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Archives: March 26-April 1, 2005

Indians expect to be back in Winter Haven next spring
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The Cleveland Indians say they expect to be back at Chain of Lakes Park in Winter Haven for Spring Training 2006, despite reports the city wanted the team out of the complex. The team is finishing the second year of a five-year renewal the team exercised in late 2003 at the end of the original 10-year contract to train at Chain of Lakes. The team is waiting to hear how the Florida Legislature handles a proposal to five Sarasota, Winter Haven and Fort Lauderdale state funding to renovate or build new spring-training facilities in those cities. Funding would only be available to cities if baseball teams agree to commit to long-term agreements to continue training there. Team officials now say they'll look at financially contributing to a new spring-training facility in Winter Haven, a reversal of their previous stance. A move to Arizona is also a possibility, but it does not look like anything will happen in time for 2006.
    RELATED STORIES: Winter Haven says subsidies for team are unaffordable; Winter Haven will likely lose Indians; Arizona making pitch to host Reds' spring training; Keeping spring-training baseball in Florida priority for governor; A game of musical facilities; Arizona swings for two more teams; Indians in Haven, but for how long?; Haven may get new baseball facility; Winter Haven sends baseball wish list to Indians; No fairy tale: Indians give Disney a look

D.C. ballpark will be 'iconic'
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After winning the commission to design the new District of Columbia ballpark for the Washington Nationals, HOK Sport+Venue+Entertainment senior principal Joseph Spear says the design will be "iconic" and tie into the architecture of Washington. Several dramatic ideas are under consideration for the waterfront ballpark, including a heavy use of glass in the exterior of the stadium, and finding some way to have the facility thematically tie into the original street grid of Washington laid out by Major Pierre Charles L'Enfant. Previously discussed ideas include a substantial use of stone with the exterior glass. The HOK/Devrouax & Purnell joint bid, as expected, received unanimous approval from the D.C. Sports & Entertainment Commission. The team submitted a bid of $18.6 million to design the stadium, the lowest of three finalists by nearly $4 million. And the commission admitted what had been common knowledge: because the project is on a tight schedule (an opening is planned for 2008), HOK's experience in designing MLB ballparks made it the frontrunner to land the contract from the get-go. One unique idea: the D.C. sports commission is considering a peer-review committee to provide input into the design. Also, the sports commission also is planning to have some type of public advisory process to allow for citizen input into the design, though details have yet to be solidified. More from the Washington Post. Speaking of the Nats: More on the TV deal struck between MLB and Orioles owner Peter Angelos from Thomas Boswell, who argues the deal is less than a homer run for Angelos.
    RELATED STORIES: D.C. ballpark cost rises but stays below cap; Army may sponsor Nats; Slow start for RFK naming rights; Sponsor sought for RFK Stadium; Two financing deals cleared for D.C. ballpark; D.C. ballpark architect finalist sees move to modern design; Ballpark design bids cut to three; Eight bid to design Nationals' ballpark; D.C. mayor, officials to see games in Florida; 'Big boxes' part of D.C. ballpark pitch

The race is on for York baseball
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Professional baseball in York (Pa.) -- written off by many as dead in the water -- has new life after a baseball consultant came out with a feasibility study arguing that York can support an independent Atlantic League baseball team and the construction of a $26 million stadium, based on market projections and corporate backing. But the entire project could collapse if the state pulls its $12 million commitment to pay for nearly half of the stadium costs -- something proponents fear will happen in July if York doesn't have its act together. The report, released at a public meeting Thursday, had 77 percent of the project funded by the state's $12 million and $8 million from Keystone Baseball, which would own the baseball franchise and operate the ballpark. Keystone would get the revenue from an estimated $250,000 a year in luxury box rentals, $700,000 in advertising and $250,000 in naming rights.

San Jose quits discussions on cannery
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The city of San Jose has halted negotiations to buy a former Del Monte cannery site once envisioned as the site of a new major-league ballpark, though it's unclear whether the city is pulling back from its pursuit of the Oakland Athletics. Mayor Ron Gonzales informed KB Home, which has an option to buy the 13.7-acre site, that the city would be pursuing other options. Part of the reason for the change: new A's owner Lew Wolff remains steadfast in his pursuit of a new Oakland ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Cubs fans to find South Side taste at Wrigley Field
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The Chicago Cubs are changing concessionaires from Aramark to local vendor Levy Restaurants, a higher-end outfit that handles premium concessions at U.S. Cellular and Wrigley Field, as well as all concessions at Bank One Ballpark, Dodger Stadium, PNC Park and Rogers Centre. The standard steamed-hot-dog fare upgraded with menu items like grilled hot dogs, grilled bratwursts topped with sauerkraut and grilled polish sausage and onions, for $4.50 each, a foot-long hot dog for $5.50 and cheese-filled breadsticks for $3. The new items will be sold through redesigned concession stands and new specialty-food carts. Rather than each of the 23 concession stands offering the same items, Weber said specialty stands, such as the Italian Hot Spot or the Let's Play Two Grill, have been created to offer different choices.

Cubs fans keep Mesa seats filled
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Speaking of the Cubs: the Cubbies sold out 14 of 16 games at Mesa's HoHoKam Park, including Thursday's spring training finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks, and drew close to 194,000 fans. The issue for Mesa's HoHoKams -- the nonprofit that sponsors the games and runs the ballpark -- is whether to expand the ballpark past its 12,600-seat capacity. One move under consideration: adding bleachers to the outfield berm, which would add capacity but also severely curtailed the laid-back atmosphere at the ballpark. Fans love the spring-training vibe; making the ballpark bigger would ruin it. Also setting a spring-training attendance record: the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Senators' era to have president as a closer
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The Washington Nationals have a pretty unique plan for the first pitch when the team opens its history at RFK Stadium. First, a little background: the final 1971 game for the Washington Senators at RFK Stadium was cut short when disgruntled fans took to the field to express their displeasure with Bob Short's decision to move the team to Dallas. On the mound was reliever Joe Grzenda, who was one out away from recording a victory. (The Sens ended up forfeiting the game.) Grzenda kept the baseball, and the Nationals have invited him to bring it to Opening Day. The tentative plan is for Grzenda to give the ball to President Bush, who is expected to deliver the first pitch and complete the inning Grzenda never got to finish.

