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Archives: July 2-8, 2006

For new Reds ballpark, cash crisis on deck
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A plan to build a new $54-million spring-training ballpark in Sarasota for the Cincinnati Reds is facing one huge problem: local politicians are at a dead end on funding. Sarasota's funding for the construction of a new stadium and renovations to Ed Smith Stadium is dependent upon $15 million in state monies, a possible half-cent increase in the Tourist Development Tax that must be approved by the county commission and rent from the Reds. Anything short of the proposed $54 million price tag will have to be funded by the city, and they'd rather not issue local taxes to pay for it. However, the project seems to have an inflated price tag, and with good Triple-A ballparks being build for under $35 million, it's not clear why the Sarasota project has such a high price tag. And asking the Reds for more of a contribution is not unreasonable: the Philadelphia Phillies are paying for a third of their new $33-million spring-training complex, but the current plan has the Reds paying $2.1 million in up-front costs for the project, as well as $5 million over the life of the proposed 30-year bond to fund the new complex, which would also house the Sarasota Reds (High Class A; Florida State League).
    RELATED STORIES: Indians are likely headed for Disney; Reds swing and miss; Disney may open new world to Indians; New Reds' spring-training ballpark still $16M short; A big boost for spring training in Winter Haven; FAU proposal for $45 million spring-training camp runs into trouble; Bush signs bill funding spring-training complexes; Price for new Reds training facility: $54 million to $62 million; Osceola County wooing Indians; Could Indians end up training at Disney World?; Spring training ballpark, tourism compete for Sarasota bed tax revenue; Spring-training bill awaits Bush signature; Spring-training facilities bill passes Florida House; County money just part of Indians spring site's need; Goodyear's Cactus League radar is pointed directly at Dodgers; Polk County commits $23 million to sports facilities, including new Indians spring complex; Goodyear inviting Dodgers to move; Dodgers confirm contact from Glendale regarding Cactus League shift; Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida; Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Ray Winder Field may be coming down
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After the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League) end their run at Ray Winder Field in September and move to a new ballpark in North Little Rock, the city of Little Rock will need to figure out exactly what to do with the ballpark and its parking lot. The city has hired a consultant to look at the entire 200-acre property that includes War Memorial Stadium, a city zoo and other government buildings. One possibility, of course, is that the city could decide to tear down the venerable old ballpark in favor of other development (including a potential expansion of the zoo), but at this point things are up in the air.
    RELATED STORIES: Construction of ballpark in NLR gets running start; Travelers GM offers up some new details on Dickey-Stephens Park; Last at-bat for Ray Winder Field; Arkansas's Screen Monster: One of baseball's great home-run alleys; North Little Rock ballpark builders face challenges; Travs ballpark plans intact, on track; Ballpark's rising costs to force a decision in North Little Rock; The future of Ray Winder Field under debate; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark has budget difficulty; Hays says Travelers fans should pay to park; New Travs home to be called Dickey-Stephens Park; Little Rock seeks bids to replace Ray Winder Field; Travelers' home coming into focus; NLR sets ballpark previews; NLR projects set fast, sure course; NLR ballpark planners get right to work; North Little Rock voters approve sales-tax hike for new ballpark; Hays says there is no ‘Plan B' for new Travs' ballpark; NLR’s 1% tax plan sees 254-vote 1st day; A rush act for NLR ballpark; Hays: 2 tax projects’ OK will give NLR ‘a booster shot'; NLR promotion panel salutes stadium, not tax; NLR working on game plan for tax vote; Travelers, North Little Rock agree to 50-50 split; North Little Rock ballpark talks snag over cash; Sales-tax vote favored by most on NLR council; Pitching for Aug. 9 tax vote, Hays says; NLR mayor pitches 2-year sales tax for ballpark; Will the Arkansas Travelers stay in Little Rock after all?; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark delayed; financing is in doubt; Actions to save Ray Winder Field sought; Travs ballpark development moves forward; Plans for new Little Rock ballpark unveiled; New home for Arkansas Travelers?; Little Rock ballpark near river in works; Replacing Ray Winder Field wasn't in my plans

Official raises doubts on Nats ballpark parking plan
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Natwar M. Gandhi, D.C.'s chief financial officer, says the parking plan for a new Washington Nationals ballpark crafted by Mayor Anthony Williams carries risks that could throw the project off schedule and blow its budget. He is expected to outline his concerns in testimony today before the D.C. Council. It marks a setback for Williams and another twist in the argument over the shape of the ballpark, how much it should cost, who should pay for it and who will profit from it. Gandhi doubts the mayor's parking plan can be implemented by April 2008, when the city has promised MLB that the ballpark will be ready, according to the written testimony. Gandhi is also skeptical that financing for the plan and several other legal hurdles can be cleared by September, when construction would have to begin.
    RELATED STORIES: 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; MLB seems settled on new Nationals owner; And the Nats' owners are....; Impending Nats sale arouses speculation; Bob DuPuy pays a visit to the Lerner family; Smulyan promises African-American president for Nats Lerner adds two more to group bidding for Nats; Hey, MLB: Nats need an owner now; New Nats owner might find cracks in the foundation

