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Archives: Nov. 27-Dec. 2, 2005

Tentative deal reached on lease for D.C. ballpark
Posted December 3, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In the end, Mark Tuohey was right. MLB and the District of Columbia reached a tentative agreement on a lease for a new Washington Nationals ballpark that includes an additional $20 million payment from baseball officials and a compromise on another key provision. Negotiators will continue discussions, but the deal could be wrapped up and delivered to the D.C. Council early next week, said Tuohey, chairman of the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission. City sources said agreement has been reached on the District's two key demands, the $20 million payment to cover rising construction costs and a letter of credit from baseball ensuring lease payments would be made in case of disaster or a baseball labor crisis. The lease is critical because the District will not issue construction bonds and MLB Commissioner Bud Selig has said baseball will not sell the Nationals until the deal is completed.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

First Horizon's berm getting $500,000 upgrade
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The berm at First Horizon Park, the home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Class A; Sally League), will be upgraded this offseason to the tune of $500,000. The result will create a new berm that stops just below the top of the outfield fence. Behind it will be a new concourse that will expand the area for group outings and picnics. The slope of the berm will not be as steep as the old one and will be on the same grade as the seating bowl. In addition, permanent seating could be added to the area should a higher-ranking team be moved into the Greensboro market. The Hoppers have reached an agreement with Natty Greene's Pub and Brewing Co. to name the berm area "Natty's Hill." The $6 general admission ticket price that allows fans to sit on the berm will remain the same.

Council states case for RFK site
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
D.C. Council members lobbied a top Major League Baseball official yesterday to support building a baseball stadium near RFK Stadium as a cheaper alternative to the current site in Southeast along the Anacostia River. Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf, Major League Baseball's chief negotiator on a stadium lease with the District, responded by saying the league has not ruled out the RFK location, council members said. Negotiations on a lease for a new Washington Nationals ballpark will continue, but city officials will prepare an estimate of how much the District could save if the new ballpark were built next to RFK Stadium instead of southeast Washington. AP is much more pessimistic about the RFK location, reporting that MLB would agree to the site only if Washington Mayor Anthony Williams agreed to it. More from the Washington Times.

Hennepin County gives go-ahead for study related to Twins ballpark
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Hennepin County officials formally moved to begin studying the environmental impact of a new -- but not yet approved -- outdoor baseball stadium on the edge of downtown Minneapolis for the Minnesota Twins, The team is paying for the $32,000 study. The issue among some county commissioners is whether any action should be taken on the ballpark while the county awaits state approval of a local sales tax to fund it. Since the Twins are paying for the study, it's hard to say local taxpayers are inconvenienced in any way.
    RELATED STORIES: 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; Minnesota governor to jump-start Twins ballpark discussions with legislative leaders; Key legislator backs special session to address Minnesota stadium issues; Twins ballpark may slip this year; Minneapolis Greens hope ballpark issue helps them in primary; Legislative session to decide fate of Twins ballpark back on track; Will special session be called to pass Twins ballpark legislations? Odds seem to be dropping; State needs fall special session; Twins ballpark stall raises costs; State approval for Twins ballpark may wait until fall; 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; Minneapolis Council panel delays ballpark vote; Big fans of a Twins move; Minneapolis may stand against ballpark plan; Twins ballpark passage predicted by legislative leaders; Hennepin County takes first step toward new Twins ballpark; Few want to pay for Twins ballpark; Hennepin County delays vote on Twins ballpark funding; Hennepin County to vote today on Twins ballpark funding; Minnesota Twins, Hennepin County reach agreement on ballpark funding; Twins back Minneapolis ballpark location; What's up with a Twins ballpark?; House GOP, DFL leaders clash over stadiums; Politicos bury Twins in ballpark hierarchy; Gov. Pawlenty talks of stadium plans; Minnesota drops the ball on ballpark plan; Ballpark tax plan is calling for a first

SkyChiefs, county seek ballpark solution
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Officials from the Syracuse SkyChiefs (Class AAA; International League) and Onondaga County will take part in a mediation session today, as the two sides attempt to resolve long-standing issues with Alliance Bank Stadium. The mediator, Rochester lawyer James Moore, will only try to broker a deal; he has no authority to force either side to do anything. SkyChiefs officials say the county has not complied with Article II of the lease, which says the lessee (the team) is entitled to all revenues generated at the ballpark. The county says that the clause is not valid because county officials manage the ballpark and run all non-SkyChiefs events.
    RELATED STORIES: SkyChiefs' entrenched board facing tough lineup

Baseball fever? Now?
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A local paper looks at Portland's chances of landing the Florida Marlins and points out the many hurdles faced by locals. Yes, there is a partial funding mechanism in place for new-ballpark construction, but a tax on players and front-office personnel will yield only $150 million, and it's a safe bet any new ballpark construction will cost $400 million now (the editorials writers are a little delusional in saying any new Portland ballpark will cost $336 million; we're betting that's an extremely old estimate). So where will $250 million come from? City and state officials have been conspicuously silent on the subject of Major League Baseball, and given the city's multiyear ordeal in funding PGE Park, we're not guessing the mayor's office wants a battle for public financing.

Hildebrant owes Florence $5 million
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Chuck Hildebrant agreed Thursday that he and his wife, Connie, owe the city of Florence $5 million for their part in the Florence Freedom (independent; Frontier League) debacle that left the baseball team bankrupt and stadium contractors unpaid. But it's no certainty Florence will collect the money: he owes $9 million to various entities, and banks are first in line because their debts were secured. Hildebrant is now working in his son's cell-phone store and his estranged wife Connie Hildebrant is living in Florida, and both say they don't have anything to collect anyway.
    RELATED STORIES: Hildebrant near deal on what he owes city

Commentary: Marlins' ballpark dispute personal
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In the end, the failure of the Florida Marlins to finalize financing for a new retractable-roof ballpark may have been due to one relatively small fact: the inability of elected officials and the Marlins front office to get along. We've heard from formerly employees that David Samson wasn't the easiest person to work for, but his counterpart in Miami government, Miami City Manager Joe Arriola, went over the line when he assailed Samson as being incompetent and openly called on Marlins owners to sell the team to locals. It's hard to get away with that sort of shakedown today -- and Arriola was rightfully called on it.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Hobson returns to Pride
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This will certainly help the Nashua Pride transition from the Atlantic League to the Can-Am Association:  Butch Hobson has signed a three-year deal to continue as manager of the Pride. Hobson, who thought six weeks ago he would be out of a job because of the New Hampshire team's uncertain future, met with local owners John Stabile and Tom Monahan yesterday to finalize the deal.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Sox play tough on memento
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lawyers for the Boston Red Sox filed suit yesterday in Suffolk Superior Court against Doug Mientkiewicz, seeking permanent possession of the ball caught to end the 2004 World Series and break the Curse of the Bambino in Boston. When the team first tried to claim it, the light-hitting but slick-fielding first baseman created a furor in Red Sox Nation by refusing to give it up. The club's legal team said that Mientkiewicz had gained possession of the ball only because he was a Red Sox employee and that the ball remained the team's property. Mientkiewicz, currently a free agent, has hinted at selling the ball; the Red Sox want to display it permanently.