Baseball in Vegas? It's a sinful idea
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The Seattle Mariners are taking on the Chicago Cubs for a weekend series in Las Vegas, but the larger issue for some is the future of baseball in Sin City. The Las Vegas 51s (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) have made a pretty compelling argument for a new ballpark, but Mayor Oscar Goodman has his eyes set on an MLB franchise. He may be right: based on some conversations, we think there's a good chance you'll see MLB baseball in Vegas in the next five years.
    RELATED STORY: Put in his place

New Navigators owner wants release clause
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Incoming Norwich Navigators (Class AA; Eastern League) owner Lou DiBella wants an eight-year lease for Dodd Stadium starting immediately, with a provision for a release in four years if attendance and profits do not improve. The Navigators' current lease for the city-owned stadium expires after the 2006 baseball season. Lou DiBella told the stadium lease negotiating committee he is looking for "immediate relief," saying the prospects for a profitable season this year are slim. With only two years remaining in the current lease, he said advertising sales are down and ticket sales flat. DiBella is expected next week to receive the necessary approvals for his purchase of the team.
    RELATED STORIES: New Navigators owner, others to greet fans at practice start; Eastern League debates Navigators’ future; Navigators hoping to stay in Norwich; Norwich Navigators have been a good neighbor; City to appoint panel to work out lease for Dodd Stadium; Gators' prospective new owner feels shunned by COG; Wheels are in motion for DiBella to purchase Norwich Navigators

Dodgers detail improvements to Dodger Stadium
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The Los Angeles Dodgers made a slew of improvements to Dodger Stadium this offseason. Some of the changes were controversial -- see our related stories below for more details -- but some were necessary, such as replacing the warning track with a better clay surface and upgrading the concessions. More on the changes from the Los Angeles Times.
    RELATED STORY: Put in his place

Citibank acquires naming rights to FABB
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After acquiring First American Bank and its Texas branches as well as naming rights to what is now known as First American Bank Ballpark at the Scharbauer Sports Complex, New York-based Citigroup says it will retain naming rights, with temporary signage is expected to go up as early as next week. The specific name still needs to be determined.

GBL buys Scorpions a video scoreboard
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The independent Golden Baseball League is engendering goodwill in Yuma (Az.) by purchasing a used Diamond Vision Mark II scoreboard for Desert Sun Stadium, the new home of the Yuma Scorpions. The scoreboard measures 12 feet by 16 feet in total size, and in the center is an 8-by-8 video board. The scoreboard was formerly used in McNichols Arena, the home of the NBA's Denver Nuggets and NHL's Colorado Avalanche. Installed in 1988, the scoreboard was used until McNichols was closed in 1999, when the Nuggets and Avalanche moved to their current home, the Pepsi Center.

Team ready to play ball in Lorain -- for the time being
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This will be a disjointed season for the Ohio Valley Redcoats (independent; Frontier League), which is basically a road team and playing "home" games at several locations. One such location is Lorain's Campana Park; league officials are hoping that a series in Lorain will persuade city officials to consider funding a new ballpark. Both the Frontier League and Northern League targeted Lorain for possible expansion last year, but those efforts seem to have died down.

Padres' hitters still dislike Petco Park
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This is an issue that will never go away, apparently. Some San Diego Padres batters are still complaining about the spacious dimensions of Petco Park, unhappy that it's harder to hit a home run there. The first thought is that these players are simply selfish: it will be easier in the long run for the team to win in a pitcher-friendly ballpark because it will be easier to attract good free-agent pitchers. Ryan Klesko, in particular, is upset.

SWM Devil Rays getting ready for a season
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Along with a new name and new logo, the new ownership of the Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Class A; Midwest League) are making other changes to their operations at C.O. Brown Park as they prepare for their season opener. major projects on tap include replacing the metal bleachers behind third base with a picnic area and transforming the first-base picnic area into a new playground called the Family Fun Park. The team has also revamped the concessions menu, installed a grill in the left-field bar area and will provide wait staff services to customers in box seats. The club is even installing a new speaker system in the stadium concourse and restrooms, allowing fans to hear the radio broadcast while they're away from the action.

Team sees more growth for downtown Kansas City
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Though the Kansas City Royals have already rejected a nascent plan for a new downtown Kansas City ballpark, the Kansas City Council is still looking at potential ballpark sites as part of a comprehensive city plan for the future. In the latest reports prepared by Sasaki Associates of Boston, another site -- the Rail Corridor Site, currently used as a parking lot by Children's Mercy Hospital -- was identified as being suitable for a new ballpark.

Greensboro ballpark parking benefits nonprofits
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Here's an interesting approach to parking: Nonprofits can make money from providing volunteers to oversee the parking at two lots next to First Horizon Park, the new home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Class A; Sally League). The owners of the lots, Jim and Steve Jones, will make no money from the parking. But they will have a sales office at the big lot to show the design of their proposed Bellemeade Village, a cluster of shops, residences and offices eventually planned for the site.

The grass is always greener at Miller Park
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Gary Vanden Berg is director of grounds for the Milwaukee Brewers, which means he's responsible for the Miller Park field -- which is mostly Kentucky bluegrass, with some perennial rye -- as well as nearby Helfaer Field and another 160 acres of landscaping on the Miller Park grounds. Vanden Berg, has worked for the Brewers since 1981 and was promoted to his current job 15 years ago.

Passion all that matters
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The argument by Steve Simmons is that making over Rogers Centre -- the former SkyDome -- is a waste of time if the team is not a winner. This, of course, is an easy argument to make when you're sitting in the press box, focused totally on the game results and not worrying about the fan experience and selling tickets. Most fans are happy if a) the team is competitive and b) if they are made to feel special on some level.
   RELATED STORIES: Top to bottom, old SkyDome gets a new look; Toronto Blue Jays to buy SkyDome; Pie-in-the-SkyDome; SkyDome renamed Rogers Centre; extreme makeover planned

Campbell's living a dream
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Jamie Campbell is the new play-by-play announcer for the Toronto Blue Jays (replacing Rob Faulds), and he's out to prove to people he's the right man for the job. His task will be complicated by a revolving door of analysts -- Pat Tabler, Tom Candiotti, Darren Fletcher and Rance Mulliniks will all work various games.

PETA releases list of vegetarian-friendly ballparks
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PETA’s "Vegetarian Friendly Ballparks" project, now in its fourth year, examines the concessions inside each of the 30 MLB stadiums and ranks them based on the variety and quality of vegetarian foods offered. Grabbing top honors are two veteran vegetarian-friendly favorites: SBC Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, and, just across the Bay, Oakland’s McAfee Coliseum. The Giants offer veggie dogs and burgers, vegetarian sushi, fruit platters, edamame and delicious portabella mushroom sandwiches, while A’s fans can choose from veggie burgers and dogs, savory bean pies, tofu burgers, baked potatoes, and fruit cups and salads. Three newcomers upped their veg-friendly percentage to make this year’s list: Citizens Bank Park, PNC Park and Bank One Park. Rounding out the all-star lineup are Coors Field, Rogers Centre, Tropicana Field, Minute Maid Park, Miller Park and Dolphins Stadium.

Lake Elsinore Storm change name
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We expect to see several more stories like this today. The Storm will now be officially known as the Anaheim / Los Angeles / San Diego Storm of Lake Elsinore (Class A; California League). "The bottom line, we just want to make more money," said Dave Oster, Storm president and GM.

Baseball Notes
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The Visalia Oaks (Class A; California League) and HG Foods join efforts once again to provide a way for local charities to send groups to Visalia Oaks baseball games. HG Foods, owned by Gary and Jennifer Geiger of Visalia, have purchased fifty general admission tickets for all 70 of the Oaks’ regular-season home games for this purpose....The Windy City ThunderBolts (independent; Frontier League) announced the signing of Larry Olenberger as their hitting coach. In 2002 Olenberger and ThunderBolts manager Brent Bowers shared the dugout with the Solano Steelheads of the old Western Baseball League....

