Simmons backs out of deal to buy Silver Hawks
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Marion (Ill.) attorney John Simmons has indeed backed out of a deal to buy the South Bend Silver Hawks (Class A; Midwest League), as we predicted earlier this week, clearing the way for a group led by former South Bend Mayor Joe Kernan to buy the team. Simmons says disagreements with the Midwest League led him to scrap the deal; the league had expressed displeasure with his plan to move the Silver Hawks to a new ballpark in Marion. This article says Simmons may buy a team in an independent league, but that would be problematic: MiLB rules prohibit ownership of an independent team by the owner of an affiliated team, and Simmons already owns the Savannah Sand Gnats (Class A; Sally League). One option could be exploring a move of the Sand Gnats to Marion, but that would dramatically increase the Sally League's footprint. A more likely outcome: Simmons skirts the ownership rules through some sort of management deal. More from the Southern.
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Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site
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Glendale officials said Thursday that the city has exclusive negotiating rights with an unspecified number of Major League Baseball teams to bring to Arizona its next spring-training facility. That announcement came about a week after state officials said Glendale was one of three Arizona cities leading the pack for a new complex. City officials couldn't reveal how many or which teams the city will be talking with. Nor would officials discuss possible funding or locations for a spring-training facility. Glendale is a western suburb of Phoenix; the NHL's Phoenix Coyotes play at Glendale Arena, while the NFL's Arizona Cardinals are building a new football stadium there.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Reckson signs MOU to bring Atlantic League team to Nassau County development
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Scott Rechler, president and CEO of developer Reckson, announced that the company has executed a memorandum of understanding with the independent Atlantic League to bring a minor-league baseball team to Nassau County inside a new ballpark in Mitchel Athletic Complex, Uniondale, Long Island, adjacent to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and the surrounding 77-acre development site. The deal is designed to compete with a plan by the New York Mets to build a new Coliseum and a minor-league ballpark, mostly likely for a Class AA Eastern League team. More from Newsday.
    RELATED STORIES: Islanders add new ballpark to Nassau Coliseum plan; Either way, Nassau can't lose; Mets make the cut in Nassau County redevelopment project; Suburban renewal in Nassau County; Mets toss changeup in Nassau County proposal; Future of Nassau County ballpark to be decided in December; Mets proposing new minor-league ballpark in Nassau County

Sayreville picks developer for NL Industries site; ballpark in the mix
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A developer with a $1.5 billion vision for the 400-plus-acre National Lead site was chosen last night by the Sayreville Economic Redevelopment Agency. Commissioners tapped LNR Northeast Investment, a Quincy, Mass-based company whose plan for the brownfields parcel could generate $25.2 million annually in property taxes and other revenue for the borough. The company's concept features a 5,500-seat minor league ballpark, 2,000 units of housing, two hotels, two marinas offering a total of 500 slips, a canal and basin, plus a promenade.

Wolff reveals site possibilities for San Antonio ballpark
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Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said Thursday that two potential ballpark sites in Northeast Bexar County have been mentioned to the Florida Marlins, and a third in that area will be passed on to the team: land near Retama Park in Selma, the Longhorn Quarry and a Live Oak site near Loop 1604 and Interstate 35. Wolff sent the Marlins a proposal for $200 million in public funding for a new ballpark; as of yesterday the Marlins had sent no response. Wolff said his $300 million estimate to build a 38,000-44,000-seat ballpark in Bexar County is based on construction costs being generally lower in Texas than in other states, but that number is pure fantasy: he now admits it's a back-of-the-envelope estimate that doesn't include land-acquisition costs.
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A minor field of dreams in Boston
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The Boston Globe editorial page comes out in favor of a plan by attorney Alexander Bok to bring independent baseball to somewhere in Boston, perhaps at historic Nickerson Field at Boston University. There are many issues to work out, including the normal ones (parking, traffic, etc.). And then there's the Boston Red Sox, the 800-pound gorilla in the corner. Red Sox opposition would surely kill the project, but the editorial page warns the BoSox not to be too hasty in condemnation: chances are pretty good the Red Sox and an indy team would draw upon two different fan bases.
    RELATED STORIES: Sites eyed for potential new minor-league park in Boston

Does Albany want to pour more money into Eames Park?
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The independent South Coast League want to put a team into Albany's Paul Eames Park for the 2007 season, but some are questioning whether it's worth the cost. Of course, the naysayers are coming out even before anyone's done a specific estimate of what's needed. The biggest cost is a revamping of the concession areas, followed by a general cleaning of the ballpark and a new or repaired scoreboard. The original back-of-the-envelope estimate was $200,000, but both city and South Coast officials say that's too high, especially with the league picking up some of those costs.
    RELATED STORIES: Macon City Council approves baseball contract; Baseball's return now in hands of Macon council; League looking to bring pro baseball to Greenville; South Coast League contacts Wilmington officials; Macon moves toward bringing baseball back to the city; Minor-league baseball in Macon -- again?; Macon ponders two baseball proposals; City explores baseball's return to Macon; Baseball team could slide home to Bluffton; South Coast League announces 2007 launch

Delay on Sounds ballpark disappoints Brewers
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Recent news that the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) downtown ballpark won't be ready before the start of the 2008 season was met with disappointment -- but not surprise -- by officials with their parent club. The Milwaukee Brewers entered a two-year working agreement with the Class AAA Sounds following the 2004 season, with the idea that a new facility would be nearly in place by the end of the pact.
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Zephyrs tickets go on sale next Monday
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The New Orleans Zephyrs (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) announced that individual game tickets for the 2006 season will go on sale to the public on Monday, March 13. Normally we don't cover announcements like this, but this is a special situation: the Zephyrs will be the first professional team to resume normal operations in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina ripped through the region last year.

