Monday, July 28, 2008
Monday, April 7, 2008
Goodyear, Arizona approves funding for Reds move
Updated: April 7, 2008 10:45 PM
GOODYEAR, Ariz. - The City Council of Goodyear, Arizona unanimously voted to approve funding to build a spring training facility for the Cincinnati Reds.
The Reds and Goodyear have until June 30 to enter into a binding Use Agreement that includes a 20-year lease and two five-year team options. The ground breaking for the Reds' portion of the facilities tentatively is scheduled for February 1, 2009.
"We don't anticipate any problems completing the agreement," says reds' former chief operating officer John Allen.
The Reds' current lease at the City of Sarasota Sports Complex in Sarasota expires in October, though the team could remain there through 2011 by exercising three one-year options. The club has trained in Sarasota since 1998.
The plans for the $108 million Goodyear Ballpark and Recreational Sports Complex already include the Cleveland Indians, who are scheduled to move there in February 2009. A 38,000-square foot clubhouse will be the centerpiece of the Reds' 46-acre portion of the complex that will include 6 full practice fields and two half fields.
The main ballpark will seat 10,000 fans, including 500 premium box seats, 8,000 fixed seats and space for 2,000 spectators on a grassy berm in the outfield. It will be the centerpiece of Ballpark Village, a $1 billion mixed-use development featuring offices, shops, restaurants, housing, hotels and a conference center.
Goodyear is located 20 minutes west of downtown Phoenix. In 2007, nine Major League teams trained in the greater Phoenix area and three trained in Tucson. In addition to the Indians, next year the Los Angeles Dodgers are scheduled to move their spring training headquarters to Arizona.
6-0 vote, Reds going to Goodyear, AZ!
After a nearly two hour meeting, Goodyear's City Council has approved financing to bring the Cincinnati Reds to Goodyear in 2010.
And I will be right there. Yes!!
And I will be right there. Yes!!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Reds one step closer to Arizona
Goodyear city council votes April 7 on Reds spring funding
By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com
CLEARWATER, Fla. -- All that stands between the Reds holding Spring Training in Goodyear, Ariz., is a city council vote.
On Wednesday, the city of Goodyear identified funding for the estimated $33 million it would take to bring the Reds to the desert town to share a spring complex with the Indians. The deadline to identify the money sources was Thursday.
"We don't have a done deal yet but it's an important step," said John Allen, the former Reds chief operating officer, and the club's point man in the negotiations. "If they didn't come up with the funding by Thursday, we both could have walked away or try to find alternative funding."
The Goodyear city council must now approve the measure. It plans to take up the issue at its April 7 session. A 75-day exclusive negotiating period between the city and club expires on April 11.
The Reds have made it known that if the city funds the move, they will relocate from Florida. If the April 7 vote is positive, the franchise would leave Sarasota, Fla., in 2010 to join the Cactus League.
"We're going to say yes, assuming the memorandum of understanding is on parity with the Indians deal," Allen said. "I've met with members of the council and I'm optimistic, but I don't have a vote."
The exact breakdown of Goodyear's funding plan remains confidential while negotiations are ongoing.
"They showed me the funding plan for the entire project -- for the Indians and a second team," Allen said. "It was certainly enough for us to move forward."
Goodyear is already building a $75 million facility for the Indians. It will open in 2009 when the team moves its spring operations from Winter Haven, Fla.
The additional $33 million would provide the Reds with their own clubhouse, offices and practice fields, as well as a Minor League complex, while the main stadium would be shared with the Indians.
With the exception of a three-year period during World War II, the Reds have trained in Florida since 1923. The club has called Sarasota its spring home since 1998 but Cincinnati's lease with the city and county expires in October. The Reds hold three one-year options that can extend the stay.
Sarasota's County Commission recently approved $17.6 million in funding renovations of Ed Smith Stadium. But this measure came only several months after delays in approval, and by that point the Reds had already entered into exclusive negotiations with Goodyear.
Mark Sheldon is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Source.Sunday, March 9, 2008
TV Tickers from Hell - Stop the madness!
I was snowed in for most of the weekend so I watched a lot of TV. However a serious problem quickly arose that drove me to post and rant.
The never-ending tickers that have overwhelmed TV shows. Not just one ticker, not even two but up to three tickers at a time!
I have made complaints to local stations especially when my favorite show, LOST, was over run with evil tickers. My complaints fell on deaf ears. So I decided to out them.
WCPO.com is the biggest problem. They even have sponsorship for their tickers, which I plan to promptly boycott.
I tried to watch my favorite NBA team, the Phoenix Suns, but ticker hell so overwhelmed the games I ended up switching to NASCAR! It was that bad.
Here's a for examples.
We still have to see a score so the game graphics have to go on TOP of those figgin tickers.
There's times when nearly half the screen is taken with graphics and those evil tickers.
Poor Shaq, he looks about five feet tall, thanks to those bastard tickers.
I call these the triple death tickers. The same two tickers that have been running 24hrs non-stop are now join with a third band of graphics. A quarter of my screen is gone! You would think when the news starts, the tickers would disappear, but noooo.
Why not, lets toss in a few more graphic elements.
Enough!
Heck with going to Mars. Google needs to sponsor a contest that allows consumers to remove the bane of my existence, tickers.
The never-ending tickers that have overwhelmed TV shows. Not just one ticker, not even two but up to three tickers at a time!
I have made complaints to local stations especially when my favorite show, LOST, was over run with evil tickers. My complaints fell on deaf ears. So I decided to out them.
WCPO.com is the biggest problem. They even have sponsorship for their tickers, which I plan to promptly boycott.
I tried to watch my favorite NBA team, the Phoenix Suns, but ticker hell so overwhelmed the games I ended up switching to NASCAR! It was that bad.
Here's a for examples.
We still have to see a score so the game graphics have to go on TOP of those figgin tickers.
There's times when nearly half the screen is taken with graphics and those evil tickers.
Poor Shaq, he looks about five feet tall, thanks to those bastard tickers.
I call these the triple death tickers. The same two tickers that have been running 24hrs non-stop are now join with a third band of graphics. A quarter of my screen is gone! You would think when the news starts, the tickers would disappear, but noooo.
Why not, lets toss in a few more graphic elements.
Enough!
Heck with going to Mars. Google needs to sponsor a contest that allows consumers to remove the bane of my existence, tickers.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
More details on Reds move to Goodyear
- Goodyear will pony up the necessary money.
- Have until Thursday (3/13) to submit its financial package of an estimated $32 million.
- "We are going to Goodyear," said Reds executive John Allen.
- Reds would have kicked in nearly $10 million in Sarasota, but in Goodyear, they would be required to pay an annual rental fee of $150,000, while pocketing all event revenue streams. - That is huge, what a potential savings and revenue making opportunity for the Reds.
There will be several free agent starting pitchers available in 2009. Jr's last year. The extra cash will come in handy. Full article below.
Goodyear's progress dampens fans' spirits
SARASOTA -- Friday, a splendid day for baseball was not matched in mood.Fans ate their hot dogs and drank their beer, watching the Cincinnati Reds host the Pittsburgh Pirates, but for many, a sense of inevitability draped Ed Smith Stadium.
And sadness.
"This is a bad day, and look how nice it is," said Mike Wade, a former Cincinnati resident now living in Parrish. "It's a sad day for Reds fans, especially down here in Florida."
The question of the Reds remaining in Sarasota for spring training or bolting to the Arizona desert seemed answered Thursday with word that the city of Goodyear would pony up the necessary money.
Goodyear has until Thursday to submit its financial package of an estimated $32 million. Once in place, "we are going to Goodyear," said Reds executive John Allen.
"If Goodyear comes up with the money," said facilities manager Pat Calhoon, "I fully expect that the Reds will honor their commitment and not come back here."
For out-of-state fans who migrate to Sarasota for Reds spring training, and who might not otherwise visit, the news was not endorsed.
"I hate to see it," said Cincinnati attorney Hank Menninger. "I'm a traditionalist. All the teams should be in Florida.
"My understanding is the Goodyear package just blew this away. It was just a matter of whether Sarasota would do the little things it took to keep them here, and apparently they didn't want to do it."
Cincinnati's proposed deal in Goodyear, according to Calhoon, indeed is sweet. In Sarasota, the Reds agreed to kick in nearly $10 million toward the $41 million renovation.
But in Goodyear, they would be required to pay an annual rental fee of $150,000, while pocketing all event revenue streams.
"I'm still hopeful that the money piece of this is going to be difficult for Goodyear," Calhoon said. "If I were them, I'd do it.
"They're not going to have an opportunity like this to bring in another club, probably at the cost that they're looking at right now."
"Money talks, no matter what," said Dohn Wiley, a Reds fan from Wabash, Ind. "That's the sad thing."
Calhoon does not expect Cincinnati to use a Goodyear offer as leverage to pry a better deal from Sarasota.
But he wonders what a relocation would do to a Reds' fan base that has come to embrace Sarasota.
"I think the big question the Reds have to entertain," he said, "is perhaps some of the things you've been hearing from the fans down here: Is it worth it to go 2,000 to 3,000 miles away from their fan base and jeopardize the ability for their fans to see them?"
"Instead of driving one day," said Cincinnati resident Glen Wermuth, "it's going to be like 21/2 for us. But if we had to go to Arizona, yes, we would."
Ever the optimist, Calhoon now must face the real possibility of the Reds leaving Sarasota, taking with them an 84-year-old tradition.
"All the naysayers that were out there that wanted to see this thing fail," he said, "they may very well see it."
Source.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Reds move determined by March 13th
Mark this date in your calendar. Goodyear will have to have all it's financing in order by this date or the Reds can keep on looking for another spring training home.
The Reds are ready to sign on the dotted line. Will Goodyear have it together by then? We will find out soon.
My annual trip to spring training is just around the corner and I can't wait.
The Reds are ready to sign on the dotted line. Will Goodyear have it together by then? We will find out soon.
My annual trip to spring training is just around the corner and I can't wait.
If The Funding Materializes, Reds Likely To Move West
Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Published: March 7, 2008
SARASOTA - A week before a major deadline in negotiations between the Cincinnati Reds and Goodyear, Ariz., both sides signaled their eagerness to cement the deal.
Goodyear has until Thursday to secure funding to build the spring training facility it has promised the Reds. If the city does not have the money by then, the Reds no longer will be bound by an exclusive agreement with Goodyear and can negotiate with other cities, including Sarasota.
On Thursday, the Goodyear City Council met behind closed doors before announcing its intention to come up with the money to bring the Reds to town.
The Reds, in turn, said once that funding is secured they are ready to make the move to Goodyear.
"If they come up with the funding, wherever they get it from, we are going to Goodyear," said Reds executive John Allen.
The news that the Reds' 12th season next year is more and more likely to be the team's last in Sarasota struck a chord among backers who fought to keep the Reds here.
"I think their fans have no interest in going to, as they call it, 'Where Is It? Arizona,'" said Virginia Haley, director of the Sarasota County Convention and Visitors Bureau. "And we clearly want this team here."
"Yes we came to the plate late, but there was total, solid support from people who live and work here, the fans and the players."
Her comments came just hours after the Reds defeated the New York Yankees 12-8 at Ed Smith Stadium before an overflow crowd of 6,980.
"It's a shame," said Steve Queior, president of the greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, of the possibility of the Reds leaving. "It's definitely bad news for the economy."
At least one Sarasota official said he is not ready to give up the fight.
Sarasota Vice Mayor Kelly Kirschner said he would try to set up a meeting with Reds' owner Bob Castellini for early next week.
"Now the Reds have two solid offers," Kirschner said.
Pat Calhoon, Sarasota's sports facilities manager, said he would try to keep baseball in town if the Reds leave.
Calhoon called the Baltimore Orioles three weeks ago to let the team know Sarasota can get a stadium deal done. Baltimore trains in Fort Lauderdale, but the team reportedly is looking to move if a stadium deal does not come through.
The team already has a presence in Sarasota with its minor league spring training games at Twin Lakes Park on Clark Road.