D.C. ballpark cost rises but stays below cap
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The District of Columbia moved closer yesterday to launching work on a new ballpark for the Washington Nationals by releasing a cost analysis that suggests a price increase of as much as $46 million and by settling on a lead architect. The cost study released by Natwar Gandhi, the city's chief financial officer, puts the entire stadium project at $581 million, which falls under a limit on the total cost set by the D.C. Council. Some Council members objected to the increased costs, although Linda Cropp, a frequent critic of the ballpark and its financing, declared herself satisfied with the final cost estimate That falls just below the cap set by the D.C. Council, which narrowly approved a ballpark financing package in December. In addition, the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission recommended HOK Sport as lead architect to design the ballpark. Meanwhile, it seems appropriate that a remembrance of legendary D.C. sportswriter Shirley Povich come out in time for the season opener. Also, it sounds like MLB and the Baltimore Orioles reached a final deal with team owner Peter G. Angelos says will guarantee the future of the franchise in Baltimore. Angelos and Major League Baseball will jointly own a regional sports network that will eventually show the games of the Orioles and the new Washington Nationals.
    RELATED STORIES: Army may sponsor Nats; Slow start for RFK naming rights; Sponsor sought for RFK Stadium; Two financing deals cleared for D.C. ballpark; D.C. ballpark architect finalist sees move to modern design; Ballpark design bids cut to three; Eight bid to design Nationals' ballpark; D.C. mayor, officials to see games in Florida; 'Big boxes' part of D.C. ballpark pitch

Winter Haven says subsidies for team are unaffordable
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Now that we're approaching the end of spring training, teams are looking to spring training 2006. Today's game at Chain of Lakes Park could be the last time the Cleveland Indians play in Winter Haven, as city officials want to see the team either contribute more to the park's upkeep or move to a new facility. The Chain of Lakes site is seen as a valuable tract of land -- and it is indeed scenic -- but local officials spend $1 million yearly in maintenance costs and argue the Indians don't have a huge economic impact, especially in downtown Winter Haven. Currently there is a bill before the Florida Legislature that would help fund a new training facility for the Indians, a move the Indians support and the county sounds willing to consider. And the Indians do control their destiny: their lease includes automatic yearly renewals for the next 20 years, and Arizona officials will make a play for the Indians and another Grapefruit League team in the next few months. Of course, the yearly tussle between Winter Haven and Cleveland has been going on since 2001, so it's a safe bet nothing will change between now and February 2006.
    RELATED STORIES: Winter Haven will likely lose Indians; Arizona making pitch to host Reds' spring training; Keeping spring-training baseball in Florida priority for governor; A game of musical facilities; Arizona swings for two more teams; Indians in Haven, but for how long?; Haven may get new baseball facility; Winter Haven sends baseball wish list to Indians; No fairy tale: Indians give Disney a look

Jackie Robinson Ballpark renovations round third
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Renovations at Jackie Robinson Ballpark, the historic home of the Daytona Cubs (Class A; California League), are proceeding. Renovations officially began Dec. 15 at the historic ballpark, where Robinson played on the first integrated team in modern baseball history on March 17, 1946, during a spring-training game. Among the changes this season at the old ballpark, which opened in 1914, are new batting cages, light towers, picnic area, historical markers and upgraded home-team locker room, public restrooms and concession stands. In addition, there is an expanded walkway between the ballpark and Beach Street. After all the wrangling over Jackie Robinson Ballpark in recent years, it's good to see some solid progress on the ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Rescuing Jackie Robinson Ballpark with new Cubs lease; Feud thrusts ballpark's historic day into shadows

A fan since childhood finally gets to own a team
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Major League Baseball owners approved the sale of the Oakland Athletics to an ownership group led by real-estate-developer Lew Wolff, who was initially brought on by former owners Steve Schott and Ken Hofmann to evaluate ballpark options for the team. The approval was not a surprise -- Wolff had received enthusiastic endorsements from most owners after meeting with them earlier this year -- and word is Wolff has already done quite a bit of work on a new-ballpark proposal. Wolff may be the public face of the new ownership group, but he's not actually putting up most of the money to buy the team; John J. Fisher, son of Gap founder Donald Fisher, is. Meanwhile, local fans are hoping the team doesn't leave town if a new ballpark is not forthcoming
    RELATED STORIES: Small-market claims for Oakland a myth; 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

Hooks look to turn around CC franchise history
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With the arrival of the Corpus Christi Hooks (Class AA; Texas League), there's another attempt at pro baseball in the city. Eight different entities previously have operated pro franchises in the city, starting with a Class D ballclub in 1911 and, until recently, ending with the independent Barracudas from 1994-95. None of the eight franchises' lifespan was longer than five years, but there were some great names, such as the Corpus Christi Spudders.
    RELATED STORIES: The real cost of revitalization in Corpus Christi; Council votes 8-0 to increase cost of Whataburger Field; Corpus Christi to vote on $361K for ballpark; Baseball 'n' burgers: It's your What-a-field; New for 2005: The Corpus Christi Hooks; Partners aim for a hit with baseball shuffle

County may sell site beside Greensboro ballpark
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More fodder for those who say ballparks spur economic development: A county-owned complex just feet from First Horizon Park, the new home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Class A; Sally League) could be put up for sale, adding another prime site to center-city redevelopment efforts. The new ballpark has already spawned a larger redevelopment plan that includes new retail, condo and apartment space. Two years ago the First Horizon Park area was little more than surface lots and county facilities; in two years it will be bustling with activity and residents.

Fishers' park looks like a hit
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After spending a year at Gill Stadium, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) are moving to a new ballpark. The team won the Eastern League crown last year based on strong pitching, but the new ballpark will be considerably fan-friendly: the dimensions are cozier and there's far less foul space than at Gill.
    RELATED STORIES: Manchester ballpark is big-time; It's 'Fisher Cats Ballpark,' at least for opening day; Manchester ballpark on track to open; Fisher Cats schedule topping-off party; New stadium design includes two clock towers; Manchester riverfront hotel deal back on track; Rising steel prices add to stadium cost; Manchester ballpark: Costs are up, but construction is on time

Ready for some baseball?
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Work continues on Appalachian Power Park, the new home of the West Virginia Power (Class A; Sally League), as the team prepares for a April 14 season opener. On Wednesday, painters were working on color schemes for the luxury suites at the park and applying a coat of traditional yellow to the foul poles. On the second floor of the Morris Square building down the right-field line, carpeting was being laid for the West Virginia Power offices, and work was continuing on the clubhouse complex in the basement. Other than the canopies that eventually will cover the concourse areas and perhaps the sound system, the ballpark should be ready for the season opener.

New city, new park old hat to Braves
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A new ballpark and home won't be anything new for the Atlanta Braves farm system, as the Greenville Braves moved to a new ballpark in Pearl and are now the Mississippi Braves (Class AA; Southern League). The Braves also shifted their low Class A affiliate two years ago from Macon to Rome and may end up moving the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) at some point in the next few years should a new ballpark not be forthcoming.
    RELATED STORIES: Braves' stadium to be known as 'Trustmark Park'

After a long winter, just two words: Play ball!
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Don't look now, but the regular season starts this Sunday, as the Boston Red So and New York Yankees tangle (ah, for the days when the Cincinnati Reds opened the season; shame on MLB for dumping that tradition for no good reason). Meanwhile, watch next week for our 2005 extravaganza, with predictions for the year and our annual list of people to watch.