City may go other route on bringing professional baseball to town
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If it’s a matter of adding fire substations or an independent league baseball team, expect Anderson to side with the fire department, City Manager John Moore said. Founders of the South Coast League, which is expected to launch in May 2007, have met with representatives from the city, Anderson County and Anderson University to discuss the possibility of bringing professional baseball back to the Electric City, after what would be a 22-year hiatus. An Atlanta Braves’ Class A affiliate played here from 1980-85. The plan floated by SCL officials calls for a team to play in Anderson Memorial Stadium -- the home of Anderson University’s team and the former home of the Anderson Braves -- for a year or two, if plans for a new ballpark were in place.
    RELATED STORIES: Bradenton officials wary of South Coast League proposal; Jackhammers' owners eyeing a league: their own; Charlotte County approves South Coast League lease; SCL looking at Beaufort County; South Coast League proposing play at Port Charlotte in 2007; South Coast League announces ownership group; Sanford rejects South Coast League bid; South Coast League fails to reach agreement in Sanford; Macon City Council approves baseball contract; Baseball's return now in hands of Macon council; League looking to bring pro baseball to Greenville; South Coast League contacts Wilmington officials; Macon moves toward bringing baseball back to the city; Minor-league baseball in Macon -- again?; Macon ponders two baseball proposals; City explores baseball's return to Macon; Baseball team could slide home to Bluffton; South Coast League announces 2007 launch

York ballpark project gets OK
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The York (Pa.) City Council yesterday approved a redevelopment proposal for the construction of a 4,260-seat ballpark for an independent Atlantic League teams near the city's downtown, allowing the project to clear one of its final hurdles. All that remains now is for the council to approve a final land development plan, expected to come before the council at its Wednesday, Aug. 2, meeting, said project manager Blanda Nace. The land development plan addresses details, such as how the project will address noise and light. Demolition of buildings on ballpark property is expected to begin today; plans call for a late-summer groundbreaking and a 2007 opening date.
    RELATED STORIES: 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?

Budget director: Kansas City should rethink Kauffman Stadium aid
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Kansas City's budget director said the city should reconsider paying for the Jackson County Sports Complex, which includes Kauffman Stadium, the home of the Kansas City Royals. Each year, Kansas City pays $2 million to help maintain the stadiums, even though Jackson County, not the city, owns the Sports Complex. Budget Director Troy Schulte said the city has its own needs, and maybe it's time to rethink the ballpark payments. The idea was quickly shot down by Mayor Kay Barnes, who said the city committed to the Kauffman Stadium payments when Jackson County voters agreed to fund renovations to the ballpark.
     RELATED STORIES: Kauffman Stadium tax credits get OK; Stadium vote sets 'pros' in motion; Royals win funding for Kauffman Stadium renovations; voters reject rolling roof; Royals bring out big guns on eve of stadiums vote; Kauffman to get All-Star Game if renovations are approved; Royals unveil Kauffman Stadium renovation plans; Teams say upgrades will make stadiums 'brand new'; Is Kansas City stadium tax good deal for voters?; Advocates kick off effort for Kansas City ballpark taxes; Rift splits backers of downtown Kansas City ballpark; Use tax alone won't cover a rolling roof; Glass: Tax failure could force Royals' hand; Glass can't imagine selling naming rights for Kauffman Stadium; Future of Truman complex now up to voters; Royals agree to ticket surcharge; Retractable roof back on for Kauffman Stadium?; Jackson County, Royals to finalize lease for Kauffman Stadium; Bonuses offered to Jackson Countians; Kauffman Stadium renovation sales tax on the way to voters; Kauffman Stadium negotiations near goal; Sizing up challenge of raising the roof; Glass: No thanks to roof for Kauffman Stadium; Kauffman Stadium to get roof?; Summit suggested on Kansas City ballpark proposal; Chairman speaks out about downtown K.C. ballpark; Cost of keeping Chiefs, Royals seems to be in voters' hands; Downtown ballpark idea builds on a KC vision; Downtown ballpark proposal would one-up bistate cost; Downtown KC ballpark dreamers need a reality check; Offensive renewed for downtown KC ballpark; Analyst proposes $357M downtown KC ballpark; Downtown Council shapes plan for new KC ballpark; Residents point out KC stadium benefits; Lend downtown KC ballpark boosters an ear at ‘listening tour’; Kansas City negotiator fired after comments; KC stadium finance tilts toward Chiefs

