It’s the worst-kept secret in Minor League Baseball, one we reported a few weeks ago: the San Diego Padres will place the Portland Beavers in Tucson Electric Park for 2011 and possibly beyond, according to a press release issued by the club.
An ownership group, led by the Padres’ Jeff Moorad, are in the process of buying the Bevos for a reported $18 million. Moorad and crew have been negotiating for a new ballpark in Escondido, Cal., but given the uncertain nature of ballpark negotiations there, the decision was made to park the Beavers in Tucson for 2011 “for at least one year,” according to the press conference heralding the move.
“My ownership group is looking forward to the San Diego Padres’ Triple-A affiliate playing in Tucson for the 2011 season,” Moorad said. “We thank the Pima County Sports and Tourism Authority and the Tucson region for hosting the team as we continue the process of determining the best long-term home for our Triple-A club.” The Padres are looking both at Hi Corbett Field and Tucson Electric Park.
Mike Feder, current Executive Director of the PCSTA and former general manager of the Toros and Sidewinders from 1989-2000, will operate the team. He has completed a management agreement with the Padres which will include Tucson investors. The local investors will be announced in the near future, as well as the name of the team. Jack Donovan will be joining Feder in the front office.
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