Baseball Notes
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The Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Class A; Midwest League) announced the addition of Brady Williams to the 2006 coaching staff. Williams takes over as the Rays’ hitting coach, a spot vacated when Skeeter Barnes was promoted to club manager. A Salt Lake City native and Palm Harbor, Florida resident, Williams enters the coaching ranks after an eight-year playing career. Last season, Williams, a corner infielder, batted a career-best .259 with 10 home runs and a career-high 58 runs batted in over 115 games for the Bridgeport Bluefish (independent; Atlantic League). In 2004, Williams played for the traveling Pennsylvania Road Warriors (independent; Atlantic League), hitting a career-best 15 home runs....

Plan would provide $200 million toward new Marlins ballpark
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Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff has proposed a plan providing $200 million of tax money for the Florida Marlins to move to San Antonio and play in a new ballpark. The plan would extend hotel and rental-car taxes that built the arena where the NBA's San Antonio Spurs play. It would raise $200 million for a ballpark, along with $40 million for improvements at the AT&T Center, where the Spurs play. The proposal would have to be approved by voters in November. Wolff thinks a new ballpark can be built for $300 million, which seems to be an outright fantasy: more realistic estimates peg the cost of an MLB ballpark at $400 million, with another $100 million for a roof. No reaction from the Marlins. Jeffry Loria admits it's time to seek some sort of solution, though his preference is to keep the team in South Florida.
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Islanders add new ballpark to Nassau Coliseum plan
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One of the groups looking to redevelop the area surrounding the Nassau County Coliseum has added a minor-league ballpark to the mix. When Scott Rechler, chief executive of Reckson Associates Realty Corp., unveils the plans at Reckson Plaza Thursday afternoon, he will be joined by Frank Boulton, Atlantic League chief executive and principal owner of the Long Island Ducks and Joe Klein, the Atlantic League’s executive director, to announce the addition of a ballpark for an Atlantic League team. Reckson has teamed up with Charles Wang, the owner of the New York Islanders (NHL) and the New York Dragons (AFL), on a plan to renovate the Coliseum and invest in surrounding development. The New York Mets, now considered the main competitor to Wang/Reckson, have proposed a new Coliseum and a new ballpark, most likely for a Class AA Eastern League team. More from Newsday.
    RELATED STORIES: Either way, Nassau can't lose; Mets make the cut in Nassau County redevelopment project; Suburban renewal in Nassau County; Mets toss changeup in Nassau County proposal; Future of Nassau County ballpark to be decided in December; Mets proposing new minor-league ballpark in Nassau County

Yankee Stadium hearing postponed amid traffic, parkland concerns
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A New York City Council hearing on a proposed new Yankee Stadium was delayed after community leaders and Bronx officials asked for more information on traffic, parks and parking associated with the project. The proposed development would be built on 22 acres of Macombs Dam Park and John Mullaly Park in the South Bronx, and the city has said it plans to spend $135 million on 28 acres of parkland and playing fields to replace the lost parks. The new public space would come in sections along the Harlem River and at the site of the existing ballpark. The delay isn't due totally to Yankee Stadium (despite what this article says); city officials are still coming up with details on a major redevelopment plan near the ballpark, which will require coordination among all the redevelopment projects.
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Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields
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More details on a proposal for a new $50 million ballpark and training complex for the Cincinnati Reds during the spring and the Sarasota Reds (Class A; Florida State League) during the regular season. The cost includes six full-sized practice fields, two smaller practice fields, two clubhouses and other amenities for the Reds. If the complex is built, Reds owner Bob Castellini told lawmakers the team would sign a 20-year lease: "We want to be in Sarasota the rest of our lives," he said. "There's no problem with a long-term commitment on our part." The state plan to provide $500,000 yearly to teams committed to long-term leases in Florida covers the Cincinnati Reds in Sarasota, the Pittsburgh Pirates in Bradenton, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in St. Petersburg, the Cleveland Indians in Winter Park and the Baltimore Orioles in Fort Lauderdale.
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A roster of key players on the Kansas City stadium election
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You can't tell the players without a scorecard, and here's a scorecard of the players involved in an April Jackson County election to decide on additional funding for renovations to Kauffman Stadium, the home of the Kansas City Royals, and Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs. There are some strong personalities in play here, and it will probably get nastier before the election.
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Nats' certainty and uncertainty
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Now that a lease for a new Washington Nationals ballpark is a done deal, the issue is finding a new owner for the team. Given the generally favorable lease, you can expect MLB to rake in some beaucoup bucks from a new owner. You can also expect a lot of politicking as well: some potential owners (like Stan Kasten) have close personal and professional ties to Bud Selig, while others (like those in the Fred Malek/Colin Powell group) are heavy-hitters in the District of Columbia. Much associated with the franchise is still in shambles (the decision to move spring-training management in-house and out of the hands of the Brevard County Manatees was a disaster), so the new owner will be facing plenty of hard work. More from the Washington Times.
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Fans pleased by changes at Angels' revamped ballpark
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Fans are pleased so far with the changes to Tempe Diablo Stadium, the spring home of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The changes are apparent immediately: the new staircase adds a dramatic entrance to the ballpark, and the new seating is much more comfortable than the previous aluminum seating. There aren't many more changes geared toward fans: the biggest change was the addition of nearby practice fields, eliminating the need for the minor leaguers to train at a separate facility.

