium still has special allure
Posted April 11, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
For the Kansas City Royals, today's game has special meaning: they're playing the New York Yankees at the Bronx Bombers' home opener. Opening Day at Yankee Stadium is unlike Opening Day anywhere else: the tradition of the years really comes tumbling forth. The last time the Royals won there was Aug. 6, 2002, so there will be a little pressure on many of the young Royals, who are off to a decent start under Buddy Bell.

Kind move helps cancer-stricken fan heal
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Jason Kurtz is throwing out the first pitch at the Arizona Diamondbacks home opener at Chase Field today. He's definitely not the biggest celebrity in the Valley at the moment -- that would be Masters champ Phil Mickelson -- but his story is the best: a Stage 3 cancer victim, Kurtz underwent months of chemotherapy and radiation therapy to stall the disease. One bright moment in his therapy: a visit to Chase Field and being upgraded to the best seats in the house. Kurtz credits the upgrade as a key moment in his therapy, and the Diamondbacks are honoring his recovery today.

Hottest ticket in town leaves many out in the cold
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The Boston Red Sox have already sold 2.5 million tickets this season, and the demand doesn't seem close to abating. The Sox also made the fateful decision not to air any games over local television, broadcasting them instead on NESN for financial reasons. This leads some to wonder whether the Red Sox aren't cutting fans off the team, a move that could bite them in coming years.

Swing, city spar over finances
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The city of Davenport has threatened to close John O'Donnell's doors, or not grant a new liquor license this year, if Seventh Inning Stretch, the owners of the Swing of the Quad Cities (Class A; Midwest League) doesn't pay $415,241 owed for ballpark renovations. Last week the city council tabled a motion last week granting a liquor license renewal for Seventh Inning Stretch in an effort to compel the group to pay money owed to the city.

North Little Rock ballpark builders face challenges
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Construction is well underway on the new Dickey-Stephens ballpark in North Little Rock, scheduled to open next season as the home of the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League). Crews are working on a massive excavation project to handle any drainage issues at the site. The biggest issue so far: Crews have to stabilize the site in order support the ballpark's foundation. These complications have helped swell the ballpark's cost from $28 million to $32 million. Meanwhile, the City Council approved a financial plan to use all net income from the ballpark's ticket and concession sales, luxury suite rentals and other sources for the city to pay off a loan to cover construction costs above the budgeted $28 million. The financial plan allows the city to avoid sacrificing any design features and keeps the ballpark on schedule for the Arkansas Travelers minor league team to begin play there in April 2007.
    RELATED STORIES: Travs ballpark plans intact, on track; Ballpark's rising costs to force a decision in North Little Rock; The future of Ray Winder Field under debate; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark has budget difficulty; Hays says Travelers fans should pay to park; New Travs home to be called Dickey-Stephens Park; Little Rock seeks bids to replace Ray Winder Field; Travelers' home coming into focus; NLR sets ballpark previews; NLR projects set fast, sure course; NLR ballpark planners get right to work; North Little Rock voters approve sales-tax hike for new ballpark; Hays says there is no ‘Plan B' for new Travs' ballpark; NLR’s 1% tax plan sees 254-vote 1st day; A rush act for NLR ballpark; Hays: 2 tax projects’ OK will give NLR ‘a booster shot'; NLR promotion panel salutes stadium, not tax; NLR working on game plan for tax vote; Travelers, North Little Rock agree to 50-50 split; North Little Rock ballpark talks snag over cash; Sales-tax vote favored by most on NLR council; Pitching for Aug. 9 tax vote, Hays says; NLR mayor pitches 2-year sales tax for ballpark; Will the Arkansas Travelers stay in Little Rock after all?; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark delayed; financing is in doubt; Actions to save Ray Winder Field sought; Travs ballpark development moves forward; Plans for new Little Rock ballpark unveiled; New home for Arkansas Travelers?; Little Rock ballpark near river in works; Replacing Ray Winder Field wasn't in my plans

Retire #6? One Pesky problem
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There's some sentiment for the Boston Red Sox to retire #6, worn most famously by Johnny Pesky. The Red Sox have criteria for retiring a number: the player must have played for the Red Sox for 10 years and be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Pesky meets neither criteria, but his number wouldn't be retired purely because of what he did on the field during his seven seasons with the BoSox: it would be retired for Pesky's long service with the club as a player, coach and spokesperson.

