Wild Pitches

Yes, I know, we are all itching for some baseball. I love the thrill of going to a new town and having the chance to explore their minor league park. Going to a new park, walking in for the first time, and mingling with the locals before the gates open.

During the winter months I spent time staring at the map and trying to figure out what new parks I can hit this season.

I also look forward to visiting my personal "home" parks. I see the Lexington Legends and the Florence Freedom whenever I can.

I am really in need of a trip to the park right now!

Anyway, while we all wait for April, let me recommend a couple of blogs I recently found out about.

"Dodger Blue World" seems to focus on classic moments in Dodgers history. Its a well done blog with cool photos. Dodgers fans and baseball fans in general will appreciate it. Check it out-

http://crzblue.mlblogs.com/

Also check out "Baseball Cards Come To Life!". This is a fun blog about baseball cards. The blogs author often does a little digging to find out odd facts about the cards and the players.

http://borosny.blogspot.com/

Wild Pitches

I just wanted to take a moment to mention Gary Carter. Do a quick search or check any of the news sites. It looks like his condition is getting worse.

Carter was easily my favorite player growing up. He has always been cool and classy.

Detroit Tigers- Comerica Park

Comerica Park is easily one of my favorite major league venues. I would rank it in the top 3.

It has a big spacious feel. There is a lot going on on the inside, but you don't feel packed in like at some other parks.

I know a lot of purists hated to see the old park go (and, there is nothing sadder in my opinion than the death of a great old ballpark) but this one is lively. The staff was great and the fans were on.

Outside of the park was a little iffy. We did park within a few blocks, and we were hassled a little on our way in. I was cussed at by an aggressive scalper whom I ignored, and several people asked for change. A couple of guys claiming to represent a veterans group asked for a donation, and a guy tried to sell me literature about an alien invasion from space. Seriously. I did not make that up!

That is part of Detroit's charm, I guess. I did see plenty of cops so the whole thing felt safe.

Still, when we got inside of the park, there was the stadium photo guy who asks to take your picture, so you can buy prints online later. Our party was in such a state of continuously telling people "no" and trying to walk away that we continued that with the photo guy.

Once we got in and got settled things were great. I casually chatted with several vendors and staff people who were all helpful. The fans were fun and the atmosphere was exciting.

I love the great tiger statues around the park. The growl and glowing eyes of the two on the scoreboard are just too cool. The huge stone ones outside of the front entrance have to be looked at in person. These aren't just cool statues of giant tigers at the ballpark, they are complicated works of art.

We walked all around the park and there was something exciting to see at every angle. You can see a lot of the city and the old buildings from about any seat. Detroit does have an amazing skyline. Plus, Comerica Park has a lot of rides and lights. It has a bit of an old carnival feel in some areas.

I would call this one of the best MLB parks for several reasons. Seating is comfortable. If you have been to a lot of parks, you know that at some you feel like you are looking down at the action if you have seats in an upper area. Other parks space the seats out better. You feel like you are looking across at the action, even if you are looking down. Comerica is that way. You don't feel like you could fall straight down at any moment.

I also like the vibe inside of the park. With the skyline and the fans, you never forget that you are in Detroit. Along those lines, I appreciate the odd characters outside of the park too.

Toledo Mud Hens-Fifth Third Field Toledo OH

Toledo is one of those towns I just find myself in ever so often. About once a year we do try to make it up there to catch the Mud Hens.

There is a great baseball tradition here. The Mud Hens have been around forever, and it seems like they have been affiliated with the Tigers forever.

I always have fun in Toledo. The town's art museum can compete with any similar museum in larger cities. Tony Packo's is a great place to stop for some unique food before a game. In fact, I think it might be safe to say that the Mud Hens and Tony Packos are the face of Toledo.

Here are a few pictures I took at a game right before the end of the season.

Wild Pitches

Just thought I would mention a couple of baseball items while we all wait for pitchers and catchers to report around the middle of next month.

