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Archives: July 23-29, 2006

7 million sold sets Yankee, Mets record
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
This season, the Yankees and Mets already have combined to sell the most tickets in New York baseball history -- more than 1955's "Next Year," more than the 1969 Miracle and more than any of the Yanks' glory years of the late 1990s. The second-place Yankees have sold four million tickets to Yankee Stadium and top the majors in average attendance (51,568). The first-place Mets have sold 3.1 million tickets to Shea Stadium and are fourth in average at 42,620. The two teams played each other in the most highly attended game in the majors this season -- May 19 at Shea Stadium, when 56,289 were on hand to see the Mets edge the Yanks, 7-6.

Ruffin's name comes up as buyer for Wranglers
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Billionaire businessman Phil Ruffin has emerged as a possible owner of the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League), but it's not quite as simple as Ruffin handing $10 million to the Rich family to keep the team in Lawrence-Dumont Stadium. The Wichita Eagle is incorrect on some points here, and it's considerably more complicated than the good folks of Wichita seem to believe, according to some high-ranking baseball officials we've consulted. For starters, the city of Wichita -- not Ruffin or another third party -- has the first option to buy the Wranglers should ownership break the team's lease for Lawrence-Dumont Stadium, and the purchase must occur within 30 days of the Wranglers informing the city of the lease termination. Then, the Texas League, MiLB and MLB must approve that sale. The city can then flip the team to Ruffin or another third part, but the Texas League, MiLB and MLB must approve that sale as well. However -- and this is important -- from what we gather the Wranglers' lease doesn't have a performance clause, which means the Wranglers could keep the lease (the city is paid only if there are actual sales of suites and tickets) to Lawrence-Dumont Stadium for the 2009 season, run the National Baseball Congress -- which, by the way, opens tonight -- for a couple weeks, and then be able to walk away. (Specifically, the lease provides the city half of skybox-rental revenue; half of the parking revenue; 15 percent of all gross revenue from sales of food, soft drinks and alcohol; 10 percent of ad sales revenue; and 8 percent of ticket revenue. Wichita also receives 25 percent of revenue from special events the team hosts. The Wranglers are responsible for daily maintenance and are allowed to subtract utility and daily maintenance expenses from rent payments.) Ruffin actually doesn't sound too enthusiastic about buying the team (his nose must tell him it's not doing well), so it's probably a long shot at best. More on the NBC here.
    RELATED STORIES: Consultant leads Springdale ball team negotiations; Wichita business leaders discuss how to keep Wranglers; Kayser: Wranglers would take Texas League with them; Wranglers' dugout can be the pits; Official: Don’t expect Springdale team name soon; City may get a chance to counter Wrangler offer; Wichita pitching to keep team; Team declaration a waiting game in Springdale; Springdale vote certification put on hold; City officials: Lawrence-Dumont can compete with new ballparks; Wichita awaits sign from Wranglers owner; Interest in Springdale ballpark spreading; Who could step up to the plate to keep pro baseball in Wichita?; Springdale voters narrowly approve ballpark funding; Why don't Wichitans turn out for Wranglers?; Wichita may accelerate improvements to Lawrence-Dumont Stadium; Pastor supports ballpark minus alcohol presence; City caught by surprise on possible Wranglers move; Arkansas town woos Wranglers; Sponsors of Springdale ballpark sure of need; New ballpark to be boon for Springdale, city officials say; Springdale Chamber pushes for support for ballpark; Election Commission finalizes details for Springdale ballpark vote; Springdale ballpark details still under construction; Chamber wants July 11 election on Springdale ballpark tax; If Springdale ballpark built team will follow, planners are told; Royals’ farm club seeks home?; Mayor’s idea: Extend bond, gain baseball; Bond underwriters to study Springdale ballpark funding options; Turn-back funds to go for Springdale ballpark; Springdale ballpark site under contract; Springdale: Chamber fielding baseball inquiries; Texas League boss dispels baseball chatter; Public money may be needed to build Springdale ballpark; Springdale: Sports park feasible, study claims

Chamber, firm hiding the ball on Springdale team talks
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Springdale’s Chamber of Commerce and its Minnesota baseball consulting firm refused Thursday to release documents generated during negotiations with a minor league team for the use of a proposed city-owned ballpark. Perry Webb, president and CEO of the chamber, said Wednesday that he would follow the advice of Springdale City Attorney Jeff Harper and release the data. But he changed his mind Thursday, saying he’d rather face a lawsuit than provide the documents. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette had requested the documents under the state Freedom of Information Act. What we're guessing we'll find: that talks between the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) and Springdale have gone far beyond just the casual contact both sides have hinted at during the past two months. Springdale plans to build a $50-million ballpark in the city’s southwest area and lease it to a Class AA Texas League.

Rumors confirmed: Brewers adding chorizo to sausage race
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
You could feel the tension build all the way here in Minnesota as the Milwaukee Brewers kept fans in suspense over the identity of the fifth sausage added to the popular Sausage Race at Miller Park. Wearing an oversized brown sombrero and a bright yellow shirt emblazoned with the number five, chorizo became the fifth pork product to run the famed sausage race at the home of the Milwaukee Brewers. He signed a contract with Brewers general manager Doug Melvin at a news conference at the ballpark and then went for a run with the other sausages: Italian, bratwurst, Polish and hot dog. More from the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
    RELATED STORIES: Brewers going spicy with new sausage

Study supports downtown Fort Wayne ballpark
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Not really a surprise: the BaseballPLUS group, composed of 21 city, county, business and community leaders, supports a new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League). The report stated that the committee could find no reason to suggest the success of other communities, such as Dayton and Lansing, can’t be achieved in Fort Wayne. The committee asked the city to "promptly" define the scope of a mixed-use development downtown that features a new ballpark, housing and retail. The committee also recommended for the city to develop a funding plan to attract a "significant" amount of private capital and take advantage of public financing options available downtown. It recommended building the ballpark to Class AA standards. Reggie Hayes wants a new ballpark, but he doesn't want to pay for it.
    RELATED STORIES: Can downtown Fort Wayne ballpark be a boon?; Learning by example from Dayton; Fort Wayne looks at improvements to Memorial Stadium; A new(er) ballpark in Fort Wayne?; Ballpark panel sees one diamond in future; New owners bring fresh ideas to Fort Wayne; Fort Wayne's baseball future may be downtown; A new downtown castle?; Memorial Stadium far from obsolete; Fort Wayne Wizards sold; Fort Wayne ballpark has 50 years of usability left, says architect; Debate begins on proposed downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Group set to discuss downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Field of dreams in Fort Wayne?

Canam Group wins C$70 million contract to build new Mets ballpark
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Canam Group Inc., a Canadian maker of steel beams, won a C$70 million (US$61.8 million) contract to help build the New York Mets' new ballpark in Queens. The company's Structal subsidiary will erect the steel structure of the 45,000-seat ballpark, to be located next to the current Shea Stadium, during 2007, Ville Saint-Georges, Quebec- based Canam said in a statement today. The ballpark will be completed in time for the April start of the 2009 Major League Baseball season at a cost of $600 million, the statement said.
    RELATED STORIES: New York City receives IRS approval on ballpark bonds; New York Agency approves ballpark financing for Yankees, Mets; MTA pressed to create shortcut to Shea; Is Steinbrenner house, which Ruth built, poor?; NY City Council easily passes Yankees, Mets ballpark bonding bills; Squeeze play on Mets ballpark; Mets: Forget about naming new park after Jackie Robinson; New Mets ballpark deal is stalled; Squeeze play on the Mets; Strike one for new Mets ballpark; Mets park's name will fetch millions; Mets unveil plans for new ballpark; Yankees, Mets closer to new ballparks; City goes to bat for Yankees, Mets ballparks; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Ebbets' echoes in Queens; At Mets' park, you'll think you're in...Pittsburgh?; State agency approves plans for Yankees, Mets ballparks; Mets to go old school in new park

Radatz says Northwoods League TV deal is complete
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The summer collegiate Northwoods League’s cable television deal is complete -- and as many as 16 teams could be vying for airtime by the contract’s second year. The league has preliminary approval to place a team in Green Bay's Joannes Field, and Battle Creek, Mich., is still on the team's radar for 2007; beyond that there are groups interested in bringing teams to Bismarck, N.D., Prior Lake, Minn., and Chaska, Minn. (Here's another place the NWL should look: a new $3.4-million ballpark is under construction in Minnetonka, Minn., already slated to have seating for 600, FieldTurf and plenty of parking.) (Disclaimer: we sit on the NWL's Board of Advisors.)
    RELATED STORIES: Green Bay, Northwoods League to discuss lease; Northwoods League baseball coming to Green Bay?