Is tonight final fling for Smith-Wills?
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Ole Miss and Mississippi State meet tonight at 6:30 for the 27th consecutive season at Jackson's Smith-Wills Stadium for the Mayor's Trophy game, but it would be the last fling there as the management of Trustmark Park, the home of the Mississippi Braves (Class AA; Southern League), make a play to host the game next season. Each team brings home $25,000 from the game, and Trustmark Park can probably outbid the Smith-Wills management for the game.

Same old Rays? Not today
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The Tampa Bay Devil Rays unveiled upgrades to Tropicana Field last night, and the fans responded by coming out in droves. The biggest change was adding free parking and tailgating to the mix, but once inside we're guessing the fans were pleased with the simplest of changes: a good cleaning of every seat, floor and aisle. Monday night's game against the Baltimore Orioles was only the fourth sellout in team history, and the first in two years, with official attendance of 40,199 -- 54 percent higher than last year's home opener, which drew 26,018. Other changes: more than 200 flat-screen televisions displaying game action in the concourses and the installation of memorabilia from the Ted Williams Museum on the ballpark's ground floor. Sadly, something didn't change at the Trop: the Devil Rays lost. More from the Tampa Tribune.

D.C. Sports Commission close to RFK naming deal?
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D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission chairman Mark Tuohey says the commission is very to a naming-rights deal for RFK Stadium, the temporary home of the Washington Nationals. Of course, the commission was very close a year ago to a $2-million-a-year deal, so who knows. It appears baseball isn't close to awarding the Nats to a new owner: A review by the bidders of the final construction documents and other information for the new ballpark still needs to take place, so no final numbers have been presented by bidders, though Bud Selig promises a deal is close. The Nats open their home season tonight (amid concerns about the team's popularity waning), and some small improvements have been made to RFK Stadium.

Ripken era begins for GreenJackets
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Cal Ripken Jr. will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at tonight's home opener for the Augusta GreenJackets (Class A; Sally League), beginning a new era for minor league baseball in Augusta. Ripken is president and CEO of Ripken Baseball Group, which purchased the GreenJackets last year. In recent months, the new ownership has overhauled the staff, refurbished facilities and has worked to increase fan appeal. So far it has paid off. Tonight's game against the Greenville Drive is sold out and expected to draw the largest Lake Olmstead Stadium crowd in team history.

Smokies bank on promotions to improve attendance
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The Tennessee Smokies (Class AA; Southern League) are expanding their promotions this season to stem the tide of declining attendance at Smokies Park. The team drew 242,163 in 2005. That represents a third consecutive decline and the lowest total since the Smokies moved to the $20 million stadium off I-40 and Highway 66 (Exit 407) in 2000. More fireworks, player signings and live acts like Myron Noodleman and the Zooperstars are counted on to bring more fans to the ballpark.

Sand Gnats eye 100,000 in attendance
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Turn Back The Clock Night has always been one of the most popular promotions for the Savannah Sand Gnats (Class A; Sally League). So, the team will turn back the clock and embrace its history this season with the goal of reaching the 100,000 mark in attendance. Professional baseball has been played in Savannah since 1904 and Grayson Stadium was built in 1946, making it the oldest ballpark in the Sally League. In honor of that, the Sand Gants will wear throwback uniforms all season at home. The uniforms aren't from any particular era, but will have a 1960s' look -- white with black pinstripes with Savannah written in green cursive across the chest, longer sleeves and baggier pants with knee-high stirrups.

Keaton rips Bucs before throwing out first pitch
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Actor Michael Keaton, the local son who threw out the ceremonial first pitch, was bitingly critical of the franchise's ownership shortly before the home opener today at PNC Park, accusing the Pirates of not spending enough on players and of taking their fans for granted. The Pirates' payroll of $47.6 million -- up nearly $13 million from last season -- ranks 26th among the 30 teams in Major League Baseball. The team had the second-largest crowd in PNC Park history and made several free-agent moves in the offseason, bringing in Joe Randa and Jeremy Burnitz and trading for Sean Casey.