I read that the Louisville Slugger Museum has added some cool stuff. One of the new things you can do there is buy a personalized baseball card of yourself! I think thats novel. I do like the personalized bat thing that they do, but bats are bulky.

Have you ever tried to collect baseball bats? How for did you get? I picked up a few game used ones here and there (mostly at minor league ballparks) and stopped after about 5. They are just so darn hard to display and store.

Oh, if you are in Owensboro this Saturday night (January 7th), the Zooperstars are going to be at the Sports Center for the Kentucky Wesleyan Game! I don't think the Zooperstars have made their way to Owensboro before, so check them out!

Adrian Devine- Braves and Rangers

Adrian Devine zigzagged between the Braves and the Rangers in the 70s. I sent a note to him recently, and he answered some questions.

He says that his favorite players were Nolan Ryan, Cal Ripken Jr., ad Jim Sundberg.

His favorite baseball book is "The Glory of Their Times."

He said that 1977 was a wonderful year, and that he was happy to be a part of that Rangers team.

Cleveland Stadium and Skyline at Dusk, Ohio

Bird's-Eye View of the Great Lakes Exposition, Cleveland Ohio

Here is yet another great postcard from decades ago showing the old stadium in Cleveland. Lots going on in this picture from the exposition.

Municipal Stadium and Union Terminal Tower, Cleveland Ohio

Here is another great old card showing the old Cleveland Stadium. Actually, downtown looks the same to me, but there is more build up near the lake. The Rock Hall and the football stadium are there now, along with other buildings.

Daytona Beach Florida Ballpark

I found this great postcard in an old friends collection. I don't know a lot about it, so any help would be appreciated! On the back, it reads-

Daytona Beach is essentially a resort and tourists' town and in order to provide an adequate recreational center for the many visitors, the city has built up an island in the Halifax River, known as the City Island Playground. Here one will find baseball, being the home of one of the major baseball league clubs, shuffleboard, lawn bowling and many other games so popular with tourists.

Neil Fiala 1981 Reds and Cardinals

Neil Fiala spent a little time playing for the Reds and the Cardinals.

I asked him recently about his playing time with the Cards, as he is a St. Louis guy.

Neil told me that playing for his home town Cardinals was a great experience. He says that being around the people he grew up watching, and then being coached by them was exciting.

He mentions that he feels more proud of playing for his home team now than he did when he actually played for them. He says that, when he was playing, he was more concerned about the game, and what had to be done. looking back, he says that he had a really good time.

I asked him about being traded to the Reds.

He said that the trade was good and bad. It was bad leaving St. Louis, but it was good going to one of the best teams in the NL. He says that he really enjoyed his time with the Reds, but nothing beats playing in your hometown.

Mr. Fiala let me know about his time at Triple A. He mentions that he played for the AAA Cardinals in Springfield, which was nice because he was close to St. Louis, and family and friends could come to the games.

I asked about his time with one of my favorite teams, the Indianapolis Indians in 1982. he tells me that Indianapolis was a large city that provided a lot of support to the Indians. They had a lot of big crowds for games there. I asked if he has been back to the new Stadium (Victory) but he has not.

1982 was his last season in baseball, though he did go to spring training in 1983 with the Reds Triple A team. He was going to be a utility player, but he decided it was time to move on.

he says that he has never regretted that decision, as he has been able to enjoy time with his wife and daughters, and to coach at the college level.

Concerning coaching, Neil has been the baseball coach at Southwestern Illinois College for 18 seasons. This year will make 19!

He also managed the Frontier League's River City Rascals from 2000-2001. he says that that was a very busy time. Between his two teams, he was involved in over 175 games a year! He was also the home bench coach for the Gateway Grizzlies, helping out Danny Cox.

Neil says that he is focused on his one team now, and is excited about the upcoming season!

