tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2871278969120707529.post583155012921672653..comments2023-09-20T03:09:32.220-07:00Comments on No Rhubarb!: Only if they call them the Reno 911frinklinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16828795791550549105noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2871278969120707529.post-28579043475101413472007-05-14T17:30:00.000-07:002007-05-14T17:30:00.000-07:00Rainier fans can all but help pack up the gear, as...Rainier fans can all but help pack up the gear, as the Rainier's won't be here in 2009 if funding is not found for a complete overhaul of Cheney Stadium. <BR/><BR/>Branch Rickey isn't a fan of Cheney Stadium, it's proximity to downtown, or the city in general.<BR/><BR/>2.5M additional funding from the state is not going to get this done. Cheney overhaul is a 30 million dollar project 15/15 from public & private money. Private money makes no sense unless there is a revenue model/share in place, or comes from entities simply donating for the betterment of the community.<BR/><BR/>There are several sources that support the following, here's a glance of what's being said, and who the players are.<BR/><BR/>Schlegel Group - Quietly meeting with Dallas city officials regarding a new ballpark being built there and scheduled to open in 2009.<BR/><BR/>Keep in mind the current lease on Cheney Stadium (between the city of tacoma, and george foster, previous owner) runs through 2008 with a (2) year option.<BR/><BR/>The Texas Rangers have final veto power in regards to the Dallas market, and under normal circumstances would hesitate to agree to a AAA team there. However, a deal with Schlegel would involve Real Estate development projects in or around the stadium site, and current Schlegel group VP Bob McCall was the President/GM of the Frisco AA team of the Rangers owned by Ranger owner Tom Hicks. The club is managed by Mandalay Sports. The format of this arrangement would be one of multiple revenue sources, cross marketing, and close proximity for call up to the parent club from AAA.<BR/><BR/>Reno/Sparks - Lead group has secured initial agreement to purchase undisclosed AAA team. Most consider the Tucson Sidewinders, as they have been quietly offered for sale the past 2-3 years prior to winning the PCL crown in 2006.<BR/><BR/>1. Schlegel group moves the Rainiers after 2008 season, sign Player Development contract with Texas Rangers.<BR/><BR/>Tucson moves to Reno/Sparks. Padres sign Player Development contract with Reno/Sparks.<BR/><BR/>The Mariners sign Player Development contract with Portland, Oregon ownership,(great cross marketing, short travel to Safeco).<BR/><BR/>The Diamondbacks sigh Player Development contract with Oklahoma,(former Ranger AAA club). Or, multiple affiliation changes could occur landing Diamondbacks in another city.<BR/><BR/>2. Schlegel group sells the Rainiers. Purchases the Tucson Sidewinders, Moves the Sidewinders to Dallas, signs Player Development contract with Texas Rangers.<BR/><BR/>Reno/Sparks group purchases the Raniers, moves franchise to Reno/Sparks, signs Player Development contract with the Padres.<BR/><BR/>Mariners sign Player Development contract with Portland, Oregon ownership.<BR/><BR/>Diamondbacks sign Player Development contract with Oklahoma, or multiple affiliation changes land them in a different city.<BR/><BR/>Bottom line is simple. Cheney Stadium goes through a complete renovation or Tacoma's 47 year run in the PCL is history.<BR/><BR/>If this happens, the best we can hope for is short season A ball in the Northwest League.<BR/><BR/>In the meantime, enjoy Cheney Stadium and the talents of the Rainiers roster. Great place to watch a ballgame, enjoy it while it's still here!Ben Cheneyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10200520726450110913noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2871278969120707529.post-4256790025483813652007-05-14T17:01:00.000-07:002007-05-14T17:01:00.000-07:00The Rainiers new ownership has done some great thi...The Rainiers new ownership has done some great things around the ballpark in regards to complimentary programs, gold club upgrade (expensive) and additional concession improvements.<BR/><BR/>However,<BR/><BR/>Little or no community involvement.<BR/><BR/>Community fund, silent auctions, golf tournament, ect....<BR/><BR/>No SGA's and no Game Worn Jersey nights, used car night, ect.....<BR/><BR/>No Season Ticket Holder events.<BR/><BR/>Pretty much just fireworks and zooperstars.......<BR/><BR/>Might have held back in regards to long term stadium funding before ramping this part of the marketing up to speed.<BR/><BR/>Might have some in the works, still early in the season. Guess time will tell.Ben Cheneyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10200520726450110913noreply@blogger.com