Anaheim sees Angels on a different team
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Although a jury settled the dispute between Anaheim and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim over the team's name, the legal battle exacerbated disagreements over the club's community involvement that have simmered since Arte Moreno became owner three years ago. City officials say the Angels' community relations plan mirrors its business plan, which is to broaden the team's appeal beyond Orange County. Anaheim Councilman Richard Chavez said that strategy -- including changing the team's name to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim -- had neglected hometown businesses, nonprofits and civic organizations.

Redbirds aim to hit in black
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The Memphis Redbirds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) have had a rough offseason, struggling to pay some bills and dealing with a lawsuit filed against Dean Jernigan over the management of AutoZone Park. Blues City Baseball, of which Jernigan is the registered agent, manages the Redbirds and AutoZone Park for the non-profit Memphis Redbirds Baseball Foundation. Sparks, who died Jan. 30, 2005, and his wife, Rita, were partners in Blues City Baseball with Jernigan and his wife, Kristi. This January, the Sparks estate filed suit against Blues City Baseball over a loan the company took from Trust One Bank. The suit said repayment was guaranteed by Willard Sparks and the Jernigans. That month, Trust One had received a court judgment of $1.8 million on the loan against the Sparks estate, leading to the estate's lawsuit against Blues City.

Connecticut Defenders reaching out
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The former Norwich Navigators are making plenty of changes this season as the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League), with a new team name, logo, mascot and uniforms. Other changes -- such as a new concessions vendor, new video scoreboard and redesigned team store -- reflect a new commitment to making sure fans enjoy their time at the ballpark. GM Jim Beaudoin said the team staff is taking a grassroots approach and making personal visits to baseball fans, businesses and advertisers throughout the area.

Farmer to appeal dismissal of lawsuit against Hersh
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Jackson (Miss.) Mayor Charles Farmer vowed to continue his defamation suit against former West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) owner David Hersh after a judge ruled Farmer, being a public figure, did not meet the burden of proof and provide "clear and convincing evidence" that Hersh defamed him Farmer, who represented himself, said he plans to appeal. He has 30 days to do so. Still pending in Madison County Chancery Court is the city's suit against Hersh to recover about $175,000 in season-ticket surcharges and interest, and Hersh's multimillion-dollar countersuit against the city, Farmer and Ron Barry, a city administrator. The trial is set for Sept. 11. In the defamation suit, Farmer was requesting a jury trial and seeking compensatory damages not to exceed $250,000, punitive damages not to exceed $500,000 and "further relief as the court deems just and proper." More on the lawsuit here.

Haverhill seeks minor-league baseball team
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Officials in Haverhill (Mass.) want to see a minor-league baseball team at historic Haverhill Stadium as part of the city's downtown redevelopment plans. Most of the suggestions being advanced by Team Haverhill as part of its ''Vision 2020" plan are infrastructure improvements that the group says are needed over the next 20 years to encourage economic investment. Haverhill Stadium was built in 1916 and rebuilt in the mid-1930s. Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig played there, and the original Boston Patriots scrimmaged there.

KIT League adds Owensboro team; revamps Sikeston franchise
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The summer collegiate KIT League is adding an Owensboro (Ky.) Oilers franchise and announced the revamping of its Sikeston (Mo.) franchise. The team, now known as the Sikeston Bulls, features a new logo and management: Jason Compton is the new general manager of the Bulls, joining the team after five years with the West Tennessee Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League).

Baseball Notes
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Steve Dillard is returning to the Swing of the Quad Cities (Class A; Midwest League), this time as hitting coach. Dillard served as the manager of the Quad City River Bandits in 1993 and 1994, leading his squad to a combined 113-155 record during its tenure in the Houston Astros’ organization. The 1993 season was a memorable one for many, scarred by a flood that forced the team to play many of its "home" games in surrounding towns or on the road. The baseball veteran also served as manager of the South Bend White Sox in 1988, their inaugural season in the Midwest League. Dillard replaces Randy Whisler, who was named hitting coach in January before stepping down for family reasons.