Profitable Indians enter pivotal year
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The Indianapolis Indians (Class AAA; International League) have one of the winningest franchises in minor league baseball -- at least financially. Since 1973, the AAA franchise has been in the black. And, despite new challenges, the team hopes to maintain that streak this year. But operating expenses that have escalated much faster than revenue in recent years have put all minor league teams on guard, and this season is seen as crucial for the survival of many of those franchises across the country. With Indians' season-ticket sales down 7 percent at Victory Field from last year, single-game ticket sales and promotions will be critical, Indians officials said. On the upside, group sales are up about 7 percent from last year, Indians officials said, signaling an improving corporate climate that could offer an important revenue boost.

Umps' union: strike one!
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A strike by minor-league umpires continues, as replacement officials, called in with urgency due to an ongoing strike by about 220 professional Minor League umpires, a struggle that began when their previous labor agreement expired on November 30. Early reports indicate the replacement umps aren't heavily impacting games -- but we've also heard managers and coaches have been asked to curb their tongues in an effort not to bring too much attention to the replacements.
    RELATED STORIES: Minor-league umpires on strike

Osaka Dome to be sold to Orix
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Orix Corp., the owner of the Orix Buffaloes professional baseball club, is expected to strike a deal this month to buy the Osaka Dome baseball stadium. Osaka City Dome is the public-private sector entity operating Osaka Dome. The company is now under court-led rehabilitation proceedings, with lawyer Urata named as its administrator. Under a rehabilitation plan announced by Urata in March, Osaka Dome will be sold to a private-sector company for about 9 billion yen. Osaka Dome, which opened in March in 1997, became the home field for the Orix Buffaloes last year, following the merger of the Orix Bluewave and the Kintetsu Buffaloes, both of the Pacific League.

Ballpark Notes
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The Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League), Time Warner Cable and Comporium Communications announced that a major portion of Knights radio broadcast audio feeds will also be available on select stations on both cable carriers. Those tuning in to both Time Warner Cable and Comporium Communications will hear the audio feed from the Knights radio flagship partner, WFNA 1660-AM. Time Warner (162,000 households) subscribers can tune into channel 199 on their digital service while Comporium Communications (55,000 households) subscribers can tune to channel 21 to hear all the live game action. Matt Swierad will be entering his 16th season in professional baseball and his ninth season as the play-by-play voice of the Charlotte Knights. Swierad has broadcasted over 2,000 minor league baseball games and was the 2005 International League All-Star Broadcaster. Mike Pacheco will join Swierad for all 72-home games for the second consecutive season....Chris Mongiardo is the new pitching coach for the Gary-SouthShore RailCats (independent; Northern League). Mongiardo served as manager of the Richmond Roosters (independent; Frontier) League for the past three seasons. He also served as the Roosters pitching coach in 2001-'02 as the club won league championships both years.

Ready or not....
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The new Busch Stadium officially opens today as the Cardinals host the Milwaukee Brewers. The ballpark is still definitely a work in progress: besides the construction going on next door at Ballpark Villages (a mixed-use development on the site of the old Busch Stadium), large sections of the new ballpark are unfinished, and it may not be until well after the All-Star Game before everything is up and running. Bernie Miklasz writes about the opening as a once-in-a-lifetime experience; to a true Cardinals fan, it probably is. After starting the season on the road, Cardinals players are looking forward to a home game after being swept by the Cubs The ballpark isn't the only change for the Cards: old pro John Rooney is the team's new radio voice.
    RELATED STORY: Ballpark Visit: Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals

Ballpark Visit: Tropicana Field, Tampa Bay Devil Rays
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We'll give the new ownership of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays a lot of credit for spending $10 million on upgrades to Tropicana Field. Fans will see the changes tonight; they include a new sound system, a thorough cleaning of the whole place, repainted concourses and revamped bathrooms. (Other changes, including upgraded suites, will be competed as the season progresses.) Now, having said that, Tropicana Field isn't a great place to see a baseball game, and we suspect the future of baseball in Tampa Bay lies in a new ballpark, not further changes to a dated facility.

Bob Wirz: Two indy vets experience highs, lows on Opening Day
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Former Fargo-Moorhead RedHawk Chris Coste went 19-for-41 in spring training with the Philadelphia Phillies, but a .805 slugging percentage and a .500 on-base percentage weren't enough to earn him a ticket north after the Phils acquired veteran outfielder David Dellucci. For former Heartland Leaguer Brian Sweeney, Opening Day was considerably sweeter, as he made the San Diego Padres roster. Bob Wirz talks with both.