Kitty League returns to Carroll County
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The summer collegiate Kitty League apparently is expanding by a team, as the Tennessee T's will begin play in 2006 and join teams in Farmington, Fulton, Sikeston, and Union City. The Tennessee T's will play most of their home games at Mustang Field at Huntingdon High School, although some games will be played at Bethel College’s Wildcats Field in McKenzie. Rusty Thompson, who currently works as the assistant coach for Bethel’s baseball team, will be coach of the T's.

Columbia Blowfish to carry a big stick
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More on the Columbia Blowfish, the newest team in the summer collegiate Coastal Plain League. It's a pretty clever name -- the band Hootie and the Blowfish is one of Columbia's most famous exports -- and the team got some instant name recognition (and tons of media coverage) with the move. Band members say they'll be part of the ballpark experience as well.
    RELATED STORIES: New in 2006: the Columbia Blowfish

Brewers announce Retro Sundays
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Milwaukee Brewers will bring big hair, new wave music and blue pinstripes back into style as the team today announced a plan for "Retro Sundays" at Miller Park this year. Every Sunday home game in 2006 will bring back an '80s atmosphere to the ballpark, highlighted by the team's retro uniforms that recall the days of "Harvey's Wallbangers." The uniforms are styled with blue pinstripes and the classic "Ball-and-Glove" Brewers logo, which also appears on the game cap. Music and entertainment from the era will be featured throughout the ballpark, and fans are encouraged to join in by making their own Sunday fashion statements.

UC ballpark will be named for Schott
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
University of Cincinnati athletic officials said Thursday that UC's baseball stadium will be named in honor of Schott, the controversial former owner of the Reds who died in March 2004. The move came in response to a $2 million donation from the Marge and Charles J. Schott Foundation to the Richard E. Lindner Varsity Village project for upgrading UC's athletic facilities. "The naming display will also include the phrase, 'The Lady Loved Baseball,' as a lasting memorial to her love for youth and baseball," said Bob Goin, who retired as UC's athletic director Thursday.

Baseball Notes
Posted December 2, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Greenville Drive (Class A; Sally League) announced the hiring of Eric Jarinko as the director of media relations and Andy Paul as director of group sales. Jarinko, who is entering his third season in professional baseball, spent the 2005 season as the public relations assistant with the Frederick Keys (Class A; Carolina League). Jarinko’s primary responsibilities will be to work with media outlets and community organizations to promote the Drive as the team gets ready to play in its new downtown stadium during the 2006 season and beyond. Paul, who will be entering his fifth season in professional baseball, comes to the Drive after spending the last three years with the Bridgeport Bluefish (independent; Atlantic League)....Kevin Spudic, the assistant general manager of the Gary SouthShore RailCats (independent; Northern League) since the club's first season in 2002, has resigned to accept the position of executive vice president/chief operating officer of Arcturus Sports Management, LLC, where he will oversee sales and operations for three new sports franchises in a new Hoffman Estates arena....Danny Cox will return for his fourth season at the helm of the Gateway Grizzlies (independent; Frontier League), and his sixth overall with the team. Cox is the third manager in Grizzlies franchise history, and the only manager to lead the Grizzlies for more than one season. In two of his previous three seasons, he led the team to a franchise record for wins, including the 2004 season’s 56 regular season wins.

MLB does not rule out RFK site for new ballpark
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A top Major League Baseball official told District officials this morning that MLB has not ruled out allowing the city to build a new stadium at the site of RFK Stadium, D.C. Council members said. But Jerry Reinsdorf, MLB's chief negotiator on a stadium lease with the city, added that the league did not consider the Nationals' first season at RFK a success compared to other first-year teams, the council members said. (Remember: the Nats made $10 million in profits last season.) This might dramatically change the ballpark scene in D.C., allowing the council to save money and still have a new facility.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Seven cities express interest in Marlins
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Florida Marlins president David Samson said Wednesday the team has been contacted by officials from seven cities since receiving permission to explore relocation, but has not scheduled any meetings. Interestingly, Samson said no political official from South Florida has contacted the Marlins since the team announced Nov. 22 that it has been given the go-ahead to meet with officials from other cities (though some officials have had time to meet with the press; see the item elsewhere in the page). We already know the Portland stadium group, a Puerto Rico businessman and representatives from New Jersey's Meadowlands have contacted the Marlins; we're guessing the other four cities are Las Vegas (a virtual lock), San Jose, Monterrey and Charlotte.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Miami City Manager: Samson lied about Marlins' share
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Miami City Manager Joe Arriola appears to be burning some bridges, blasting Marlins president David Samson for "absolutely lying to the public" about the Marlins' contribution to the project. He also termed Samson and owner Jeffrey Loria "carpetbaggers," adding that the negotiation would have gone more smoothly with a local ownership group. Samson last week said the Marlins were prepared to make a $212 million contribution to a planned baseball-only facility adjacent to the Orange Bowl; Arriola says the team is putting in only $30 million and shouldn't count rent as a "contribution" to the costs of the ballpark. Here's the statement that will probably keep MLB out of Miami for decades should the Marlins move: "One of the biggest problems we've had all along is we view [Marlins owner] Jeffrey [Loria] and David truly as carpetbaggers. They came with a bag of debt from Montreal. They're not local people....No local investor in their right mind would invest with them because of the terms that they wanted."