Sens, Nats, it's still the same ol' ballpark
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More on the efforts of the new owners of the Washington Nationals to bring some new life to the franchise and RFK Stadium. This article is right that it feels like a time warp at RFK Stadium, and while there are many things wrong with the old ballpark, it's perfectly fine as a temporary facility while a new ballpark is built. Besides, with the power cleaning and new concessions, there are some noteworthy aspects to RFK Stadium that should bring fans back to the ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: More funds might be needed to build garages next to new D.C. ballpark; D.C. developer sways the city with big bucks and big ideas; Lerner name means plenty, as Nats deal is closed; Host of problems at new-look RFK; MLB: D.C. government in default of lease agreement; D.C. Council approves parking garage plan; Nats announce 'Grand Reopening' for old RFK; Environmental issues raise concerns on new Nats ballpark; D.C. mayor asks for ballpark plan approval; D.C. parking plan faces significant hurdles; Compromise reached on D.C. ballpark parking; Nats sale targeted for July finalization; D.C. mayor offers proposal to end ballpark parking controversy; Battle brews for control of D.C. ballpark project; Nationals firm on issue of above-ground parking; Hazmat removal at D.C. ballpark site up by $2.9M; Nats ready to pitch sponsorship deals for new ballpark; D.C. ballpark plan clears important hurdle, but concerns linger; D.C.'s Williams creates Office of Baseball; The Nationals' wish list; Nats owners want city to shift gears on parking; Lerner group plans RFK 'grand reopening'; Lerner receives initial approval to buy Nats; full approval expected today; Nats ballpark design up in the air; It's official: Lerner nabs Nats

Kane, Cougars close to new deal
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A long-term renegotiated contract between the Kane County Cougars (Low Class A; Midwest League) and the Kane County Forest Preserve District probably will be presented to district officials next Friday. The deal would keep the minor-league team at Phillip Elfstrom Stadium in Geneva beyond 2010, when its contract expires. The Cougars are looking to install an upper deck with skybox-type suites at the ballpark, in addition to improving and expanding its kitchen, offices and other areas.
    RELATED STORIES: Cougars may get cozier confines

Aloha Stadium losing baseball configuration
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Aloha Stadium -- once hailed as a state-of-the-art multipurpose sports facility -- will no longer host baseball under a rule change that will lock the stadium's movable grandstands in a football configuration. The authority's decision to lock the grandstands came in a unanimous vote to delete a rule requiring the grandstands be moved into baseball configuration once a year. Baseball advocate Al Kam, in a public hearing that drew little testimony at the stadium yesterday, opposed locking the grandstands. He said the change would limit baseball opportunities for the state and would prevent his summer collegiate league, the Hawaii Collegiate Baseball League, from using the stadium. Kam said Ala Wai Field does not have adequate lighting for night games, Central O'ahu Regional Park has problems with harsh sun, Waipahu's Hans L'Orange Park is not centrally located and Les Murakami Stadium at the University of Hawai'i needs to be refurbished. The move also prevents promoters from bidding on World Baseball Classic or spring-training games.
    RELATED STORIES: Football and baseball compete as Aloha Stadium's future takes shape

Dylan adds dates to ballpark tour
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Bob Dylan has added some dates to his 2006 ballpark concert tour. The three new dates: A Sept. 7 date at Rochester's Mayo Field, the home of the Rochester Honkers (summer collegiate; Northwoods League); a Sept. 8 date at Sioux Falls Stadium, the home of the Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association); and a Sept. 9 date at Fargo's Newman Outdoor Field, the home of the NDSU baseball team. Tickets for all three dates go on sale Aug. 5 at 10 a.m.

City gives Silver Hawks reduced rent to help them stay in town
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The city of South Bend has reduced the rent paid by the South Bend Silver Hawks (Low Class A; Midwest League) to make sure the Hawks don't fly the coop. This year, the lease payments for Coveleski Stadium have been reduced by 50 percent. This year, the Silver Hawks will pay a total of $75,000 in rent to call the Cove their home; that’s half price. City officials say the reduced rent for 2006 is likely to be a one-shot deal, that the rent will likely rise again in 2007 and 2008.

Podesto calls for probe of jury
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A civil grand jury's blistering report on the financing and construction of Stockton Arena and Banner Island Ballpark is so biased and untrue that the current jury should investigate the previous panel, former Stockton Mayor Gary Podesto wrote in a letter to the San Joaquin County civil grand jury. The grand jury's report was published last month and scolded the City Council for giving then-City Manager Mark Lewis almost total control over the Stockton Events Center project, the cost of which increased from $115.4 million to about $131 million. The waterfront ballpark and arena opened in 2005. The chance anything will actually happen because of Podesto's letter: slim and none.

A game -- and team -- for the fans
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The Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association) are a community team in the truest sense: owner Quint Studer has put a lot of work into establishing the team and renovating a college ballpark, but he wants more. Studer, a health-care consultant, is pushing voters to approve the $70 million Community Maritime Park project, which is planned for nearly 30 acres south of Main Street and across from City Hall. Park features would include a multiuse ballpark that would be the new home to the Pelicans if voters approve the project on Sept. 5. A maritime museum, educational center, conference center, offices, stores and open space also would be part of the complex.

Bid deadline extended for new York ballpark
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Construction companies will have nearly two extra weeks to place bids on York's proposed ballpark for an independent Atlantic League team, according to a news release from the York County Industrial Development Authority issued Thursday. The deadline for bids for the York Outdoor Recreation Complex has been extended from Aug. 2 at 2 p.m. to Aug. 15 at 2 p.m., the release stated. The authority is to award the construction contracts during its Sept. 5 meeting.
    RELATED STORIES: Next up in York: Construction bids; New for 2007: The York Revolution; York ballpark project gets OK; York team name finalists announced; York hopes to duplicate Lancaster Barnstormers' success; Owner fights seizure for York ballpark; HARB OKs razing for York ballpark; State grant brings York ballpark nearer; Review unlikely to derail York ballpark; Preservation voice needed on York ballpark project?; Sharing the history behind York's ballpark site; Lease deal set for York ballpark; 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?

Tointon Stadium FieldTurf update
Posted July 28, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Work continues at Tointon Stadium, the home of Kansas State baseball, as new FieldTurf is being installed on the entire infield and on the warning track in preparation for the 2007 season. The new surface consists of green turf on the infield area and foul ground territory with a deep red turf taking up the baselines and normal infield dirt area along with the warning track around the entire field. The only dirt surface on the field will be on the pitcher's mound and around home plate, while the outfield will still be a natural grass surface.