In memoriam: Tate DeWeese
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J. Taylor "Tate" DeWeese III, a co-founder and former owner of the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League), has died, his friends said. He was 58. In  1997 DeWeese was an original owner of the Curve along with Mark Thomas and Bob Lozinak; the group sold the team to Curve Baseball LP, a group led by Chuck Greenberg and that included hockey great Mario Lemieux and Steelers running back Jerome Bettis, in 2002.

PNC Park adds Greek to its menu
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Ballpark food alert: the Pittsburgh Pirates are making some changes to concessions at PNC Park with the addition of Pop-A-Duke Gyros on the concourse level, where fans can buy traditional lamb gyros and chicken gyros, gyro salads and Greek salads. In addition to Pop-A-Duke, fans will find their favorite local offerings, including Quaker Steak & Lube chicken wings, Primanti Brothers sandwiches, Benkovitz Seafood, Vincent's of Greentree pizza.

Twins' games won't be the same
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We noted the passing of Twins P.A. announcer Bob Casey earlier this week. Part of the adventure of attending Twins games was seeing how Bob would mangle difficult -- and occasionally easy -- names. Torii Hunter was occasionally Troy Hunter, while Nomar Garciaparra was No More Garciaparra, Hideki Matsui was Hideki Matsushi, and Dustan Mohr was Dustin Hoffman. More from Sid Hartman and Nick Coleman.
    RELATED STORIES: In memoriam: Bob Casey, longtime Twins P.A. announcer

Baseball Notes
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The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, the Washington County Arts Council and the Hagerstown Suns (Class A; Sally League) announced a special exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts in honor of the Suns’ 25th season in Hagerstown and the nearly century of professional baseball in Hagerstown. One section of the exhibition will include archival material sketching the history of professional and semi-pro ball in the County. Old team photos and action shots, programs from the Braves and the inaugural year of the Suns (1981), tickets and other ephemera will round out this celebration. Admission to the museum and all of its programs is free. Museum hours are Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m....

Army may sponsor Nats
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The U.S. Army is looking at a large sponsorship deal with the Washington Nationals -- to the point pay an average of about $1.4 million per season to become the primary sponsor for the three years the Nationals play at RFK Stadium. The deal would include naming rights -- something like "Army Field at RFK Stadium" as well as other sponsorship opportunities. Army officials were more circumspect, saying they were not interested in pursuing a naming-rights deal at this time. Meanwhile, the district sports commission continues to seek potential buyers of naming rights; a deadline of March 28 passed with no proposals. The commission is seeking $2 million a year. In a side note: More than 70 Washington Nationals games would be broadcast this season on two Fox-owned television stations, WTTG-5 (the Fox affiliate) and WDCA-20 (the UPN affiliate), sources said. The sources indicated that some games will be shown on WTTG and the rest on WDCA once a compensation agreement is reached between Major League Baseball and the Baltimore Orioles. More on the TV deal from the Baltimore Sun.
    RELATED STORIES: Slow start for RFK naming rights; Sponsor sought for RFK Stadium; Two financing deals cleared for D.C. ballpark; D.C. ballpark architect finalist sees move to modern design; Ballpark design bids cut to three; Eight bid to design Nationals' ballpark; D.C. mayor, officials to see games in Florida; 'Big boxes' part of D.C. ballpark pitch

Beavers announce new ownership group
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The Pacific Coast League, the current owner of the Portland Beavers, announced an agreement has been signed to sell the teams to Portland Baseball Investment Group (PBIG), a group led by Abe Alizadeh, who made his money as a franchisee of Jack in the Box restaurants. The selling price was $9 million. Former Beavers GM Jack Cain will retain a small cut of the deal as well. However, despite the public announcement, the deal is far from being closed: there's still no deal between the ownership group and the team's creditors, which includes TIAA-CREF; there's no deal between the city and the new ownership group (a huge sticking point; earlier this week the city was talking to other potential ownership groups about a PGE Park lease); and some of equity still needs to be placed. More importantly, there's the issue of who will assume the debt left behind by former owner Portland Family Entertainment. (When the PCL took control of the franchise last year, it said it would assume the debt if PFE did not contest the franchise termination.) The new ownership has informed PFE that it will not assume the debt, and PCL officials apparently have informed PFE it will not assume the debt either. If this is correct, you can expect to see some court proceedings.
    RELATED STORIES: Portland Beavers to unveil new ownership group today; Portland ballpark deal may already be done; City extends deal letting league operate PGE Park; Portland delays 2005 lease for Beavers; Stingers sold to Larry H. Miller; Drammis to pursue Portland?; Update on Portland Beavers ownership; PGE Park: What went wrong?

Protests drowned out at rally for Shockoe Bottom ballpark
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It was a day for dueling protesters in Richmond, as about 50 protesters crashed a pro-ballpark rally at the 17th Street Farmers' Market. The Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) are proposing a new ballpark for the city's Shockoe Bottom area, but some local residents want to see the area developed to honor black history, as the site once housed a slave market and still includes a slave burial ground.
    RELATED STORIES: Richmond ballpark plan strikes out on site, economics, financing; Wilder quits role in Richmond group; Threat not part of deal for Richmond ballpark; Braves getting outside pitches; Braves or bust?; Drains a strain on Richmond ballpark plan?; Wilder: Stadium proposal lacks details; Richmond ballpark questions remain; Richmond Braves assume role as developer; New ballpark plan for Shockoe Bottom; Proposed ballpark may rescue flood-damaged Richmond area; Global ballpark bid asks much from D.C.

State House committee OKs tax break for new Marlins ballpark
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Saying the Florida Marlins are good for tourism and economic development, a key House committee on Tuesday approved a $60 million tax break to keep the two-time world champions from leaving the state. A smaller tax break measure would help cities -- Fort Lauderdale, Sarasota and Winter Haven, specifically -- improve spring-training facilities. More from the Miami Herald, which is reporting about problems facing the Marlins.
    RELATED STORIES: House leader goes to bat for Marlins; Dade officials in Tallahassee to lobby for Marlins ballpark; Good news, bad news for Marlins ballpark plans; Las Vegas still willing to gamble on baseball; Miami-Dade OKs financing for $420 million Marlins ballpark; Poll finds little support for public funding of Marlins ballpark; Tentative Marlins ballpark deal announced; State open to Marlins ballpark proposal; Miami gives Marlins ballpark the nod

Cashman spruce-up meets 51s' approval
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Though the Los Angeles Dodgers would prefer a new ballpark in Las Vegas, some small renovations to Cashman Field, engineered by the Las Vegas 51s (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), met with approval from team officials. An expanded clubhouse, new batting cages and a weight room highlight the renovations. The clubhouse improvements include an office for the manager and separate offices for the other coaches, a bigger training room, players lounge, video room and whirlpool. In addition, a misting system was installed in the dugouts.