New Travs home to be called Dickey-Stephens Park
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The future home of the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League) on the North Little Rock riverfront will bear the name of a pair of baseball-loving brothers with deep ties to central Arkansas. The taxpayer-funded stadium that will open on April 5, 2007, will be called Dickey-Stephens Park in honor of businessmen Jack and Witt Stephens and former major leaguers George and Bill Dickey. A groundbreaking ceremony held Wednesday morning at the site of the new ballpark. Bill Dickey was a Hall of Fame catcher for the New York Yankees from 1928-43, while George "Skeeter" Dickey was also a catcher in the Boston Red Sox and Chicago White Sox organizations. The brothers worked with the Stephenses after they returned to Arkansas. The new ballpark will replace Ray Winder Field.
     RELATED STORIES: 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

D.C. ballpark debate draws Reinsdorf
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Mayor Anthony A. Williams fears the D.C. Council will reject a lease for a new Washington Nationals ballpark unless Major League Baseball contributes more money, and within hours the council scheduled a high-stakes meeting with a top baseball official. In response, Chairman Linda W. Cropp arranged a closed-door meeting with Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf, who is in town to resume lease negotiations, and her 12 council colleagues for 8:30 a.m. today. This marks the first chance the full council will have to air concerns directly to Major League Baseball about the rising cost of the project. More from the Washington Times.

Rockford RiverHawks announce opening date for new ballpark
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Rockford RiverHawks (independent; Frontier League) will play their first game at their new ballpark, RiverHawks Stadium, on May 31, 2006. (RiverHawks Stadium is a temporary moniker while the team shops naming rights.) The RiverHawks plan to promote the ballpark opener with a countdown campaign on their website and in conjunction with local government, media and businesses. In the last 60 days, contractors have completed roofing work and the cement apron surrounding the ballpark, completed installation of the playing field and begun seat installation. Pending favorable weather, the light towers will be erected as early as this week. The team offices should be ready in January.

Wilf to get behind push for Minnesota stadiums
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Minnesota Twins might have picked up a useful ally in their quest for a new ballpark: Minnesota Vikings owner Zygi Wilf said the team will start a mammoth advertising campaign in the near future to educate the public about the advantages of building facilities for the Vikings, University of Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Twins, and also how those projects will affect them financially. The issue now is whether Gov. Tim Pawlenty will be willing to spend the political capital needed to guide a stadium bill through the Legislature next session; in the face of declining poll numbers (early polls from Zogby have him losing to or only narrowly defeating the three leading DFL candidates), we're guessing he won't.
    RELATED STORIES: 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; Minnesota governor to jump-start Twins ballpark discussions with legislative leaders; Key legislator backs special session to address Minnesota stadium issues; Twins ballpark may slip this year; Minneapolis Greens hope ballpark issue helps them in primary; Legislative session to decide fate of Twins ballpark back on track; Will special session be called to pass Twins ballpark legislations? Odds seem to be dropping; State needs fall special session; Twins ballpark stall raises costs; State approval for Twins ballpark may wait until fall; 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; Minneapolis Council panel delays ballpark vote; Big fans of a Twins move; Minneapolis may stand against ballpark plan; Twins ballpark passage predicted by legislative leaders; Hennepin County takes first step toward new Twins ballpark; Few want to pay for Twins ballpark; Hennepin County delays vote on Twins ballpark funding; Hennepin County to vote today on Twins ballpark funding; Minnesota Twins, Hennepin County reach agreement on ballpark funding; Twins back Minneapolis ballpark location; What's up with a Twins ballpark?; House GOP, DFL leaders clash over stadiums; Politicos bury Twins in ballpark hierarchy; Gov. Pawlenty talks of stadium plans; Minnesota drops the ball on ballpark plan; Ballpark tax plan is calling for a first

Bridgeport Bluefish sold to local group
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Bridgeport Bluefish (independent; Atlantic League) has been sold to Get Hooked!, LLC, an investor group of Fairfield County business people. Jack McGregor and Michael Kramer are the cochairs of the board of directors. All senior Bluefish staff members as well as Charlie Dowd, general manager of the team since its inception, will remain in their positions. Tom Kushner, another member of the investment group and on the Management Board said there will be more promotional nights and more activities on the field between innings as well as events beyond baseball for fans of all ages in the ballpark. More from the Connecticut Post.

Make new game plan for Cobb Field
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Billings Gazette comes out in favor of a replacement for Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League), but warns proponents must come up with a solid plan to present to voters. Last year Billings residents rejected a bonding plan to finance a new ballpark and move a city pool to another part of town; this time only the Cobb Field replacement will be before them. Cobb Field is a classic old ballpark, and voters will need to be sold on the desirability of a new facility -- so the design may be crucial here.
    RELATED STORY: 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

Many good questions raised over Sounds deal
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A plan for a new ballpark for the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) was formally presented to the Metro Council yesterday. The council's budget and finance committee will meet with the Sounds and Struever Bros. Eccles & Rouse, the developer of the adjoining apartments and shops. The issues for many: is a ballpark the best use of valuable downtown land, and should taxpayers be providing any assistance for a new ballpark? Those are the issues the Sounds face as they begin the work of educating council members.

Hildebrant near deal on what he owes city
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The city and Chuck Hildebrant are close to an agreement about how much Hildebrant and his wife, Connie, owe Florence for violating the lease on the Florence Freedom (independent; Frontier League) ballpark. As you'll recall, Hildebrant was part owner of the Freedom until the team filed for bankruptcy last year after contactors building the ballpark said they were never paid. As the team's finances unraveled, federal authorities discovered Hildebrant had forged several documents for bank loans, including his baseball partners' signatures, in order to get a $3 million loan to build the ballpark. There's a lot more to this story, however: Hildebrant blames the architects for cost overruns, the city for not stopping the project, and his partners for not telling him Florence would end up owning the ballpark.

Don't tell me the Marlins aren't the home team
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If you think the announcement by the Florida Marlins that the team is looking for a new home was just a bargaining tool, you had better think again. Peter Gammons, who's fairly wired into the Commissioner's office, was interviewed for this article and pointed out what a bad place Dolphins Stadium is for baseball. It's beginning to sound like the only way baseball stays in the region is if Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga can come up with some sort of plan for a new ballpark at the Dolphins Stadium site and possibly have a shared roof between the two facilities.

Texas ballpark needs to be classically fair
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Texas Rangers commissioned a study to determine how much of a change the addition of the Gold Club behind home plate at Ameriquest Field has made to playing conditions and what can be done about it. One remedy suggested moving the home team bullpen underneath Greene's Hill and pushing the fences back in right center. But the Rangers would rather not have to alter the ballpark's original design, so you're probably looking at some small changes -- like strategically placed wind fences -- for 2007.