On Feb. 12, the county commission approved $17.6 million in bed tax money to fund the renovation of Ed Smith Stadium.
That decision came nearly two weeks after the Reds entered an exclusive agreement with Goodyear, meaning the team had to break off talks with Sarasota. Since then, Allen has visited Goodyear at least two times to talk to city officials and tour the spring training site.
The city needs to come up with $32 million to buy the land and build the clubhouse, practice fields, bullpens and offices for the Reds.
Goodyear's stadium is set up for one baseball team, the Cleveland Indians, when it opens for spring training play in 2009.
Goodyear already has issued $75 million in bonds for the stadium, and city officials said securing a second bond should not be a problem.
Kirschner said he understands why Goodyear is pursuing the Reds.
"They see this as economic development tool," he said. "And it is pretty smart. They have both teams from Ohio. I am assuming they are banking on getting all of Ohio's baby boomers to move there."
Sarasota's effort to keep the Reds hit several snags during the past year.
After city voters narrowly rejected a $16 million property tax increase in November, county commissioners thought that killed the stadium project and started talking about using bed tax dollars to pay for other projects.
The stadium rebuild was revived by city leaders, and the county commission ultimately voted 4-1 to allocate the $17.6 million in bed tax dollars.
"We belatedly got our act together," Haley said. "But we have a history. Look at how long it took us to get the library."
Calhoon said he is still hopeful the Reds will stay here.
"But I'm also a realist," he said.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Dunn Deal, Reds will be in Goodyear, AZ
Forget Sarasota, the Reds moving to Goodyear is a done deal. I have two sources confirm this. Expect an announcement around the corner, maybe before the mid-March deadline.
You'll just have figure out how to deal with perfect sunny weather in AZ. I've certainly gotten use to it. Going on my sixth year of Spring Training in AZ.
Oh, and I was pricing flights to Orlando and nothing under $500 and as high as $780. Yeah, FL is cheaper for fans alright.
You'll just have figure out how to deal with perfect sunny weather in AZ. I've certainly gotten use to it. Going on my sixth year of Spring Training in AZ.
Oh, and I was pricing flights to Orlando and nothing under $500 and as high as $780. Yeah, FL is cheaper for fans alright.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Reds, Goodyear working to move training base to city
Jessica Coomes
The Arizona Republic
Goodyear has until the middle of next month to prove it can come up with $32 million to build the team's training facilities. The city has indicated it would ask the state for assistance.
As things stand, the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority does not have money to help. And Arizona faces a $1.15 billion deficit this year.
"I'm willing to snoop around and see if there's anything that can be done, but there's no commitment we can deliver anything," said Rep. John Nelson, R-Litchfield Park, who met with Reds former COO John Allen on Thursday.
The Reds would join the Cleveland Indians in a $75 million ballpark that Goodyear and the authority split the costs for. To build the Reds' additional training facilities, the city would issue bonds, Goodyear Finance Director Larry Lange said.
"I think it's affordable," Mayor Jim Cavanaugh said. "I believe it is, but I don't have conclusive evidence of that. Early indications are, there's reason to be cautiously optimistic right now."
The Reds began searching for a new spring home when Sarasota, Fla., voters rejected paying to fix up the stadium there.
Allen, who is leading the team's search for a spring home, was in Arizona on Thursday and Friday, he said, to build relationships and to reinforce the team's commitment to Arizona in light of Sarasota officials' vote last week to pay for renovations after all.
"Sometimes, people worry that an organization may be playing one city or state off of another, and that's just not the case," he said. "The Reds are committed to this project and have made the decision we want to be in Arizona."
Goodyear and the Reds are negotiating exclusively.
The Arizona Republic
Feb. 22, 2008 09:13 AM
A Cincinnati Reds executive sat down with Arizona lawmakers this week as Goodyear works on a financial plan to move the team's spring training to the city.Goodyear has until the middle of next month to prove it can come up with $32 million to build the team's training facilities. The city has indicated it would ask the state for assistance.
As things stand, the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority does not have money to help. And Arizona faces a $1.15 billion deficit this year.
"I'm willing to snoop around and see if there's anything that can be done, but there's no commitment we can deliver anything," said Rep. John Nelson, R-Litchfield Park, who met with Reds former COO John Allen on Thursday.
The Reds would join the Cleveland Indians in a $75 million ballpark that Goodyear and the authority split the costs for. To build the Reds' additional training facilities, the city would issue bonds, Goodyear Finance Director Larry Lange said.
"I think it's affordable," Mayor Jim Cavanaugh said. "I believe it is, but I don't have conclusive evidence of that. Early indications are, there's reason to be cautiously optimistic right now."
The Reds began searching for a new spring home when Sarasota, Fla., voters rejected paying to fix up the stadium there.
Allen, who is leading the team's search for a spring home, was in Arizona on Thursday and Friday, he said, to build relationships and to reinforce the team's commitment to Arizona in light of Sarasota officials' vote last week to pay for renovations after all.
"Sometimes, people worry that an organization may be playing one city or state off of another, and that's just not the case," he said. "The Reds are committed to this project and have made the decision we want to be in Arizona."
Goodyear and the Reds are negotiating exclusively.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Goodyear: Reds back in town
The Arizona Republic
Feb. 20, 2008 05:59 PM
John Allen, Cincinnati Reds' CEO, will be in the Valley on Thursday and Friday to meet with state legislators and Goodyear officials, a city spokesman said Wednesday.
Earlier this year, Florida officials decided against upgrading the Sarasota spring training facility, used by the Reds since 1998.
On Jan. 29, the Reds and Goodyear agreed to a 75-day exclusivity agreement. The two sides are trying to work out a deal that would allow bring the team's spring training operation to Goodyear's new $75 million Ballpark and Recreation Complex, which is under construction.
The stadium will be the new spring training home of the Cleveland Indians next year. Both the Indians and the Reds train in Florida now.
Goodyear city spokeswoman Nora Fascenelli said Sarasota County Commissioners, faced with the prospect of losing the Reds to Arizona, recently approved $17.6 million for improvements to Ed Smith Stadium.
But until the 75-day term expires on April 11, the Reds can talk only with Goodyear, Fascenelli said. Goodyear has until March 13 to show it will be able to finance the deal with the Reds, which is expected to cost about $32 million.
Goodyear has been told that the Reds are not considering Tucson as an option, Fascenelli said.
Feb. 20, 2008 05:59 PM
John Allen, Cincinnati Reds' CEO, will be in the Valley on Thursday and Friday to meet with state legislators and Goodyear officials, a city spokesman said Wednesday.
Earlier this year, Florida officials decided against upgrading the Sarasota spring training facility, used by the Reds since 1998.
On Jan. 29, the Reds and Goodyear agreed to a 75-day exclusivity agreement. The two sides are trying to work out a deal that would allow bring the team's spring training operation to Goodyear's new $75 million Ballpark and Recreation Complex, which is under construction.
The stadium will be the new spring training home of the Cleveland Indians next year. Both the Indians and the Reds train in Florida now.
Goodyear city spokeswoman Nora Fascenelli said Sarasota County Commissioners, faced with the prospect of losing the Reds to Arizona, recently approved $17.6 million for improvements to Ed Smith Stadium.
But until the 75-day term expires on April 11, the Reds can talk only with Goodyear, Fascenelli said. Goodyear has until March 13 to show it will be able to finance the deal with the Reds, which is expected to cost about $32 million.
Goodyear has been told that the Reds are not considering Tucson as an option, Fascenelli said.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Reds owner speaks!
Reds.com has a more complete quote regarding Castellini and Sarasota, "I'm pleased that Sarasota is making an effort to keep us," Castellini said. "The most important thing about all of this is not the convenience of it all. The fans are extremely important, but that's not as important as [having] the best Spring Training possible."
Yet another nail in the coffin as far as I see it. How many nails does it take to bury Sarasota?
Maybe the Reds finally realize there's no need to appease fans who themselves will be six feet under by the time the Reds move to AZ. The future is bright. You may even see a fan under 30 in AZ. ;-)
SARASOTA, Fla. -- Still dressed in long sleeves more befitting for chilly Ohio weather on Wednesday, Reds president and chief executive officer Bob Castellini made a beeline straight to the team facility upon touching down in Florida.
Yet another nail in the coffin as far as I see it. How many nails does it take to bury Sarasota?
Maybe the Reds finally realize there's no need to appease fans who themselves will be six feet under by the time the Reds move to AZ. The future is bright. You may even see a fan under 30 in AZ. ;-)
Castellini feeling good vibes
Reds owner arrives at Spring Training with cautious optimism
By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com
SARASOTA, Fla. -- Still dressed in long sleeves more befitting for chilly Ohio weather on Wednesday, Reds president and chief executive officer Bob Castellini made a beeline straight to the team facility upon touching down in Florida.
Castellini roved the practice fields, stopped to talk with rotation ace Aaron Harang and lavished praise upon a member of the grounds crew for upgrading the outfield grass this past winter.
Most of all, Castellini had good vibes to spread about the makeup of his ballclub.
"I can say I'm more cautiously optimistic, with the emphasis on the optimistic, than I've been the previous two Spring Trainings," said Castellini, whose ownership group finalized the Reds' purchase in January 2006.
"We made some good moves, two predominant ones with [manager] Dusty [Baker] and Francisco Cordero," Castellini said. "We have an emphasis on youth here to pick up the ballclub. There's nothing more optimistic than youthful enthusiasm and exuberance and that's what we have here."
Did the team's boss feel that the Reds could contend with what they have on the field?
"We all know we have to round out the rotation," Castellini said. "We're going to see what we have going. I think you all realize we have good potential here. Over the winter I was told by Texas' people that they didn't want to give up [Edinson] Volquez. We heard from Philadelphia how they wanted to keep [Matt] Maloney. Homer [Bailey] and Johnny [Cueto] are our own and we know them to be outstanding. They will prove whether they are ready for a rotation spot."
Was it Castellini's preference to make improvements without dealing the team's elite prospects?
"Absolutely," he responded.
One of Castellini's favorites, left fielder Adam Dunn, is playing out a $13 million option this season with no imminent sign of a contract extension being worked out. Castellini was asked if he was optimistic something could get done.
"You know how much I like Adam Dunn," he responded. "You take those things one day at a time. That's on nobody's mind right now, least of all, Adam's."While the Reds worked out under the Florida sun, the realization is they could be under an Arizona desert sky holding Spring Training by 2010. Exploring a move of camp with a deal in Sarasota stalled, the club is currently in a 75-day exclusive negotiating period with the city of Goodyear, Ariz., that expires on April 15.
Goodyear is building a $75 million facility for the Indians that will open next spring but is looking for a second team to share the place for the following year.
After weeks of foot-dragging, the Sarasota County Commission approved $17.6 million towards funding the renovation of Ed Smith Stadium. It could be a fall-back scenario for the Reds to stay if a deal with Goodyear can't be forged.
"I'm pleased that Sarasota is making an effort to keep us," Castellini said. "The most important thing about all of this is not the convenience of it all. The fans are extremely important, but that's not as important as [having] the best Spring Training possible."
Mark Sheldon is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
More Reds talk on move to Arizona
Around Baseball: Sharing can be good while in the Arizona sun
Sunday, February 17, 2008
BY Andy Call
REPOSITORY SPORTS WRITER
If you like buxom blondes, young man, go west.
The Cincinnati Reds are negotiating with Goodyear, Ariz., to join the Cleveland Indians in their new spring-training complex as soon as 2010. Cincinnati has spent the last 10 years in Sarasota. Reds Vice President Doug Healy told the Dayton Daily News, "Sarasota is the ugly stepsister, and Goodyear is the buxom blonde."
More teams could follow the Indians and Reds to the Phoenix area. The Dodgers will leave for Glendale, Ariz., in 2009 after 60 years in Vero Beach, Fla. The White Sox are trying to encourage a Florida-based team to shift to Tucson, allowing Chicago to leave that facility and join the Dodgers in Glendale.