New attraction: Miller Park grounds
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
New Milwaukee Brewers owner Mark Attanasio wants to pursue development of a portion of the 265 acres surrounding Miller Park. The goal is to draw more people to the stadium grounds with more attractions than just baseball games, said Attanasio, who purchased the team in January.  Attanasio said he could envision a mix of restaurants, sports bars, retail stores and a hotel in the Miller Park parking lots, while at the same time preserving space for tailgating.

Dyer sees pluses, minuses of Uht Park
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Eric Seawolves (Class AA; Eastern League) manager Duffy Dyer hasn't seen a game yet at Jerry Uht Park, but he's right about one thing: the ballpark will play small. His biggest issue will be to teach young batters not to try to yank everything over the short left-field fence. "We don't want the kids trying to become pull hitters so they can hit home runs over the short fence there,'" Dyer said. "One thing about a park like Erie, it's hard for the organization sometimes to judge talent off of statistics, because hitters should hit a few more home runs there than they would in average parks."

New Navigators owner, others to greet fans at practice start
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lou DiBella, who is in the process of buying the Norwich Navigators (Class AA; Eastern League) for $10 million, will be introduced as the president and managing partner of the new ownership group at Tuesday's session, DiBella is expected to participate for the first time Thursday in lease-extension negotiations with the city. The Navigators' 12-year lease of Dodd Stadium expires after the 2006 baseball season.
    RELATED STORIES: Eastern League debates Navigators’ future; Navigators hoping to stay in Norwich; Norwich Navigators have been a good neighbor; City to appoint panel to work out lease for Dodd Stadium; Gators' prospective new owner feels shunned by COG; Wheels are in motion for DiBella to purchase Norwich Navigators

Express adds WiFi wireless at Dell Diamond
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Wayport is teaming up with the Round Rock Express (Class AAA; to make The Dell Diamond a Wi-Fi hot spot, with service to be available for the Express’ season opener. Baseball fans, coaches, players, members of the press, conference meeting and corporate suite attendees and vendors will be able to use Wayport’s Wi-Fi service anywhere inside the stadium, including individual seats, suites and meeting rooms. Individuals can connect for a low daily connection fee of $3.95, and special pricing is available for groups utilizing the meeting facilities. With any Wi-Fi-enabled device, attendees will be able to check email and surf the Web, send Instant Messages to their buddies in the stands, check online player stats and listen to the live broadcast on the Round Rock Express Web site. Wayport will hand out free promotional coupons to visitors at the park during the first five games of the season and customers can enter for a chance to win a Nolan Ryan autographed baseball once they connect to Wayport’s service. Cooperating with the effort to promote both baseball and Wi-Fi technology, Dell will provide Latitude and Inspiron Wi-Fi-enabled laptops for a demonstration station at The Dell Diamond.

Baseball returning to Cap City Stadium?
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Bill Shanahan, the former co-owner and general manager of the Cap City Bombers (Class A; Sally League), is talking with the Columbia City Council about moving a college wood-bat Coastal Plain League team into Cap City Stadium. The council responded by voting to allow staff to start a feasibility study on possible renovations to the ballpark.

Zephyrs name Ron Maestri executive director and chief operating officer
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New Orleans Zephyrs (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) Ron Maestri executive director and chief operating officer and Mike Schline general manager. Maestri comes to the Zephyrs after working with the New Orleans Sports Foundation as Executive Director of the New Orleans Bowl. He has also chaired the 2002 Women’s Volleyball Final Four, 2003 NCAA Men’s Final Four and the 2004 NCAA Women’s Final Four. Maestri, a member of the New Orleans Sports Hall of Fame, came to New Orleans in the 1970s to lead the University of New Orleans baseball program, a post he held for 14 years. Schline begins his fourth season with the Zephyrs and first as the GM after serving as assistant GM. Schline previously worked with the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) and the Winston-Salem Warthogs (Class A; Carolina League).

Fenway Frank inventor: The secret lies in the balance
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It seems like Fenway Franks have been part of the Fenway Park experience, but they date back only to the 1970s, when George Pile and the folks at Colonial Meat Company developed a leaner hot dog and approached the owners of the Red Sox about selling it at the ballpark. The rest, as they say, is history: today Fenway Franks are sold in grocery stores as well. Meanwhile, there's still reaction to the announcement by the Red Sox to their plan to stay at Fenway Park: the Patriot Ledger comes out in favor of the plan.

Cracker Jack: Peanuts and a prize
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Only one product is advertised during virtually every baseball game: Cracker Jack, which is part of the immortal "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during every seventh-inning stretch. With Sailor Jack and his dog Bingo on the cover, Cracker Jack is a ballpark institution, despite the presence of exotic foods like sushi and barbeque at games today. When the Yankees tried to replace Cracker Jack with Crunch 'N Munch at Yankee Stadium, you would have thought they traded Derek Jeter, as the resulting outcry forced the team to bring back the popular candy popcorn.

Pirates' 1979 Series trophy can't be sold
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There's now some dispute as to the ownership of the 1979 World Series trophy, which had been scheduled to go to auction to help pay the debts of the Allegheny HYP Club. The Pirates now say they still own the trophy and merely loaned it to the Allegheny HYP Club (a claim backed by many witnesses); the club is backtracking on its claims of ownership and are working with the team on a financial settlement. w are some new food items at SBC Park, the home of the San Francisco Giants. Among them: new deli items prepared exclusively for ballpark fans from Safeway and Big Guy's Custom BBQ. Also, the owners of Stormin' Norman's frybread say they'll deliver their product to anyone calling the concession stand.

Greensboro wracked by daily bomb threats
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Greensboro (N.C.) officials are dealing with daily bomb threats; recently the pranksters targeted the new downtown ballpark for the Greensboro Grasshoppers (Class A; Sally League). Other landmarks and civic buildings have been targeted as well. So far no explosives or anything out of the ordinary have been found at a targeted facility. UPDATE: A local teenager was arrested today for allegedly calling in the bomb threats.

Ballpark opens with exhibition games, new pool to be unveiled
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Arizona Diamondbacks are beginning the 2005 season with some changes to Bank One Ballpark. The most notable: the installation of a new party pool in center field, courtesy of We Fix Ugly Pools.  The new pool sits nearly four feet above ground and will offer fans an unobstructed view of the field. Natural stone finishes, including canterra and flagstone, surround the pool.

Sing praise to the lard
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
There are some new food items at SBC Park, the home of the San Francisco Giants. Among them: new deli items prepared exclusively for ballpark fans from Safeway and Big Guy's Custom BBQ. Also, the owners of Stormin' Norman's frybread say they'll deliver their product to anyone calling the concession stand.