GreenJackets unveil new logos, Web site
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Augusta GreenJackets (Class A; Sally League) unveiled a new logo yesterday, as new owner Ripken Baseball made their first public changes to the franchise since purchasing the team. Gone is the skinny-legged, pink-winged, green- jacket-wearing wasp leaning on a bat and sucking on a piece of hay. The namesake green jacket is now sported by a more muscular, white-winged, orange-and-black bee with a bat slung over each shoulder. The team is also planning some ballpark changes for next season, completely rebuilding and updating Lake Olmstead Stadium's picnic area to better serve groups.

Twins, Royals unveil new uniforms
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Both the Minnesota Twins and the Kansas City Royals will be wearing new home and alternate uniform designs for the 2006 seasons. For the first time the Twins will be adopting a sleeveless jersey (currently used by many other teams), with a blue t-shirt underneath. The Twins also unveiled a new navy-blue alternate with the traditional red and white "TC" logo on the upper left portion of the chest. For the Royals, the new home uniforms are faintly retro: gone is the black highlighting around the logo, resulting in a cleaner look. Similarly, the road uniforms will be gray, but they will also sport the Royals script.

Baseball 'n' barbecue? Maybe so, in Dell Diamond parking lot
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The owners of the Round Rock Express (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), which includes the Nolan Ryan family, wants to build a restaurant and specialty stores in the west parking lot of the Dell Diamond. The proposed development would be built on a 3-acre site at the southwest edge of the lot. All retail, including a possible barbecue restaurant, would be built on the grassy part of the tract that lies under huge oak trees. Before anything is built, Round Rock officials most approve a zoning change to allow commercial development. The City Council is scheduled to take a preliminary vote on that issue tonight.

Turf troubles to linger at Durham Athletic Park
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Extensive damage to the turf at the old Durham Athletic Park, the former home of the Durham Bulls, will not be repaired by spring, uprooting a local high school team and city-sponsored leagues scheduled to play games there. The city-owned ballpark, where the movie "Bull Durham" was filmed, was rented out for the World Beer Festival in October. The sold-out event, which drew more than 8,000 people, followed several days of rain. The result was deep, muddy ruts in the outfield. Early estimates to repair the damage this fall with pre-grown squares of sod exceeded $100,000 -- far outpacing the $2,000 damage deposit paid by the event's sponsor, All About Beer magazine, before the event. The city is now searching for a cheaper alternative, but the arrival of cold weather means little can be done before spring.

LumberKings sign broadcast deal with KROS-AM
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Clinton LumberKings (Class A; Midwest League) reached an agreement with KROS-AM 1340 to exclusively broadcast their games for the next three seasons. KROS was the original radio home of the Clinton Baseball Club for 39 consecutive seasons, from 1954-1992. Gary Determan will be the new voice of the LumberKings. Determan is returning for his second stint as the voice of the Clinton Baseball Club, having broadcast games from 1978-1992 for the Clinton Dodgers and Clinton Giants. "I look forward to coming back to the broadcast booth at Alliant Energy Field for the Clinton LumberKings. During my years of broadcasting Minor League Baseball, I have been fortunate enough to meet some great players like Willie Mays, Willie McCovey and Bob Feller as well as all those players who make watching professional baseball on the minor-league level exciting," he said.

Baseball Notes
Posted December 1, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Former major leaguer Doug Dascenzo is the new manager of the Eugene Emeralds (short season; Northwest League). Wally Whitehurst will return as pitching coach for the Emeralds while Joe Ferguson was hired as hitting instructor....Former All-Star Vic Power passed away last week. A four-time All-Star who won seven Gold Gloves at first base from 1958-64, Power was known for his showy, one-handed snags. He hit .284 with 126 homers and 658 RBI in a 12-year career, mostly with the Athletics, Cleveland and the Twins....Sparky Lyle returns next season as the manager of the Somerset Patriots (independent; Atlantic League)....Corey Dirksen, former general manager of the Windy City ThunderBolts (independent; Frontier League), has been named the general manager of the Rio Grande Valley WhiteWings (independent; United League)....

Future of Florida Marlins a big question
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
AP asks the big question: Do the Florida Marlins have a future in Miami? Increasingly the consensus in baseball seems to be prospects for a new ballpark died in the hurricane season, and owner Jeffrey Loria is certainly entitled to look at alternatives. One alternative we've heard in recent days, however, is the dreaded contraction meme: logically, it would make business sense to contract the Marlins and the Minnesota Twins should new-ballpark initiatives fail. Though Las Vegas intrigues many in the MLB world, the fact is no one is really excited about Vegas, Portland, or Charlotte as major-league venues. (If we were handicapping the race, however, we'd note Charlotte is gaining support, despite a total lack of local enthusiasm.) Yes, there would be a firestorm of resentment toward baseball if contraction actually did happen, but MLB executives have been amazingly willing to do what they see as being right, despite public opposition.
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PGE Park deal sweeter for city
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The city of Portland has reached an agreement that will keep the owners of the Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) running PGE Park through at least 2010. The new ballpark contract guarantees the city will receive at least $935,000 in revenue from the ballpark next year, a figure that will increase to at least $1.3 million by the last year of the contract. In exchange, the Beavers will handle day-to-day operations of the ballpark (also under the team's umbrella: the Portland Timbers soccer team). The Pacific Coast League has overseen the Beavers since 2004. We're not quite sure where the sale of the team is at; it sounds like there's another potential owner involved.