If the Reds move, there will be 15 teams each in Florida and Arizona. Only six teams were conducting spring training in Arizona as recently as 1992.
"Arizona seems to have an economic engine generating real interest in those communities," Indians Executive Vice President for Business Dennis Lehman said. "In the case of Goodyear, the people there saw a ballpark as a linchpin for a downtown city center and the development that could take place around it."
"Florida has had so much spring training tradition and history, but Arizona has been very aggressive," Commissioner Bud Selig told the New York Times.
Shorter travel time between sites and more predictable weather are two factors in Arizona's favor. Another is the concept of two teams occupying the same facility.
The Reds and Indians would split a brand-new $75-million facility with all the bells and whistles while making only minimal financial contributions. The White Sox would share the Dodgers' new facility in Glendale. Kansas City and Texas have shared space in Surprise, Ariz., since 2003.
Lehman said the Indians have been encouraging the Reds to consider joining them for "months," and that Goodyear could see significant benefits from adding a second team.
"It gives those communities a much broader base for seeking advertising revenue, season tickets and naming rights," Lehman said. "More home games also increases their opportunity for revenue from concessions and retail.
"From our perspective, there are positives as well. It's certainly more economical for our minor-league teams to walk across the field and play a game than to send them on a two-hour bus ride."
http://www.cantonrep.com/index.php?ID=399841&Category=16&subCategoryID=0
Sunday, February 17, 2008
BY Andy Call
REPOSITORY SPORTS WRITER
If you like buxom blondes, young man, go west.
The Cincinnati Reds are negotiating with Goodyear, Ariz., to join the Cleveland Indians in their new spring-training complex as soon as 2010. Cincinnati has spent the last 10 years in Sarasota. Reds Vice President Doug Healy told the Dayton Daily News, "Sarasota is the ugly stepsister, and Goodyear is the buxom blonde."
More teams could follow the Indians and Reds to the Phoenix area. The Dodgers will leave for Glendale, Ariz., in 2009 after 60 years in Vero Beach, Fla. The White Sox are trying to encourage a Florida-based team to shift to Tucson, allowing Chicago to leave that facility and join the Dodgers in Glendale.
If the Reds move, there will be 15 teams each in Florida and Arizona. Only six teams were conducting spring training in Arizona as recently as 1992.
"Arizona seems to have an economic engine generating real interest in those communities," Indians Executive Vice President for Business Dennis Lehman said. "In the case of Goodyear, the people there saw a ballpark as a linchpin for a downtown city center and the development that could take place around it."
"Florida has had so much spring training tradition and history, but Arizona has been very aggressive," Commissioner Bud Selig told the New York Times.
Shorter travel time between sites and more predictable weather are two factors in Arizona's favor. Another is the concept of two teams occupying the same facility.
The Reds and Indians would split a brand-new $75-million facility with all the bells and whistles while making only minimal financial contributions. The White Sox would share the Dodgers' new facility in Glendale. Kansas City and Texas have shared space in Surprise, Ariz., since 2003.
Lehman said the Indians have been encouraging the Reds to consider joining them for "months," and that Goodyear could see significant benefits from adding a second team.
"It gives those communities a much broader base for seeking advertising revenue, season tickets and naming rights," Lehman said. "More home games also increases their opportunity for revenue from concessions and retail.
"From our perspective, there are positives as well. It's certainly more economical for our minor-league teams to walk across the field and play a game than to send them on a two-hour bus ride."
http://www.cantonrep.com/index.php?ID=399841&Category=16&subCategoryID=0
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Plans for Spring Training in AZ
Here's my plan for Spring Training this year in AZ. I'll be there for a week in the middle of March.
I'll be going to five games. First up, the Cubs in Mesa on Sunday. A sure sellout, weekend games usually are. Then I head off to Surprise on Monday for KC vs TX. I let you know how Josh H is doing. Then I'll get a break on Tuesday. I'll probably hike Camelback mtn. Then Wednesday, the big game. Cubs vs SF in Scottsdale. A rare night game. Scottsdale is by far the best place to see games. Then my schedule is a bit uncertain, my next game is another Cubs game in Mesa but I'm not sure if it will be Thurs or Friday. Then it's back to Surprise for San Diego and Seattle on Sat. I think I'll be seeing eight different teams. I don't know what I'll do on my off days, more hiking, biking, eating, hanging by the pool.
The furthest I will drive is 45 mins to Surprise.
Oh, also going on will be March Madness and to top it off it will be my birthday that week. ;-)
Spring Training is AZ is sweat!
I tried to get tickets to see the Dodgers in PHX, but those are already hard to get. The Dodgers will probably give the Giants and Cubs a run for their money on popularity. But hey, there's always next year.
I'll be going to five games. First up, the Cubs in Mesa on Sunday. A sure sellout, weekend games usually are. Then I head off to Surprise on Monday for KC vs TX. I let you know how Josh H is doing. Then I'll get a break on Tuesday. I'll probably hike Camelback mtn. Then Wednesday, the big game. Cubs vs SF in Scottsdale. A rare night game. Scottsdale is by far the best place to see games. Then my schedule is a bit uncertain, my next game is another Cubs game in Mesa but I'm not sure if it will be Thurs or Friday. Then it's back to Surprise for San Diego and Seattle on Sat. I think I'll be seeing eight different teams. I don't know what I'll do on my off days, more hiking, biking, eating, hanging by the pool.
The furthest I will drive is 45 mins to Surprise.
Oh, also going on will be March Madness and to top it off it will be my birthday that week. ;-)
Spring Training is AZ is sweat!
I tried to get tickets to see the Dodgers in PHX, but those are already hard to get. The Dodgers will probably give the Giants and Cubs a run for their money on popularity. But hey, there's always next year.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Arizona is where it at!
After a 60-year residency, the Los Angeles Dodgers will leave Vero Beach, Fla., in five weeks. After a nearly 90-year stay interrupted only by a three-year break during World War II, the Cincinnati Reds are negotiating to leave Florida. After a 16-year hiatus in Florida, the Cleveland Indians are planning to return whence they came.
That would be Arizona, geographical destination of baseball’s mass migration for spring training. It’s a development that would have been someone’s spring fantasy a couple of decades ago.
“Ten, 15 years ago, people were worrying that the Cactus League was dying,” Commissioner Bud Selig said.
Fifteen years ago, depending on how and when the teams were counted, Arizona was the spring training state for six to eight teams. When the Dodgers and the Indians relocate there next year, and if the Reds reach an agreement in their exclusive 75-day negotiating period to join the Indians at their new facility, spring training will be equally divided — 15 teams in Florida, 15 in Arizona.
And if the Chicago White Sox can lure a Florida-based team to replace them in Tucson, so they can move north to join the Dodgers in the Phoenix suburb of Glendale, site of this year’s Super Bowl, Arizona will claim a majority of major league teams for the first time.
Not bad for a state that was struggling to remain a factor in spring training when the Indians left after the spring of 1992. P. J. de la Montaigne, the Cactus League president, said some teams had escape clauses in their stadium leases that permitted them to leave if the Cactus League population fell below six. Florida cities and Las Vegas were ready to recruit.
But in 1993, the number of teams grew to eight when the expansion Colorado Rockies joined the Cactus League and the California Angels, who had played their exhibition games in Palm Springs, Calif., moved their operation to Tempe, Ariz.
There was another critical development that year — the construction of a two-team complex in Peoria, a suburb northwest of Phoenix. The Seattle Mariners moved there from Tempe in 1993, and the San Diego Padres joined them a year later, abandoning their isolated outpost in Yuma.
The two-team complex became the rage. The White Sox left Florida after 44 years and joined the expansion Arizona Diamondbacks at Tucson Electric Park in 1998. The Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers emigrated from Florida to Surprise, due west of the Peoria park, in 2003.
Now Glendale and Goodyear, suburbs west of Phoenix, are building two-team complexes. The Dodgers, in 2009, and presumably the White Sox soon after, will be the Glendale residents, while the Indians, in 2009, and probably the Reds soon after, will share the Goodyear complex.
No other teams are poised to flee Florida, although the state faces some internal movement. The Tampa Bay Rays expect to move from St. Petersburg to Port Charlotte next spring, and the Baltimore Orioles may leave Fort Lauderdale next year to replace the Dodgers in Vero Beach.
Spring training is a lucrative pastime for its hosts. De la Montaigne said a 2007 survey showed that 61 percent of fans who attended exhibition games in Arizona came from outside the state, and those fans spent $310 million while in the state.
De la Montaigne, Peoria’s parks and recreation director, explained that after the Indians left Tucson following a 46-year residency, the governor, Rose Mofford, created a commission to devise a plan to keep baseball in Arizona.
“Florida has had so much spring training tradition and history,” Selig said, “but Arizona has been very aggressive.”
Using a surtax on rental cars, Maricopa County, which includes Phoenix, raised revenue to help build new parks or renovate older ones. That set the tone for subsequent developments.
The Dodgers’ move to Arizona is probably the most stunning development. They have been in Vero Beach since 1948 and have had perhaps the most attractive spring training site in baseball.
“The tradition of Vero Beach is probably unsurpassed in baseball as far as spring training goes,” said Ned Colletti, the Dodgers’ general manager. “Our fan base is concentrated in the southwest part of the country. We thought it would be easier for our fans to see us if we were in the Southwest rather than in the Southeast.”
Colletti also mentioned the shorter distances between teams in Arizona. As teams have left Florida, travel time within the state has increased.
The Dodgers will play their last game at Dodgertown on March 17, then shift to Phoenix and use the Oakland facility after the Athletics leave for Japan, where they will open the season against Boston.
Rather than lament the Dodgers’ departure, Vero Beach officials have pursued a replacement.
“We’re doing an exit agreement and should have it completed by Feb. 19,” Mayor Tom White said. “We already have a team that has signed a commitment and is waiting for Feb. 19 because they have to notify their city.”
White wouldn’t identify the team, but a baseball official said it was the Orioles, who may still stay in Fort Lauderdale if they get the renovations that were supposed to have been made last year. The Federal Aviation Administration owns the land Fort Lauderdale Stadium occupies and has delayed its approval for more than a year.
The southeast coast of Florida once had the Orioles, the Yankees, the Rangers, the Braves and the Expos, all within an hour or so, but now the Orioles are the only team left, and they may be moving north.
The Reds have held spring training in Florida for 83 of the last 86 years. But the city of Sarasota, their home for the last 11 years, has been unable to get the money to build a new park. A referendum last November lost by 115 votes out of about 8,000.
“We’re not giving up,” said Lou Ann Palmer, Sarasota’s mayor.
But two weeks ago the Reds began an exclusive 75-day negotiating period with Goodyear. They are confident they will complete a deal.
“Goodyear was very aggressive in their pursuit of us,” said Rob Butcher, a Reds spokesman. “When our people went out there three or four weeks ago, they were really impressed with the plans for the facility and the people.”
The Indians will be in Goodyear next year. They left Arizona in 1993, planning to train in Homestead, Fla., but Hurricane Andrew got there first and demolished their new complex. They took what was available and have been in antiquated Winter Haven since.
“We were looking for a facility with the potential resources to bridge some payroll and market gaps,” Indians General Manager Mark Shapiro said.
Arizona was happy to provide that facility.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/10/sports/baseball/10chass.html?ref=baseballSaturday, February 9, 2008
What could of been.
This is located in Scottsdale, AZ. Originally design for the top of a Frank Lloyd Wright Skyscaper. It is now a beacon for what amounts to a strip mail.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Goodyear, Reds have 75 days to hammer out deal
The Arizona Republic
Jessica Coomes, Jan. 28, 2008 07:17 PM
Goodyear and the Cincinnati Reds will spend the next 75 days hammering out a deal that could bring the team's spring-training camp to Arizona.
The Goodyear City Council on Monday agreed to stop negotiating with other baseball teams looking to move spring training to the southwest Valley city.