New for 2006: MerchantsAuto.com Stadium
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Fisher Cats Stadium, the home of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League), has a new name: MerchantsAuto.com Stadium. Fisher Cats owner Art Solomon and Merchants Automotive Group President Stephen Singer announced the new name. No word on the terms of the deal, although a city-funded study says the rights are worth $250,000 yearly. Solomon says it's a long-term deal; the two sides will also be doing some charity work as well.

Strike one for new Mets ballpark
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The New York City Council's finance committee is threatening to cancel a hearing on a proposed new Mets ballpark following a secret meeting between members of the Council's Queens delegation and Mets officials at Shea Stadium. During the Friday meeting, the Queens Council members unleashed a torrent of concerns, with many complaining that the Bloomberg administration and the team had kept the Council in the dark for too long. Council members also raised concerns about traffic congestion, parking during construction and their desire for the team to give back more to the Queens community. More on the finances of the Mets ballpark deal here. Raymond Keating dissects the ballpark deals in New York City and says they'll cost too much for taxpayers.
    RELATED STORIES: Mets park's name will fetch millions; Mets unveil plans for new ballpark; Yankees, Mets closer to new ballparks; City goes to bat for Yankees, Mets ballparks; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Ebbets' echoes in Queens; At Mets' park, you'll think you're in...Pittsburgh?; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Mets to go old school in new park

Hope fades for Tiger Stadium
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Southfield mortgage banker Harry Glanz toured Tiger Stadium with city officials March 31, saying he wants to go ahead with an 11th-hour plan to scale back the ballpark to 15,000 seats and use it for youth sports, shopping and conventions. But George Jackson, chief operating officer of the Detroit Economic Growth Corp., the man who ultimately could recommend razing what some consider hallowed ground, said the tour proved nothing and that the game plan is still to tear down the classic ballpark, which opened on the same day in 1912 as Fenway Park (events overshadowed by some other big news from the day: the sinking of the Titanic). Fans and preservationists have lambasted Jackson, claiming he repeatedly ignored viable plans to reuse the park. Glanz is forming a group that would pay for maintenance at the old ballpark while he puts together a more comprehensive development plan. More on our Endangered Ballparks page.
    RELATED STORIES: Detroit ignores calls to save Tiger Stadium; Save Tiger Stadium as scaled-down ballpark; City should tear down Tiger Stadium; Is it the final out for Tiger Stadium?

Bold plans for CSUB may involve Blaze, Dodgers
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Cal State Bakersfield continues to look at a new on-campus ballpark, but some other parties are interested in signing up as a tenant: the Bakersfield Blaze (Class A; California League) and the Los Angeles Dodgers have met with CSUB officials to express strong interest. The Blaze have been working toward a new facility for years, and the Dodgers are looking at a move of spring-training facilities and affiliates westward -- and a move into the California League would be the perfect move for the team.

Don't you forget about me: Schools that refuse to go away
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Some college baseball teams have been so sporadically inconsistent this year it's hard to determine if they are worthy of serious conversation or simply another flavor of the week. But as the season creeps deeper into April it looks like a handful of schools have truly given us something to talk about. Glen Strandberg looks at the rising Wolfpack of North Carolina State and the sinking Gamecocks of South Carolina in his weekly column on college baseball.

New Wrigley Field bleachers a hit with fans
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Chicago Cubs fans seemed pleased with the changes to Wrigley Field, unveiled at the team's home opener on Friday. Fans were not only impressed with the new amenities -- the new concession stands, restrooms and seats -- but were happy the $13.5 million in changes did not alter the feel of the old ballpark. Another new area is the Batter's Eye Lounge, which resembles a large skybox set just behind the juniper bushes in center field. Normally reserved for private parties, on Friday it was full of Cubs executives and others who contributed to the renovations in some way. The only fans who may not be pleased: the changes slightly block the views from the rooftop clubs surrounding the ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Looks nice, but at what price?

Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida
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David Cardwell, executive director of the Grapefruit League Association, expects final attendance numbers from Grapefruit League games in 2006 to be right around where it was in 2005 -- just short of 1.6 million. The Washington Nationals, who train in Viera, were the only team in Florida to experience a significant drop in attendance -- almost 40,000 spectators -- from 2005 to 2006. Caldwell says that's due to a sophomore slump, but the real reason is simple: the MLB geniuses running the Nationals decided to run spring training out of Washington and declined to contract with the Brevard County Manatees (Class A; Florida State League) to run the show. As a result the schedule was released late, season-ticket brochures went out just before spring training started, and ticket sales started just before the first game. It was a disaster. Attendance in Arizona was down sharply: At Peoria Stadium, where the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres play, fans purchased about 200,000 tickets during the monthlong season, an 11 percent drop from last year. Meanwhile, at Surprise Stadium, which hosts the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers, fans bought 153,700 tickets, a 7 percent decline. Overall, attendance was down nearly 9 percent from 2005.
    RELATED STORIES: Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Manatees making big changes for 2006
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Buck Rogers, GM of the Brevard County Manatees (Class A; Florida State League). Rogers is one of the most enthusiastic baseball people on the face of the earth, and he's now operating under different circumstances: new ownership has given Buck wide leeway to run things as he sees fit.
    In other words, Buck is blowing things up and putting them back together in a most interesting way.
    The first change is a different structure for season-ticket holders. For $280, a season ticket gets you one (1) guaranteed seat with your name on it and a Season Ticket Holder Card that's good for free parking on the paved lot next to Space Coast Stadium, 20 percent off merchandise sales at the souvenir stand, 20 percent off all group ticket orders, 30-minute early entrance on giveaway nights to get the giveaway item without waiting in line, free admission to all Manatees road games (part of a league-wide deal), free home playoff tickets, and 70 blank-date tickets to allow you to attend games on the night that you choose. If a season-ticket holder wants to bring 69 friends on opening night and burn all 70 tickets, that's OK.
    Also, just about the entire ballpark is now general admission seating, opening up the areas that were always reserved for scouts, visiting VIPs, etc. A new free, supervised Kids Zone play area has inflatables for the younger fans and a new arcade for teens.
    Getting into the ballpark should also be a smoother process. Parking is now free, and tickets will be available via mobile ticket sellers between the parking lot and main gate.
    This is just a short summary of what Buck has going on this summer. We're pretty excited about it: the best thing about minor-league baseball is the direct interaction with fans, and all the changes outlined here are in direct response to enhancing the fan experience. More on the Manatees' plans from Florida Today.

Following another losing season, Orioles' ticket sales lag
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Season-ticket and group sales for the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park are down this season from last year, Over the last five seasons, the Orioles have averaged between 1.3 million and 1.5 million in season-ticket sales. The club sold a total of 2.6 million tickets last year, down from 3.7 million sold in 1997 -- the Orioles' last winning season. The team puts the blame on the move of the Nationals to Washington, but there are a myriad of factors: in the offseason the team didn't add any high-profile free agents, with the Orioles' best player, Miguel Tejada, openly agitating for a trade. Plus, the team is a mess on the field and could conceivably finish last in the AL East.

Bisons, ballpark remain diamonds for downtown
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When we discuss retro urban ballparks, we tend to overlook the granddaddy of them all: Dunn Tire Stadium, the home of the Buffalo Bisons (Class AAA; International League). Going into the Buffalo Bisons' April 14 home opener, the Triple-A baseball team has attracted more than 15.7 million fans since the stadium opened in 1988 as Pilot Field. It has served as a cornerstone of a new wave of downtown development that has included such sports facilities as the Flickinger Center natatorium and HSBC Arena as well as residential units and new commercial properties.

Willis, ballpark deal key issues for Marlins
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Ken Rosenthal says it's a certainty the Marlins will trade Dontrelle Willis and somehow ties this into the team's drive for a new ballpark. The move would be made because of Willis's future salaries, but to be honest one doesn't seem to relate to the other -- as Marlins president David Samson accurately argues. Rosenthal also argues that MLB needs to help the Marlins build a ballpark in Miami, but that doesn't seem likely at all: the NFL loans money to team to build ballparks using gate receipts formerly paid to visiting teams, and in general the NFL just has a ton more money than MLB does. Having MLB help the Marlins out while ignoring the needs of the Twins, Athletics and Devil Rays would also cause quite the uproar among owners.