Don't leave Twins special session up in air
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The two architects of a Twins ballpark plan on the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners urge Gov. Tim Pawlenty to call a special session to address the issue. They have a right to a sense of urgency: The ballpark budget and construction schedule are based on the county being authorized to proceed in 2005, so site work can begin in the summer of 2006, and the ballpark can open for the start of the 2009 season. Next year is election year in Minnesota for the entire Legislature and the governor, and you can bet no one -- especially Pawlenty -- will be eager to push for a new ballpark when there will be a ton of other legislative priorities. Twins owner Carl Pohlad, on the potential for special-session approval of a ballpark this year: "It seems to be deader than a doornail."
    RELATED STORIES: 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; Minnesota governor to jump-start Twins ballpark discussions with legislative leaders; Key legislator backs special session to address Minnesota stadium issues; Twins ballpark may slip this year; Minneapolis Greens hope ballpark issue helps them in primary; Legislative session to decide fate of Twins ballpark back on track; Will special session be called to pass Twins ballpark legislations? Odds seem to be dropping; State needs fall special session; Twins ballpark stall raises costs; State approval for Twins ballpark may wait until fall; 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; Minneapolis Council panel delays ballpark vote; Big fans of a Twins move; Minneapolis may stand against ballpark plan; Twins ballpark passage predicted by legislative leaders; Hennepin County takes first step toward new Twins ballpark; Few want to pay for Twins ballpark; Hennepin County delays vote on Twins ballpark funding; Hennepin County to vote today on Twins ballpark funding; Minnesota Twins, Hennepin County reach agreement on ballpark funding; Twins back Minneapolis ballpark location; What's up with a Twins ballpark?; House GOP, DFL leaders clash over stadiums; Politicos bury Twins in ballpark hierarchy; Gov. Pawlenty talks of stadium plans; Minnesota drops the ball on ballpark plan; Ballpark tax plan is calling for a first

New in 2006: the Columbia Blowfish
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Sans Hootie, the Columbia Blowfish will begin play in the summer collegiate Coastal Plain League in 2006. Owned by Bill Shanahan, former GM of the Capital City Bombers (Class A; Sally League), the team has a local as manager (Tim Medlin) and the support of the University of South Carolina. The team will play at Capital City Stadium. It sounds like Columbia Mayor Bob Coble is giving up on minor-league baseball in his city (he worked to keep the Bombers and bring in another team), throwing his support behind a Richland County development that will include a new ballpark for the Columbus Catfish (Class A; Sally League): "For Columbia, the city council is not in favor of any new stadium, so we’ll see if the county will do minor league with the Columbus Catfish. That would be a great option."

Evans: No need for $20M for D.C.
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
D.C. Councilman Jack Evans, a key supporter of a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals, says the city should drop its request for a $20 million contribution from Major League Baseball toward a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals, placing him at odds with officials and some council members who want a greater financial commitment from baseball. Politically, the council may not be able to back down: At least five members of the council said they would vote against the lease unless MLB agreed to pay more money toward the cost of the $535 million ballpark near the Anacostia Waterfront in Southeast because costs of construction and land have increased.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

MLB pressures D.C. on ballpark
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Baseball is concerned that the nation's capital won't honor its agreement to have a new Washington Nationals ballpark ready by 2008. "We are growing increasingly concerned about the District's ability to meet the agreed-upon December 31, 2005 deadline, by which date a number of critical tasks in the Baseball Stadium Agreement must be completed," Major League Baseball president Bob DuPuy said in a letter sent Tuesday to Mayor Anthony Williams and Council Chairman Linda Cropp. DuPuy repeatedly cited the deadline, when a lease is to be completed, Washington is to be in control of the ballpark site and the funding for the ballpark is to be available. Meanwhile, DuPuy affirmed MLB has made no commitment to spending an extra $20 million on the ballpark and Thom Loverro blames District officials for the mess.

Baseball parking plan scores with board
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Late-arriving fans of Allentown's future minor-league baseball team would be able to park their cars in spaces occupied hours earlier by employees of nearby Agere Systems. The city zoning board approved a shared parking plan Tuesday that allows team owners Joseph Finley and Craig Stein to use Agere parking lots to meet parking requirements at the planned county baseball stadium located between American Parkway and Union Boulevard.  The agreement between Agere and the team owners, which hasn't been finalized, would provide a total of 2,500 parking spots for the 10,000-seat stadium — 400 more than required by city zoning.
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Sin City bets Marlins would be a huge hit
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There's no doubt Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman is given to fits of flash and hyperbole, but when he talked about throwing out the first pitch at a new Las Vegas ballpark in 2009, you can't help but wonder if he knows something we don't. There are some pretty interesting names surfacing: Reggie Jackson is also involved in acquiring a team, and the most recent businessman who expressed interest in ownership is Gavin Maloof, an owner of the NBA's Sacramento Kings and an owner of one of the hottest properties in Vegas, the Palms. The market is approaching 2 million residents, and the local economy is sound, at $72 billion with annual job growth at 7.4 percent. Gambling will be the big issue as Vegas attempts to lure a major-league sport, but given how many teams do business with casinos and the prevalence of Indian gaming across the nation, this might not be as big a factor as you would imagine.

York ballpark property could shrink
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Plans for a ballpark in York, Pa., for an independent Atlantic League team might require the city redevelopment authority to acquire fewer properties than originally estimated, the project manager said yesterday. For months, those involved in the project have worked from a list of 27 properties slated for acquisition: 15 residential properties, nine commercial properties and three tax-exempt properties in the city's Arch Street neighborhood. Though the project's design is far from final, it is becoming clear that two of those properties are unlikely to be required for project construction. Still, this may not be enough to save the project, which is in doubt after cost estimates came in well above original figures.
    RELATED STORIES: York board questions ballpark payments; Ill-timed epiphany on York ballpark; Bottom of the 18th for York ballpark; Brenner goes to bat for York ballpark; York ballpark on life support?

With too many blasts at the Bank, team will make left a little longer
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Philadelphia Phillies are moving the fences back at Citizens Bank Park, removing the first two rows of seats in left field, moving the warning track and fence back five feet and raising the fence from eight feet high to 10.5 feet. The construction should cost a little more than $1 million, and the Phillies will lose from 194 to 198 seats. The move could keep up to 22 homers in the park next season.

New cable network isn't responsible for the open-wallet policy of Minaya
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
At first glance Omar Minaya would appear to be throwing money around like a drunken sailor this offseason, signing Billy Wagner to a big deal and trading for Carlos Delgado and his huge contract. However, money spent on this pair will be offset by the team dropping Mike Piazza, Mike Cameron and Braden Looper, and the Mets still have the potential to pick up a Manny Ramirez or a Bengie Molina.  So, is SportsNet New York, the network the Mets have created with Time Warner and Comcast, bankrolling all this? Not yet. If Minaya's moves pay off, attendance will rise, ratings will jump and advertising on the network will go up. If they don't click, the network's ledger will look less robust, and the network will be less able to buttress the Mets' bottom line -- whether to help pay for salaries or for new ballpark debt payments.