Williams seeks meeting to heal rift with Lerners
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We're guessing there barely will be room for all the egos when this meeting happens: D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams is seeking a meeting with the Lerner family, saying they have been "condescending" in dealings with the city. Relations between the owners and the city have deteriorated in recent weeks over parking facilities at the new Washington Nationals ballpark planned along the Anacostia River. Williams said in his weekly news conference that although he respects the Lerners "enormously," the owners had tried to minimize the city's role in building the ballpark near South Capitol Street and the Navy Yard in Southeast Washington. Given other actions by the Lerners and MLB officials, it's clear both are nervous about the opening of the new ballpark on time -- and well they should be. More from the Washington Times and AP.
    RELATED STORIES: More funds might be needed to build garages next to new D.C. ballpark; D.C. developer sways the city with big bucks and big ideas; Lerner name means plenty, as Nats deal is closed; Host of problems at new-look RFK; MLB: D.C. government in default of lease agreement; D.C. Council approves parking garage plan; Nats announce 'Grand Reopening' for old RFK; Environmental issues raise concerns on new Nats ballpark; D.C. mayor asks for ballpark plan approval; D.C. parking plan faces significant hurdles; Compromise reached on D.C. ballpark parking; Nats sale targeted for July finalization; D.C. mayor offers proposal to end ballpark parking controversy; Battle brews for control of D.C. ballpark project; Nationals firm on issue of above-ground parking; Hazmat removal at D.C. ballpark site up by $2.9M; Nats ready to pitch sponsorship deals for new ballpark; D.C. ballpark plan clears important hurdle, but concerns linger; D.C.'s Williams creates Office of Baseball; The Nationals' wish list; Nats owners want city to shift gears on parking; Lerner group plans RFK 'grand reopening'; Lerner receives initial approval to buy Nats; full approval expected today; Nats ballpark design up in the air; It's official: Lerner nabs Nats

Consultant leads Springdale ball team negotiations
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The consulting firm that proclaimed Springdale, Ark., ready for professional sports is leading the negotiations with the baseball team the city hopes to land in its newly approved ballpark. Springdale voters approved a sales tax extension July 11 to fund a $50 million ballpark project. Conventions, Sports & Leisure International of Wayzata, Minn., now is negotiating on behalf of the city with the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League), the team considering a move. Last week, the Wranglers forwarded a memorandum of understanding to the firm, said Brian Parker, a manager in the firm. The memorandum included specific dollar amounts for a lease agreement and other figures.
    RELATED STORIES: Wichita business leaders discuss how to keep Wranglers; Kayser: Wranglers would take Texas League with them; Wranglers' dugout can be the pits; Official: Don’t expect Springdale team name soon; City may get a chance to counter Wrangler offer; Wichita pitching to keep team; Team declaration a waiting game in Springdale; Springdale vote certification put on hold; City officials: Lawrence-Dumont can compete with new ballparks; Wichita awaits sign from Wranglers owner; Interest in Springdale ballpark spreading; Who could step up to the plate to keep pro baseball in Wichita?; Springdale voters narrowly approve ballpark funding; Why don't Wichitans turn out for Wranglers?; Wichita may accelerate improvements to Lawrence-Dumont Stadium; Pastor supports ballpark minus alcohol presence; City caught by surprise on possible Wranglers move; Arkansas town woos Wranglers; Sponsors of Springdale ballpark sure of need; New ballpark to be boon for Springdale, city officials say; Springdale Chamber pushes for support for ballpark; Election Commission finalizes details for Springdale ballpark vote; Springdale ballpark details still under construction; Chamber wants July 11 election on Springdale ballpark tax; If Springdale ballpark built team will follow, planners are told; Royals’ farm club seeks home?; Mayor’s idea: Extend bond, gain baseball; Bond underwriters to study Springdale ballpark funding options; Turn-back funds to go for Springdale ballpark; Springdale ballpark site under contract; Springdale: Chamber fielding baseball inquiries; Texas League boss dispels baseball chatter; Public money may be needed to build Springdale ballpark; Springdale: Sports park feasible, study claims

A new attitude at the Trop
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Though the young Tampa Bay Devil Rays are still struggling on the field, more fans are paying attention to the likes of Scott Kazmir and Carl Crawford. Attendance at Tropicana Field for the Rays is up 30 percent over last year, when the Rays drew fewer fans than any Major League Baseball team. The ballpark’s gotten a $10-million facelift that includes a New York-themed batting cage, game booths and a tank stocked with cownose rays. Concession stands have dropped prices, and people can bring in food. Parking in team-managed lots is free. And, for the first time, fans can tailgate.
    RELATED STORIES: Rays put name change on hold; Fans finding hope in Devil Rays; Like the old stickball days at Tropicana Field; Rays taking ownership; A whole new ball game in Tampa Bay; Same old Rays? Not today

Lots to learn about new plan for Cobb Field
Posted July 27, 2006 (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), a ballpark that opened in 1948 but is unfortunately showing its age. The trouble -- and a trouble that could come back to haunt ballpark proponents when the vote arrives this fall -- is that they're not working with specifics. The City County authorized a bond vote for $12.5 million, the cost of a new ballpark. But exactly what the $12.5 million buys is not outlined anywhere: there's no budget, no renderings, nothing firm, If Billings officials want the plan approved, they had better come up with details before the November vote -- voters almost always show an aversion to approving spending without specifics.
    RELATED STORIES: Bond issue for Cobb Field replacement on ballot; Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field; Potential gift could pare price of Cobb Field; Funding dominates Cobb discussion; Billings needs ballpark to be proud of, not field of dreams; Panel details ways to cut Billings ballpark costs; Cobb Field panel pursues closer look at costs; Billings panel asks for Cobb Field tax measure; Forums planned on Cobb Field proposal; Poll finds support for bonds for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

A's plight draws little reaction from their fans
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Talk of moving always dampens attendance, so there's little surprise the Oakland A's at struggling at the McAfee Coliseum box office this season after an offseason filled with discussions of a move to Fremont. The A's and the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Authority are working on a three-year extension to the team's McAfee Coliseum lease (which isn't as serious as it sounds -- they're adding three one-year extensions) -- but in general folks seem to be tuning out the A's, who entered the All-Star break with a total attendance figure of 1,036,258 fans through 46 home dates at McAfee Coliseum. That put the team 27th in the major leagues in attendance, ahead of only Tampa Bay, Kansas City and Florida. The team was averaging only 22,527 people per game, compared with 26,038 per game last season.
    RELATED STORIES: A's to decide ballpark fate by end of season; Fremont's attempt to lure A's running into obstacles; 'Let's plan for A's move,' Coliseum agency told; San Jose voters jeer ballpark plan; Wolff wants to keep A's in Bay Area; A's, Fremont near deal; A's must stay, Oakland mayor candidates say; A's close to deal for Fremont ballpark, officials say; Rumors trail A's search for new ballpark; A's owner in Fremont for meetings; Wolff says there's land for new A's ballpark in Fremont; A's officials confirm interest in new Fremont ballpark; A's take long look at Fremont ballpark site; The San Jose A's of Fremont?; San Jose will buy land for A's ballpark; Will smaller mean better for the A's?; A's committed to intimate 34,000 park in '06; A's owner's new plan for ballpark; Talks for new A's ballpark sputter; Soccer stadium throws curve at San Jose baseball plan; A's ownership group wants to buy MLS expansion team for San Jose; Athletics denied 3-year Coliseum lease extension; A's ballpark: 'Baseball Village' in the vision stage; Planning ahead to get A's to San Jose; San Jose buys first parcel of land for ballpark; Land acquisition for San Jose ballpark may cost $100 million; San Jose goes to bat for ballpark property; Fremont will consider a pitch for A's; Wolff on the hunt for more A's fans, new ballpark; Oakland ballpark village plan designed to win allies, public funds; Wolff's vision of ballpark raises questions; Wolff unveils plans for 35,000-seat ballpark near Coliseum; A's owner to offer specific ballpark plan to keep team in Oakland; Have A's settled on new ballpark site?; Smallball suits Lew Wolff just fine; A's think small with stadium plans; Fremont politicians make a pitch for A's; A's say Coliseum lot isn't feasible; Athletics announce committee to plan new Oakland ballpark; Another San Jose site eyed for baseball; The time has come for new A's ballpark; No specifics on new Oakland ballpark, but plans in the works; San Jose quits discussions on cannery; Wolff about to take over; Going to bat for A's is big opportunity for San Jose mayor; Wolff: A's ballpark already in works; Deal near for San Jose cannery site; For A's, way to San Jose paved with uncertainty; San Jose baseball crusader makes his pitch; A's sale could happen quickly; Sale of A's to heighten San Jose intrigue; BART to the ballpark, what a vision; Another San Jose pitch for baseball; San Jose mayor makes his pitch; Q&A with A's new owner Lew Wolff