Dolphins change name of stadium to Dolphin Stadium
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Speaking of the Fish: though it doesn't seem to be acknowledged yet by the Florida Marlins, there's a new name for Dolphins Stadium: Dolphin Stadium The Dolphins announced Saturday that they are dropping the "s" and renaming their home field Dolphin Stadium as part of an effort to embark on a new branding strategy. The team also unveiled its two high-definition replay screens and announced partnerships with Perry Ellis International (uniform supplier) and Burger King during an "appreciation day" gathering for season-ticket holders. We're pretty sure the Marlins will need to follow suit, but we're guessing there were more than a few pissed folks in the Marlins front office with the timing of the move.

Suns announce Hagerstown Trust Plaza
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The Hagerstown Suns (Class A; Sally League) have sold naming rights to the new Plaza at Municipal Stadium: Hagerstown Trust Plaza. The new plaza will greet all fans as they enter the ballpark.
    "We're thrilled to be partnering with Hagerstown Trust," said Suns President/General Manager Kurt Landes. "They understand the importance of supporting baseball in our community and value the positive impact that the Plaza will have for Hagerstown’s citizens and for their customers."
    Constructed by the City of Hagerstown, with support from the Suns, the Hagerstown Trust Plaza hosts the team’s new ticket office, souvenir store and fan services booth. The Plaza’s official opening, and the announcement of Hagerstown Trust’s sponsorship, occurred during at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday. The Hagerstown Trust Plaza provides a friendly, new face to Municipal Stadium. The improved amenities are a dramatic change for Suns fans and other visiting guests or tourists.

Hungry like the Wolff
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Lew Wolff, managing partner of the Oakland Athletics, chats about his efforts to bring a new ballpark to Fremont, a community south of Oakland and considerably closer to San Jose and the rest of Silicon Valley. He does bring up the threat of moving the team elsewhere -- "I don't want to speculate, but there are opportunities outside the state of California. Other teams are looking at other cities" -- but he's pretty clear about wanting to make a Fremont deal work and leaving McAfee Coliseum. Bonus: he's already saying the team's not interested in a retro facility.
    RELATED STORIES: A's owner in Fremont for meetings; Wolff says there's land for new A's ballpark in Fremont; A's officials confirm interest in new Fremont ballpark; A's take long look at Fremont ballpark site; The San Jose A's of Fremont?; San Jose will buy land for A's ballpark; Will smaller mean better for the A's?; A's committed to intimate 34,000 park in '06; A's owner's new plan for ballpark; 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

Angelos turns up Comcast volume
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Baltimore Orioles owner Peter Angelos lambasted Comcast Corp. for monopolistic practices and implored the cable giant to televise Washington Nationals games during a congressional hearing yesterday on the standoff that has left 1.3 million D.C.-area households unable to watch their home team. In sometimes biting language, Angelos told the House Committee on Government Reform that he negotiated a reasonable compensation package when the Montreal Expos moved to Washington and that Comcast is refusing to do business with his Mid-Atlantic Sports Network because it fears competition for its Comcast SportsNet.

New Knights GM has zeroed in on sponsors in the drive for profits
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The Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) have suffered through the worst of all worlds in recent years: no one seems very excited about Knights Stadium, and debate over a new ballpark in Charlotte proper has been overshadowed by talk about the Florida Marlins possibly moving to town. New GM Dan Rajkowski has managed to turn things around: Corporate sponsorships grew by 30 percent this off-season, including a new 10-year deal with Carolinas HealthCare System worth $135,000 this year and escalator clauses increasing annual payments to $164,000 over the life of the contract. Group ticket sales, the lifeblood of many minor-league teams, are up 15 percent.

Stadium vote sets 'pros' in motion
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After Jackson County voters approved the 25-year, three-eighths-cent sales tax for Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium renovations, the business side of the equation was set in motion. Lawyers prepared requests for architects' qualifications, bankers drew up bond documents, and government officials pondered whom to hire for new jobs created by new stadium leases.  The Chiefs and Royals could begin spending tax-supported bond money for facility renovations as soon as Sept. 1; the county has the option of issuing bonds in increments or borrowing the full $425 million obligation immediately and investing unspent money until the teams need it. One issue: there's really no road map for renovations in place yet.
     RELATED STORIES: Royals win funding for Kauffman Stadium renovations; voters reject rolling roof; Royals bring out big guns on eve of stadiums vote; Kauffman to get All-Star Game if renovations are approved; Royals unveil Kauffman Stadium renovation plans; Teams say upgrades will make stadiums 'brand new'; Is Kansas City stadium tax good deal for voters?; Advocates kick off effort for Kansas City ballpark taxes; Rift splits backers of downtown Kansas City ballpark; Use tax alone won't cover a rolling roof; Glass: Tax failure could force Royals' hand; Glass can't imagine selling naming rights for Kauffman Stadium; Future of Truman complex now up to voters; Royals agree to ticket surcharge; Retractable roof back on for Kauffman Stadium?; Jackson County, Royals to finalize lease for Kauffman Stadium; Bonuses offered to Jackson Countians; 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

