BPD leads off today with this story about the FL: C-U baseball franchise in works
The plan is to use Illinois Field on the University of Illinois campus.
"And where's the Batman?"
This begs some tough questions:
Contrary to what some think, it appears that the NoL expansion really is getting blocked moving into "FL Territory." Perhaps the only expansion may have to be in Canada (if they can find the money to build/upgrade ballparks) where there's no competition. Of course we still have for next week's meeting to find out how the league itself will function next season.
The plan is to use Illinois Field on the University of Illinois campus.
Stadium plans:So they're talking about investing in a college ballpark and working to get around the beer issue. Bill Lee & Co. are doing their homework as usual.
Perry said the vision for the renovation would include a new seating bowl with seating capacity of 3,000 to 4,000; group suites; administrative office space; a new clubhouse or expansion of the current one; hospitality areas; additional restrooms; new ticket windows and additional food and concessions facilities; and a kids play area.
Yes, There's a beer issue
One primary negotiation point still to be navigated is the sale of beer at Illinois Field for minor league games. Income from such sales are widely regarded by pro sports franchises - particularly minor league teams - as essential to economic success.
...
However, Perry's group could petition UI administration for a waiver of the ban. Such a waiver also would need state legislative approval, according to UI associate athletic director Dana Brenner. The Chicago Bears took that route in gaining approval for beer sales during the 2002 season and the 2003 preseason, when they played home games at Memorial Stadium.
Brenner said the proposed minor league team likely wouldn't have the same political cache in Springfield as do the Bears. However, the UI's previous experience with operating beer sales at Memorial Stadium could work in the minor league team's favor in seeking approval.
"And where's the Batman?"
This begs some tough questions:
- With all the hopes the NoL has for expansion (in Marion), how can they let this one slip by? Was this even on the league's radar?
- Could all the distractions in Wichita and/or AB keep Griffith from exploring such possibilities?
- Has the multiple changes in commissioner undermined expansion efforts since they involve work that spans more than a year?
Contrary to what some think, it appears that the NoL expansion really is getting blocked moving into "FL Territory." Perhaps the only expansion may have to be in Canada (if they can find the money to build/upgrade ballparks) where there's no competition. Of course we still have for next week's meeting to find out how the league itself will function next season.