Reds officials will reciprocate by breaking off talks with cities that want the team to train in their communities. That includes Sarasota, Fla., the Reds' current spring home.
It would cost $32 million to accommodate a second team to join the Cleveland Indians in the Goodyear ballpark, Interim City Manager Brian Dalke said. The cost includes purchasing 48 acres and constructing a clubhouse, practice fields and other training facilities.
That's in addition to the $75 million Goodyear and the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority split to build the ballpark and Indians training facilities, which are under construction. The sports authority has no money to help Goodyear build facilities for a second team.
The Goodyear council approved the exclusivity agreement Monday evening, 6-0, with no discussion. City officials last week said the agreement called on the two sides to negotiate exclusively for 90 days; however, the council approved a 75-day deal. The reason for the discrepancy was not immediately clear.
"If we didn't think we could get it done, we wouldn't go into it," Reds spokesman Rob Butcher said Monday night, referring to the exclusivity agreement, which team officials are expected to sign soon. "Both sides want an agreement to get done."
The Reds have been looking for a place to hold spring training since Sarasota voters rejected paying for renovations to the team's stadium.
The Reds have the option to stay in Sarasota until 2011. Dalke said it's likely the Goodyear ballpark site near Estrella Parkway and Yuma Road would be ready for a second team by 2010. The Indians start training in Goodyear and join the Cactus League in 2009.
Reach the reporter at 602-444-6511 or jessica.coomes@arizonarepublic.com.
Jessica Coomes, Jan. 28, 2008 07:17 PM
Goodyear and the Cincinnati Reds will spend the next 75 days hammering out a deal that could bring the team's spring-training camp to Arizona.
The Goodyear City Council on Monday agreed to stop negotiating with other baseball teams looking to move spring training to the southwest Valley city.
Reds officials will reciprocate by breaking off talks with cities that want the team to train in their communities. That includes Sarasota, Fla., the Reds' current spring home.
It would cost $32 million to accommodate a second team to join the Cleveland Indians in the Goodyear ballpark, Interim City Manager Brian Dalke said. The cost includes purchasing 48 acres and constructing a clubhouse, practice fields and other training facilities.
That's in addition to the $75 million Goodyear and the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority split to build the ballpark and Indians training facilities, which are under construction. The sports authority has no money to help Goodyear build facilities for a second team.
The Goodyear council approved the exclusivity agreement Monday evening, 6-0, with no discussion. City officials last week said the agreement called on the two sides to negotiate exclusively for 90 days; however, the council approved a 75-day deal. The reason for the discrepancy was not immediately clear.
"If we didn't think we could get it done, we wouldn't go into it," Reds spokesman Rob Butcher said Monday night, referring to the exclusivity agreement, which team officials are expected to sign soon. "Both sides want an agreement to get done."
The Reds have been looking for a place to hold spring training since Sarasota voters rejected paying for renovations to the team's stadium.
The Reds have the option to stay in Sarasota until 2011. Dalke said it's likely the Goodyear ballpark site near Estrella Parkway and Yuma Road would be ready for a second team by 2010. The Indians start training in Goodyear and join the Cactus League in 2009.
Reach the reporter at 602-444-6511 or jessica.coomes@arizonarepublic.com.
Reds, Goodyear enter agreement
01/28/2008 10:35 PM ET
Deal the next step toward moving Spring Training facilities
By Jenifer Langosch / MLB.com
After holding a special meeting on Monday, the Goodyear (Ariz.) City Council agreed to enter into a 75-day exclusivity agreement with the Reds, an agreement that looks to be the next big step forward in Cincinnati's search for a new Spring Training home.
Goodyear, a Phoenix suburb, has been trying to attract another team to its $75 million facility, which is currently being constructed. And with the Reds' current search for a new Spring Training facility in the works, there is mutual interest from both sides to make Goodyear the team's future spring home.
Because this 75-day agreement won't officially go into effect until it is signed by both parties, the exact dates of when that period would end have not yet been determined. It would, however, fall sometime in mid-April.
Under this agreement, the Reds must stop negotiations with any other Spring Training facility. Likewise, during that time, Goodyear cannot consult with any other teams that may potentially be interested in the facility as well.
However, John Allen, who is heading the Reds' search for the new Spring Training site, cautioned fans from making the assumption that the negotiating agreement means an official move is imminent.
"There is still financing to be done and the terms of the lease to be worked out," Allen said. "But the people and the city of Goodyear gave us the feeling they wanted us out there. They sold us on the baseball facilities and the village area around it. We were very impressed with their long-term planning and the parts of the master plan they already have laid out."
If an agreement is reached, the Reds would be joining the Indians in Goodyear. The facility would provide separate clubhouses and practice fields for both teams, though both would share the same main field for Spring Training games.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, Allen put to rest any concerns about having to share a facility with another team.
"We visited the Royals and Rangers at their shared complex in Surprise, and they've had no issues," said Allen, the Reds' former chief operating officer. "The leases will be very clear as to what each team will have. The Indians are very excited about it, as we are."
Though Cleveland is set to begin holding its Spring Training in Goodyear next year, the earliest Cincinnati would be able to move its spring camp out west would be in 2010.
The Reds, who are set to begin their 11th straight Spring Training in Sarasota, Fla., can, in the meantime, extend any or all of their three one-year options that they have on their current lease in Sarasota. Doing so would give the Reds the ability to stay in Florida through Spring Training of 2011.
The search for a new Spring Training facility has been ongoing since Sarasota voters declined to approve a $16 million referendum back in early November. The referendum needed http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifto pass in order to finance the final $16 million of the proposed $54 million in necessary stadium renovations and facility additions.
In addition, as recently as last week, the Sarasota County Commission put off a vote that could potentially have given $17.6 million from the state and city government to assist in remodeling Ed Smith Stadium.
Though an agreement with Sarasota is not entirely out of the question, it appears that unless something changes substantially in the near future, economics will push the Reds out of their current Spring Training home.
"The proposed facilities in Goodyear will be the best in baseball," Allen said. "Ultimately, our job is to find a facility that will best benefit our team in terms of getting it prepared to play baseball in April."
Jenifer Langosch is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Deal the next step toward moving Spring Training facilities
By Jenifer Langosch / MLB.com
After holding a special meeting on Monday, the Goodyear (Ariz.) City Council agreed to enter into a 75-day exclusivity agreement with the Reds, an agreement that looks to be the next big step forward in Cincinnati's search for a new Spring Training home.
Goodyear, a Phoenix suburb, has been trying to attract another team to its $75 million facility, which is currently being constructed. And with the Reds' current search for a new Spring Training facility in the works, there is mutual interest from both sides to make Goodyear the team's future spring home.
Because this 75-day agreement won't officially go into effect until it is signed by both parties, the exact dates of when that period would end have not yet been determined. It would, however, fall sometime in mid-April.
Under this agreement, the Reds must stop negotiations with any other Spring Training facility. Likewise, during that time, Goodyear cannot consult with any other teams that may potentially be interested in the facility as well.
However, John Allen, who is heading the Reds' search for the new Spring Training site, cautioned fans from making the assumption that the negotiating agreement means an official move is imminent.
"There is still financing to be done and the terms of the lease to be worked out," Allen said. "But the people and the city of Goodyear gave us the feeling they wanted us out there. They sold us on the baseball facilities and the village area around it. We were very impressed with their long-term planning and the parts of the master plan they already have laid out."
If an agreement is reached, the Reds would be joining the Indians in Goodyear. The facility would provide separate clubhouses and practice fields for both teams, though both would share the same main field for Spring Training games.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, Allen put to rest any concerns about having to share a facility with another team.
"We visited the Royals and Rangers at their shared complex in Surprise, and they've had no issues," said Allen, the Reds' former chief operating officer. "The leases will be very clear as to what each team will have. The Indians are very excited about it, as we are."
Though Cleveland is set to begin holding its Spring Training in Goodyear next year, the earliest Cincinnati would be able to move its spring camp out west would be in 2010.
The Reds, who are set to begin their 11th straight Spring Training in Sarasota, Fla., can, in the meantime, extend any or all of their three one-year options that they have on their current lease in Sarasota. Doing so would give the Reds the ability to stay in Florida through Spring Training of 2011.
The search for a new Spring Training facility has been ongoing since Sarasota voters declined to approve a $16 million referendum back in early November. The referendum needed http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifto pass in order to finance the final $16 million of the proposed $54 million in necessary stadium renovations and facility additions.
In addition, as recently as last week, the Sarasota County Commission put off a vote that could potentially have given $17.6 million from the state and city government to assist in remodeling Ed Smith Stadium.
Though an agreement with Sarasota is not entirely out of the question, it appears that unless something changes substantially in the near future, economics will push the Reds out of their current Spring Training home.
"The proposed facilities in Goodyear will be the best in baseball," Allen said. "Ultimately, our job is to find a facility that will best benefit our team in terms of getting it prepared to play baseball in April."
Jenifer Langosch is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
More Reds talk on move to Arizona
01/25/2008 10:00 PM ET
Mailbag: Considering move to Arizona
Reds beat reporter Mark Sheldon answers fans' questions
By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com
Normally the mailbag runs on Monday, but I'll be taking vacation next week. Here's a special, and timely, edition to get you through the weekend.
I've digested your comments on a potential move of the Reds' Spring Training home from Florida to Arizona. I would find a move to Arizona very disappointing. I suspect more Reds fans spend winter in Florida than in Arizona, and the Reds would alienate a significant number of them with the move. I for one would be upset knowing I would not have the opportunity to see the Reds when I visit relatives and a parent in Florida in the spring.
-- Joe, Minster, Ohio
I also have been digesting the ongoing debate about whether the Reds should remain in Sarasota, Fla., or head to Goodyear, Ariz. Based on these choices, they should move to Arizona. It's a no-brainer.
I've heard from lots of fans complaining about the longer distances to Arizona and how they visit family in Florida each spring. What I haven't heard is an explanation for why there are rarely capacity or near-capacity crowds at Ed Smith Stadium to see the Reds. The place holds over 8,000, and the attendance usually is closer to 4,000. The only sellouts I've noticed the past two springs are when the Red Sox or Yankees visit. While those teams draw hundreds for their workouts at their own complexes, the Reds might draw dozens to theirs.
Goodyear will decide Monday whether to enter a 90-day exclusive negotiating period with the Reds, so obviously it's getting serious. If negotiations lead to a deal, Cincinnati would become the 15th team in the Cactus League. Most of the Reds' games would be an easy driving distance compared to Florida. The drier Arizona weather also is more predictable and offers fewer rainouts.
The Reds aren't taking this decision lightly at all. I know owner Bob Castellini and consultant John Allen explored every avenue to find a way to stay in Sarasota. But the residents there turned down a tax levy last November, and last week the county commissioners there delayed a vote for an alternative funding plan.
A project that started out at $54 million for a new ballpark was whittled down to $41 for renovations of the old place and now could shrink to about $30 million. The club still would have to contribute $9 million there. In Goodyear, they'd get to play in a brand new $75 million facility while getting better economic incentives, and they likely wouldn't absorb any construction costs. And most importantly, Goodyear and its people seem to really want the Reds. I don't get that vibe from Sarasota.
I'm not about to tell residents and the government of another city how to spend their money. If they don't want baseball, that's their call. It's a myopic one, though, when you consider the economic loss of tourists, hotel rooms, restaurants, games and more. The Reds also paid for the upkeep of Ed Smith Stadium year-round while keeping a Class A affiliate and their rehab facility there. Meanwhile, the city still could have use of the place.
If Arizona isn't too far for the Indians, why is it too far for the Reds? Isn't Cleveland located in Ohio, too? It's a four-hour plane ride, not a trek to Outer Mongolia. I appreciate the Reds' long tradition in Florida, but traditions often change. People generally fear change. In this case, don't. Who knows? It could be for the better.
Here is one more Spring Training question.
Why would the Reds or any MLB team want to share a Spring Training facility with another team? It seems to me that would only cause problems. I don't want the Reds being the "ugly stepsister" to anyone, especially to Cleveland.