Derrin Doty 1993-1996 Angels minor leaguer

Derrin Doty played outfield in the Angels minor league system for four years. He made it as high as AA.

Mr. Doty sent a short note recently. He says that he had a great time in the minors, but that he was simply on the wrong team.

He mentions that the competition was tough, and he had to compete against Erstad, Salmon, Edmonds & G. Anderson!

Tommy Boggs- Rangers and Braves

Suzette, Tommy Boggs' wife sent me a note about Tommy's connection to Kentucky!

She tells me that Tom grew up playing Little League at Gardenside Little League in Lexington. He played until he was 11 years old!

After that, his family moved to Texas.

Wild Pitches

I hope you all noticed that several minor league teams had Black Friday deals going on. I know the Florence Freedom had some cool things available to those buying some mini plans. Several other teams across the country had specials too. Don't forget to support your favorite minor league baseball team this year!

There is some controversy in the indy leagues right now. Do some searches on the Lake County Fielders. Man, their season was very strange!

Also, the Frontier League's new London Ontario team, the Rippers, has generated some hype and concern.

I personally get a kick out of the odd and unconventional logos and mascots. I generally take a very neutral stance on anything controversial, but I have to admit, I will likely buy some of their swag.

Wes Chamberlain 1990-1994 Phillies, & 1995 Red Sox

Wes Chamberlain hung around the outfield for the Phillies and Red Sox during his career. He also spent several years in the independent leagues, which I think is great!

I asked him some questions recently, and Wes gave me some great answers!

He says that, at this time he does not have a favorite current team or player. He does admire the Cubs and White Sox teams of the 70s.

He enjoyed playing in Japan, and also in the independent Northern and Atlantic leagues after his major league career ended.

He has not contributed to a book, and when asked about his favorite book, he says the Holy Bible.

Wes also mention his site, theweschamberlain.com

Riverfront Stadium

I found this great postcard, sent through the mail in 1981.

The Reds played here from 1970-2002.

Wild Pitches

What a crazy time in sports right now. A GREAT World Series just ended. I think it is great that the Cardinals BARELY made it there, and they ended up winning it all!

I liked the Rangers too though. I saw David Murphy play for the Sea Dogs several years ago. I hated that he got to be the last out guy. Then again, he can brag about playing in the World Series.

Lots going on in the lower leagues. Anyone keeping up with the drama involving the Lake County Fielders in the North American League? I hope someone writes a book about this team's season. Their broadcaster quit live on air, and there were many financial disputes. I hope things get worked out.

Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos, as you know, has been kidnapped, and our thoughts are with him. What an unbelievable situation.

Tom Grant 1983 Cubs

During a seven year pro career, Tom Grant hung out in the outfield for the Cubs, and briefly for the Indians organizations. He did have his cup of coffee with the Cubs appearing in 16 games in 1983.

He sent a note about his career AND Kentucky!

"When I played in AAA Iowa one of my favorite ballparks was in Louisville." He remembers it being in the fairgrounds area, and he recalls good crowds!

The only problem, he says, is that it was turf.

On a hot summer day he would put his feet in a bucket of ice to cool down his spikes!

Bob Randall 1976-1980 Twins

Bob Randall played for the Twins from 1976-1980. Since then, he has spent time coaching at the college level and in the minor leagues.

Bob sent a note to let me know that his favorite major league teams are his former one, the Twins, along with the Royals.

His favorite minor league team is the Indianapolis Indians. He does mention that he loves the Mud Hens and their park!

His favorite current player is Jeff Francoeur and his favorite former player is Bobby Richardson.

He says his favorite baseball book is Bobby Richardson's.

He is involved with Athletes in Action and sent a brochure! Check out their web site at:

aiabaseball.org!

Fritz Connally- 83 Cubs and 85 Orioles

Fritz sent me a nice note answering some questions.

"I don't keep track of the minor leagues too much," he says.

He does tell me that a friend of his, Steve Buechele manages the AA Rangers team in Frisco.