Fightin’ Falcons suspended for ‘06: League officials optimistic team will return
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We've already covered the decision by Golden Baseball League officials to drop Surprise and Mesa from the league in 2006, but here's a look at discussions for the 2007 season. The team would like to see a mister and children's play area installed at Surprise Stadium, and city officials say they're willing to discuss it if the league steps up and pays for part of the costs. In Mesa, issues with the concessionaire forced the Miners out of HoHoKam Park, but there could be a new concessionaire there in 2007.

Baseball Notes
Posted November 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
John Tamargo is the new manager of the Durham Bulls (Class AAA; International League). He succeeds Bill Evers, who was promoted to bench coach of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays last week.....Les Lancaster is the manager of the Reno Silver Sox (independent; Golden Baseball League). He's spent the last six seasons managing in independent baseball for the Northeast, Northern and Golden leagues....Add another name to the managerial interview queue for the Los Angeles Dodgers: Joel Skinner....

D.C. lease talks stumble
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Major League Baseball and the District of Columbia did not reach agreement on the District's request for an additional $20 million to cover the rising costs of a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals, leading MLB President Bob Dupuy to raise the possibility of arbitration if a lease agreement is not reached with the city by the end of December. During a nine-hour oversight hearing yesterday on the ballpark project, the D.C. Council was assured by Mark H. Tuohey, chairman of the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission, that baseball probably would contribute the extra money and that lease negotiations would wrap up as soon as next week, but Dupuy didn't sound nearly that optimistic about an agreement coming any time soon. Council members said they will not increase the ballpark budget under any circumstances and called on Major League Baseball to name an owner for the Nationals who will be able to negotiate directly with the city and add private dollars to the project. Meanwhile, there's some debate as to what the ballpark will actually cost: the D.C. Council was told the actual cost will be $589 million after an extra $54 million was added to cover the costs of issuing bonds. Harry Jaffe looks at the ballpark politics in D.C., while Marc Fisher calls on the council to live up to the terms of the original deal and Thomas Boswell says the Nats are hamstrung without an owner.
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Deal would keep Jaxx in Jackson for two years
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) have proposed a new two-year lease for Pringles Park with two options to extend the contract for one year each. Originally team officials had proposed a one-year lease, prompting city officials to ask for a multiyear lease and add some onerous terms, including the right of first refusal should the team be sold. The proposed lease gives the city, or any third-party buyer, the chance to purchase the team by June 1 for $12.5 million, leading some city officials to grumble about the owners possibly making a windfall on a sale. Given what Class AA teams have sold for in recent years, the $12.5 million figure may be a little high, but it's not outside the realm of possibility, either. There's also one more interesting clause in the proposed contract:  If city council members vote to accept the lease, they also vote to end any and all legal disputes with the Lozinak Group, including the city's lawsuit against the Jaxx that is now in arbitration.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Sparks council OKs permit for retail center
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Sparks City Council unanimously approved a special use permit Monday that allows the development of more than 832,000 square feet near the Sparks Marina into a retail and entertainment center. Officials for the RED Development project may now apply for other permits needed to build and work on financing options. Currently the project includes a ballpark for a Class AAA Pacific Coast League team. We've heard a few different scenarios for Reno, but the buzz seems to be centered on Mandalay Baseball buying the Tacoma Rainiers after selling the Las Vegas 51s and moving the Rainiers to Reno.

Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The effort to rebuild Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League), advanced Monday as the Billings City Council accepted a study that spells out options for what a new downtown baseball stadium might look like. A recent consultant's study estimated that the aging Cobb Field could be replaced for between $10 million and $12 million, but some on the council want to see a more bare-boned proposal for a facility meeting pro standards but costing closer to $7 million. The issue is whether voters would approve a bond issue for a more expensive facility. Cobb Field is one of the great classic ballparks of the minors, and it would be a shame to tear it down to put up some plain, utilitarian facility.
    RELATED STORY: 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

Injured fan's Phillies suit tossed out
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More than two years after catching a thrown baseball with his face, Jeremy Loughran struck out in his quest for damages from the Philadelphia Phillies. The state Superior Court in Harrisburg, in a 2-1 decision last week, upheld last year's Philadelphia County Court ruling that Loughran assumed the risk of getting injured when he attended a July 5, 2003, game between the Phillies and the Atlanta Braves at Veterans Stadium. Loughran was struck in the face by a ball tossed into the stands by the Phillies' Marlon Byrd and was treated for various ailments (concussion, lacerations, incoherence, hallucinations, depression); he filed suit against the team for unspecified damages. The court ruled what Byrd did was part of the game of baseball (Loughran initially claimed he had never seen a player toss the ball into the stands, but later recanted that) and denied the lawsuit, saying Loughran had assumed the risk when he entered the ballpark.

New Columbia Coastal Plain League team to have USC flavor
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Promoter Bill Shanahan, the man who is putting a collegiate summer league team in Capital City Stadium, has forged an unprecedented alliance with the University of South Carolina. The university will provide the team with front office personnel from its school of sports and entertainment management. And Gamecocks coach Ray Tanner said USC will provide the maximum four players allowed by the league and will use the 10-week season to evaluate them. Some colleges, like the University of Minnesota, have an adversarial relationship with summer collegiate leagues; Tanner is a smart guy and wouldn't be doing this if he didn't feel his program could gain from working with the Coastal Plain League.

PNC Park plan for cigar bar fires up ticket holders
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A plan to convert a lounge on the Club Level of PNC Park, the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, to a cigar bar has some season-ticket holders upset. Pirates management yesterday acknowledged that the Montecristo Club, a cigar and martini bar, "is definitely in the mix" for changes on the club level, where first-year season ticket holders paid $2,000 each for seat licenses. The current Gunner's Lounge would be converted; the issue isn't necessarily cigar smoke (the lounge will be ventilated to divert smoke from the ballpark), but the loss of the lounge.

Deja vu for Aces
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Virtually the same crowd that was at the press conference in late 1993 to announce the start of the Texas-Louisiana League's Alexandria Aces was at a press conference Monday night to introduce new owners and management staff of the new United League's Alexandria Aces. Byron Pierce, who founded the T-L League with former Congressman John Bryant of Dallas, has again teamed with Bryant to form this league, which will have six teams playing 90-game schedules this summer. Former Aces general manager Craig Brasfield is the league's executive general manager and will oversee the startup of the Aces, while Chet Carey is GM and Andrew Aguilar, a former director of group sales/ticket operations for the Aces, will be the assistant GM.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Ross County makes move to fund ballpark improvement plan
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
V.A. Memorial Stadium, the home of the Chillicothe Paints (independent; Frontier League) could be the focus of a large-scale improvement project under a plan designed to bring money and jobs into the area. At its regularly scheduled meeting Monday, the Ross County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the plan to create the Ross County Convention Facilities Authority. The formation of the board could pave the way for a hike in the county bed tax to fund improvements to turn V.A. Memorial Stadium into a convention and tourism location. The Paints would prefer a new ballpark but expressed willingness to work on a renovation of the ballpark.