Can downtown Fort Wayne ballpark be a boon?
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The BaseballPLUS group, composed of 21 city, county, business and community leaders, will release its report Friday on whether to build a new downtown ballpark for the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League). If the Wizards’ new home is built, Dan Carmody, president of the Downtown Improvement District and a downtown-ballpark advocate, said success will be judged, more than anything, by its ability to spark life downtown.
    RELATED STORIES: Fort Wayne looks at improvements to Memorial Stadium; A new(er) ballpark in Fort Wayne?; Ballpark panel sees one diamond in future; New owners bring fresh ideas to Fort Wayne; Fort Wayne's baseball future may be downtown; A new downtown castle?; Memorial Stadium far from obsolete; Fort Wayne Wizards sold; Fort Wayne ballpark has 50 years of usability left, says architect; Debate begins on proposed downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Group set to discuss downtown Fort Wayne ballpark; Field of dreams in Fort Wayne?

Learning by example from Dayton
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
As Fort Wayne officials and residents continue to debate the merits of a new downtown ballpark, they're looking for examples of a successful downtown facility -- and one such facility is Fifth Third Field, the home of the Dayton Dragons (Low Class A; Midwest League). The Dragons are one of the big success stories in baseball -- their current sellout streak of 470-plus games is just ridiculous -- and their presence has helped revitalize downtown Dayton. But a downtown ballpark isn't always a guarantee of an economic boom: South Bend wasn't helped that much by Covaleski Stadium, downtown Peoria was certainly helped by O'Brien Field, and though progress has been slow, Lansing's Oldsmobile Field is finally paying dividends. In other words, building a downtown ballpark can generate growth, but doesn’t guarantee it.

Giving fans the 'Wow' factor in Fort Wayne
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If a new downtown ballpark is not forthcoming, the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League) and the Memorial Stadium management want to be ready with ballpark updates. On Wizards GM Mike Nutter's list: a new playing field, enclosed batting cages, an outfield berm, covered seatbacks, a videoboard and more.

Paying for Memorial Stadium
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Should a new downtown Fort Wayne ballpark be built, the issue then becomes what to do with the current home of the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League), Memorial Stadium. Debt isn't an issue: Memorial Stadium cost about $6.3 million to build, with roughly equal funding coming from coliseum operating revenues, the county food and beverage tax and the City Light trust, generated by Indiana Michigan Power’s lease of the city’s former electric utility. Only $380,000 in construction expenses remain and will be paid off by the end of next year. By demolishing Memorial Stadium, the coliseum would avoid losing money on an underused facility and gain about 400 badly needed parking spaces. But doing so also would deny the community use of a paid-for facility that won’t be physically obsolete for at least 50 years.

Fall League, Scorpions to return to Scottsdale Stadium
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Arizona Fall League baseball and the Scottsdale Scorpions will return to Scottsdale Stadium in October after missing last season because of renovations to the downtown ballpark. If you're a baseball fan and want to check out the prospect front, the six-team Fall League is an abundance of riches: you'll see more than a handful of future major leaguers in every game. Scottsdale's two teams, the Scorpions and Grand Canyon Rafters, played in Surprise last fall while Scottsdale Stadium underwent a major renovation. The Rafters will remain in Surprise this fall because the Giants are using Scottsdale Stadium for an instructional league while their other training fields at Indian School Park are improved. The other Fall League teams will stay put, with the Solar Sox at Mesa's Hohokam Park, the Desert Dogs at Phoenix Municipal Stadium, and the Javelinas and Saguaros at the Peoria Sports Complex.

The Golden experience
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With Santa Clarita Valley targeted as a future home to an independent Golden Baseball League franchise, the local newspaper profiles what goes on a typical GBL game. The league's plans for 2007 remain to be seen: the six-team league plans on adding a St. George, Utah franchise for 2007, and adding a team in the Santa Clarita Valley would balance the schedule. There's just one problem: there's no place for the team to play, though a decision appears to be eminent.

LSU releases ballpark plans
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A new ballpark for LSU players and fans took one more step to becoming reality Wednesday when athletic director Skip Bertman released architectural renderings. The new Alex Box Stadium, slated to open during the 2008 season, will be located at the corner of Nicholson Drive and Gourrier Lane, about 200 yards south of the current site of Alex Box Stadium, and will seat 8,500 fans. In the new Alex Box Stadium, the Tiger baseball team will enjoy 6,000 additional square feet of locker and meeting room space and new batting cages, 700 more seats under roof, 7,000 additional square feet of restroom accommodations, 3,000 additional square feet of concession stands, expanded ticket booths, an arcade and novelty shop, children's play grounds and a Hall of Fame and a Club Lounge. More from the Advocate.

New scoreboard, turf coming to Goss Stadium
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Now that they’ve got a national championship and their head coach has re-signed, the Oregon State Beavers are focusing on some behind-the-scenes improvements. A $500,000 electronic scoreboard is going up in right center, replacing the 20-year-old Scott Halbrook Memorial Scoreboard. The new one will have replay capabilities. Additionally, a synthetic infield surface will be installed in October, after fall practice, and the coaches’ offices in Gill Coliseum are getting made over.

Mets' network gets a look at YES' new interactivity
Posted July 27, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
YES Network unveiled a new look for DirecTV subscribers:  Yankees fans can now get player statistics, league standings, in-game box scores, even a view from a secondary camera with the click of a button on the DirecTV remote. Tracy Dolgin, chief executive of YES, said the technology gives his network a new menu of advertising opportunities to sell to sponsors -- expect logos on those stat boxes before too long -- and is aimed at the passionate audiences that tune into Yankees games. Whether it will yield a ton of new subscribers to DirecTV is another matter. (Thanks to John Cerone.)

Sarasota ballpark plan stirs resistance
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Resistance to a new spring-training complex for the Cincinnati Reds in Sarasota already is surfacing in the tourism industry, whose customers would help pay for the $54 million project. A recommendation headed for the Sarasota County Commission on Aug. 22 holds the cornerstone of the financing: half of a 1 percent increase in the county's tourist tax. The one-half percent would generate $1.15 million a year, cash flow that is crucial to the city of Sarasota's financing scheme. Some of the businesses that would collect the tax think the city is going after too much of the money that they hoped would be available for marketing.
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Sarasota budget cuts may include Ed Smith Stadium
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With all the talk of a new Cincinnati Reds spring-training facility, the release of attendance figures for Ed Smith Stadium -- the current spring home of the Reds and the home of the Sarasota Reds (High Class A; Florida State League) -- was none too encouraging. Despite having a rain-free spring, the Reds had an overall attendance of 84,411 fans during the most recent season, compared to 91,012 in 2005, or a decrease of about 7.25 percent, according to city records. The Sarasota Reds sunk to last in attendance in the FSL, drawing around 28,000 fans all season long. Not that there's a danger of Sarasota not funding Ed Smith Stadium, but don't look for any increases in the facility's budget.