Baseball Notes
Posted March 30, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Modesto Nuts (Class A; California League) and Stewart and Jasper Orchards have finalized a partnership agreement for the 2005 season.The partnership will include signage and print advertising for Stewart and Jasper during the 2005 season. Stewart and Jasper will also have the exclusive rights to sell almonds inside the ballpark. Stewart and Jasper will sell their roasted cinnamon glazed almonds at every Modesto Nuts weekend baseball game. In addition to the glazed product, the Modesto Nuts will sell roasted in-shell almonds at the concession stands....The West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) will be holding an Open House at Pringles Park on Saturday, April 2, from 2-4 p.m. The Open House and parking are both free to the public....The Southwest Michigan Devil Rays (Class A; Midwest League) announced they have partnered with Kellogg’s to provide game tickets for kids that may not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a game. Kellogg's will donate 1,500 tickets this season for "Project Kids." Each "Project Kids" game attendee will receive a game ticket and a snack. United Way of Greater Battle Creek, Greater Kalamazoo United Way, Community Inclusive Recreation, AXO and other agencies throughout Southwest Michigan will work with the Devil Rays to identify "Project Kids" recipients....The Greenville Bombers (Class A; Sally League) announced that all Sunday home games this season will be "Kids Eat Free" for children ages 12 and under with the purchase of a game ticket. The Bombers will provide a voucher for a hot dog, chips and soda with the purchase of any regular priced game ticket to children ages 12 and under for Sunday games this summer....A photo exhibit titled “Farm Team: A Season in the Minors” will be displayed in the concourse at Historic Grayson Stadium, the home of the Savannah Sand Gnats (Class A; Sally League) throughout the 2005 season. The exhibit, which debuts with a reception on April 29, is the work of local photographer and baseball fan Joseph C. Gamble. Gamble spent much of the 2004 season living among the players, coaches and staff, compiling a visual diary of the 100th anniversary of professional baseball in Savannah....Former Arizona third baseman Matt Williams announced he is becoming a partner in the Diamondbacks and will invest $3 million in the club over the next 10 years. Williams, who joined the expansion Diamondbacks in 1998, will own one-half of 1 percent of the team, paying $300,000 a year via a deferred investment that allows him to pay 10 percent each year. The commissioner's office approved Williams as a partner last week, a formality in the process....The Washington Nationals have named Jim Clarke, a former disc jockey in Detroit and New Orleans, as their public-address announcer.

Slow start for RFK naming rights
Posted March 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Yesterday was the deadline for corporations to submit proposals for naming rights to RFK Stadium, but the  D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission didn't receive any. Commission officials say they expect to receive some proposals today or tomorrow -- apparently the deadline was not too firm -- as the commission hopes to find a sponsor willing to pay up to $2 million per season for the three years the Nationals will play at RFK. Also this week, the commission is expected to select a lead architect for the proposed new baseball stadium along the Anacostia waterfront.
    RELATED STORIES: Sponsor sought for RFK Stadium; Two financing deals cleared for D.C. ballpark; D.C. ballpark architect finalist sees move to modern design; Ballpark design bids cut to three; Eight bid to design Nationals' ballpark; D.C. mayor, officials to see games in Florida; 'Big boxes' part of D.C. ballpark pitch

Portland Beavers to unveil new ownership group today
Posted March 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coat League) have scheduled a press conference for 1 p.m. (PST) today to unveil the team's new ownership group. It has taken the Pacific Coast League over a year to put together the group, in an effort led by Greg Torborg: city officials were distressed when the team's lease was up for renewal earlier this year because they were not briefed on the new owners. We're not entirely convinced the group is 100 percent complete: we've heard as recently as last week investment advisers were still working to put together the financing and offering minority shares in the venture.
    RELATED STORIES: Portland ballpark deal may already be done; City extends deal letting league operate PGE Park; Portland delays 2005 lease for Beavers; Stingers sold to Larry H. Miller; Drammis to pursue Portland?; Update on Portland Beavers ownership; PGE Park: What went wrong?

Property purchase for Marion ballpark finalized
Posted March 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Southern Illinois Baseball Group closed on a purchase of 31 acres of land (northwest of Interstate 57, near the Fairfield Inn) for $1 million. Discussions are ongoing regarding a design, and officials expect to start construction next month, with a 2006 opening envisioned. The next issue will be the team purchased by owner John Simmons: the group says negotiations are ongoing with Class A Midwest League teams; we've heard the South Bend Silver Hawks are in the mix.
    RELATED STORIES: Marion authorizes sales tax to partially fund new ballpark; Blagojevich defends plan to fund minor-league ballpark; Marion may invest sales tax in new ballpark

With season approaching, O's, baseball close to deal
Posted March 29, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
MLB and Baltimore Orioles officials say they're close to a deal to compensate the team for the move of the Montreal Expos into Washington, D.C. The negotiations have centered on how much the Orioles Television Network would pay to the Nationals for the rights to show their games. Another issue is how much equity -- if any -- the new Nationals owners would have in the network.

Construction of Cards' ballpark drawing fans
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Work continues on the next home of the St. Louis Cardinals, as crews continues to put up the steel infrastructure in preparation for a 2006 opening. The folks in St. Louis are baseball-crazy: it seems as though the new ballpark is turning into a tourist mecca, as baseball fans show up to take a look at how far construction has progressed. Crews are about halfway finished erecting the steel skeleton, which reaches most of the way down the first base side of the park, followed closely by concrete risers that will be the foundation for 46,000 red seats to be installed beginning this summer.

In memoriam: Bob Casey, longtime Twins P.A. announcer
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Bob Casey, the only P.A. announcer for the Minnesota Twins in team history, passed away yesterday after battling liver cancer and pneumonia, his family said. He was 79. Casey, who would have turned 80 on April 11, worked 44 seasons and more than 3,000 games for the Twins. He was best known for his admonition of smokers at the Metrodome as well as his drawn-out introductions of players like Kirby Puckett. Before the Twins moved to Minnesota, Casey served as P.A. announcer for the Minneapolis Millers (Class AAA; American Association); he also served as an announcer for the Minnesota Vikings and the Minneapolis Lakers.

Knights' stadium bid still in swing
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) may have lost out on their preferred ballpark site, but their quest for a new ballpark goes on. A committee examining possible sites for a Charlotte stadium is scheduled to report to Mecklenburg County commissioners next week. It is still examining at least two other county-owned parcels that Mecklenburg County commissioners have yet to rule out -- the Hal Marshall Center and Memorial Stadium sites. Knights ownership say they need a new ballpark to boost attendance; the team currently plays in Fort Mill, S.C.
    RELATED STORIES: County benches Knights' ballpark plan; Knights take 3rd swing at uptown; Knights owners deny plans to sell team; Uptown park or Knights ballpark?; Charlotte board cool to new ballpark; Center-city baseball in Charlotte?; Project may wrap around ballpark

Small-market claims for Oakland a myth
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It's time for the Oakland A's to stop pretending they're a small-market team: the greater San Francisco/Oakland/Fremont market is the 12-largest in the United States, but add in the greater Bay Area -- which is where the A's and the Giants draw from -- and you have a substantially larger market. The team spends only 54 percent of its revenues on payroll; by comparison, the Yankees spend 77 percent and the Angels 79 percent.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Whole new ballgame for Webers
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League) are playing their first game at Fisher Cats Ballpark on April 7, the culmination of years of work from Drew Weber to buy the former New Haven Ravens (Class AA; Eastern League) and move the team to Manchester. During that time Weber, who also owns the Lowell Spinners (short season; NY-Penn League), also dealt with family issues in the midst of arranging financing for the ballpark, as his wife, Joann, battled pancreatic cancer. (It's in remission, but she's still undergoing therapy.)
    RELATED STORIES: Manchester ballpark is big-time; It's 'Fisher Cats Ballpark,' at least for opening day; Manchester ballpark on track to open; Fisher Cats schedule topping-off party; New stadium design includes two clock towers; Manchester riverfront hotel deal back on track; Rising steel prices add to stadium cost; Manchester ballpark: Costs are up, but construction is on time

Surf facing a full count of litigation
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Several vendors are suing the Atlantic City Surf (independent; Atlantic League) over $84,000 in unpaid bills from the 2003 season. Team owner Frank Boulton says he's not responsible for the bills, as he subcontracted management of the team in the 2002 and 2003 season to a group that included current GM Mario Perrucci. Perrucci says his former partners are to blame, so he's suing them as well. It's probably not good PR for the president and the founder of a league to be stiffing suppliers, especially when the team is also having problems paying other current bills -- like the lease payments for the Sandcastle.