At long last, a D.C. ballpark deal
Posted March 8, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
After 18 months of frustration, mistrust and divisive debate, the D.C. Council sealed a deal to build a ballpark along the Anacostia River in Southeast last night, guaranteeing the Washington Nationals a permanent home in the nation's capital. By a vote of 9 to 4, the council approved a construction contract for a state-of-the-art ballpark with a contemporary glass-and-stone facade, seats for 41,000 fans and a view of the U.S. Capitol. The council also voted 9 to 4 to reaffirm its demand that public spending on the project be limited to $611 million. Now that the deal is in place, MLB can move on to what should be a fascinating political battle: choosing an owner for the Nats. More from the Washington Times.

The newest member of the Ballpark Digest family: Sarah Elizabeth Reichard
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The newest member of the Ballpark Digest family: Sarah Elizabeth Reichard, born yesterday morning, weighing in at 8 pounds, 7 ounces.

Ivy Walls Management buys Omaha Royals
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Matt Minker, general partner of the Omaha Royals (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) since 2000, has sold his interest in the team to William (Bill) Shea. Minority owners Walter Scott and Warren Buffett will retain their current ownership positions. Minker and Shea reached an agreement that is now pending the final Pacific Coast League (PCL) and Minor League Baseball approvals along with a review by Major League Baseball. Look for Shea and the Ivy Walls Management team to continue their pursuit of a new ballpark.

Lease deal set for York ballpark
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The York County (Pa.) Industrial Development Authority has agreed to a 20-year agreement to lease the yet-to-be built York Outdoor Recreation Center to the York Professional Baseball Club, which would bring an independent Atlantic League team to the city.  With the lease signed, the York Professional Baseball Club will start to talk to community leaders about skybox commitments, stadium naming rights and season tickets, said Jon Danos, president of the club and of Keystone Baseball. Authority figures say construction could start in June for a 2007 opening date, but if the ballpark isn't done a York team may play part of the season in nearby Lancaster.
    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?

Sites eyed for potential new minor-league park in Boston
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A Boston lawyer who wants to bring an independent league baseball team to Boston has had preliminary discussions with the mayor and other city officials about possible locations for a 6,000-seat ballpark, including Joe Moakley Park in South Boston and Nickerson Field at Boston University. The lawyer, Alexander Bok, said he also has had preliminary conversations with more than a dozen potential investors about raising the $4 million to $6 million initial investment for the project. The Nickerson Field site is particularly intriguing, as it was formerly the site of the Braves Field, the home of the National League's Boston Braves. The Boston area is already home to several independent teams in the Can-Am Association; Bok has meet with officials of that league as well as with reps from the Atlantic League.

Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds
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City and county officials are pitching a new plan for keeping the Cincinnati Reds in Sarasota and for redeveloping the Sarasota County Fairgrounds on Fruitville Road. And they're throwing around some big numbers: $150 to $170 million total project costs. A new 8,000-seat ballpark, a Newtown sports complex, a 7,000-seat events center and at least 400 new affordable homes. The plan cleared its first hurdle Tuesday when the House Tourism Committee passed a bill that would provide $500,000 a year each to keep the Cincinnati Reds in Sarasota and the Pittsburgh Pirates in Bradenton, as well as keeping three other Major League Baseball teams in Florida. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Nancy Detert, R-Venice, would provide state sales tax revenues to the five teams for up to 30 years. Ed Smith Stadium, the current home of the Reds, would be converted to a high-school facility.
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Washington state ballparks receive state funding
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After being written out of previous budgets this session, state aid for five Washington state ballparks was put back into the final state budget expected to be passed today. The $7 million covers ballpark renovations for the Tacoma Rainiers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and four teams in the short-season Northwest League: the Yakima Bears, Tri-City Dust Devils, Everett AquaSox and Spokane Indians. At venerable Cheney Stadium, $2.5 million will allow for planning, design and engineering work on replacing the concrete roof that covers part of the ballpark with a steel structure. The existing roof doesn’t meet modern seismic codes. The condition of Cheney Stadium is an issue: the team is for sale and there's been talk about the franchise shifting to another city if the ballpark isn't upgraded.
    RELATED STORIES: Washington ballparks shut out in latest budget proposal

Book: Bonds extensively used steroids
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The Sports Illustrated.com excerpts from "Game of Shadows," the book by Chronicle reporters Lance Williams and Mark Fainaru-Wada that essentially proves that Barry Bonds persistently, deliberately and systematically used performance-enhancing drugs to help fuel his late-career mega-renaissance, ends his latest foray into I'm-just-another-guy-on-the-team-hood. He is back in his defensive crouch, his dukes up and using "No comment" as his jab. The book raises more issues than just those surrounding Bonds: it brings the entire integrity of the National Pastime into view, and MLB officials need to monitor the situation really, really closely -- and they've already began with a scheduled meeting with Bonds. Some are calling on the Giants to act. Mike Lupica comments.

Bronze statues trouble Portland committee
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A gift of bronze statues intended for installation outside Hadlock Field has stirred controversy between Portland's Public Art Committee and the owner of the Portland Sea Dogs (Class AA; Eastern League). Committee members say they are concerned that the statues, which depict a traditional family of four on the way to a baseball game, would be too large, display the team logo and fail to reflect the modern diversity of Portland, both in its people and its artwork. Committee members hope to work with Sea Dogs owner Daniel Burke to alter the statues so they can be installed at the city-owned ballpark, but Burke's lawyer says that won't happen. And some people wonder why public art sucks.