City agrees to fund ballpark suite construction
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Midland City Council accepted an agreement with the Midland RockHounds (Class AA; Texas League) Tuesday that will provide city funding for six new luxury suites at Citibank Ballpark and extend the baseball franchise's commitment to play in Midland for an additional five years. City officials have estimated the total cost of construction will be around $600,000 and have expressed confidence that a revenue-sharing arrangement with the RockHounds will allow the construction costs to be recovered within the next decade. The deal also gives the RockHounds more advertising space at the ballpark. The lease extension keeps the RockHounds in Midland for another 20 years, with two five-year options following that.

Third Coast Sports inks sponsorship deal with Focus on the Family
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Third Coast Sports, the Nashville-based organizer of "Faith Nights" and "Faith Days" at minor- and major-league ballparks, has inked a deal with Colorado-based Focus on the Family to sponsor selected upcoming events. The first Focus on the Family-sponsored Faith Day will be at Turner Field on Thursday, July 27 when the Atlanta Braves play the Florida Marlins. This year, Third Coast Sports is planning more than 70 events in 44 cities coast to coast. Focus on the Family will sponsor seven events. The events feature post-game concerts with top Christian recording artists and testimonies from professional baseball players. During the sponsored events, Focus on the Family will distribute gift packages for parents, teens and clergy representing a variety of Focus on the Family's family outreach ministries.

Brewers going spicy with new sausage
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There's the Brat, the Italian, the Polish and the Hot Dog. And on Thursday, a fifth racing sausage will be introduced to the Brewers' roster. The sausage race is one of the great traditions of Brewers games at Miller Park, and the field will be a little more crowded with the addition of a chorizo sausage racing figure, complete with a sombrero. Miller Park officials say the new sausage will be sold at the concession stands. As you might expect, this is big news in Milwaukee: more from the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

South Coast League reaches lease with Albany
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The South Coast League and the city of Albany are pleased to announce that an agreement has been made to bring professional baseball back to Albany, Georgia for the first time since 2002. Last night, the Albany City commission voted unanimously to enter into a 3-year lease agreement with the South Coast League for use of the stadium formerly known as "Polecat Park" at the Paul Eames Sports Complex. The lease extends through the 2009 season and includes mutual extension options amongst the two parties. Albany is set to join recently announced Aiken, SC, as well as Charlotte County, FL and Macon, GA as inaugural SCL franchises.
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A slow curve in Charlotte
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Charlotte Center City Partners is working on a complicated land swap involving the city, the county and private companies that could open up land for a new ballpark for the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League), two uptown parks, a new school system headquarters and a new neighborhood in Second Ward. The Knights, who now play in South Carolina, would build the $34 million ballpark, and the city would own the land. But Charlotte would have to make an estimated $7.8 million in street, sidewalk and storm water improvements -- plus possibly consider letting a developer use tax-increment financing for infrastructure to serve new apartments and condos. The plan is still far from finalized -- something City Partners reps make quite clear -- but the Charlotte Observer still warns that final judgment should be withheld until a final plan is presented.
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More funds might be needed to build garages next to new D.C. ballpark
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The District's chief financial officer has told Mayor Anthony Williams that the city will need up to $83 million in additional funds for construction of parking garages near a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals if a plan from a private developer to finance the structures falls through. Developer Herbert S. Miller has won preliminary approval to build the garages and other structures, including condo towers, restaurants and shops, just beyond the outfield of the planned ballpark in Southeast Washington. But the report from Natwar M. Gandhi said the mayor will have to seek money from the city's general fund or approval for more construction bonds from the D.C. Council if Miller cannot make good on his proposal. Miller will try to win final approval from the Washington Nationals ownership group next week.
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Wichita business leaders discuss how to keep Wranglers
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Generating more corporate support for the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) was the main topic as approximately 100 representatives of Wichita's business community attended two meetings Tuesday at the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in Old Town. The Wranglers have been identified as the team looking at a move to a new ballpark in Springdale, Ark., but the franchise is apparently giving Wichita a chance to show some enthusiasm for baseball at Lawrence-Dumont Stadium before making a move. It doesn't sound like anything tangible came out of the meeting besides a general consensus on buying more season tickets -- a nice move, but really just a drop in the bucket of the support needed. More from the Wichita Eagle.
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Green Bay, Northwoods League to discuss lease
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Green Bay has taken the first step toward welcoming a summer collegiate Northwoods League baseball team, agreeing to negotiate with league representatives on terms of a lease for Joannes Stadium beginning with the 2007 season. One issue: the amateur Green Bay Billy's currently hold a lease for Joannes Stadium, but they'd probably just walk away if the Northwoods League wanted to move in a team.
    RELATED STORIES: Northwoods League baseball coming to Green Bay?

Point Stadium nears completion
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Renovation work on venerable Point Stadium rolls along. Even as crews continued with heavy construction work Tuesday, a contractor began rolling strips of fresh Kentucky bluegrass onto portions of the stadium’s field damaged during months of demolition and renovations. That job -- along with placement of a tall, yellow foul pole in right field -- were symbolic gestures showing that the Point project is expected to be substantially complete by the time the All-American Amateur Baseball Association Tournament kicks off Aug. 7.

Steadier at the turnstiles than on the field
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Philadelphia Phillies may be disappointing fans with their record, but the attendance figures remain strong at Citizens Bank Park. The Phillies should end up drawing 2.5 or 2.6 million fans this season, even though season-ticket sales are down slightly. As of now, the team's per-game average is almost exactly what it was a year ago, and the team has done some smart things to keep fans interested, like adding new promotions for the end of the season.

Owners in town to discuss offseason improvements
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) principal owner Chuck Greenberg and Todd Parnell, his right-hand man, have been in town this homestand to begin formulating offseason plans for the Pelicans and Coastal Federal Field. Greenberg, Parnell and a group of architects toured Coastal Federal Field before Monday's rainout to discuss improvements and possible additions to the facility and the Pelicans game experience. The owners already have said they will replace the existing scoreboard with a state-of-the-art scoreboard and high-definition video board. They are also looking at the possibility of adding additional entertainment elements to the ballpark, such as new party decks and picnic areas.

Chick-fil-A 'fowl poles' to make debut at Minute Maid Park
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Houston Astros and fast-food vendor Chick-fil-A have inked a sponsorship agreement through 2008 that will bring the restaurant chain's "Eat Mor Chikin" Cows to Minute Maid Park. The Chick-fil-A "Fowl Poles" will make their debut on July 25 for the start of the Astros' homestand against the Cincinnati Reds. The yellow right-field and left-field poles will each feature three renegade cows wearing Astros hats. The baseball-themed cows will be hanging off both poles in fair territory and carrying their message of "Eat Mor Fowl."

Dayton Dragons to welcome 4 millionth fan to ballpark
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Dayton Dragons will welcome the 4-millionth fan in team history through the gates of Fifth Third Field on Tuesday, July 25th when the Dragons host the Lansing Lugnuts at 7 p.m. Since opening the gates to Fifth Third Field for the start of the 2000 season, the Dayton Dragons have sold out every home game, a streak that will reach 478 straight with Tuesday's game. "It's amazing to think that in just seven years, four million fans have come out to Fifth Third Field to support the Dayton Dragons," said Dragons President Robert Murphy. "This just continues to prove that we have the greatest fans in sports."

Mike deMaine living his dream as Drive's general manager
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Now the Greenville Drive (Low Class A; Sally League) appears to be firmly ensconced as an institution in Greenville, it's easy to write off Mike deMaine's position of Drive GM as a cushy one. But at the beginning of the season the team's success at West End Field wasn't totally assured -- making the team's success even sweeter for the likes of GM deMaine, owner Craig Brown and senior VP Nate Lipscomb.
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R-Braves to hold Baldness Appreciation Night
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) are throwing a Bald Appreciation Night --honoring bald catcher Dax Norris -- at The Diamond on August 11. All bald fans in attendance will be able to register at Fan Services during the game to win a free trip to Bald Head Island, N.C. In addition, those with no hard get a free general-admission ticket, while those with a half-head of hair get half off their ticket. Finally, the first 2,500 fans to enter the gates will receive a Dax Norris hand-held mask and bald cap.