-- David T., New Concord, Ohio
I don't buy your "ugly stepsister" analogy, but this could be the start of a new wrinkle to this Ohio rivalry. Maybe former Bengals coach Sam Wyche can yell, "You don't live in Cleveland!" every day to Reds fans over the PA to get under Clevelanders' skin.
Sharing a stadium has advantages. For the teams, they can share in the costs of maintenance. They also would have an instant partner to scrimmage with. As for practice fields and clubhouses, they would be separate. For the city, it almost guarantees a home game every day in March and offers more chances for fans to see more baseball.
http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355958&vkey=news_cin&fext=.jsp&c_id=cin
Mailbag: Considering move to Arizona
Reds beat reporter Mark Sheldon answers fans' questions
By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com
Normally the mailbag runs on Monday, but I'll be taking vacation next week. Here's a special, and timely, edition to get you through the weekend.
I've digested your comments on a potential move of the Reds' Spring Training home from Florida to Arizona. I would find a move to Arizona very disappointing. I suspect more Reds fans spend winter in Florida than in Arizona, and the Reds would alienate a significant number of them with the move. I for one would be upset knowing I would not have the opportunity to see the Reds when I visit relatives and a parent in Florida in the spring.
-- Joe, Minster, Ohio
I also have been digesting the ongoing debate about whether the Reds should remain in Sarasota, Fla., or head to Goodyear, Ariz. Based on these choices, they should move to Arizona. It's a no-brainer.
I've heard from lots of fans complaining about the longer distances to Arizona and how they visit family in Florida each spring. What I haven't heard is an explanation for why there are rarely capacity or near-capacity crowds at Ed Smith Stadium to see the Reds. The place holds over 8,000, and the attendance usually is closer to 4,000. The only sellouts I've noticed the past two springs are when the Red Sox or Yankees visit. While those teams draw hundreds for their workouts at their own complexes, the Reds might draw dozens to theirs.
Goodyear will decide Monday whether to enter a 90-day exclusive negotiating period with the Reds, so obviously it's getting serious. If negotiations lead to a deal, Cincinnati would become the 15th team in the Cactus League. Most of the Reds' games would be an easy driving distance compared to Florida. The drier Arizona weather also is more predictable and offers fewer rainouts.
The Reds aren't taking this decision lightly at all. I know owner Bob Castellini and consultant John Allen explored every avenue to find a way to stay in Sarasota. But the residents there turned down a tax levy last November, and last week the county commissioners there delayed a vote for an alternative funding plan.
A project that started out at $54 million for a new ballpark was whittled down to $41 for renovations of the old place and now could shrink to about $30 million. The club still would have to contribute $9 million there. In Goodyear, they'd get to play in a brand new $75 million facility while getting better economic incentives, and they likely wouldn't absorb any construction costs. And most importantly, Goodyear and its people seem to really want the Reds. I don't get that vibe from Sarasota.
I'm not about to tell residents and the government of another city how to spend their money. If they don't want baseball, that's their call. It's a myopic one, though, when you consider the economic loss of tourists, hotel rooms, restaurants, games and more. The Reds also paid for the upkeep of Ed Smith Stadium year-round while keeping a Class A affiliate and their rehab facility there. Meanwhile, the city still could have use of the place.
If Arizona isn't too far for the Indians, why is it too far for the Reds? Isn't Cleveland located in Ohio, too? It's a four-hour plane ride, not a trek to Outer Mongolia. I appreciate the Reds' long tradition in Florida, but traditions often change. People generally fear change. In this case, don't. Who knows? It could be for the better.
Here is one more Spring Training question.
Why would the Reds or any MLB team want to share a Spring Training facility with another team? It seems to me that would only cause problems. I don't want the Reds being the "ugly stepsister" to anyone, especially to Cleveland.
-- David T., New Concord, Ohio
I don't buy your "ugly stepsister" analogy, but this could be the start of a new wrinkle to this Ohio rivalry. Maybe former Bengals coach Sam Wyche can yell, "You don't live in Cleveland!" every day to Reds fans over the PA to get under Clevelanders' skin.
Sharing a stadium has advantages. For the teams, they can share in the costs of maintenance. They also would have an instant partner to scrimmage with. As for practice fields and clubhouses, they would be separate. For the city, it almost guarantees a home game every day in March and offers more chances for fans to see more baseball.
http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355958&vkey=news_cin&fext=.jsp&c_id=cin
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Friday, January 25, 2008
Reds, Goodyear ready to move forward
The news just keeps getting better. I highlighted some interesting points.
Sides nearing an agreement for exclusive negotiations
By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com
CINCINNATI -- The Reds' flirtation with Goodyear, Ariz., appears to be headed to the next level.
The Goodyear City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting on Monday to consider entering into an agreement that calls for exclusive negotiations between the sides that would bring the Reds to the Phoenix suburb for Spring Training.
If approved, it would take a couple of days to go into effect. The Reds would have to halt negotiations with any other city or facility -- including their current spring home at Sarasota, Fla. -- for 90 days. It also would prevent Goodyear from courting another team.
"It's not a done deal, but both parties are serious enough to do this," Reds consultant John Allen said Friday night.
Goodyear currently is building a $75 million complex and has been trying to lure a second Major League team to share it with the Indians. The Tribe will begin Spring Training at the new facility in 2009, but if the Reds were to join them, it wouldn't be until 2010 at the earliest. Both teams would use the main stadium but have their own workout fields and clubhouses.
The Reds' lease agreement with Sarasota expires in October, but it carries three one-year club options that could extend the stay until 2011.
Last week, Allen and Reds owner/CEO Bob Castellini were in Arizona for a presentation given by Goodyear's mayor and city manager. Allen and Castellini came away impressed with the site.
"The proposed facility will be the best in baseball for Spring Training," said Allen, the team's former chief operating officer. "It would allow us to do everything a Major League team needs to get ready for a full season."
The Reds began a Spring Training site search in November after Sarasota residents refused a $16 million referendum to fund ballpark renovations.
On Tuesday, the Sarasota County Commission delayed voting outright on providing $17.6 million for a $41 million alternative funding plan to remodel Ed Smith Stadium. The Reds would have to contribute about $9 million to the plan, while the state and city governments would chip in about $7 million each. The county currently lacks enough votes to approve the proposal.
It's believed the Reds wouldn't have to contribute much, if anything, financially for the construction costs of the Goodyear facility. Allen declined to discuss specifics of any proposals, and he said the exclusive negotiating agreement also carries a confidentiality clause.
"I can say it's a very attractive economic situation for us out there," Allen said.
Mark Sheldon is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355936&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
Sides nearing an agreement for exclusive negotiations
By Mark Sheldon / MLB.com
CINCINNATI -- The Reds' flirtation with Goodyear, Ariz., appears to be headed to the next level.
The Goodyear City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting on Monday to consider entering into an agreement that calls for exclusive negotiations between the sides that would bring the Reds to the Phoenix suburb for Spring Training.
If approved, it would take a couple of days to go into effect. The Reds would have to halt negotiations with any other city or facility -- including their current spring home at Sarasota, Fla. -- for 90 days. It also would prevent Goodyear from courting another team.
"It's not a done deal, but both parties are serious enough to do this," Reds consultant John Allen said Friday night.
Goodyear currently is building a $75 million complex and has been trying to lure a second Major League team to share it with the Indians. The Tribe will begin Spring Training at the new facility in 2009, but if the Reds were to join them, it wouldn't be until 2010 at the earliest. Both teams would use the main stadium but have their own workout fields and clubhouses.
The Reds' lease agreement with Sarasota expires in October, but it carries three one-year club options that could extend the stay until 2011.
Last week, Allen and Reds owner/CEO Bob Castellini were in Arizona for a presentation given by Goodyear's mayor and city manager. Allen and Castellini came away impressed with the site.
"The proposed facility will be the best in baseball for Spring Training," said Allen, the team's former chief operating officer. "It would allow us to do everything a Major League team needs to get ready for a full season."
The Reds began a Spring Training site search in November after Sarasota residents refused a $16 million referendum to fund ballpark renovations.
On Tuesday, the Sarasota County Commission delayed voting outright on providing $17.6 million for a $41 million alternative funding plan to remodel Ed Smith Stadium. The Reds would have to contribute about $9 million to the plan, while the state and city governments would chip in about $7 million each. The county currently lacks enough votes to approve the proposal.
It's believed the Reds wouldn't have to contribute much, if anything, financially for the construction costs of the Goodyear facility. Allen declined to discuss specifics of any proposals, and he said the exclusive negotiating agreement also carries a confidentiality clause.
"I can say it's a very attractive economic situation for us out there," Allen said.
Mark Sheldon is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355936&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
Yes, Sooo Close, I can smell it!
Yes! Another step closer. I just need to start figuring out how to spend the entire month of March in AZ instead of just one week.
On a side note, isn't this Griffey's last year with the Reds. I know there's an option year, but in all practical purposes this should be it for Jr. (If the Reds even think about re-signing Jr., i.e Larkin's 3-yr deal, you got to question their sanity.)
$9m saved from Sarasota, another $9m from Jr. equals a couple starters.
Reds move closer to Arizona
BY JOHN FAY | JFAY@ENQUIRER.COM
The Reds are one step closer to moving their spring training operation from Sarasota, Fla., to Goodyear, Ariz.
Goodyear officials will meet in a closed session on Monday and consider an agreement that would allow them to negotiate exclusively with the Reds over a 90-day period and bring the team West for spring training.
“Subject to council approving this, we will enter into the agreement,” Reds consultant John Allen said Friday evening.
The 90-day exclusivity period would begin within days.
Allen, the team’s former chief operating officer, is leading the search for a new spring training facility.
“There are three parts of the deal that have to be worked out,” he said. “We have to work out a lease, get the financing in place and make plans for the facility.”
The Reds currently spend spring training in Sarasota, Fla., but the complex there needs repairs.
On Tuesday, Sarasota city and county officials considered a $41.3 million plan that would refurbish Ed Smith Stadium.
Sarasota city commissioners agreed to contribute $6.8 million toward the plan, and the Reds would contribute $9 million. But the county is being asked to contribute $17.6 million, and on Wednesday commissioners decided to table the discussion for two weeks.
By then, it may be too late. If, as expected, the Reds enter into negotiations with Goodyear officials, they cannot talk to any other cities, and Goodyear can’t contact any other teams.
That’s crucial to the Reds, who are worried other clubs in Arizona and Florida want to relocate to Goodyear.
Goodyear is 20 miles west of Phoenix, and will be the spring training home for the Cleveland Indians starting in 2009. City officials want a second team to share the complex, which includes a new 8,500-seat stadium.
If the Reds relocate to Goodyear, they will have separate practice fields, clubhouses and offices.
A second team will not move into Goodyear until 2010, at the earliest. The Reds can renew their lease for Ed Smith Stadium one year at a time through 2011.
On a side note, isn't this Griffey's last year with the Reds. I know there's an option year, but in all practical purposes this should be it for Jr. (If the Reds even think about re-signing Jr., i.e Larkin's 3-yr deal, you got to question their sanity.)
$9m saved from Sarasota, another $9m from Jr. equals a couple starters.
Reds move closer to Arizona
BY JOHN FAY | JFAY@ENQUIRER.COM
The Reds are one step closer to moving their spring training operation from Sarasota, Fla., to Goodyear, Ariz.
Goodyear officials will meet in a closed session on Monday and consider an agreement that would allow them to negotiate exclusively with the Reds over a 90-day period and bring the team West for spring training.
“Subject to council approving this, we will enter into the agreement,” Reds consultant John Allen said Friday evening.
The 90-day exclusivity period would begin within days.
Allen, the team’s former chief operating officer, is leading the search for a new spring training facility.
“There are three parts of the deal that have to be worked out,” he said. “We have to work out a lease, get the financing in place and make plans for the facility.”
The Reds currently spend spring training in Sarasota, Fla., but the complex there needs repairs.