Heeere's the pitch for Red Wings business
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It's crunch time for Class AAA, AA and A front offices as they prepare for the 2005 season, which begins in April. Take the staff of the Rochester Red Wings (Class AAA; International League), which faces one of the toughest marketing tasks in minor-league baseball, according to local marketing experts. The challenges for the Red Wings will increase this year with the opening of the new soccer stadium, which could draw away fans and also will reduce revenue from food concessions operated by the Red Wings for Rochester Rhinos games.

Johnstown considers more than baseball for renovated ballpark
Posted March 28, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Johnstown (Pa.) officials are making plans for a renovated Point Stadium, which will undergo changes after the All-American Amateur Baseball Association Tournament wraps up in August. After that crews will be busy transforming the 79-year-old ballpark into a modern entertainment complex, tearing down rusted grandstands, expanding left field and adding artificial turf. Officials say changing the surface to artificial turf would allow the ballpark to be used for more than sports. But officials do also plan to pitch the stadium for year-round use by high school football, baseball and soccer teams, minor league baseball teams and possibly the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates.
    RELATED STORIES: Johnstown making pitch for Frontier League team; Point Stadium project "shifting gears"; What will become of the Point?; Stadium will be ready for tourney, city vows; Study to be constructed in Johnstown stadium

The real cost of revitalization in Corpus Christi
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A new ballpark for the Corpus Christi Hooks (Class AA; Texas League) is seen by many city officials as being an important components of a downtown revitalization. Some local residents question why the ballpark is ending up with a $27.7 million price tags after original estimates pegged the total cost at $18 million. Part of the confusion comes from the way the costs have been reported by the Corpus Christi Caller-Times: the project was always on a fast track, with additional costs to be determined after construction started. (City officials say they were upfront about these additional costs.) Still, the total cost of the ballpark is just 7.6 percent more than the original estimate, which many would consider to be totally acceptable and within the budgeted range.
    RELATED STORIES: Council votes 8-0 to increase cost of Whataburger Field; Corpus Christi to vote on $361K for ballpark; Baseball 'n' burgers: It's your What-a-field; New for 2005: The Corpus Christi Hooks; Partners aim for a hit with baseball shuffle

Wilder to Braves: Staying or going?
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Richmond (Va.) Mayor L. Douglas Wilder wants to know specifically what the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League) are planning, so he wrote the team a letter asking if the team is staying at The Diamond or leaving. Our bet is that team management really doesn't know: we know representatives from some Southeast U.S. cities have contacted the team about a possible move (we've heard Orlando and Jacksonville, though Orlando may be out of the running now that Mayor Buddy Dyer has been removed from office for an alleged voting scandal), and Time-Warner's not shy about moving franchises (i.e., Rome and Pearl). Wilder wants to see some more detailed development and market-research information before making any sort of commitment; the Braves and partner Global Development say they'll provide it by the beginning of May.
    RELATED STORIES: Richmond ballpark plan strikes out on site, economics, financing; Wilder quits role in Richmond group; Threat not part of deal for Richmond ballpark; Braves getting outside pitches; Braves or bust?; Drains a strain on Richmond ballpark plan?; Wilder: Stadium proposal lacks details; Richmond ballpark questions remain; Richmond Braves assume role as developer; New ballpark plan for Shockoe Bottom; Proposed ballpark may rescue flood-damaged Richmond area; Global ballpark bid asks much from D.C.

Arbitration looms as option for settling dispute
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
A dispute between the city of Jackson (Tenn.) and the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx (Class AA; Southern League) looks like it's headed to arbitration, as the two sides disagree on the extent of the losses claimed by the Diamond Jaxx in an effort to break the team's least at Pringles Park. The city disputes owner Bob Lozinak's claim that, due to poor attendance, the Jaxx franchise had significant operating losses of more than $150,000 each of the past two seasons, which would allow him to move the franchise without penalty. There are multiple scenarios for the future: If the city wins in arbitration, Lozinak would have no legal right to move the franchise without penalty; if the city loses in arbitration, Lozinak's termination letter to the city would stand and he would be free to move the franchise after this season (pending league, MiLB and MLB approvals); if the team draws fewer than 150,000 fans this season, the team would be free to move based on a different escape clause in the lease. The city's contract with Lozinak says the dispute will be settled by arbitration in Nashville by the American Arbitration Association. City residents are on the hook for $5.4 million still owed on Pringles Park and they are $1.6 million in the hole on the debt payment schedule. The future isn't as bleak as it seems, as the city moves ahead with plans to develop the land around Pringles Park with a youth baseball complex and a commercial complex featuring restaurants, hotels, banks and other retail stores. The Jackson Sun comes out in favor of the development and keeping the Jaxx, but argues for a more transparent governing process; much of this mess can be traced back to Mayor Charles Farmer's back-room maneuvering over the years.
    RELATED STORIES: City disputes Jaxx owners' claimed loss; Minor League chief visits Jaxx, Farmer; City, Diamond Jaxx delay decision on future of team; Moore to intervene; City may buy Jaxx; Greenville awarded to Cap City Bombers; Statement from West Tenn Diamond Jaxx regarding Greenville; Jackson mayor urges Jaxx to stay; Sportsplex proposal pitched in Jackson; Jackson looks at buying Diamond Jaxx

Put in his place
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Someone at the Los Angeles Dodgers should have anticipated how bad this looks. Irving Zeigler has had four seats behind the Dodger dugout since the team moved from Brooklyn, first at the Los Angeles Coliseum and then at Dodger Stadium. However, with the addition of premium seats closer to the field and the relocation of the dugout, the team wanted to charge him $120,000 to keep his same seats. Zeigler is a retired Navy pilot and aerospace executive who long ago built his Hollywood Hills home for less than $120,000 -- not the sort of corporate fat cat envisioned as the buyer of the new premium seats. In protest, Zeigler will sit out the Dodgers' season opener. Despite adding 1,600 seats, moving in the dugouts and lessening the amount of foul space, the Dodgers say Dodger Stadium will still be a pitchers' park.