Fishers of fans to cast elsewhere
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lame-duck seasons are no fun for anyone -- fans and team officials alike. But the Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Low Class A; Midwest League) are indeed suffering through a lame-duck season at C.O. Brown Stadium, and actual attendance is apparently down to a couple hundred fans a game. Next season the Devil Rays will be playing in a new ballpark in Midland, Mich.
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Bears pass hat to help state finances
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
In a show of solidarity with the New Jersey State Government, the Newark Bears (independent; Atlantic League) temporarily shut down Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium Tuesday night during their game with the Lancaster Barnstormers. After the second inning, all services were cut off including concessions and merchandise. The scoreboard was turned off, no music was played, the umpires sat down and the players refused to take the field. During this time, a collection was taken from the fans in attendance to help the state return to fiscal stability. After a few minutes, the appropriate funds were collected and the game was allowed to continue. All of the proceeds generated will be donated to the Goodwill Rescue Mission, a shelter providing food, housing and guidance to the underprivileged in Newark.

It ain't over
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We've not been to the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center, on the campus of Montclair State University, but it sounds like quite the place -- especially if your tour guide is Yogi Berra himself, as was the case for New Jersey magazine. This article profiles the 81-year-old Berra, who's been doing the same things -- cards at the same country club, steaks at the same steakhouse -- for years. The museum is next to Yogi Berra Stadium, the home of the New Jersey Jackals (independent; Can-Am Association).

Ballpark Notes
Posted July 26, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Washington Nationals appointed Mike Rizzo assistant general manager and vice president of baseball operations in a move to shore up scouting experience in the team's front office. Rizzo comes to the Nationals from the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he spent seven seasons mainly as director of scouting....Keith Hallal stepped down as vice president of the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League) to accept a position with Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration. The Defenders won't fill the position this year....Baseball analyst Harold Reynolds was released by ESPN. No one is talking on the record about why Reynolds gone, but ESPN employees are saying Reynolds left the network in the wake of one or more alleged incidents of sexual harassment.

Next up, location for Bonita spring-training ballpark
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The decision last week by the Bonita Springs City Council to investigate bringing spring-training baseball to the area created a fever pitch in the community, but city and Lee County officials have only just begun the long process of bringing the concept into reality. The next issue up to bat is finding a location and obtaining the land. Tentative locations east of Interstate 75 on Bonita Beach Road or Bonita Grande Drive have been suggested for the 80-acre complex, but nothing has been explored yet. After finding the location, the next big hurdle is paying for the construction and maintenance of the $50 million complex. Bonita Springs doesn't have that kind of money, so other sources will need to be identified.
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Triple-A baseball resisting notion of split season
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
While the lower minor leagues play a split-season format that matches first-half division winners against second-half division winners in the playoffs, the Triple-A season is a 144-game marathon, set up the same way as the major-league schedules. Dave Chase, president and GM of the Memphis Redbirds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), is a vocal critic of a split schedule, calling it a gimmick. In terms of pure baseball, it is a gimmick; in terms of box office, it's not, as it gives teams with a horrendous record in the beginning of the season a chance to sell a fresh season -- and it gives first-half winners 12 weeks to sell playoff tickets.

The great Coliseum coverup
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Oakland A's attracted a lot of attention this offseason when they announced plans to cover up the upper deck of McAfee Coliseum. More than halfway through the season, the A's radical idea to tarp off the upper deck of the Coliseum has been met with mixed reviews. The A's are hoping to make for a more intimate ballpark atmosphere while creating a greater demand for tickets and forcing fans to buy them earlier. Fans are complaining they can't just walk in and assume there's a season, but A's officials say that's the whole point: it's easier to plan and drive up demand when you know how many seats are available for an individual game. Still, one nasty fact remains: the A's attendance is down pretty severely this season, 22,527 per game this season versus 26,039 last season.
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Beavers eye improvements to PGE Park
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
John Cunningham, who heads management of PGE Park for the Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), says the ballpark might need new matrix scoreboards, and the idea to add video screens has been discussed. The question is: Who would pay for it, the city or the Beavers? "The city is committed [to improvements], and they've been a terrific partner," Cunningham says. The current matrix boards have been temperamental and "it's difficult to find somebody who will support and service them," he adds.

D.C. developer sways the city with big bucks and big ideas
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Unlike other developers who purchased land near the site of a new Washington Nationals ballpark in Southwest Washington, Herb Miller came to the table with nothing but some rolled-up diagrams and his formidable personality. And he's on the verge of walking away with approval for a $300-million development on city-owned land just beyond the outfield wall. This month, Mayor Anthony Williams and the D.C. Council, hoping Miller can realize their dream of remaking a neglected part of town, endorsed his plan to build shops, restaurants, condos and a luxury hotel around two parking garages.
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Bond issue for Cobb Field replacement on ballot
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Billings City Council members say they'll work hard to make sure a replacement for Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League) wouldn't cost taxpayers more than $12.5 million. But the final cost of the bond issue could be somewhat less than that, depending on how much money from other sources pours in before November general election. The City Council agreed Monday to place a bond issue of up to $12.5 million on the Nov. 7 ballot. That's the amount recommended by the Cobb Field Steering Committee, which has worked to develop a new ballpark for more than a year. There's still talk of private donations bringing down the amount needed to bond, but so far no one has stepped forward.
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Football and baseball compete as Aloha Stadium's future takes shape
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
An estimated $129 million renovation is planned for the approximately 30-year-old Aloha Stadium to keep it going for another three decades. But management first must decide whether to lock the stadium's movable stands in either a football or baseball configuration. What's not an option is to keep the current multipurpose design to accommodate both. Management believes that the revenue potential for the stadium, which generates about $7 million annually, could be enhanced significantly with one or the other. Al Kam, chairman of the summer collegiate Hawaii Collegiate Baseball League, is maneuvering to convince the board to lock the stands in baseball configuration. He argues that it provides the most flexibility of the two options as well as a home for the two-year-old league that's costing him more than $500,000 to run for six weeks a year. Other promoters are discussing hosting preseason games there are well. Plus, Kim is dangling a pretty enticing prize: possibly hosting World Baseball Classic games at Aloha Stadium in 2009.

Kayser: Wranglers would take Texas League with them
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
If the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) were to move to Springdale, Ark., there's virtually no chance another Texas League team would replace the Wranglers in Lawrence-Dumont Stadium, according to Texas League Commissioner Tom Kayser. If that happens, the best bet for baseball at Lawrence-Dumont Stadium is independent baseball, more than likely the American Association or the Northern League. However, vice mayor Paul Gray says there are other affiliated teams looking at a move to Wichita, though that seems to be crazy talk: all the teams in the Texas League are playing under long-term leases in newer ballparks, and there are no Class A leagues operating in the Wichita area -- and no one seriously considers Wichita a Class AAA market.
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Jacksonville Suns set to break attendance mark
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With a number of strong crowds during the last homestand, the Jacksonville Suns (Class AA; Southern League) have eclipsed the 300,000 mark in attendance for the fourth straight season. Since moving into the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville in 2003, the Suns have consistently led the Southern League in attendance and have ranked near the top of all Double-A teams in that figure for four years running. Through 49 official openings, the Suns have drawn 313,652 fans, averaging 6,401 fans per game. That puts them nearly 100,000 fans over the next closest team in the Southern League. The Suns are on pace to threaten the all-time Jacksonville baseball attendance mark, set in 2004. That season, the Suns drew 420,495 fans to the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville, averaging 6,276 fans per game.