On Tuesday, Sarasota city and county officials considered a $41.3 million plan that would refurbish Ed Smith Stadium.
Sarasota city commissioners agreed to contribute $6.8 million toward the plan, and the Reds would contribute $9 million. But the county is being asked to contribute $17.6 million, and on Wednesday commissioners decided to table the discussion for two weeks.
By then, it may be too late. If, as expected, the Reds enter into negotiations with Goodyear officials, they cannot talk to any other cities, and Goodyear can’t contact any other teams.
That’s crucial to the Reds, who are worried other clubs in Arizona and Florida want to relocate to Goodyear.
Goodyear is 20 miles west of Phoenix, and will be the spring training home for the Cleveland Indians starting in 2009. City officials want a second team to share the complex, which includes a new 8,500-seat stadium.
If the Reds relocate to Goodyear, they will have separate practice fields, clubhouses and offices.
A second team will not move into Goodyear until 2010, at the earliest. The Reds can renew their lease for Ed Smith Stadium one year at a time through 2011.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Sarasota County delays vote on Reds deal
Another step closer. Nice to see another city and county government as inept as mine. -SDM
By DOUG SWORD, doug.sword@heraldtribune.com
Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2008 at 2:05 p.m.
Well, they didn’t kill it.
Sarasota County commissioners put off an up-or-down vote that would make them the biggest contributor to a $41 million overhaul of Ed Smith Stadium, because it almost certainly would have failed. Delaying the vote keeps several possibilities open for eventually funding the stadium.
While city officials had hoped for an outright vote the county’s action leaves open “a window of opportunity” to work a deal with the Cincinnati Reds, said City Manager Robert Bartolotta.
County commissioners punted the issue until two weeks from now when they will decide whether to remove their own rule that requires four out of five of them agree on how to spend the $18 million sought for the stadium deal.
That may be enough to kill the deal, since city officials say the Reds are negotiating with Goodyear, Ariz., and Orlando on possible stadium deals.
“I don’t know if the Reds are going to wait a couple of weeks,” said Mayor Lou Ann Palmer.
Of the five county commissioners, only two – Shannon Staub and Joseph Barbetta - are whole-heartedly for the stadium deal. Two – Jon Thaxton and Nora Patterson – say they can’t justify spending money on the stadium that could be used to shore up the county’s budget, which is facing a shortfall of perhaps $30 million.
Incidentally, the county announced 11 layoffs and the elimination of another four positions today. Commissioner Paul Mercier is undecided on his support of the new stadium deal.
It’s uncertain whether there are four votes to eliminate the supermajority
requirement on the stadium deal, since both Barbetta and Mercier said they probably wouldn’t vote for it.
The commissioners did vote for a counter offer. Instead of putting up $17.6 million, the county would match the state’s contribution of $7 million for the stadium. That would require the Reds to accept a deal of about $30 million.
If all else fails, commissioners voted to put it to the voters in April or May whether the county should fund the deal.
However, the supermajority requirement can be waived by a supermajority vote. Thaxton says he may end up voting against the stadium deal, but that he is willing to join the three supporters in casting aside the supermajority requirement.
Even though Barbetta has been the staunchest county supporter of a new stadium, which he calls an "economic engine" for Sarasota, he won’t support removing the supermajority requirement.
"The stadium needs to stand on its own and I don't want to manipulate a system" so that only three commissioners can approve spending the money, he said.
Barbetta said he received numerous e-mails and phone calls from citizens irate over the issue being back even though voters did not support a measure to use property tax dollars to pay for a new stadium. That ballot question failed by only 225 votes on Nov. 6.
Count Noelle Paredes among the irate. Paredes lives near the intersection of Bee Ridge Road and Bee Ridge Road Extension where she said neighbors opposed a new Publix supermarket five times before the county finally approved a scaled-back version of the store. She sees the same thing happening with the stadium project.
"People with money just get that vote out there over and over again until they pass what they want," Paredes said.
Voters turned down a proposal to use property taxes to pay off $16 million in bonds for a new stadium, and those funds won’t be needed to fund this less expensive proposal, Bartolotta noted.
"The voters said, No, to a $54 million project, this is $41 million," he said. "The voters said, No, to a property tax increase to service debt, this doesn't have that. I think this is a different proposal."
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20080122/BREAKING/804343122
By DOUG SWORD, doug.sword@heraldtribune.com
Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2008 at 2:05 p.m.
Well, they didn’t kill it.
Sarasota County commissioners put off an up-or-down vote that would make them the biggest contributor to a $41 million overhaul of Ed Smith Stadium, because it almost certainly would have failed. Delaying the vote keeps several possibilities open for eventually funding the stadium.
While city officials had hoped for an outright vote the county’s action leaves open “a window of opportunity” to work a deal with the Cincinnati Reds, said City Manager Robert Bartolotta.
County commissioners punted the issue until two weeks from now when they will decide whether to remove their own rule that requires four out of five of them agree on how to spend the $18 million sought for the stadium deal.
That may be enough to kill the deal, since city officials say the Reds are negotiating with Goodyear, Ariz., and Orlando on possible stadium deals.
“I don’t know if the Reds are going to wait a couple of weeks,” said Mayor Lou Ann Palmer.
Of the five county commissioners, only two – Shannon Staub and Joseph Barbetta - are whole-heartedly for the stadium deal. Two – Jon Thaxton and Nora Patterson – say they can’t justify spending money on the stadium that could be used to shore up the county’s budget, which is facing a shortfall of perhaps $30 million.
Incidentally, the county announced 11 layoffs and the elimination of another four positions today. Commissioner Paul Mercier is undecided on his support of the new stadium deal.
It’s uncertain whether there are four votes to eliminate the supermajority
requirement on the stadium deal, since both Barbetta and Mercier said they probably wouldn’t vote for it.
The commissioners did vote for a counter offer. Instead of putting up $17.6 million, the county would match the state’s contribution of $7 million for the stadium. That would require the Reds to accept a deal of about $30 million.
If all else fails, commissioners voted to put it to the voters in April or May whether the county should fund the deal.
However, the supermajority requirement can be waived by a supermajority vote. Thaxton says he may end up voting against the stadium deal, but that he is willing to join the three supporters in casting aside the supermajority requirement.
Even though Barbetta has been the staunchest county supporter of a new stadium, which he calls an "economic engine" for Sarasota, he won’t support removing the supermajority requirement.
"The stadium needs to stand on its own and I don't want to manipulate a system" so that only three commissioners can approve spending the money, he said.
Barbetta said he received numerous e-mails and phone calls from citizens irate over the issue being back even though voters did not support a measure to use property tax dollars to pay for a new stadium. That ballot question failed by only 225 votes on Nov. 6.
Count Noelle Paredes among the irate. Paredes lives near the intersection of Bee Ridge Road and Bee Ridge Road Extension where she said neighbors opposed a new Publix supermarket five times before the county finally approved a scaled-back version of the store. She sees the same thing happening with the stadium project.
"People with money just get that vote out there over and over again until they pass what they want," Paredes said.
Voters turned down a proposal to use property taxes to pay off $16 million in bonds for a new stadium, and those funds won’t be needed to fund this less expensive proposal, Bartolotta noted.
"The voters said, No, to a $54 million project, this is $41 million," he said. "The voters said, No, to a property tax increase to service debt, this doesn't have that. I think this is a different proposal."
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20080122/BREAKING/804343122
Sunday, January 20, 2008
County covets Reds stadium tax dollars
Not looking good for the Reds in Sarasota. That's just terrible . . .NOT! -SDM
By DOUG SWORD
doug.sword@heraldtribune.com
SARASOTA -- Millions of dollars once earmarked for a new Ed Smith Stadium could also be used to help balance the county's budget.
And so as city officials peddle a proposal to keep the Cincinnati Reds here for spring training, some Sarasota County officials are reluctant to pitch in $18 million in bed tax money to help pay for it.
That same money could go toward cleaning and maintaining beaches, freeing up money in the general fund for deputy sheriff's salaries or public works engineers.
In 2006, when commissioners unanimously voted to raise the bed tax and contribute $18 million to the Reds project, it seemed like everybody was in favor of building a new ballpark. But there was an April 2007 deadline to reach a stadium deal, and it did not happen in time.
By midsummer, as local officials were rewriting their budgets following a state-mandated cut in property taxes,, county commissioners barely resisted the urge to grab the bed tax dollars to help fill a $30 million shortfall in their budget.
What county officials suspect is that they will need the money if voters approve a Jan. 29 ballot question that would cut their property tax bills.
The county eliminated about 120 jobs last year to balance its budget and will be looking at more budget cuts over the next two months. That only increases the pressure to use the money once set aside for a new stadium.
"Like I've said, this couldn't happen at a worse time," Commissioner Jon Thaxton said of the newest proposal to rebuild Ed Smith Stadium.
The bed tax for the stadium has been collected since May 1, 2007. By the end of the tourism season the fund will stand at about $1.25 million.
That is enough, over 20 years, to support $18 million in construction bonds for a stadium. Overall, the new ballpark would cost $41 million, so the bed tax is the biggest part of the financial package. The Reds, the state and city are splitting the remaining $23 million cost.
Stadium supporters point out that state law restricts the use of bed tax money to specific purposes: tourism advertising, beach renourishment, stadiums, conference centers and beach maintenance.
But county officials say they are spending about $800,000 from the county general fund on beach cleaning. That is the same general fund that pays for salaries.
That means, says County Administrator Jim Ley, that $800,000 of the $1.25 million originally set aside for the Reds stadium could go toward beach maintenance. That would allow the county to use the $800,000 in general fund money now spent on beaches for other purposes.
If the Reds deal falters, the other $450,000 a year would go toward a beach renourishment fund. That fund gets $1.75 million a year in bed tax money and helped fund the recent renourishment on Siesta Key.
Thaxton has said he would have a hard time funding the stadium with the $800,000 that could be switched to other parts of the county budget. Commissioner Nora Patterson says she cannot support spending that on the stadium because of the budget situation.
Two commissioners, Shannon Staub and Joe Barbetta, say spring training is a crucial part of the local economy and if there is still a chance to deal with the Reds, it should be explored. The downturn is one of the reasons to reconsider a stadium deal, Staub said.
"It's a terrible time to be losing that economic impact" from spring training, she said.
Commissioners are expected to vote Tuesday on whether negotiations between the county, city and Reds should continue.
Last modified: January 20. 2008 1:50AM
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20080120/NEWS/801200341
By DOUG SWORD
doug.sword@heraldtribune.com
SARASOTA -- Millions of dollars once earmarked for a new Ed Smith Stadium could also be used to help balance the county's budget.
And so as city officials peddle a proposal to keep the Cincinnati Reds here for spring training, some Sarasota County officials are reluctant to pitch in $18 million in bed tax money to help pay for it.
That same money could go toward cleaning and maintaining beaches, freeing up money in the general fund for deputy sheriff's salaries or public works engineers.
In 2006, when commissioners unanimously voted to raise the bed tax and contribute $18 million to the Reds project, it seemed like everybody was in favor of building a new ballpark. But there was an April 2007 deadline to reach a stadium deal, and it did not happen in time.
By midsummer, as local officials were rewriting their budgets following a state-mandated cut in property taxes,, county commissioners barely resisted the urge to grab the bed tax dollars to help fill a $30 million shortfall in their budget.
What county officials suspect is that they will need the money if voters approve a Jan. 29 ballot question that would cut their property tax bills.
The county eliminated about 120 jobs last year to balance its budget and will be looking at more budget cuts over the next two months. That only increases the pressure to use the money once set aside for a new stadium.
"Like I've said, this couldn't happen at a worse time," Commissioner Jon Thaxton said of the newest proposal to rebuild Ed Smith Stadium.
The bed tax for the stadium has been collected since May 1, 2007. By the end of the tourism season the fund will stand at about $1.25 million.
That is enough, over 20 years, to support $18 million in construction bonds for a stadium. Overall, the new ballpark would cost $41 million, so the bed tax is the biggest part of the financial package. The Reds, the state and city are splitting the remaining $23 million cost.