A sad sight for anyone who appreciates baseball history
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Ron Kantowski visits the former site of Muehlebach Field/Municipal Stadium in Kansas City and is saddened by the lack of any sizeable markers to commemorate the ballpark. At one point there had been a marker, apparently, but Kantowski couldn't find anything. The Royals probably should do something to mark the area: the team already supports the Negro League Museum and could do some more outreach in the neighborhood.

Humor, courtesy the goal for longtime stadium servers
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Eleanora Zotta has worked at Busch Stadium since it opened in 1966: she's currently a bartender in the Stadium Club and plans on working at the new ballpark next season for Sportservice. This article profiles the many veterans who have worked at Busch Stadium for decades: Ed Krafft, for instance, is 80 and has worked at Sportsman's Park as well as Busch Stadium. (Thanks to John Cerone.)

Baseball Notes
Posted November 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Randy Ready returns as manager of the Fort Wayne Wizards (Class A; Midwest League). He's joined by coach Max Venable and pitching coach Tom Bradley....Murray Wilson returns as manager of the Coastal Bend Aviators (independent; American Association)....Kristen Daffin is the new assistant general manager of the Camden Riversharks (independent; Atlantic League)....A.J. Hinch is the new  manager of minor-league operations for the Arizona Diamondbacks, while Chad MacDonald was named assistant director of scouting. Also, Bob Gebhard will serve as a special assistant to the general manager....The Los Angeles Dodgers received permission to interview former Boston manager Grady Little and New York Mets coach Manny Acta about the team's managerial job. They join John McLaren in the interview queue....Ernie Whitt was named manager of the Canadian team playing in the World Baseball Championship in March....

New hurdle for D.C. ballpark lease deal
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A majority on the D.C. Council is demanding a vote on the lease between the city and Major League Baseball for a new Washington Nationals ballpark, and several council members said they will reject the deal unless baseball agrees to pay for any cost overruns on the project. The council passed the ballpark financing package last year by a vote of 7 to 6, but since then, three stadium supporters on the council have been replaced by members critical of a publicly financed ballpark. A vote on the lease would mark the first time that the new council has taken a crucial action on the project. Cost estimates for the project have soared past original projections, leaving the District to lop off some crucial components (like an expansion of the local Metro stop to allow for larger crowds) and suddenly making a renovated RFK Stadium look like a better deal. MLB contends the original deal calls for the District to cover any cost overruns, but given that the original deal is not really finalized, that posturing may need to be altered. The D.C. Council is holding an oversight hearing today to discuss the financing. Mike Wise opines on the issue.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Jaxx submit second lease for city's OK
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In less than two weeks we'll know if the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) will spend another season playing in Pringles Park. The new proposal is in response to the Jackson City Council's November denial of a previously proposed one-year lease. City counsel Larry Butler recommended that councilmen reject that proposal in hopes of securing a multi-year deal and more control over the future of the team, which reportedly has been looking at other markets and discussing a sale to a new ownership group. The council wants a multi-year deal, the right for the city to seek a third-party buyer for the team (which could include the city itself) and a pre-determined "minimum purchase price" for the team. These are pretty onerous conditions for any team owner; David Lozinak says there's no chance the team would agree to these terms and will look at playing the 2006 season elsewhere, and some city council members now say they're not in favor of booting the Jaxx.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Goodman: Las Vegas is interested in Marlins
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman says he's interested in bringing the Florida Marlins to a new ballpark in downtown Vegas, saying the city could support Major League Baseball. Goodman says he's had several conversations with influential baseball figures about moving the team to the valley: "I think after the NBA All-Star game and they see Las Vegas is really a city made up of great people, just a terrific venue. I think it will be more real than today." Goodman says he'll step back and see how the Marlins drama plays out, however, and will discuss things with his Miami counterpart.
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Texas League boss dispels baseball chatter
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Tom Kayser, commissioner of the Class AA Texas League, says there's little chance his league would be moving a team to a proposed new ballpark in Springdale, Ark., citing chatter from the likes of Ballpark Digest as being inaccurate. Actually, both the paper and he are mischaracterizing what we've reported: we've heard from Day One an independent league was working to bring a team to Springdale, despite some interest from locals and consultants to bring in a Texas League team. Here's what we said most recently: "A preferred scenario, said the consultant, has a Class AA Texas League team moving in, but we're not so sure the league has a franchise looking for a move (though Wichita's name has been popping up again lately); the more likely choices are the independent American Association and Northern League."
    RELATED STORIES: Public money may be needed to build Springdale ballpark; Springdale: Sports park feasible, study claims

Castro approves Cuban participation in World Baseball Classic
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President Fidel Castro has given the go-ahead for Cuba to play in the World Baseball Classic next March, vowing a clash between Cuban amateur sport and American professionalism that has lured away many Cuban stars. The 16-nation World Cup-style baseball event is the first international tournament to include major-league players and will begin on March 3 in Tokyo and end in San Diego three weeks later. Cuban involvement had been in doubt for an event that will be played mainly in the United States, Castro's ideological foe and a magnet for the defection of communist Cuba's best players attracted by multimillion-dollar contracts. Preparations for baseball in March are well underway; check out Spring Training Online for details.