Ballpark with no team going up in Marion
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Nothing here that you've not read in these pages before: construction continues on a new ballpark in Marion, Ill., as John Simmons and his crew continue to work on a deal for an independent-league team for the community of 16,800. There are some inaccuracies, though: Simmons cannot actually own any team playing in the ballpark -- MiLB rules are quite strict about affiliated-team owners not owning indy teams, and Simmons already owns the Savannah Sand Gnats (Low Class A; Sally League -- and from what we've heard the Frontier League is the only league showing any enthusiasm for the market, and Simmons rep Michael Theissen has been the one pitching Marion to American Association and Northern League officials, not the other way around. That's probably apt: because of its size and location (and some family connections), the Frontier League is a perfect fit for Marion. Also, it's extremely rare for anyone to build a multimillion-dollar ballpark without have a team lined up -- Springfield, Mo., is an example, but that's such a weird case it cannot be held up as being par for the course.
    RELATED STORIES: Major construction of Marion ballpark to begin mid-June; Simmons backs out of deal to buy Silver Hawks; Midwest League approves sale of Silver Hawks to Simmons; Midwest League reconsidering Marion application; Minor-league baseball in Marion is not dead yet; Marion baseball still seen as possibility; $16 million ballpark needs league of its own; Midwest League rejects Marion; Group awaiting the words 'play ball': Final approval on sale of South Bend baseball team may come next month; Construction on Marion ballpark to start Monday; Marion ballpark expected to be ready in 2007; Victory Sports announces Northern League team for South Bend; Ballpark funding draws some boos; Butler, Blagojevich discuss baseball strategy for Marion; Williamson County state's attorney calls McKenna allegation 'reckless'; Prosecutor to review state funding for Marion baseball project; Sky box mentality doesn't sit well with bleacher crowd; Controversy swirls around Marion ballpark development; South Bend to Marion; No word yet on Marion ballpark construction; Spelius: Simmons has no deal for Midwest League team; Simmons acquires Midwest League team for Marion; Batter up: Dignitaries dig in, break ground on new Marion ballpark; SIGB happy with signs of progress on minor-league baseball; Baseball project progressing slowly, steadily

Minnesota ballpark authority set to start work
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The five members of the new Minnesota Ballpark Authority will take their seats in temporary chambers and start with the basic details that will lead to the expected opening of the ballpark in the Minneapolis Warehouse District in the spring of 2010. The first task is selecting an executive director -- though we've heard some authority members already have a director in mind -- and then begin planning the ballpark, with the Twins having final say over the design.
    RELATED STORIES: Twins searching for trademark ballpark design; Hennepin County OKs spending plan for Twins ballpark; Twins' ballpark push tab: under a hundred grand; Twins ballpark spending plan outlined; Naming rights options scary; More than a ballpark in Minneapolis; Twins' ballpark opponents were tired of the fight; supporters weren't; Pawlenty says he'll sign Twins ballpark bill this week; Legislature approves Twins ballpark; opening slated for 2010; Legislature moves toward original Twins ballpark plan; Poll shows majority of Minnesota residents don't think Twins need new ballpark; Hennepin County Board OKs Twins ballpark plan; Will new Twins ballpark go green?; Hennepin County board OKs revised Twins ballpark plan; Politics, tax tangle Twins' quest for new park; Supporters say Twins ballpark bill has enough votes to pass; Twins ballpark proposal picking up steam in Minnesota Legislature; Twins laying off threats, for now; It's back! Twins ballpark issue still with us; Twins are hearing dreaded 'C' word again;  Twins make pitch in court to leave Dome; Bonoff won despite supporting ballpark; Hennepin County gives go-ahead for study related to Twins ballpark;  Twins sue to get out of Metrodome lease; Minnesota Twins, Hennepin County reach agreement on ballpark funding; Twins back Minneapolis ballpark location; What's up with a Twins ballpark?; Ballpark tax plan is calling for a first

More records over the 4th
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You can add another team to the list of those breaking attendance records over the 4th of July weekend. A raucous 4th of July crowd of 3,149 helped the Casper Rockies (rookie; Pioneer League) break a 3-year-old attendance record Tuesday night at Mike Lansing Field. The previous attendance record, 3,086, was set in the final game of the 2003 season. "Once again the Casper community has shown tremendous support of professional baseball," said Rockies GM Danny Tetzlaff.
    RELATED STORIES: A record-breaking July

Fitch removes negative rating for new Busch Stadium
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Fitch has removed the Negative Rating Watch on the Missouri Development Finance Board's (St. Louis County) $45.8 million taxable St. Louis Cardinals ballpark project bonds, series 2003. In addition, Fitch affirms the bonds at 'AA'. The bonds were placed on Rating Watch Negative on Feb. 11, 2005. The rating action reflects court decisions that favored the county's commitments to finance the new Busch Stadium and the successful resolution of litigation. The courts recognized that a voter-approved county charter amendment to limit financial support of the ballpark could not apply retroactively to earlier county financial agreements regarding the ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Busch's league; New Busch Stadium brings promise to downtown St. Louis; Cardinals enjoy seeing full house for first time in new ballpark; New Busch Stadium: The name remains the same, but . . .; Cardinals pledge to iron out lingering problems at Busch; Small fire breaks out in new Busch Stadium; Arch-itecture; Not everyone raving about the new Busch; Busch foul poles will be replaced; Backward, march; New Busch Stadium has its own quirks; Fans revel in new Cardinals ballpark; Ready or not....; Ballpark Visit: Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals

Visalia ballpark readies for more fans
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Recreation Park, the home of the Visalia Oaks (High Class A; California League), is getting ready to launch another phase of its face-lift. Around 400 new seats are to be installed on the right-field side, where a couple of bleachers now hold sway. And a grassy berm where 500 fans could rest and watch the action is planned. Besides extra seating, the proposed $1.5 million project includes restrooms, a concession stand, new ticket office, maintenance storage area, kids play area with a mini-baseball field, renovated main concession stand and a VIP lounge on the first-base side. The Visalia City Council is scheduled to get a report about the project July 17.

Uecker calls stalking situation 'intense'
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In what Bob Uecker said is an attempt to regain control of his life, the Hall of Fame announcer testified Monday that he wants a restraining order against a woman he claims is stalking him. Uecker, the voice of the Milwaukee Brewers for more than 35 years, said in a civil hearing that he has become concerned about his dealings with Ann Ladd and he does not want to have to think about her anymore. The 45-year-old woman is charged with felony stalking of Uecker in a separate criminal matter. She was released on a signature bond last Wednesday and ordered to stay at least 1,000 feet away from Uecker and avoid his homes and workplace, including Miller Park and other Major League Baseball parks.
    RELATED STORIES: Woman charged with stalking Uecker ordered to have no contact; Uecker: She's been stalking me for years

Defenders, Giants close to extending PDC
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Officials from the San Francisco Giants say they're close to extending their current player-development deal with the Connecticut Defenders (Class AA; Eastern League). The Defenders front office is equally certain a two-year deal will be announced soon. The Defenders' lease at Dodd Stadium runs through 2012 with an option for the Defenders to move in 2009. The Giants say improvements to Dodd Stadium and a commitment by new owner Lou DiBella to make further improvements clinched their decision to renew. More on our Affiliates 2006 page.

House members want Comcast merger contingent on MASN arbitration
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Three Washington-area House members asked the Federal Communications Commission to make Comcast Corp.'s proposed merger with Adelphia Communications Corp. contingent on Comcast submitting a dispute over airing of Washington Nationals baseball games to binding arbitration. The proposal Wednesday by Government Reform Committee Chairman Tom Davis, R-Va., James Moran, D-Va., and Albert Wynn, D-Md., was the latest effort by federal and local officials to resolve the dispute with the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network that prevents 1.3 million Nationals fans from seeing most games on TV. The region's largest cable provider has refused to carry MASN, which controls the rights to most Nationals games, because of a dispute with Baltimore Orioles owner Peter Angelos over television rights to the Orioles and control of the region's sports programming market.

Private funding for pro baseball in Springdale once considered
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John Q. Hammons, the Springfield, Mo., hotel developer, discussed building a minor league baseball stadium in Northwest Arkansas before Springdale pursued its plans for a publicly funded facility. Hammons said in a telephone interview this week that he didn’t remember exactly when the discussion took place, but it came around the same time Hammons was debating whether to build a new ballpark in Springfield, Mo., which eventually became Hammons Stadium, the home of the Springfield Cardinals (Class AA; Texas League).

Event to mark Forbes Field wall of dreams
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A wall remaining from Forbes Field, the longtime home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, has been spiffed up recently by Pittsburgh officials as the city prepares for the MLB All-Star Game at PNC Park. A ceremony will be conducted Friday at the wall to unveil a state historical marker bearing the inscription: "Forbes Field -- The first all steel and concrete ballpark in the nation, Forbes Field was home to the Pirates, site of four World Series in 1909, 1925, 1927, 1960 and two All Star games. Hosted the Homestead Grays, Steelers, and Pitt Panthers, as well as political rallies and boxing matches. Site of Bill Mazeroski's Game 7, ninth inning, World Series winning home run on Oct. 13, 1960 and Babe Ruth's last three home runs. Damaged by fire; razed 1972." During the past several months, workers have been painstakingly restoring the wall -- pulling off the ivy, which can damage the red brick; repointing the mortar joints; cleaning the brick; and applying a coat of green paint to the flag pole and concrete pilasters that separate the brick sections. More from AP.
    RELATED STORIES: All-Star Game security to cover all the bases