Cougars to welcome milestone fan
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Kane County Cougars (Low Class A; Midwest League) are preparing to welcome their 7 millionth fan to Phillip Elfstrom Stadium. In addition to winning an autographed baseball bat, Cougar souvenirs, the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch of the game and VIP tickets to a future Cougars game, the winner will get tickets to next year's Midwest League All-Star Game at Elfstrom Stadium. The Cougars are 10,992 fans shy of welcoming their 7 millionth fan into the ballpark, which is projected, based on ticket pre-sales, to occur before the 6 p.m. Saturday game against the Swing of the Quad Cities.

River Cats cultivate future fan base in schools
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Each year Tony Asaro, senior director of community relations for the Sacramento River Cats (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), leads about 50 youth ballpark tours and 150 school assemblies, reaching 165,000 kids from throughout the region. Thousands more attend one of several end-of-the-school-year motivational assemblies prior to a game, in recognition for achieving or improving in the three A's touted by Asaro: attitude, attendance and academics. Asaro spends the bulk of his time at schools or in the ballpark motivating children to work hard, believe in themselves and do the right thing. Parents, teachers and school administrators rave about the message he delivers. It's also good for the River Cats; many of these students end up at Raley Field sometime during the R-Cats season.

Grizzlies bringing concerts to Fresno
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino will team up with the Fresno Grizzlies (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) and Grizzlies Stadium to help bring more major concerts to downtown Fresno, beginning with Toby Keith on Thursday, September 14 and Ana Gabriel with stand-up comedian Paul Rodriguez on Wednesday, October 18. The relationship was announced this afternoon at a press conference in the 600 Club of Grizzlies Stadium to further the initial plan of bringing more events to Grizzlies Stadium and downtown Fresno.

Northwoods League baseball coming to Green Bay?
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The summer collegiate Northwoods League may be coming to Green Bay next year. The Green Bay Park Committee will discuss leasing Joannes Stadium to an NWL team when it meets at 5 p.m. today in Room 301 at City Hall. Whether Green Bay would land an expansion team or a relocated team has not been made public. Joannes Stadium is the former home of minor-league baseball in Green Bay, and the minimalist ballpark would need a lot of work to make it to NWL standards.

Fans won't pay if Revs don't play
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
York Professional Baseball insists a new downtown ballpark for the York Revolution (independent; Atlantic League) will open its gates in June, but that's really cutting things tight: demolition work on the site begins next month, with construction commencing in September. If the ballpark isn't ready, the Revolution will play "home" games in nearby Lancaster -- and to keep season-ticket holders happy, York Professional Baseball would prorate the 70-game ticket plan for fans who don't want to commute.
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On the job, each day, there's always something
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Each day, there's always something. Some problem. And it's always something different. Today, it's the umpires and the lights. Evansville Otters (independent; Frontier League) GM Steve Tahsler is one umpire short for the next night's game. And one of the light towers on the first-base side of Bosse Field has blown out. Tahsler has been GM of the Otters since 2002, and you can expect he's seen it all in that time. Despite the many challenges, the Otters do extremely well playing in a historic ballpark.

Blueprint for success? Not in the Elm City
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
More on why affiliated baseball failed in New Haven and why the New Haven County Cutters (independent; Can-Am Association) are facing some huge challenges. Yale Field may not be the best venue for professional baseball, especially when Yale feels its events trump the needs of the tenants. A new ballpark elsewhere in the city probably would fly, and in 1999 there were indeed efforts to bring a new downtown ballpark to New Haven until elected politicians -- who initially supported the measure -- decided it was not worth pursuing.

CBL waiting on Longmont
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A startup independent league is waiting for the city’s green light to recruit owners for a team that would play its home games at Longmont's Sandstone Ranch. The fledgling Continental Baseball League submitted a proposal to the mayor’s office earlier this month seeking permission to use the facility, located east of town, as the team’s home stadium, according to league president Ron Baron. The proposal also asked for the city to allow private owners to make necessary improvements, on their dime, to bring the facility within league standards -- namely, the ability to hold a minimum of 1,500 fans. Considering the league wants to begin play in 2007, the fact that there are no ballpark leases or team owners in place should be a rather worrisome matter. Kerrville is apparently still in the mix, however, as is New Braunfels. The metropolis of Aspen, Col., is passing.
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Ballpark Notes
Posted July 25, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Former Major League players Pat Listach and Randy Ready highlight the list of six managers and twelve coaches named to the 2006 Arizona Fall League rosters, league officials announced today. The four other managers joining Listach and Ready in the Arizona Fall League: Tony Defrancesco, manager of the Sacramento River Cats (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League); Stu Cole, manager of the Tulsa Drillers (Class AA; Texas League); Bobby Magallanes, manager of the Cedar Rapids Kernels (Low Class A; Midwest League); and Luis Alicea, manager of the Greenville Drive (Low Class A; Sally League)....A record crowd of 4,604 was on hand to see the Orem Owlz (rookie; Pioneer League) defeat the Casper Rockies, 3-2.

A's to decide ballpark fate by end of season
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Oakland Athletics are looking at an 107-acre NUMMI Corp.-owned parcel in Fremont in addition to a parcel controlled by Cisco Systems as the site of a new ballpark. Fremont City Manager Fred Diaz says the Athletics organization has narrowed its search for a proposed $500-million, 35,000-seat baseball ballpark to the 143-acre Cisco site and the NUMMI site. The A's have promised the city of Fremont a decision by the end of the 2006 baseball season. Fremont has ruled out providing any financial help in obtaining property or building the ballpark, although it could help with infrastructure improvements. The city can offer land entitlements for either site that would help the Athletics finance construction costs. One plus to the NUMMI site: A $130-million upgrade of ramps, frontage roads and access points to the NUMMI plant from Interstate 880 being paid for by a combination of state, Alameda County and Fremont funds. The Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal comes out against any taxpayer assistance for the ballpark. Larry Stone, Santa Clara County assessor, argues for the team moving to downtown San Jose after cutting a deal for the territory with the San Francisco Giants.
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Approvals clear way for Yankees to build new ballpark
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The proposed $800-million ballpark for the New York Yankees received final regulatory approval last week, clearing the way for the club to start construction atop two parks across the street from the existing ballpark. Yankees officials said they hoped to begin building the 53,000-seat structure by the end of summer. Construction will involve paving over large portions of Macombs Dam Park and Mullaly Park and cutting down about 400 mature oak trees. The stadium is scheduled to open in 2009. Opponents say they will probably file a lawsuit to halt construction, contending that portions of the 28-acre Macombs Dam Park and 18.5-acre Mullaly Park had been unlawfully taken from the public. This past week both the Internal Revenue Service and the National Park Service approved financing and construction issues.
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The house that Steinbrenner is building
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New York Times looks at the business side of the New York Yankees and the costs of a new Yankee Stadium, most of which are being borne by the team. For such an in-depth article, one important fact is curiously muted. Various experts are quoted as saying the Yankees will need to generate $50 million or so more in additional revenues to build the ballpark, but strictly speaking that's not true: because new-ballpark construction costs are not subject to revenue sharing, the other 29 MLB teams will essentially be bearing the cost of a new ballpark, as the Yankees' revenue-sharing payments are expected to decrease significantly. The financial future of the Yankees isn't as dire as portrayed here, and anyone who says the Yankees are already squeezing as much money out of the market as they can hasn't seen the revenue streams generated by a new ballpark.