Spurs looking to be part of ownership if San Antonio lures Marlins
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Last week there were reports that the San Antonio Spurs (NBA) were trying to squash the effort to lure the Florida Marlins to San Antonio. On Tuesday Spurs reps told a local television station they may want to get in the baseball business and are, in fact, working with County Judge Nelson Wolff. Spurs VP Leo Gomez has confirmed that the Spurs could help Wolff's push to get the Florida Marlins. Also expressing interested: used-car salesman Red McCombs, who drove the Minnesota Vikings (NFL) into the ground during his troubled tenure as owner of the team.

Sheriff's deputies to give baseball tickets, not traffic tickets
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Travis County sheriff deputies will be giving away tickets to Round Rock Express (Class AAA; Pacific Coast league) games in an unusual fashion: they'll be pulling over good drivers, just as they would during a routine traffic stop. This, of course, raises all sorts of issues: whether cops do have the power to pull over drivers who are doing nothing wrong, and how cops would react if they found some evidence of illegality (like a joint or an obvious drunken driver) while pulling over a car in this matter. Probably not as great a promotional idea as you'd assume.

Our old park needs some loving care
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Charlotte Sports Stadium, the former spring home of the Texas Rangers, may have a future as a spring-training facility for Asian professional baseball teams: two teams trained there this spring and played some exhibitions against MLB teams. However, all of those games were played at MLB spring facilities, and if Charlotte Sports Stadium wants to host some spring-training games, the playing fields must be upgraded: according this article they're in pretty bad shape.
    RELATED STORIES: Spring training's return to Charlotte County iffy

Grizzlies add burger in a doughnut for 2006 season
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The Gateway Grizzlies (independent; Frontier League) and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts have teamed up to create "Baseball’s Best Burger." The burger, which was introduced at Gateway’s December 10th sale, consists of a thick and juicy burger topped with sharp cheddar cheese and two slices of bacon. The burger is then placed in between each side of a Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnut.
   The Grizzlies have added a unique concession item each of the least two seasons. In 2004 "Baseball’s Best Hotdog" hit GMC Stadium. It consisted of a 1/5 pound Farmland 8 inch All Beef Black Angus Hot Dog, topped with two strips of freshly cooked bacon, 1 oz. Sautéed Onions, 1 oz. Sautéed Sauerkraut and ½ oz. Cheddar Cheese Sauce, all on a fresh baked bun. In 2005, the "Swiss Brat" was introduced. The "Swiss Brat" was made up of a Landshire Bratwurst with a slice of Swiss cheese in the middle of it. The cheese was then melted and 1oz. of sautéed sauerkraut was placed on top.

Baseball Notes
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Joe Bucchino is the new assistant general manager of the Nashua Pride (independent; Can-Am Association). Bucchino has extensive experience in the hockey world, starting his career with the Boston Bruins. He also spent time with the New York Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadians organizations. He then worked for minor league hockey clubs in Pensacola, Jacksonville, Birmingham, Atlantic City, and Kansas City.

In memoriam: Kirby Puckett
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Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett passed away yesterday afternoon in a Phoenix hospital after suffering a massive stroke the day before. The diminutive (5-8) 45-year-old Puckett, who spent all 12 MLB seasons with the Minnesota Twins, was a fan favorite because of his hustle and easy-going approach to the game. Many remember him best from the 1991 World Series, where he became the ninth player to win a World Series game when he homered off Atlanta's Charlie Leibrandt to force a game seven, won by the Twins. For his career: 2,304 career hits, 10 All-Star selections and six Gold Gloves. His was a life marked with tragedy: both parents died before they were 50 years old, and Puckett's career was stopped short after he developed glaucoma (resulting in blurry vision). The Chicago native moved from Minnesota to Arizona after two high-profile legal battles: an acrimonious divorce and a court case where he was found not guilty of fifth-degree sexual assault. More from the Pioneer Press.

D.C. exempt on Nationals ballpark overruns
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Contrary to earlier reports, MLB and the Washington Nationals could be on the hook for any cost overruns for a new Nationals ballpark under the terms of a new lease signed by Mayor Anthony Williams yesterday. The lease specifically exempts D.C. from any cost overruns, specifying that the city's financial contribution is capped at $611 million and that any additional funds must be paid by the team or the federal government. No additional council action is needed to seal the lease agreement. The council is scheduled to vote today on legislation to reaffirm the spending cap as well as a separate contract with Clark Construction to build the stadium for a maximum guaranteed price. More from Marc Fisher and the Washington Times.