Canseco returns, promises more 'devastating' information on steroids; already wants out of San Diego
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The best way to view Jose Canseco's traveling circus in the independent Golden Baseball League is guerilla theater in a baseball uniform, as he's less interested in baseball -- he struck out three times in his debut, reportedly looking pretty bad in the process after not playing for four years -- and more in taking a poke or three at Major League Baseball, promising more revelations on steroid abuse in the majors. Now, we think there's a pretty good case to be made that MLB hasn't handled the steroids scandal very well. But we're also skeptical that Canseco would write a book about steroid abuse and then save the best stories for later: he's trying, with some success, to drum up headlines. The GBL, which entered into a merchandising agreement with Canseco in addition to his playing contract with the San Diego Surf Dawgs, is laughing all the way to the bank: the largest crowd in Chico Outlaws history was at Nettleton Stadium to see Canseco's debut. Oh, Canseco plans to pitch, too -- something we're sure will thrill manager Terry Kennedy. MLB responds to Canseco's allegations, calling them nonsense. After one game, Canseco has demanded a trade out of San Diego to the Long Beach Armada, saying child-custody responsibilities require him to be in the Los Angeles area for more time than he anticipated.

A record-breaking July
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We have some records to pass along, as baseball fans flocked to the ballpark over the 4th of July break. With 15,020 fans on hand to see the Albuquerque Isotopes (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) take on the Memphis Redbirds in a July 3rd match-up at Isotopes Park, the ‘Topes have set a single-game attendance record, attracting the most fans ever to see a baseball game in the city of Albuquerque. A record crowd of 14,169 was on hand at Principal Park for a Iowa Cubs (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) victory over the the New Orleans Zephyrs Tuesday night. Pelican Park, the home of the Pensacola Pelicans (independent; American Association), was packed Tuesday evening as 3,362 fans filed through the gates, the largest crowd in the team's five-year history, to see the Pelicans take on the Sioux Falls Canaries and post-game fireworks and other festivities. The Eau Claire Express (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) drew  a record crowd of 5,257 to Carson Park. The Clearwater Threshers (High Class A; Florida State League) set a single-game attendance record of 8,216 on June 30 at Bright House Networks Field versus the Lakeland Tigers. The crowd surpassed the previous record of 7,027 set on June 18, 2004. The Zooperstars act, a Fireworks Extravaganza and Bright House Networks Customer Appreciation Night all contributed to the milestone. The Kalamazoo Kings (independent; Frontier League) drew a record crowd of 7,492 to Homer Stryker Field on July 4. Though we're not sure this is a record, over 5,000 fans showed up to Mulcahy Stadium for the traditional Fourth of July baseball doubleheader between the Anchorage Bucs and Anchorage Glacier Pilots (both summer collegiate; Alaska Baseball League). And, in a big-picture record, the Portland Sea Dogs (Class AA; Eastern League) welcomed their 5 millionth fan in franchise history on July 3.

Construction of ballpark in NLR gets running start
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Concrete for Dickey-Stephens Park’s grandstand risers, the dugouts and outfield retaining walls has begun going in over the past two weeks, along with the facade of the $32.6 million ballpark and an 80-foot-tall clock tower that will rise over the main entrance. The new North Little Rock ballpark will open next season as the home of the Arkansas Travelers (Class AA; Texas League), as the team prepares to leave its longtime home, Ray Winder Field.
    RELATED STORIES: Travelers GM offers up some new details on Dickey-Stephens Park; Last at-bat for Ray Winder Field; Arkansas's Screen Monster: One of baseball's great home-run alleys; North Little Rock ballpark builders face challenges; Travs ballpark plans intact, on track; Ballpark's rising costs to force a decision in North Little Rock; The future of Ray Winder Field under debate; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark has budget difficulty; Hays says Travelers fans should pay to park; New Travs home to be called Dickey-Stephens Park; Little Rock seeks bids to replace Ray Winder Field; Travelers' home coming into focus; NLR sets ballpark previews; NLR projects set fast, sure course; NLR ballpark planners get right to work; North Little Rock voters approve sales-tax hike for new ballpark; Hays says there is no ‘Plan B' for new Travs' ballpark; NLR’s 1% tax plan sees 254-vote 1st day; A rush act for NLR ballpark; Hays: 2 tax projects’ OK will give NLR ‘a booster shot'; NLR promotion panel salutes stadium, not tax; NLR working on game plan for tax vote; Travelers, North Little Rock agree to 50-50 split; North Little Rock ballpark talks snag over cash; Sales-tax vote favored by most on NLR council; Pitching for Aug. 9 tax vote, Hays says; NLR mayor pitches 2-year sales tax for ballpark; Will the Arkansas Travelers stay in Little Rock after all?; New Arkansas Travelers ballpark delayed; financing is in doubt; Actions to save Ray Winder Field sought; Travs ballpark development moves forward; Plans for new Little Rock ballpark unveiled; New home for Arkansas Travelers?; Little Rock ballpark near river in works; Replacing Ray Winder Field wasn't in my plans