Cobb Field bond before council today
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
An anonymous private donation and federal money have bolstered the effort to build a replacement for Cobb Field, the home of the Billings Mustangs (rookie; Pioneer League). The City Council tonight will consider a resolution seeking voter approval for a $12.5 million bond issue for a new ballpark. The council plans to word the resolution so that the bond issue couldn't exceed $12.5 million. However, the city could levy less than that if other sources of money are secured; while there has been enough talk of a private donation to cause the council to delay proceedings, there's been no firm offer yet.
    RELATED STORIES: Burns backs federal aid for Cobb Field; Potential gift could pare price of Cobb Field; Funding dominates Cobb discussion; Billings needs ballpark to be proud of, not field of dreams; Panel details ways to cut Billings ballpark costs; Cobb Field panel pursues closer look at costs; Billings panel asks for Cobb Field tax measure; Forums planned on Cobb Field proposal; Poll finds support for bonds for Cobb Field; Council vote sets stage for Cobb debate; Cobb Field replacement could cost $12 million; HNTB selected for Cobb Field renovation; Cobb proposals narrowed to 2; Six proposals vie to study Cobb Field

Lerner name means plenty, as Nats deal is closed
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Ted Lerner family closed on the purchase of the Washington Nationals Saturday, and they let everyone know: the entire family -- sons, daughters, wives, husbands -- were on hand at RFK Stadium bedecked in red Nationals shirts, greeting fans and perusing the action from the concourses, not a luxury box. The purchase papers are all signed, and the payment -- $450 million -- will be made when banks open today. More from the Washington Times.
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Feeling grand over Nationals' fixed-up digs
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Washington Nationals picked a pretty good weekend to relaunch RFK Stadium: the Cubs and their horde of fans were in town, and even though a threatened lawsuit from MLB dampened things somewhat, it sounds like fans were pleased with the giveaways, the revamped concessions, the addition of a permanent kids' play area and the power-washing of RFK Stadium. There are some quibbles -- more TVs in the concourse for those standing in line would be nice -- but the fact enough folks were on hand to form lines was welcome news for the Nats. More from Thomas Boswell. All's well that ends well for the Nats: Washington swept the hapless Cubs.

IL president unsure of Lynx' future
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
We've been reporting for months that the Ottawa Lynx (Class AAA; International League) is the franchise moving to Allentown, Pa., next season -- reporting that admittedly puts the likes of IL President Randy Mobley on the spot when he visits Ottawa and faces the press. Mobley says the team isn't going anywhere next season (the new Allentown ballpark won't be completed until 2008), but after that.... Cities losing their teams is one of the worst aspects of reporting on the business of baseball. The Lynx drew a crowd of 3,393 to honor Jackie Robinson and the IL's Montreal Royals.

Downtown Fort Wayne ballpark report delayed
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The release of a report outlining the recommendation for pursuing a downtown Fort Wayne ballpark was delayed a week as the committee finalizes its changes. The committee has been meeting for several months to look at the possibility of a downtown stadium that would replace Memorial Stadium, the current home of the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League). Members of the committee previously said if a new stadium were built downtown, the current ballpark next to the Memorial Coliseum would likely need to be demolished because no tenant could use it and still pay the bills.
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Barons, White Sox extend affiliate deal through 2010
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Birmingham Barons (Class AA; Southern League) announced a four-year affiliate extension with the Chicago White Sox, through the year 2010. "Our affiliation with the Chicago White Sox is very special," said Jonathan Nelson, General Manager of the Birmingham Barons. "Over the past 21 years, Barons fans have witnessed some of the greats of the game lay the foundations of their Major League careers here in Birmingham. Many of those great memories will never be forgotten, such as Frank Thomas’ Minor League Player of the Year season in 1990, Bo Jackson’s injury rehabilitation assignment in 1991 and Michael Jordan’s only historic year in professional baseball in 1994. We look forward to continuing this great partnership with the Chicago White Sox in providing Barons fans with talented teams that will continue striving to bring another Southern League Championship to Birmingham." More on our Affiliates 2006 page.

Power officials face difficult decision after season ends
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
An issue for the ownership of the West Virginia Power (Low Class A; Sally League) is whether to renew an affiliation deal with the Milwaukee Brewers after the end of the season. The Brewers reportedly want to renew, but the Power must weigh two competing factors. The Brewers are committed to a strong farm system, so plenty of prospects should pass through Charleston. However, it doesn't look like there's a lot of talent flowing through the Brewers system at the moment, so the pickings could be slim the next few years. More on our Affiliates 2006 page.

Wranglers' dugout can be the pits
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The city of Wichita is spending $17,250 on a study to determine how Lawrence-Dumont Stadium can be upgraded in an effort to keep the Wichita Wranglers (Class AA; Texas League) from moving to Springdale, Ark. The results of the study should be interesting, because the kinds of things MiLB teams are looking for these days -- indoor batting cages, spacious clubhouses and training rooms -- aren't the kinds of things that bring fans to the ballpark, like expanded concourses and upgraded concessions. For example, the size of the dugouts is mentioned here: they're quite small, but expanding them will undoubtedly cut off some views of the field and won't be a big deal for fans.
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Wizards pitching for Hispanic fans
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
While we think marketing to baseball-crazy Hispanics is surely a good thing, it's interesting that the Fort Wayne Wizards (Low Class A; Midwest League) are doing so at the behest of their major-league affiliate, the San Diego Padres. The Wizards and the other minor league teams affiliated with the Padres have embarked on a first-year initiative to reach out to Hispanic groups. The Padres have for a long time embraced their Hispanic fans – they are building youth baseball parks in Latin America – and now want their farm teams -- the Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), the Mobile BayBears (Class AA; Southern League) and the Eugene Ems (short season; Northwest League) -- to follow suit with community outreach.

Baseball life clears all bases
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Sam Bernabe discussed his two decades as GM of the Iowa Cubs (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League). There's been quite a bit of change in Des Moines over that period: the building and subsequent renovation of Principal Park, and the maturation and growth of the local market. People tend to forget Des Moines is a small market: Bernabe says it's the smallest Class AAA market, so bringing enough people to the ballpark is always a challenge.

Fans brave sweltering sun in first-base bleachers at Hawks game
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The hot weather across the United States is having an effect on attendance in all sorts of ballparks. Look at Memorial Stadium, the home of the Boise Hawks (short season; Northwest League). The third-base side of the ballpark is in the shade, while the first-base side is in the sun. Temperatures reached into the triple digits on Sunday, and at that level most folks would rather stay home. Unfortunately, adding shade to the first-base side of the ballpark isn't an option: wind studies indicate some bad things with the addition of a roof.

Thunderbolts spook Grizzlies at GCS
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
With some of the greater St. Louis area still without power due to severe storms last week, the Gateway Grizzlies (independent; Frontier League) were forced to play a game the old-fashioned way: without electricity. Game time for Sunday's match against the Windy City Thunderbolts was moved up to 4:05 p.m., and today's game could be moved up to a matinee if power isn't restored to GCS Ballpark. The Grizzlies took a financial hit: fans were allowed in for free. There was no scoreboard, public-address announcer and working bathrooms. There was only a limited supply of concessions available and a small amount of running water.
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Rascals' new owner 'there for long haul'
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More on Steve Malliet's purchase of the River City Rascals (independent; Frontier League) and what it means for O'Fallon, Mo. We're guessing it won't mean a whole lot regarding the long-term future of the club; we heard that Malliet had spoken with other leagues about a purchase but decided to go with River City because his first priority was locating his family in a good community, and O'Fallon would seem to meet that criteria. Short-term, you'll probably see some changes after he takes control of the team in September.
    RELATED STORIES: River City Rascals sold to private investment firm headed by Malliet

Nightmare in the Elm City
Posted July 24, 2006 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The ownership of the New Haven County Cutters (independent; Can-Am Association) have faced some huge issues at Yale Field after moving in when the New Haven Ravens (Class AA; Eastern League) flew off to New Hampshire. The issues faced by the County Cutters -- currently in last place in the Can-Am Association attendance figures -- are faced by all minor-league teams in the region: the lack of newer facilities and the presence of some parochialism throughout the region may keep people from attending games.