New deal possible for Silver Hawks
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Negotiations that could result in a new buyer for the South Bend Silver Hawks (Class A; Midwest League), now owned by Alan Levin and Palisades Baseball, are under consideration, according to Levin, who says that he expects to make an announcement by the middle of the week. The statement came on the heels of a Midwest League statement, released late last Friday afternoon, that its attorney, Richard Nussbaum, of South Bend, did not act improperly in his representation of the league during a December discussion involving the sale of the team. We have heard John Simmons has had second thoughts about purchasing the team in light of the league's opposition to a move to Marion, Ill.; we've also heard there's some deliberation of a move of the Savannah Sand Gnats (Class A; Sally League) to Marion, pending league approval.
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Wilder worries about silence from Braves
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Richmond Mayor L. Douglas Wilder said the city still hasn't received the memorandum of understanding he thought the minor-league team's owner, the Atlanta Braves, had promised to deliver in January. Wilder was hoping for the memorandum so the city, developers and the Braves could move forward with a replacement for The Diamond. Time Warner had been in negotiations with Falcons owner Arthur Blank about a sale of the Braves (the talks eventually collapsed) and any commitment to Richmond was most likely put on hold because of the business dealings. Wilder brushed off concerns about any toxic material that might remain in the ground at the proposed Fulton Gas Works site, saying the ballpark itself would be built on the meadow just east of Gillies Creek, with the old gas-works proper to be sealed in concrete and used as parking -- though there's been no testing yet at the site.
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Spring training's return to Charlotte County iffy
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Charlotte County officials now seem down on the chances of landing another MLB to train at Charlotte Sports Park, the former spring home of the Texas Rangers. County officials had discussions in previous years with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and Cleveland Indians. Those teams recommended ballpark improvements that included replacing the seats, adding seats, rebuilding locker rooms and offices, constructing VIP areas and building a berm. The price tag ranged anywhere from $18 million to $35 million -- money that Charlotte County is unwilling to spend. Today the Charlotte Sports Park does generate revenue for the county: it hosts a good number of college tournaments.

San Antonio to Marlins: Include locals
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San Antonio, which is expected to present a ballpark funding proposal to the Marlins this week, already has established one prerequisite: The team must add San Antonio-area minority owners if the Marlins move there, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said Monday. In a telephone interview, Wolff said he has discussed the matter with the Marlins, who apparently don't have a problem with it. Wolff said he has not presented names of any minority owners to the Marlins and hasn't spoken with Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria. Wolff, the former San Antonio mayor who is handling negotiations with the Marlins, this week will present a funding proposal to the team that -- pending voter approval -- would extend a car rental and hotel tax to help pay for a ballpark.

New St. Louis ballpark takes a pass on fluttering neon cardinal
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The neon cardinal that flew in old Busch Stadium is gone with the rubble. It has no flyway amid the high-tech scoreboard gadgetry of the new ballpark. William DeWitt III, the Cardinals' senior vice president, confirmed there will be no such bird in new Busch Stadium. For 23 of the old park's 40 years, including the past seven, two generations of the bird "flew" happily across a neon path whenever a real Cardinal hit a home run. DeWitt said there are two reasons for the bird's passing. It would have been expensive and difficult to salvage, and the design of the new park doesn't have an open space for its wide flight path.

Baseball Notes
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The Houston Astros announced the club's radio broadcast team schedule for the April 2006 schedule of games. The games are divided amongst Hall of Famer Milo Hamilton and the club's two new radio team members, Brett Dolan and Dave Raymond. Additionally, the club announced that the tandem of Bill Brown and Jim Deshaies will serve as the television broadcast team for all 155 of the team's broadcasts this season. Brown is entering his 20th season as the team's primary play-by-play voice on television, while Deshaies is in his 10th season on the Astros broadcast team. Larry Dierker, who served as a color analyst on selected broadcasts from 2004-05, will assume a greater role within the club's community development team and will not appear on broadcasts this season.

MLB signs lease for new Washington Nationals ballpark
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Major League Baseball signed a lease for a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals yesterday, a development baseball officials believe will clear the way for the city to begin construction near the Anacostia River in Southeast and for MLB to choose an owner for the team. MLB delivered a signed document to attorneys for the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission yesterday afternoon, agreeing to the city's condition that the cost of its investment not exceed the $611-million cap that the D.C. Council approved last month. MLB, which owns the Nationals, also agreed to contribute $20 million toward the cost of the stadium, proposed for a 20-acre site near South Capitol Street and the Navy Yard, although it did not agree to cover construction overruns -- a key clause that D.C. officials were unable to turn in their favor. (Virtually every civic ballpark-construction deal in the last 15 years calls for a team to cover cost overruns.) In theory, the Council could reject the lease, but that would prolong things and possibly push the two sides back into arbitration. More from the Washington Times, Reuters and AP.
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Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks
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More on attempts by Glendale, Casa Grande and Goodyear to land one or two teams shifting spring-training operations from Florida to Arizona. The Casa Grande proposal is interesting: A group of 10 businessmen quietly has developed plans for a $130-million recreation park that could house two major-league teams by spring 2008. It would include a 12,000-seat ballpark, 7,000-seat equestrian facility, 50,000-square-foot exhibition hall and other amenities. This proposal, like Goodyear's, relies on state aid and a small bump in a local sales tax to fund construction. The issue may be attracting a team to a city that's not quite Phoenix and definitely not Tucson: the three Tucson teams don't draw nearly as well as the Phoenix teams, and Casa Grande really is a ways out from Phoenix. Then there's the issue of who might make the move -- remember, two teams must make the change for scheduling purposes. The Reds are definitely putting down more roots in Sarasota (see above) and don't show any signs of interest in a westward move. The Indians have talked to several Florida cities (see below) and we would assume the Arizona cities as well. The Orioles seem to have given up on their quest for state funds to renovate Fort Lauderdale Stadium, so you can assume they might be up for a move as well; Sarasota would also appear to be in the mix. (Both the Indians and Orioles formerly trained in Arizona, by the way.) The darkhorse in talks: the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have looked at moving spring-operations to Arizona. Speaking of spring-training facilities: Fort Myers seems to be benefiting greatly from the Twins and Red Sox in the same area.
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Indians believe area can handle a team in Cape
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Speaking of the Cleveland Indians and spring training: though team officials say they'll be in Winter Haven in spring 2007, the chances are slim they'll be there past that. Team officials have spoken highly of a possible move to a complex in Cape Coral, Florida (near Fort Myers), but there are some obstacles: financing (city officials freely admit they have little money) and territory (a complex couldn't land a Florida State League team, as the Fort Myers Miracle controls the rights to the area). Apopka officials have talked about a new training complex in the Orlando suburb.