Indians are likely headed for Disney
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Though the Cleveland Indians and Disney officials haven't officially met regarding a move of the Indians' spring-training camp to Disney World, there's an interesting scenario floating around. We've noted it would be unlikely the Indians would move camp for next spring: the state program funding new or renovated spring-training facilities has a deadline of Oct. 31 for funding applications from local government units, so it's not likely any funds will be disbursed before the beginning of the year. And we can't see Disney spending millions of dollars on a new spring-training facility without the guarantee of $15 million in state funds. So one idea that's out there: the Indians will continue to practice this spring at the Chain of Lakes Park complex in Winter Haven but move spring-training games to The Ballpark at Disney's Wide World of Sports, under the assumption the Indians will move operations to a new Disney World camp when a funding plan is completed.
    RELATED STORIES: Reds swing and miss; Disney may open new world to Indians; New Reds' spring-training ballpark still $16M short; A big boost for spring training in Winter Haven; FAU proposal for $45 million spring-training camp runs into trouble; Bush signs bill funding spring-training complexes; Price for new Reds training facility: $54 million to $62 million; Osceola County wooing Indians; Could Indians end up training at Disney World?; Spring training ballpark, tourism compete for Sarasota bed tax revenue; Spring-training bill awaits Bush signature; Spring-training facilities bill passes Florida House; County money just part of Indians spring site's need; Goodyear's Cactus League radar is pointed directly at Dodgers; Polk County commits $23 million to sports facilities, including new Indians spring complex; Goodyear inviting Dodgers to move; Dodgers confirm contact from Glendale regarding Cactus League shift; Cardwell says spring-training attendance remains consistent in Florida; Florida lawmakers approve spring-training facilities bill; FAU considering a deal with Indians for spring-training complex; Goodyear chooses site to build spring-training complex; Moving away from tradition; Baseball complex proponents envision many pluses for Casa Grande; Tradition and economics in Florida; Plan for a new Reds spring-training complex in Sarasota move forward; Mum's the word in spring-training facility bidding war; Indians signal they may consider Winter Haven contract; Dodgertown is a little less blue; State should spring for aid to teams; Glendale says it will be talking to teams about spring-training site; Details emerge on Sarasota County, city plan for stadium, event center, ballfields; Sarasota eyes ambitious plan to convert arena site to keep Reds; Cactus League may grow as cities plan new parks; Three-city race for new Arizona spring-training ballpark?; Apopka making its pitch for Indians spring training; Reds, Pirates team up to seek better facilities; Lee County game for third team; Spring-training facility not in city's best interests; Baseball, stadium would benefit city; Cleveland Indians scout training site in Cape Coral

Clippers ballpark back on track
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Though there's been progress on planning for Huntington Park, the projected new home of the Columbus Clippers (Class AAA; International League), some close to the project wonder whether the ballpark can actually be completed in time for a July 2008 opening. To meet that deadline, construction would need to begin before the end of the year, but there are no plans in place: only last month was 360 Architecture named architect of record on the project, and no construction contract has been inked. Though the bid process has been streamlined, the fact this is a county project may end up delaying things. The project carries an estimated $55 million price tag and would replace the aged 15,000-seat Cooper Stadium.
    RELATED STORIES: County picks 360 Architecture to design Clippers ballpark; Clippers ballpark sponsors balk at labor plan; Clippers' new home should have real baseball feel; Nationwide to oversee Clippers’ stadium construction