Stadium supporters point out that state law restricts the use of bed tax money to specific purposes: tourism advertising, beach renourishment, stadiums, conference centers and beach maintenance.
But county officials say they are spending about $800,000 from the county general fund on beach cleaning. That is the same general fund that pays for salaries.
That means, says County Administrator Jim Ley, that $800,000 of the $1.25 million originally set aside for the Reds stadium could go toward beach maintenance. That would allow the county to use the $800,000 in general fund money now spent on beaches for other purposes.
If the Reds deal falters, the other $450,000 a year would go toward a beach renourishment fund. That fund gets $1.75 million a year in bed tax money and helped fund the recent renourishment on Siesta Key.
Thaxton has said he would have a hard time funding the stadium with the $800,000 that could be switched to other parts of the county budget. Commissioner Nora Patterson says she cannot support spending that on the stadium because of the budget situation.
Two commissioners, Shannon Staub and Joe Barbetta, say spring training is a crucial part of the local economy and if there is still a chance to deal with the Reds, it should be explored. The downturn is one of the reasons to reconsider a stadium deal, Staub said.
"It's a terrible time to be losing that economic impact" from spring training, she said.
Commissioners are expected to vote Tuesday on whether negotiations between the county, city and Reds should continue.
Last modified: January 20. 2008 1:50AM
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20080120/NEWS/801200341
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Reds: The other Ohio team
Jessica Coomes, The Arizona Republic
Jan. 18, 2008 10:29 AM
In other baseball news, Cincinnati Reds officials were in the city this week for a tour of Goodyear with Mayor Jim Cavanaugh and Interim City Manager Brian Dalke.
Five Reds representatives were in town Wednesday, including Chief Executive Officer Bob Castellini and former Chief Operating Officer John Allen, the city confirmed.
The Reds are considering moving the club's spring training base from Sarasota, Fla. And Goodyear has been trying to attract a second team to share its soon-to-be-built ballpark with the Indians.
Land near the ballpark will be reserved for a second player development complex until February 2009, Dalke said.
"They were very impressed with our community, very impressed with our proactive approach in getting a second team," Dalke said of the Reds visit.
He declined to say whether Goodyear was meeting with other teams.
"We like all teams," he said Thursday.
Indians officials said they have always expected to share the ballpark with another team.
"We are enthusiastically prepared to assist in whatever way we can," Folk said.
DiBiasio had no information about the Reds visit but said, "I'm sure he (Allen) liked what he saw. We did."
As for the Reds, DiBiasio called the other Ohio team "our friends from the south" and said the Indians have a "wonderful working relationship with them."
The Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority has said its funding for ballparks is exhausted, and Goodyear would not get assistance to accommodate a second team.
"That doesn't stop us from asking again," Dalke said this week, saying revenue could be greater than what was forecast, or new revenue options could be created.
Goodyear will wait for the Reds to make the next move, Dalke said.
"The ball's in their court," he said. "The baseball's in their field. That's a better vernacular."
Jan. 18, 2008 10:29 AM
In other baseball news, Cincinnati Reds officials were in the city this week for a tour of Goodyear with Mayor Jim Cavanaugh and Interim City Manager Brian Dalke.
Five Reds representatives were in town Wednesday, including Chief Executive Officer Bob Castellini and former Chief Operating Officer John Allen, the city confirmed.
The Reds are considering moving the club's spring training base from Sarasota, Fla. And Goodyear has been trying to attract a second team to share its soon-to-be-built ballpark with the Indians.
Land near the ballpark will be reserved for a second player development complex until February 2009, Dalke said.
"They were very impressed with our community, very impressed with our proactive approach in getting a second team," Dalke said of the Reds visit.
He declined to say whether Goodyear was meeting with other teams.
"We like all teams," he said Thursday.
Indians officials said they have always expected to share the ballpark with another team.
"We are enthusiastically prepared to assist in whatever way we can," Folk said.
DiBiasio had no information about the Reds visit but said, "I'm sure he (Allen) liked what he saw. We did."
As for the Reds, DiBiasio called the other Ohio team "our friends from the south" and said the Indians have a "wonderful working relationship with them."
The Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority has said its funding for ballparks is exhausted, and Goodyear would not get assistance to accommodate a second team.
"That doesn't stop us from asking again," Dalke said this week, saying revenue could be greater than what was forecast, or new revenue options could be created.
Goodyear will wait for the Reds to make the next move, Dalke said.
"The ball's in their court," he said. "The baseball's in their field. That's a better vernacular."
Friday, January 18, 2008
Reds move could be happening!
The tide could be turning. Yes! I will bet they just found out they wouldn't have to drop $9m to move to Goodyear like in that other town. Don't worry, I'll take plenty of pics, it be like your there your self. -SDM
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Allen on Goodyear
Just talked to John Allen about the Goodyear field trip.
It sounds likes the Reds were impressed. Bob Castellini was there for part of the tour.
“It was great,” Allen said. “It was very informative. They have a good plan.”
The group also went to Surprise, where the Rangers and Royals share a facility, to check out how the two-team thing works.
“Basically, you have a game at stadium everyday. The Royals and Rangers play each other four times, so you don’t have to worry about overexposure.”
In Goodyear, the Reds would share the stadium with Indians, but everything else is separate.
Allen said they didn't talk economic specifics. He said the economics of the Goodyear deal would be different than the new Sarasota plan. And you take "different" as more favorable to the Reds.
The earliest a second team would be able to use the Goodyear facility is 2010. The Indians go there starting 2009.
My early line: There's a decent chance the Reds make the move west. If the Sarasota city and county commissions don't vote to move on with the new plan to rebuild Ed Smith Tuesday, the chances of going west skyrocket. (I can only hope that the city and county are a lot like Cincys -ml)
posted by John Fay at 8:48 PM 2 comments
http://frontier.cincinnati.com/blogs/redsinsider/
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Allen on Goodyear
Just talked to John Allen about the Goodyear field trip.
It sounds likes the Reds were impressed. Bob Castellini was there for part of the tour.
“It was great,” Allen said. “It was very informative. They have a good plan.”
The group also went to Surprise, where the Rangers and Royals share a facility, to check out how the two-team thing works.
“Basically, you have a game at stadium everyday. The Royals and Rangers play each other four times, so you don’t have to worry about overexposure.”
In Goodyear, the Reds would share the stadium with Indians, but everything else is separate.
Allen said they didn't talk economic specifics. He said the economics of the Goodyear deal would be different than the new Sarasota plan. And you take "different" as more favorable to the Reds.
The earliest a second team would be able to use the Goodyear facility is 2010. The Indians go there starting 2009.
My early line: There's a decent chance the Reds make the move west. If the Sarasota city and county commissions don't vote to move on with the new plan to rebuild Ed Smith Tuesday, the chances of going west skyrocket. (I can only hope that the city and county are a lot like Cincys -ml)
posted by John Fay at 8:48 PM 2 comments
http://frontier.cincinnati.com/blogs/redsinsider/
More on a Possible Reds move
Arizona looking to woo Reds to new spring-training home
Carrie Watters, Jessica Coomes and Tony Lombardo
The Arizona Republic, Nov. 13, 2007 12:00 AM
Voters in Sarasota, Fla., recently rejected paying for renovations to the Cincinnati Reds' training stadium, which leaves the team looking for a new spring home - and Arizona wondering if it could snare another Florida team.
Eyes are on Tucson, where the Chicago White Sox need to find a replacement team to get out of their lease and move to the Valley. The Sox plan to team up with the Los Angeles Dodgers in a spring-training ballpark that Glendale hopes to open in 2009.
"We would love to have the Reds in the Cactus League. The logical place, considering the dynamics, would be Tucson Electric Park," said Brad Wright, an Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority board member who heads the Cactus League committee. "The first priority is a commitment to Tucson and the White Sox to make sure they can meet their obligation there."
The sports authority, which operates only in Maricopa County, has no authority in Tucson but is offering its political clout.
Gov. Janet Napolitano's office, which supported nabbing the long-coveted Dodgers from Florida, also says Tucson is a critical piece of the state's spring-training league.
But Jeff Schatzki, director of the governor's Arizona Baseball and Softball Commission, said it's not his position to tell other municipalities to back off of pursuing a piece of Cactus League action, which pumped a reported $311 million into the economy last season.
Nor would Schatzki tell a franchise where to locate. "It's a business decision," he said.
The Sox had no comment as of late last week, and the Reds are keeping mum on whether they'll stay in Florida.
"We are considering all of our options, including Arizona," Reds spokesman Rob Butcher said.
White Sox representative John Kaites has asked publicly that other Arizona cities not actively seek teams until a replacement is found in Tucson.
But Tucson is not the only city that could handle another team:
• Goodyear has made it no secret it eventually wants a second team to join the Cleveland Indians, who will move there from Florida in 2009.
• Casa Grande had been looking for a team to jump-start spring baseball there.
• Surprise has space to accommodate a third team with the Texas Rangers and the Kansas City Royals, but the city is not actively seeking one.
In its 4,431-4,206 vote Nov. 6, Sarasota voters decided not to spend $16 million to help rebuild the Reds' spring-training home, Ed Smith Stadium. That is forcing the Reds to start scouting for a new home for as early as 2009.
Tucson's position
Tucson has faced criticism that it is too far to travel from the Valley, where nine of Arizona's 12 teams currently train.
The closeness of the Cactus League's ballparks has been touted as an advantage over the Grapefruit League, where teams must crisscross Florida.
Schatzki and officials in Pima County brushed off the idea that Tucson is too isolated. Indeed, it's where the Cactus League got its start in 1946, with the Indians in Tucson and the New York Giants in Phoenix.
"Spring training has its roots in Tucson," Pima County Administrator Chuck Huckleberry said.
But the Old Pueblo is in a precarious spot.
It has two parks. The Colorado Rockies play at Hi Corbett, which the city operates. The Arizona Diamondbacks and White Sox share Tucson Electric Park, which Pima County operates.
If the Sox can't find a replacement and head north when their lease expires in 2012, the Rockies could opt to pull out, too.
Tucson officials say that the Diamondbacks and Rockies are committed to the area and that they are committed to getting a third team.
"It's more interesting now that the Sarasota vote has taken place," he said.
Other options
Casa Grande had about given up hope of landing a Major League team after Goodyear secured the Indians and Glendale landed the White Sox and Dodgers in 2006.
"I'm not sure we have that same level of enthusiasm," Casa Grande Mayor Bob Jackson said.
Still, Bill Brudwill, who has spearheaded Casa Grande's efforts, went from dejected to enthusiastic after hearing about the Sarasota election.
"We could fire this thing back up in a heartbeat," he said.
Goodyear has talked preliminarily with the Reds, among many baseball teams, Mayor Jim Cavanaugh said.
The mayor said he likes the idea of having another Ohio team in Goodyear to join the Indians.
"Goodyear, I'm sure, would love to have the Reds," Cavanaugh said.
Wright said the funding formula, which currently stands at funding 50 percent of Goodyear's one-team facility and two-thirds of Glendale's two-team facility, was firm and would not change if Goodyear picked up a second team. The sports authority has said its funding for new ballparks is tapped for the next quarter-century.
Reds officials visited the Surprise ballpark nine months ago and asked if the city was interested in a third team, said Mark Coronado, the city's community and recreation services director.
While having the Reds is an "intriguing" option, Coronado said the cost would be a hurdle.
"Without a funding source, it's a major challenge, not just for Surprise but for any community," Coronado said, adding it would take as much as $20 million to accommodate a third team.
http://www.ci.goodyear.az.us/Archive.asp?ADID=1590
Carrie Watters, Jessica Coomes and Tony Lombardo
The Arizona Republic, Nov. 13, 2007 12:00 AM
Voters in Sarasota, Fla., recently rejected paying for renovations to the Cincinnati Reds' training stadium, which leaves the team looking for a new spring home - and Arizona wondering if it could snare another Florida team.