Wilder's new ballpark plan still strikes out
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Richmond Times-Dispatch's Brian Glass takes issue with Mayor Doug Wilder's plan for a new Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) ballpark on the former Fulton Gas Works site. His problems with the proposal are many. First, it's not clear if there's adequate parking in the area. Second, he questions whether $35 million will be enough: other similar ballpark proposals have cost more (like the recent Nashville ballpark project), and there's likely extensive contamination at the former coal gassification site.
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Zoffinger to Selig: We're perfect venue
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George Zoffinger, chief executive of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, continues to beat his drum proclaiming the Meadowlands as the perfect place for a third MLB team in the New York City metro market. With the Mets and Yankees planning on spending well over a billion dollars on new ballparks in the next three years, it is highly unlikely either team would allow the placement of a New Jersey franchise without a very loud and public battle; the NFL's New York Giants would probably also raise a huge battle over any public monies given to lure a baseball team to the Meadowlands.

New ballpark heats up Greenville's West End development
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A month before opening day, the area around a new ballpark for the Greenville Drive (Class A; Sally League) is bustling with development and redevelopment. New buildings are being built and old ones renovated in the West End area, as office space is filling up and retailers are moving in. Local real estate brokers say out-of-town investors and developers are eyeing -- and buying -- property. Much of the development was in the works before the stadium site was announced. But Realtors believe demand for West End property has increased as a result of the ballpark.

Fair ball: New Cards ballpark to appeal to both hitters, pitchers
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How the new Busch Stadium, the home of the St. Louis Cardinals, will play is only an educated and informed theory until a pitch is thrown there, even as the final bricks are placed. Several of the newer fields in baseball have not played as perceived on paper. Some veer dramatically from their intended designs -- becoming homer havens or pitcher parks. A few have struck the desired balance. Since the new ballpark's initial conception, the guiding request from owners, from the baseball people and from the fans has been to have a neutral field. No near walls, no gimmicks, no cutesy nooks or contrived crannies. Who may benefit the most: fans who have seats closer to the field.

New for 2006: The Edinburg Coyotes
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The name of the new Edinburg franchise in the independent United League: the Edinburg Coyotes. Now, there's some wit in the name choice: in cartoons, Wiley E. Coyote chases the Roadrunner, and this is a case where the Coyotes are displacing the Edinburg Roadrunners (independent; American Association). But more than that a coyote is a pretty marketable name and lends itself to a logo and a mascot. Toros, Palominos and even Jaguarundis, a rare mountain cat indigenous to the Rio Grande Valley, were also considered as the team name. More from the McAllen Monitor.
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Is Kansas City stadium tax good deal for voters?
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In April voters in Jackson County will decide whether to fund renovations of Kauffman Stadium, the home of the Kansas City Royals, and Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs, with additional sales and use taxes. The pot was sweetened over the weekend when NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue announced the Chiefs could land the 2015 Super Bowl if a rolling roof between the facilities was approved. There are no hard-and-fast conclusions drawn here, but it's a pretty good analysis of the economics of ballpark and stadium renovation.
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A new downtown castle?
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More on the potential new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Class A; Midwest League). The basic issue: whether a new downtown ballpark would be worth the financial investment, especially when it means walking away from Memorial Stadium, which dates back to 1993. The issue with Memorial Stadium isn't physical obsolescence; it's whether the city and team would do better with a downtown ballpark containing all the newer amenities. New downtown ballparks on the Class A level tend to do fairly well; Fifth Third Field, the home of the Dayton Dragons (Class A; Midwest League), is a prime example. Tim Haffner, who helped bring the Wizards to Fort Wayne and is part-owner of Victory Sports, comments on the new ballpark.
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Selig defends World Baseball Classic
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Baseball commissioner Bud Selig defended the World Baseball Classic on Saturday, dismissing criticism that players put themselves at further risk of injury by participating. New York owner George Steinbrenner has said he is worried star players might get injured, and some general managers have not been enthusiastic. At Legends Field in Tampa, the Yankees posted a sign apologizing to fans that some players were missing because they were at the WBC -- which apparently pissed off MLB officials, who ordered it down. So far crowds have been less than stellar for the opening-round games in Japan: attendance for the first three days (six games) barely totaled 100,000.
    RELATED STORIES:  No WBC in his perfect world; Cactus boss sees little impact from world games