St. Peter tries to clarify radio misconceptions
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The Minnesota Twins played the ballpark situation perfectly this last year, gaining approval for state funding for most of the costs of the new downtown Minneapolis ballpark. In the process, the Twins traded on the goodwill of fans across the region. But with word that the Twins may leave longtime radio partner WCCO-AM in favor of KSTP-AM or KTLK-FM, the team may have thrown away a lot of that goodwill. The Twins have been on WCCO-AM since the team moved from Washington for the 1961 season, and most fans in Minnesota rarely think of one without the other. But WCCO-AM is a CBS station now, with big programming decisions coming out of New York City. The Twins have a simple demand: they want all advertising revenue from broadcasts as well as $1 million a year in rights fees. So far CBS is unwilling to make that commitment. Sid Hartman addressed the issue on his popular Sunday morning radio show, and you could feel the spittle hit the microphone as he reamed billionaire Twins owner Carl Pohlad for being greedy, saying that without WCCO's support the new Twins ballpark would never have been approved by the Minnesota Legislature. (He's right.) Many also fear this is a move by the Twins to scale back on free broadcasts and force listeners to pay for an XM Radio subscription. So, basically, here's a case where a high-profile MLB team is willing to walk away from a longtime partner for a richer contract. Financially, we empathize with the Twins: their current deal with WCCO is a pretty poor one as far as MLB teams go, and they needed to do something to get CBS's attention. But there's also the larger picture, one that MLB doesn't seem to understand: a successful industry thrives because of successful partnerships, where both sides win. We've seen many instances of MLB and MLB AM attempt to screw over partners over the last year in an effort to wring every last penny from a relationship, and at some point that sort of behavior comes back to haunt you. We'll see in five years where the Cardinals are with their low-powered radio broadcasts; we'll see where the Twins are after their Saturday night broadcasts have a cooking-show lead-in.
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Paterno strikes out on baseball in Happy Valley
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A local newspaper takes a huge shot at Penn State football coach Joe Paterno for opposing the construction of Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, the home of Penn State baseball and the State College Spikes (short season; NY-Penn League). JoPa opposed the ballpark from the beginning and bad-mouthed it to no end, eventually taking his concerns to Gov. Ed Rendell, who wisely blew them off. Paterno never really elucidated a firm opposition to the ballpark past it being a little inconvenient (a few prime parking spots were occupied during construction), adding there's no place for pro sports on campus (and we chortle at the notion of the Penn State football coach decrying what amounts to another pro team on campus). The ballpark is already gorgeous and successful; such a great (and expensive) ballpark wouldn't have been possible without the Spikes. More from the Penn State newspaper.
    RELATED STORIES: Spikes add to county's rich baseball heritage; Spikes finally open season after whirlwind 13 months; Holdovers say State College experience a 'step up' from 2005 in New Jersey; Curve Baseball LP a well-organized ownership group; Medlar Field offers a scenic blend; Cardinals would like to extend relationship with Spikes; Owners see niches for both Spikes, Curve

Nationals' new president to use experience, multi-tasking when building franchise
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Stan Kasten, who officially will become president of the Washington Nationals baseball team soon, no doubt expected to expound on plans to rebuild a franchise that Major League Baseball treated as an unwanted stepchild since its last days in Montreal. The task is well suited to Kasten, who won 12 division titles and the '95 World Series as president of the Atlanta Braves while at various times also chief executive of Atlanta's pro hockey (Thrashers) and basketball teams (Hawks). In his spare time he guided the building of Phillips Arena for the Thrashers and Hawks.
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Polishing The Diamond
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Here's another call for a renovation of The Diamond, the home of the Richmond Braves (Class AAA; International League). The area surrounding The Diamond is in the midst of gentrification, and with easy freeway access and a decent infrastructure in place, many feel the better route is renovation, not a new downtown ballpark. But all is talk at this stage: with the sale of the R-Braves along with parent team Atlanta Braves still up in the air, the current management isn't in a position to make any long-term commitment to any Richmond ballpark, new or renovated.
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Camacho Cigar Bar opens at Comerica Park
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Christian Eiroa, the president of Camacho Cigars, admits he was never a big baseball fan. That was until the Camacho Cigar Bar opened at Comerica Park in Detroit. Now, Eiroa is a Tigers fan to the hilt. Given the turnout of enthusiastic Motor City cigar smokers at the grand opening of the bar and lounge on June 23, Tigers fans are becoming Camacho fans, too. Of course, there's a little dissonance to MLB promoting anti-smoking and anti-chew campaigns while teams open cigar bars (one also opened this season at PNC Park), but what the heck.

Lakeland Tigers will undergo changes for 2007
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We've reported on this in the past, but here's the official word that the Lakeland Tigers (High Class A; Florida State League) will undergo some changes for the 2007 season. There's been no official announcement on the extent of the changes: it could range from a new logo to a brand-new name and look. The Tigers have notified Minor League Baseball that the team is considering changing its name, logo or both. The team has until Sept. 1 to present proposed changes, including logo design, to Minor League Baseball, which must approve of any changes before the team can implement them. The team will probably keep an identification with the Tigers, however, on some level.

The Jake: Urban amusement park
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As far as MLB ballparks go, Jacobs Field isn't especially heavy on the sideshows, but you couldn't tell that from this article from the St. Paul Pioneer Press. The things we love about Jacobs Field -- its location, its upper deck, its left-field bleachers, the passionate Indians fans -- are deemed negatives here. One observation that's true: there's not enough emphasis on Indians history here, and even though many Indians fans remember the futility of those awful teams in the 1970s and 1980s, there's a richer history that includes the likes of Lou Boudreau and Bill Veeck.

Riverfront Stadium project progresses slowly
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As in being delayed by years. A renovation of Riverfront Stadium, the home of the Waterloo Bucks (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) has been delayed because of various deadlines being missed, beginning last fall with the failure of a private contractor to put up a block wall, pushing back the installation of new plumbing by months. So far the only part of the renovation finalized has been a new entrance to the ballpark, and it may be until next season before Phase I of the project is completed.