Eyes are on Tucson, where the Chicago White Sox need to find a replacement team to get out of their lease and move to the Valley. The Sox plan to team up with the Los Angeles Dodgers in a spring-training ballpark that Glendale hopes to open in 2009.
"We would love to have the Reds in the Cactus League. The logical place, considering the dynamics, would be Tucson Electric Park," said Brad Wright, an Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority board member who heads the Cactus League committee. "The first priority is a commitment to Tucson and the White Sox to make sure they can meet their obligation there."
The sports authority, which operates only in Maricopa County, has no authority in Tucson but is offering its political clout.
Gov. Janet Napolitano's office, which supported nabbing the long-coveted Dodgers from Florida, also says Tucson is a critical piece of the state's spring-training league.
But Jeff Schatzki, director of the governor's Arizona Baseball and Softball Commission, said it's not his position to tell other municipalities to back off of pursuing a piece of Cactus League action, which pumped a reported $311 million into the economy last season.
Nor would Schatzki tell a franchise where to locate. "It's a business decision," he said.
The Sox had no comment as of late last week, and the Reds are keeping mum on whether they'll stay in Florida.
"We are considering all of our options, including Arizona," Reds spokesman Rob Butcher said.
White Sox representative John Kaites has asked publicly that other Arizona cities not actively seek teams until a replacement is found in Tucson.
But Tucson is not the only city that could handle another team:
• Goodyear has made it no secret it eventually wants a second team to join the Cleveland Indians, who will move there from Florida in 2009.
• Casa Grande had been looking for a team to jump-start spring baseball there.
• Surprise has space to accommodate a third team with the Texas Rangers and the Kansas City Royals, but the city is not actively seeking one.
In its 4,431-4,206 vote Nov. 6, Sarasota voters decided not to spend $16 million to help rebuild the Reds' spring-training home, Ed Smith Stadium. That is forcing the Reds to start scouting for a new home for as early as 2009.
Tucson's position
Tucson has faced criticism that it is too far to travel from the Valley, where nine of Arizona's 12 teams currently train.
The closeness of the Cactus League's ballparks has been touted as an advantage over the Grapefruit League, where teams must crisscross Florida.
Schatzki and officials in Pima County brushed off the idea that Tucson is too isolated. Indeed, it's where the Cactus League got its start in 1946, with the Indians in Tucson and the New York Giants in Phoenix.
"Spring training has its roots in Tucson," Pima County Administrator Chuck Huckleberry said.
But the Old Pueblo is in a precarious spot.
It has two parks. The Colorado Rockies play at Hi Corbett, which the city operates. The Arizona Diamondbacks and White Sox share Tucson Electric Park, which Pima County operates.
If the Sox can't find a replacement and head north when their lease expires in 2012, the Rockies could opt to pull out, too.
Tucson officials say that the Diamondbacks and Rockies are committed to the area and that they are committed to getting a third team.
"It's more interesting now that the Sarasota vote has taken place," he said.
Other options
Casa Grande had about given up hope of landing a Major League team after Goodyear secured the Indians and Glendale landed the White Sox and Dodgers in 2006.
"I'm not sure we have that same level of enthusiasm," Casa Grande Mayor Bob Jackson said.
Still, Bill Brudwill, who has spearheaded Casa Grande's efforts, went from dejected to enthusiastic after hearing about the Sarasota election.
"We could fire this thing back up in a heartbeat," he said.
Goodyear has talked preliminarily with the Reds, among many baseball teams, Mayor Jim Cavanaugh said.
The mayor said he likes the idea of having another Ohio team in Goodyear to join the Indians.
"Goodyear, I'm sure, would love to have the Reds," Cavanaugh said.
Wright said the funding formula, which currently stands at funding 50 percent of Goodyear's one-team facility and two-thirds of Glendale's two-team facility, was firm and would not change if Goodyear picked up a second team. The sports authority has said its funding for new ballparks is tapped for the next quarter-century.
Reds officials visited the Surprise ballpark nine months ago and asked if the city was interested in a third team, said Mark Coronado, the city's community and recreation services director.
While having the Reds is an "intriguing" option, Coronado said the cost would be a hurdle.
"Without a funding source, it's a major challenge, not just for Surprise but for any community," Coronado said, adding it would take as much as $20 million to accommodate a third team.
http://www.ci.goodyear.az.us/Archive.asp?ADID=1590
Cincinnati Reds! Please move to Arizona for Spring Training
Come on Reds, be progressive! Reds in AZ is the future. I may have go out there more than twice a year.
Goodyear is kind of far from the perfecta that is Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and Phoenix - all within a half hour of each other, but I'll take it.
Reds to scout Goodyear, Ariz.
Orlando only Fla. city making pitch to be spring home
BY JOHN FAY | JFAY@ENQUIRER.COM
Reds COO John Allen will be in Goodyear, Ariz., Wednesday to hear that city’s pitch to become the Reds’ new spring training home.
Goodyear is where the Cleveland Indians will begin training in 2009.
The city is pitching a plan for the Reds to share the complex with the Indians.
The Reds started looking for a new spring home in November after a referendum for the last piece of funding to rebuild the Ed Smith Stadium complex was voted down in Sarasota.
The response from other Florida cities trying to land the Reds has been underwhelming.
At this point, Orlando is only city making a pitch to land the Reds.
There’s possibility that Sarasota could make another bid to keep the Reds.
The Reds will train in Sarasota this year. They have an option to renew their lease on a one-year basis up until 2011.
Goodyear is building a $75 million complex for the Indians. It includes an 8,500-seat stadium. In addition to the fixed seats there will be 1,600 berm seats in the outfield and a 400-seat party area.
The ballpark is the centerpiece for a 242-acre Ballpark Village, that includes housing and retail shops.
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20080114/SPT04/301140119/
Goodyear is kind of far from the perfecta that is Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and Phoenix - all within a half hour of each other, but I'll take it.
Reds to scout Goodyear, Ariz.
Orlando only Fla. city making pitch to be spring home
BY JOHN FAY | JFAY@ENQUIRER.COM
Reds COO John Allen will be in Goodyear, Ariz., Wednesday to hear that city’s pitch to become the Reds’ new spring training home.
Goodyear is where the Cleveland Indians will begin training in 2009.
The city is pitching a plan for the Reds to share the complex with the Indians.
The Reds started looking for a new spring home in November after a referendum for the last piece of funding to rebuild the Ed Smith Stadium complex was voted down in Sarasota.
The response from other Florida cities trying to land the Reds has been underwhelming.
At this point, Orlando is only city making a pitch to land the Reds.
There’s possibility that Sarasota could make another bid to keep the Reds.
The Reds will train in Sarasota this year. They have an option to renew their lease on a one-year basis up until 2011.
Goodyear is building a $75 million complex for the Indians. It includes an 8,500-seat stadium. In addition to the fixed seats there will be 1,600 berm seats in the outfield and a 400-seat party area.
The ballpark is the centerpiece for a 242-acre Ballpark Village, that includes housing and retail shops.
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20080114/SPT04/301140119/
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Cincinnati Bearcats' Big Win
My beloved UC Bearcats just beat big bad Syracuse. After a slow start, they put together a strong showing.
Maybe, slowly but surely, the Bearcats are on the rise.
Maybe, slowly but surely, the Bearcats are on the rise.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Justices Hear Arguments in Lethal Injection Case
I'm pro-Death penalty and the NYT has it covered. Justice Scalia has some excellent points.
WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court on Monday heard starkly different descriptions of Kentucky’s method of putting people to death, with a lawyer for a condemned prisoner asserting there is an unacceptable risk of agony and a lawyer for the state saying nothing could be further from the truth.
“The risk here is real,” Donald Verrilli, the lawyer for Ralph Baze, the death-row inmate, told the justices, noting that the three-drug protocol that Kentucky uses in executions is illegal for euthanizing animals.
Mr. Verrilli argued that there are too many things that can go wrong in Kentucky executions, largely because poorly trained people are carrying them out, creating too much risk that a prisoner will die in great pain even though he is unable to cry out.
But Roy Englert, arguing on behalf of the state, said there is very little risk of that happening. “Kentucky has excellent safeguards in place,” he said.
A technician with broad experience inserting needles in inmates’ arms in a medical setting — “This person places 30 needles a day in the prison population” — attaches the needles to the condemned person, then joins other participants in “the next room, watching carefully to see nothing goes wrong,” Mr. Englert said.
The issue in the case of Baze v. Rees is not the constitutionality of lethal injection as such, but a more procedural question: How should judges evaluate claims that the particular combination of drugs used to bring about death causes suffering that amounts to cruel and unusual punishment, in violation of the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution?
Several members of the court appeared to be troubled by the questions raised in the case, as they heard Mr. Verrilli suggest that Kentucky should use a single, overwhelming dose of a barbiturate to put prisoners to death, and Mr. Englert counter-argue that a single-drug procedure has never been tried, and that Kentucky’s three-drug procedure is effective and humane.
Mr. Baze, one of two Kentucky death-row inmates challenging the state’s procedure, was condemned for killing a sheriff and deputy sheriff who were trying to serve him a warrant. Executions have been halted in the United States since last September as officials in states that have capital punishment have awaited a decision in Base v. Rees (John D. Rees is the Kentucky corrections commissioner).
Consequently, the case is among the most closely watched in the high court’s current term. The Bush administration has sided with the state of Kentucky.
Mr. Verrilli cited several botched executions in recent years as evidence that the usual three-drug protocol is anything but foolproof. Sodium pentothal is supposed to render the condemned unconscious; pancuronium bromide is supposed to paralyze him, and potassium chloride is supposed to stop his heart.
Why not just use a huge dose of barbiturates, Mr. Verrilli said. That way, if something goes wrong, the prisoner will feel no pain, since he will simply be asleep and can be sent to a peaceful death with more barbiturates.
But Mr. Englert said “it takes a very long time to death with a single-drug protocol,” and that the “botched executions” mentioned by Mr. Verrilli were ones in which the veins of the condemned could not be found, or the inmate’s body went into contortions — not executions in which the inmate felt pain.
Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justice Anthony M. Kennedy asked Mr. Verrilli to assume for a moment that the three drugs are handled correctly in every instance. “Would you have a case here?” Justice Kennedy asked.
But Mr. Verrilli was reluctant to engage in conjecture. “There can be no guarantee they will be properly administered,” he said.
Several justices seemed to be grappling for some kind of factual standard to evaluate the questions before them, and complaining about the absence thereof. But several members of the court also voiced concern that, if the questions in Baze v. Rees are not answered, other inmates will raise challenges.
“We’ll be right back here in a year or 18 months,” Justice John Paul Stevens said.
Justice Antonin Scalia noted that execution methods that have fallen out of use — the electric chair, the firing squad, the hangman’s noose — have been abandoned in part because of fears that they were not pain-free.
But where is it written that the state must choose “the least painful method,” Justice Scalia demanded. “Is that somewhere in the Constitution?”
The three-drug execution method has been used for three decades. As for why it has not been abandoned in favor of an overwhelming dose of phenobarbital, an anesthetic used to put down animals, two explanations were offered by death penalty-watchers in advance of Monday’s arguments: Each state is reluctant to try something new, and no state wants to embrace a method used to euthanize animals, despite the possibility that potassium chloride will inflict excruciating pain as it courses through an inmate’s veins if he has not been rendered unconscious by sodium pentothal.
And an exchange between Mr. Englert and Justice Stevens suggested that a paralyzing agent is used in the execution of humans not just for the sake of the condemned but to spare witnesses the sight of involuntary thrashing, a sight that might detract from the “dignity” of the procedure.
“It takes a very long time to die with a single-drug protocol,” Mr. Englert said
At one point, an exasperated Justice Scalia said, “This is an execution — not surgery.”
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/07/washington/07cnd-scotus.html?hpFriday, January 4, 2008
What's so great about the Batman movies?
I don't get it, what's so interesting about these movies? The appeal of the Batman series should of run it's course.
Another Batman movie! why?
Another Batman movie! why?
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