War Memorial Stadium plan includes renovations, upgrades
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War Memorial Stadium, the former home of minor-league baseball in Greensboro, could see new life under a plan that would use $7.8 million in city money to renovate the facility for high-school, college and youth baseball. When Greensboro approved a new ballpark for the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Class A; Sally League), local preservationists worried that War Memorial would be torn down or left to rot. The plan fulfills city pledges to fix up and restore the old stadium.

Twins, commission give new life to aging digs
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The Minnesota Twins continue to work toward a new ballpark, but until then must generate revenue from the Metrodome. The Twins really have never had a good deal at the 'Dome: the Vikings have controlled the suite leases from the beginning, and the Metropolitan Sports Commission has controlled the concessions. Still, the Twins and the commission have made some progress in generating more revenue for the team, such as adding a group suite in left field and added some premium seats. The Twins are one of four MLB teams to share a facility with a pro football team. Here's a look at Jerry Bell, the Twins' president who's leading the charge for a new ballpark.

New team, old ballpark in Amarillo
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The Amarillo Dillas (independent; United League Baseball) return in May with a new league and new ownership, but still the same old ballpark. Potter County Memorial Stadium is nearly 50 years old, and has been through more face-lifts than Joan Rivers. In 2004, the ol' gal had long quit being charming and simply turned into decaying. Seats from Pittsburgh's Three Rivers Stadium were purchased to remove the last of the aging wooden seats. The playing field, with West Texas A&M and River Road currently using it, is probably as good as it's been, or ever will be. The long-term goal for GM Mark Lee and the United League leadership: procuring a new ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: New for 2006: the Laredo Broncos; Name for ULB's Laredo team to be announced next week; New for 2006: The Edinburg Coyotes; Edinburg schedule, GM set for ULB; Rowdy is roadkill; No baseball in Edinburg in 2006?; City of Edinburg vs Roadrunners heats up; New United League team in Amarillo to retain Dillas name; Biancalana to manage; New problems for Edinburg Roadrunners; Moore decides to stay in Edinburg with new team, league; Tredaway decides to remain with CBL; Roadrunners, Edinburg make first bankruptcy court showing; Roadrunners seek bankruptcy protection; Lawsuit keeps ’Runners on life support; United Sports seeks privately financed ballpark in Amarillo; Amarillo nixes ballpark feasibility study; Baseball is back in Amarillo; Ex-Dillas' owners seek new Amarillo team; Amarillo needs thorough ballpark study; Plan to study new Amarillo ballpark a good idea; Amarillo plans to study new ballpark; Pierce, Bryant announce new indy league

San Antonio mayor says MLB push won't sack NFL effort
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It is a real problem for San Antonio: it's pretty clear football-happy sports fans would prefer to have the NFL place a team in San Antonio, but so far only MLB's Florida Marlins have shown any interest in the city. And if baseball proponents are successful in landing the Fish, there's virtually no chance of the NFL moving a team into what would be a crowded small market. Mayor Phil Hardberger insists that he has no intention of punting his NFL game plan regardless of what happens with the Marlins, but former Mayor Henry Cisneros believes there's still a chance the New Orleans Saints could end up in San Antonio, no matter what happens next season.
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Lynx called for icing
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A scheduled doubleheader at Lynx Stadium, the home of the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League), was called off when the tarp covering the field was frozen. The double dip against the Louisville Bats was postponed because of a formation of ice -- estimated at three centimeters thick -- on the tarp covering the infield at Lynx Stadium. It prevented the grounds crew and Lynx staff members from removing the carpet in time for a 1:05 p.m. start.