Wrigley becoming a tougher sell
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Journalism is a contact sport in Chicago, and we're not surprised to see the Chicago Sun-Times take more than a few shots at the Chicago Tribune-owned Wrigley Field. The purpose of this article: comparing Wrigley Field with U.S. Cellular Field. The Cell wasn't a very good ballpark when it opened in 1991, but over the years the White Sox have made a slew of great changes, making it a very good place to watch a baseball game. And let's face it: Wrigley Field is an old, historic ballpark with many of the drawbacks inherent in an old ballpark -- narrow aisles, small seats, limited concessions, no parking, et al. But we're talking Wrigley Field here. It is, by definition, incomparable.

Grizzlies Stadium impact takes time
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When Fresno officials went ahead with Grizzlies Stadium, the home of the Fresno Grizzlies (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), they did so with the hope the ballpark would improve the surrounding downtown neighborhood. So far that hasn't happened, and a local columnist despairs of that development happening in the next five years.

Pelicans to stage "Baseball The Musical"
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The Myrtle Beach Pelicans (High Class A; Carolina League) are bringing Broadway to baseball July 13-15 when they host "Baseball The Musical," the first-ever full theatre production during a baseball game. The unique and never-before-attempted promotion will feature an original script with accompanying music, and a full cast. All of the theatrics will take place while the Pelicans take on the Winston-Salem Warthogs. "Baseball The Musical" is a joint venture between the Myrtle Beach Pelicans and the Theatre Department at Coastal Carolina University, who have been working on the project since October 2005.
   "Nothing like this has ever been done in baseball," said Myrtle Beach Pelicans Promotions Manager Bradley Bell. "We're excited to bring something like this to Myrtle Beach and to the game of baseball."
   The musical will begin shortly after gates open at 6:02 p.m., so fans are advised to be at the ballpark early to get the full experience. "Baseball The Musical" will begin before the game and continue throughout every half inning during the game.

B-Tribe intern camps out at the ballpark
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The Burlington Indians (rookie; Appalachian League) have partnered with a local RV dealership for a unique promotion that has been dubbed "Intern Adam's Ballpark Pajama Party,” sponsored by Hawley’s Camping Center. Thanks to Hawley’s Camping Center, one of the B-Tribe’s interns is living in the lap of luxury right on the concourse. On the first-base side of Burlington Athletic Stadium, a 29- foot Tioga Recreational Vehicle has become a new home for intern Adam Rich of Greensboro. Rich, with an expiring apartment lease and adventurous spirit, was excited to live in the RV for the length of the promotion.

FCSL announces Leesburg franchise for 2007 after successful July 4 game
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The Florida Collegiate Summer League announces plans for a Leesburg team in 2007 after a successful contest between Altamonte Springs and Winter Park before a near-capacity crowd at Buddy Lowe Field at Pat Thomas Stadium. Leesburg, located in central Florida, has a history with minor-league baseball, and the FCSL would appear to be a perfect fit with a historic ballpark.
    RELATED STORIES: Leesburg may rekindle baseball legacy; College stars coming to play in Leesburg

For Duncan Park neighborhood, ballpark's future hits close to home
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As the future of Duncan Park is debated this summer in Spartanburg City Hall, some residents have a greater interest in the issue than others. Those would be the residents of the neighborhood around the ballpark, the past home to minor-league baseball in Spartanburg and the current home of the Spartanburg Stingers (summer collegiate; Coastal Plain League). The ballpark itself is surrounded both by a much larger mixed-use park and houses that range in quality from stately to scandalous. The ballpark will be locked at the end of the year and could be destroyed or refurbished, depending on how efforts to save it fare. We'll be down to Duncan Park on July 15 to see how things are going.
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Turchin Stadium renovations getting back on track
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Tulane has already planned renovations to Turchin Stadium before Hurricane Katrina, but the announcement last week regarding what amounts to a virtual rebuilding of the whole ballpark is much more.  To school officials, the Hurricane Katrina-delayed project is a strong symbol of commitment by the university to its entire athletics program, and by extension to the whole of New Orleans. Instead of retrofitting the seats into the existing ballpark, the entire seating area will be torn down, and the main grandstand will be reconfigured. The new facility will have less covered seating than originally planned, although the addition of the grandstand covering could come later. The ballpark capacity will be about 5,000, including 2,600 chair-back seats. More from the Shreveport Times.

Marshall University receives bids on new ballpark
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The Marshall Purchasing Department received eight bids last week for the development and construction of new buildings at Marshall. Among them: a new ballpark, which will be lighted and have FieldTurf on the infield and outfield surfaces. Dugouts, bull pens and batting cage areas, a press box with television and radio broadcast capabilities and telephone communication and restrooms for teams will be included in the project.

Baseball Notes
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There was an interesting game of musical chairs in the independent United Baseball League last week. First, Mike Smith was fired as manager of the last-place Laredo Broncos; he then is signed as a starting pitcher for the Alexandria Aces. Replacing him as manger of the Broncos: veteran skipper Dan Shwam, who originally signed as manager of the Aces at the beginning of the season and then stepped aside because of health issues.