Yonkers would get $10.4M, new firehouse in ballpark deal
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Yonkers (N.Y.) would sell several parcels of city-controlled property for $10.4 million and receive a new fire headquarters as part of a revised agreement between the city and a trio of developers that would kick off a $3.1 billion development deal for downtown and the waterfront. The deal is outlined in a new draft of a master-developer agreement renegotiated between Mayor Phil Amicone and developers Louis Cappelli, Bill Struever and Marc Berson that would let the partnership proceed with its plans. The proposal features a minor-league ballpark for an expansion franchise of the independent Atlantic League as the centerpiece of a remaking of the city's southwest quadrant. It includes scores of new residences and retail.
    RELATED STORIES: Yonkers redevelopment deal still hanging fire; Yonkers council seeks revised waterfront plan; Yonkers to court council, public on $3.1B development plan; Cappelli, partners unveil $3.1 billion plan for downtown Yonkers; Cappelli expected to team with Struever on Yonkers ballpark

Owner smartly balancing cents and sensibility
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One lingering issue for San Diego Padres fans: despite a new ballpark and a host of new revenue sources, the team's payroll is still in the middle of the National League: $66.4 million in 2005. Given that San Diego is a smaller market, that number might appear to be right, but then again the Padres generated $150 million in local revenues last season. Team officials say $15 million of that alone is dedicated to debt reduction, leaving us back to the conclusion that the team's payroll is probably where it should be, considering there are no other big spenders in the National League West.

Business wizards try baseball magic
Posted March 6, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More on developer Chris Schoen and attorney Jason Freier, who are leading up a group of investors buying the Fort Wayne Wizards (Class A; Midwest League) pending league, MiLB and MLB approval. The pair, who have no experience in sports-franchise ownership, plan on acquiring other teams in other leagues and sports.
    RELATED STORIES: Fort Wayne Wizards sold;

Marlins move may spur border battle
Posted March 6, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If the Florida Marlins are indeed in play -- and we're not totally convinced they are -- two of the likely suitors for the team will be San Antonio and Oklahoma City, which could spur a border battle. Despite support from Judge Nelson Wolff, you don't get the sense the San Antonio business or political establishments really want to generate much enthusiasm for Major League Baseball; Mayor Phil Hardberger has been pretty adamant in his desire for an NFL team, and football does rule in Texas. The business community in Oklahoma City, on the other hand, is pretty hungry for major-league sports: the NBA's temporarily relocated Hornets have drawn well and received a ton of civic support. Plus, the market is a good baseball market, with the Oklahoma Redhawks (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) drawing well. Still, if the Marlins were really serious about moving, we'd expect a meeting with Las Vegas officials -- and until that happens, we'll write off all this as mere posturing to land a Florida ballpark deal.
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Planning to remake Old Orchard ballpark starts over
Posted March 6, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
When Old Orchard Beach officials proposed converting the former home of the Maine Guides (Class AAA; International League) into a large commercial development last summer, many residents balked at what they saw as top-down plans coming from Town Hall. Nearly a year later, the original concept has been abandoned. Now it's the public's turn to decide what they would like to see done with the derelict minor league baseball stadium and 50 surrounding acres at the center of town.

Baseball Notes
Posted March 6, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) have a new flagship station for the 2006 season: WNWS News/Talk 101.5 FM. This will mark the fifth season in Jaxx history that WNWS News/Talk 101.5 FM has broadcast the Diamond Jaxx games; the station previously broadcast the Diamond Jaxx games during the 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2002 seasons....The Atlantic City Surf (independent; Atlantic League) has announced the promotions of two front-office members: Greg Lynch is the new general manager, while former GM Mario Perrucci has been promoted to vice president. Lynch comes to Atlantic City after holding positions with three major-league organizations: the Florida Marlins, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and the Detroit Tigers. In these roles, Lynch was an integral part of the sponsorship and ticket sales team. He also has minor-league experience working with the Charleston RiverDogs (Class A; Sally League) and serving as a consultant with the El Paso Diablos and the St. Joseph Blacksnakes (both independent; American Association. Perrucci has been with the Surf since its inception in 1998, and has served as GM for the past five seasons, guiding Atlantic City to three playoff appearances in that time....The Washington Nationals and Mid-Atlantic Sports Network announced their television broadcast team for the 2006 season, tapping veteran broadcasters Bob Carpenter to handle play-by-play and Tom Paciorek for color analysis. They will be in the Nationals' TV booth for 158 games this season, including 4 preseason contests. Carpenter and Paciorek make their MASN debut March 18 when the Nationals take on their division rival New York Mets.