Wolff about to take over
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Lew Wolff is expected to take control of the Oakland Athletics Wednesday, as owners are expected to approve the purchase via conference call. MLB Commissioner Bud Selig attending an A's game on Saturday and repeated the MLB line: there's no way the team will move to San Jose because that territory is controlled by the San Francisco Giants.
    RELATED STORIES: 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

Fenway beloved, but not comfortable
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
It's no secret we're big proponents of preserving and enhancing Fenway Park: old, historic ballparks should be treasured and preserved. Many of the working press covering the Red Sox regularly are of a different opinion, arguing that Fenway Park is a quaint relic deserving to be replaced. This article does lay out a compelling case for a new Boston Red Sox ballpark, but in the end the arguments (at least for now) are moot: the current ownership is going ahead with renovations designed to keep the BoSox at Fenway for decades to come.
    RELATED STORIES: Red Sox planning to remain at Fenway Park; Hockey games, skating proposed for Fenway Park; Fenway buying continues: Red Sox want garage as part of expansion, area improvement; Red Sox announce more changes to Fenway; Lyons finds friends inside ballpark team; .406 Club is in a slump; Antiquated Fenway getting a bit of a makeover; Fanatical over Fenway; Red Sox submits plan for Fenway expansion; Red Sox adding premium seats; A great ballpark, a good neighbor; Sox ownership looking at the long term?

Pro sports interests feed from state till
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
One issue with the Florida Marlins' request of state aid for a new Miami ballpark is the bad history of other requests for state aid. In theory, the state is granting a sales-tax rebate based on the revenues generated by the project. In reality, the formula for a rebate has been ignored, making them outright state grants to organizations like the Professional Golfers' Association of America Hall of Fame and the International Game Fish Association. Also a complicating factor: the former owner of the Marlins, H. Wayne Huizenga, is still collecting $2 million a year dedicated to the renovation of Joe Robbie Stadium for baseball. Also asking for money: three cities (Sarasota, Winter Haven and Fort Lauderdale) seeking funds for renovated or new spring-training facilities.
    RELATED STORIES: House leader goes to bat for Marlins; Dade officials in Tallahassee to lobby for Marlins ballpark; Good news, bad news for Marlins ballpark plans; Las Vegas still willing to gamble on baseball; Miami-Dade OKs financing for $420 million Marlins ballpark; Poll finds little support for public funding of Marlins ballpark; Tentative Marlins ballpark deal announced; State open to Marlins ballpark proposal; Miami gives Marlins ballpark the nod

As baseball league grows, prices don't
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Florida Collegiate Summer League is expanding by two teams, to six total, as the Winter Haven Warthogs and the Zephyrhills Snappers enter the league. The Warthogs will play at Chain of Lakes Park (the spring home of the Cleveland Indians), while the Snappers will play at a local high school. The league plays in some notable ballparks: the Sanford River Rats play at Sanford Memorial Stadium (a restored former spring-training venue), while the Orlando Shockers play at Tinker Field.

Take me out to the ballparks
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Many of you will visit ballparks this summer through a tour company. While we don't use tours here at Ballpark Digest, we do know of many ballpark fans who love the freedom presented by a tour operator: fans don't need to think about anything (tickets, hotels, transportation, etc.) other than enjoying the ballpark experience.

A baseball's best friend may be its mudder
Posted March 27, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
Well, let's get this out of way before the regular season starts. Here's a story about the mud umpires use to prepare baseballs before the start of each game. The mud -- Lena Blackburne Baseball Rubbing Mud, to be exact -- comes from an undisclosed location in southern New Jersey. The mud has been applied to major-and minor-league baseballs since 1938.

Top to bottom, old SkyDome gets a new look
Posted March 26, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Toronto Blue Jays have spent the offseason sprucing up the SkyDome after acquiring it. At a cost of just under $2 million, the Blue Jays have removed their old AstroTurf surface, often described as one of the worst in major league baseball, and are in the process of laying down FieldTurf, a revolutionary brand of synthetic playing surface developed by Canadians Jean Prevost and John Gilman. Other changes in the $10-million makeover: Six new high-resolution display screens, including a replacement for the massive JumboTron in centre field, will be in place for opening day. The screens will provide detailed scores and updates from out of town games as well as details on pitch count, pitch speed and pitch type on every play.
   RELATED STORIES: Toronto Blue Jays to buy SkyDome; Pie-in-the-SkyDome; SkyDome renamed Rogers Centre; extreme makeover planned

Hockey games, skating proposed for Fenway Park
Posted March 26, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Boston Red Sox are so serious about generating income from Fenway Park year-round that they're thinking of installing a hockey rink on the field and open the 93-year-old ballpark to ice skating and college hockey games during the winter. At this time it's at the idea stage: the team needs to determine whether an ice rink would damage the new turf and drainage system installed in the offseason, and the city must sign off on the plan as well. An ice surface involves more than just flooding the field: you're probably looking at some sort of artificial ice on top of a cooling system. Outdoor hockey games in football stadiums have drawn well in Edmonton and Ann Arbor, but there was a huge novelty factor involved as well.
    RELATED STORIES: Red Sox planning to remain at Fenway Park; Fenway buying continues: Red Sox want garage as part of expansion, area improvement; Red Sox announce more changes to Fenway; Lyons finds friends inside ballpark team; .406 Club is in a slump; Antiquated Fenway getting a bit of a makeover; Fanatical over Fenway; Red Sox submits plan for Fenway expansion; Red Sox adding premium seats; A great ballpark, a good neighbor; Sox ownership looking at the long term?

Braves' stadium to be known as 'Trustmark Park'
Posted March 26, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The new ballpark in Pearl, Miss., for the Mississippi Braves (Class AA; Southern League) will be known as Trustmark Park after Trustmark National Bank has bought naming rights. The length of the deal is 15 years; other terms of the deal were not released, but bank officials say it is comparable to other recent naming-rights deals (and the going rate seems to be $275,000 per year, as deals in Greensboro and Nashville would indicate). The $25 million ballpark opens April 18.

Trial solar project coming to SBC Park
Posted March 26, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The San Francisco Giants are installing a small solar array on the top of their offices at SBC Park to supply electricity for the team. It won't come close to filling the team's need for power, but it's not designed to do that: it's a demo project with the arrays supplied by Sharp Electronics. However, the Giants say if they can generate enough electricity with solar power, they'll consider installing a larger set of arrays on SBC Park's long, sunny roof.

Orem Owlz announce joint purchase of scoreboard
Posted March 26, 2005 (feedback) (submit story) (discuss)
The Orem Owlz (rookie; Pioneer League) announced the joint purchase of a $235,000 scoreboard for the new baseball field with Utah Valley State College. The 14-foot by 11-foot state-of-the-art screen will tower 44 feet above right field wall and feature the Owlz logo, along with the UVSC Wolverine shield. It will have a full video board capable of showing movies, live video feeds, highlights, etc. Two tri-panel rotating signs will frame the video board. It will also include a fully digital scoreboard with a radar monitor showing the speed of every pitch. "The addition of the video board makes this already-impressive facility even more extraordinary," said general manager Ryan Pace. "The home of the Owlz will be the crown jewel of the Pioneer League." Bona Sign, out of Springville, Utah is set to install the scoreboard. They have built displays for minor and major league teams all over the world.