Mr. Connally is a Rangers fan, saying that Josh Hamilton is a favorite player. He says that Josh's playing looks effortless!

Fritz was excited about attending a playoff game between the Rays and Rangers when I corresponded with him!

Wild Pitches

I wasn't expecting SEVEN GAMES! This has been fun!

I really think it is fun watching the World Series, and counting the guys that I watched playing in the minors. I was able to catch some of these guys playing in the New York Penn League. They have REALLY made it now!

It has been a strange Series though.

I have been a little let down this year with the coverage of baseball. The World Series is going on, but it seems that most of the sports shows are covering football more.

Old Tiger Stadium- Detroit MI

While I was in the Detroit area, I took a quick moment to circle the area where the old Tiger Stadium was . I know some in the area were trying to preserve the park. I have been told that there are still efforts to keep the diamond and a bit of the area land up.

I fear this might be a lost cause. Obviously not much is left.

RFK Stadium, formerly DC Stadium in Washington, DC

It is a bit hard to believe, but this venue is still in use! It was the home of the Senators from 1962-1971 and the home of the Nationals from 2005-2007.

The back of this postcard reads:

D.C. Stadium located at 22nd Street, N.E. and Capitol Street Bridge. In season, the Washington Redskins and Washington Senators play home games here. Stadium features parking for 12,000 automobiles and has a seating capacity of 43,500 for baseball games and 50,000 for football games.

Wild Pitches

I am dragging from watching these extra inning late night games right now! Man, the Brewers, Cards, Tigers and Rangers all look good!

I like to keep the focus of this blog on lesser known players, strange books, and the minor leagues. I like little known facts and the obscure.

Still, I want to take a moment to tip my cap to the very mainstream magazine, Sports Illustrated. Have you picked up the latest issue? If you look around, you can find subscription deals for way less than a buck each. They even tossed in a Colts jacket with my subscription.

There is a great article about the teams that played past the Red Sox and Braves to make it to the playoffs.

Another article talks about how interesting baseball might be if there was a tournament at the end of the season to determine the weakest team in baseball. That team would get demoted to AAA. The winner of the AAA playoffs would get bumped up to the majors. Yeah, there are some logical issues, but there would be ways to work around that. Yes, I know this would never happen, but I REALLY like this idea. Again, read Grant Wahl's Scorecard in SI for more on this interesting idea.

Chris Ballard and Owen Good contribute a very thorough article on Jack Swift, the last 30 game winner in the minors. EASILY one of the best baseball articles I have read in some time. If you love stories about lesser known and forgotten players in baseball, here you go!

I guess, there is a bit of an underdog baseball theme going in this week's SI!

San Diego Chicken and the West Michigan White Caps

Previously I went on about how great of a time I had seeing the West Michigan White Caps. My time in Grand Rapids was especially exciting because the greatest promotion in all of baseball was there on on our night at the park. Obviously I am talking about the Famous San Diego Chicken.

I posted about the Chickens appearance in Indianapolis some time ago. He is still pulling many of the same gags, but they just get funnier each time you see them.

I mentioned seeing him to a friend recently. My friend said something about it not being the same guy anymore. I corrected him and told him that the Chicken is still Ted Giannoulas, just as he has been for over 3 decades now.

You have to love the chicken. He has been appearing for forever now, and he is extremely fan friendly. He sticks around after the game to sign autographs for everyone. He does have a merch table at the games (I picked up a cool Chicken bobble head for a very reasonable $10).

Oh, Grand Rapids has a very cool connection to the Chicken in a political way! I toured the Gerald Ford museum, and they have an old mask of Ted's on display! How cool is that?

A tip of my yellow 21 cap goes out to the White Caps for being such a great organization and hosting the legendary mascot!

And, thanks to the Chicken for being so consistently great! I think we are all hoping to catch the San Diego Chicken at many more games!