Nationals ownership still up in air
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
MLB officials say the lack of progress on a lease for a new ballpark is stalling efforts to name the new owners of the Washington Nationals, but insider say there's another factor involved: Commissioner Bud Selig is waiting to see the eight ownership groups form some new alliances. (Think of it being a very high-stakes Survivor game.) It's understandable MLB wants to nail down a lease before selling the team: basically, the more a new ownership group has to pay in a lease, the less they'll pay MLB for the team. So MLB officials are trying to squeeze out every penny of revenue possible on the Nats. Murray Chass has a more pointed analysis.
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Group pursues new ballpark for Amarillo area
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Byron Pierce, CEO of United Sports Equities in Dallas, is placing a new team in Potter County Memorial Stadium next season, but building a new stadium also is on their minds. Pierce said the team's owners are looking for a 35- to 40-acre site for a ballpark and adjacent development, but nothing firm has developed. The team, he said, hopes to bring back the antics of The Famous Chicken for a couple games next year. The Dillas also are rebuilding their management team and hope to bring back some old familiar faces -- and a new one or two.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Yankees raise ticket prices past century mark
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The box seats for games at Yankee Stadium next season will cost more than $100. Many teams offer limited "premium" seating in the seats closest to the action (complete with waiter service, access to a private bar, and more), but this is the first time where the pricing of an entire full section of seating will run more than $100 a ticket. Someone has to pay for Randy Johnson's contract and the down payment on a new ballpark. Of course, fans will be paying through the nose then:  On average, tickets will cost $57 when the new stadium opens in 2009 (a 27 percent premium over existing ticket prices), according to an environmental-impact statement compiled by the city Parks Department. If the team stays in the present ballpark, fans would pay $45 per ticket.

Baseball storm sweeps ’Runners out, ULB team in
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Here's a fairly complete look at what's happening with baseball in Edinburg. The short story: the city decided to terminate the lease of the Edinburg Roadrunners (independent; Central Baseball League) based on nonperformance and then awarded the lease for the city's ballpark to the startup United League. The better and more interesting parts of the article concern the decision by John Bryant and Byron Pierce to form the United League: they wanted to buy the Central League (which they originally founded as the Texas-Louisiana League), but failed in their attempts to take it over and decided instead to start from scratch. More on what happened with the Roadrunners.
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A long shot in Vegas
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Norman Chad argues against a move of the Florida Marlins to Las Vegas. His reasoning is simple: Las Vegas has ample entertainment options, and a baseball team would find it hard to compete; plus, the casinos would never let a patron out the door to spend money at another venue. Not quite sure either argument holds water: first, baseball competes quite nicely against entertainment alternatives in cities like New York and Los Angeles; and second, casino concierges these days are quite happy to get you tickets and dinner reservations at other casinos, all in the name of service, so the stereotype doesn't quite match the current reality. Given the abundance of Indian gaming facilities within a close drive of most MLB ballparks, that argument may not hold water, either.
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Reality interrupts Lafayette ballpark dream
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There's plenty of interest in a new Lafayette (Ind.) ballpark: Purdue is interested in staging tournaments there, and the Colt World Series can certainly make use of it for the eight-day tourney. There's one crucial component missing: who will pay for the new ballpark? The independent Frontier League is interested in placing a team there, but in the end neither Lafayette nor West Lafayette officials are willing to fund a new facility, and that lack of funding will probably end up killing the project.

Reds could hear new media pitch
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Robert Lawrence, a former Taft Broadcasting executive who helped the St. Louis Cardinals invest in a radio station, is said to be pursuing a similar deal for the Reds on behalf of his friend and soon-to-be controlling owner, Robert Castellini. Local media observers speculate that Lawrence will join the ownership group with the goal of revamping the team's approach to media and marketing, Lawrence is a local media investor who built a fortune while merging local radio stations over a two-decade span that ended with Clear Channel Communications Inc. as the dominant player in the Cincinnati market. The Reds have been with WLW since 1969; the contract between the two ends in 2007.

Razing uncorks baseball memories for fans
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Driven by curiosity and devotion, the regulars make their way to the corner of 8th and Clark every day at lunchtime to watch the artless, methodical and -- for them -- irresistibly fascinating show performed in the dust and rubble of what used to be a ballpark. Chunk by crumbling chunk, Busch Stadium, the nearly 40-year home of the beloved St. Louis Cardinals, is disappearing before the eyes of the faithful, the rabid and the just plain sad-to-see-the-ballpark-go crowd. Most people who work in downtown St. Louis do not make the lunch-hour pilgrimage to Busch. But for Cardinal fans who hold dear the memories of Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, Willie McGee and Whitey Herzog, their daily trudge to gaze at this limited engagement of noisy destruction is a final -- albeit prolonged -- opportunity to say goodbye.

Cardinal fans go wild in auction
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From Albert Pujols' locker to a players' urinal, Cardinals fans spent almost $1 million to purchase memorabilia from Busch Stadium through an online auction. The auction was conducted through Lelands.com and Major League Baseball Advanced Media. According to a Lelands spokesman, more than 380 items of Cardinals and Busch memorabilia generated $889,000, well above the $500,000 to $600,000 the auction house estimated. An estimated 6,000 bids were received. Proceeds will help pay for the new ballpark.

Fort Wayne businesses protesting development blueprint
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A development blueprint calling for a new downtown ballpark in Fort Wayne in the next decade is drawing criticism from the local business community. There are many reasons why businesspeople and citizens don't like the plan for reasons totally unrelated to the ballpark, of course, but the ballpark component is also drawing criticism: the Fort Wayne Wizards (Class A; Midwest League) aren't calling for a replacement for Memorial Stadium (in fact, the team set an attendance record in 2005), but some want to see Memorial scrapped after construction bonds are paid off so there's no danger of losing the team.
    RELATED STORIES: New ballpark among Fort Wayne downtown options

This much residents agree on: D.C. ballpark deal should be better
Posted November 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When it comes to the financing of a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals, District residents yesterday seemed to agree on only a few things: The city got a raw deal with baseball officials. And everyone involved in baseball is greedy. Reopening deals is always a risky move for both sides, but it happens everyday in the real world; MLB officials might be smart to play the public-relations game and agree to reexamine the financials of the original deal, especially when there's at least one ownership group (the Haney group) saying they're willing to cover cost overruns if they land the team.
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Renovations will upgrade Bears Stadium field
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The field at Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium, the home of the Newark Bears (independent; Atlantic League), is getting a facelift this offseason, as a million-dollar facelift that will ultimately improve the ballpark's drainage system. After years of dealing with poor outfield drainage, an entirely new system is being installed beneath the field. Millennium Sports Tech, of Colorado, designed the improvements, while Sports Construction Group LLC, of Ohio, will complete the construction. (Thanks to John Cerone.)

Air Force baseball may land at Runyon Field
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The Air Force Academy baseball team could play some or all of its 2006 home schedule at the Runyon Sports Complex. The Falcons’ baseball field has been deemed unsafe because of underground water flow. Air Force has played at Runyon in the past, but only on an emergency basis when the Falcons’ home field was unplayable. An artificial infield surface has helped remedy that problem.