Cigars, martinis and jazz on the menu at Pirates' Montecristo Club
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The Pittsburgh Pirates continue their development of premium spaces inside PNC Park with the addition of the Montecristo Club. Under a licensing agreement with Fort Lauderdale-based cigar maker Altadis U.S.A. Inc., the Montecristo Club was named after one of the company's cigar brands. Fans can buy a single game ticket to the club for $70. Included in the price is a game ticket in sections 207 or 208, a Romeo and Julietta, Don Diego or other premium cigar, a martini or other premium drink and a gourmet buffet. A full season ticket to the club is $4,800. The Devil Rays already feature a cigar bar at Tropicana Field, and in general it's been a success in cigar-happy Tampa Bay.
    RELATED STORIES: Ballpark Visit: PNC Park, Pittsburgh Pirates; What's new at PNC Park?

The pitch: $11M overhaul for Durham Athletic Park
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More on the bid by Struever Bros. Eccles & Rouse Inc., a developer known for remaking historic properties throughout the country, to redevelop the 5.4-acre, city-owned Durham Athletic Park site. SBE&R would build a 200,000-square-foot office, retail and residential facility on the southern side of the DAP site. SBE&R also says it would create a partnership with other local property owners to develop land around the athletic park. In 1926, the park became home to the Durham Bulls, which became one of the most famous minor league baseball teams in the nation. The 1988 movie "Bull Durham" was filmed at the DAP, bringing national recognition to the Bulls and the ballpark itself.
    RELATED STORIES: DAP's historic value may help renovation plan; Durham gets $11M bid to modify historic ballpark; NCCU may play next season at Bulls ballpark; will look to DAP for the future

Giants ballpark upgrades to make hot-dog and beer lines shorter
Posted April 10, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The San Francisco Giants have unveiled the most comprehensive upgrades to AT&T Park since it opened in 2000. The team added a new concession area near right field and renovated the upscale lounge under the park's lower-level seating area. In the ballpark's 68 luxury suites, the team installed new furniture, countertops, carpet and flat-panel televisions. The ballpark also replaced rotating signs facing the field with electronic signs.

AT&T signs deal as presenting sponsor for National Baseball Congress
Posted April 10, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
AT&T signed a one-year deal as title sponsor for the National Baseball Congress tournament that also gives the communications company signage and promotional announcement rights during 2006 Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) home games at Lawrence-Dumont Stadium. It is the first big deal for the NBC since 1999; terms of the NBC package were not disclosed.

In memoriam: Billy Hitchcock
Posted April 10, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Billy Hitchcock, a major league infielder during the 1940s and '50s who went on to manage three teams, died at 89 on Sunday. Hitchcock spent more than 40 years in professional baseball as a player, manager, scout, coach and minor league executive. He was an infielder with five clubs between 1942 and 1953. In 1951, he hit .306 in 77 games for the Philadelphia Athletics. He managed the Detroit Tigers, Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves in the 1960s.

Let there be light in Mankato
Posted April 10, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Franklin Rogers Park, the home of the Mankato MoonDogs (summer collegiate; Northwoods League), will see some improvements this offseason. The biggest: a new lighting system. Other changes include a new center field batter’s eye, and MoonDogs-funded installation of 200 backrest seats. The individual seats will be affixed to the center sections of grandstand bleachers.

Reggie Jackson, Mariners stars help dedicate revamped Stan Rister Stadium
Posted April 10, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Normally we don't cover the opening of a Babe Ruth ballpark, but this one seems pretty special. Reggie Jackson, Seattle Mariners players Jeremy Reed and Willie Bloomquist, and ex-M's Dave Valle and Bret Boone were part of the dedication ceremonies for the stadium. Jolene (Rister) McCaw, daughter of the late Stan Rister, and her husband Bruce McCaw funded the renovation, made necessary when arsonists burned down a portion of the old ballpark in 2001.

Baseball Notes
Posted April 10, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Representatives of Wilson Team Sports from Chicago and Oregon will be visiting Pringles Park, the home of the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) this week to test a new type of softball bat. Known as the "Juice," or the "Silly Stick," the new DeMarini bat combines an Evolution-composite handle with an end-loaded Stacked composite barrel. Not yet approved for ASA play, the "Juice" is the first DeMarini bat that needs to be broken in; like some competitor bats, the “Juice” gets livelier after a few hits. On April 11th and 12th from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm, select softball players from West Tennessee will gather at to take batting practice with the “Juice.” They will then compare this high-tech new bat with two models from Wilson competitors.