Ballpark visionary Janet Marie Smith is the new Executive Vice President of Planning and Development for the Los Angeles Dodgers, continuing her work on Dodger Stadium and other team endeavors. (more…)
Archive | The Front Office
In memoriam: David Lander
Best known as TV’s Squiggy on “Laverne & Shirley,” David Lander spent much of his life in ballparks as a scout, team minority owner and fan. He passed away last night at the age of 73 due to complications with muscular dystrophy. (more…)
‘Tis the season for free, discounted books!
Thanksgiving Discounts. Black Friday. Small Business Saturday. Cyber Monday. Yes, we’re heading into the holiday sales season, with an abundance of deals and discounts. Who are we to fight the tide? We’re in the midst of a book giveaway and a BOGO sale. (more…)
In memoriam: Farrell Owens
Farrell Owens, who worked with Larry Schmittou to bring the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) to the Music City in 1978 and served as the team’s first GM/VP, passed away. He was 76. (more…)
Peter Seidler new San Diego Padres chairman
Peter Seidler is the new San Diego Padres Chairman and MLB Control Person, with Ron Fowler transitioning to Padres vice chairman while remaining on MLB’s Labor Policy Committee. (more…)
Ng named Marlins GM, first woman in MLB in that post
In a groundbreaking move, Kim Ng is the new general manager of the Miami Marlins, becoming the first woman to occupy that position in MLB team baseball operations. (more…)
Luhnow sues Astros, says firing was due to financials, not stealing signs
Former Houston Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow is suing the team, saying he was fired not because of the MLB sign-stealing scandal in 2017 and 2018, but to save owner Jim Crane $22 million in guaranteed salary. (more…)
Freund joins MLB in MiLB reorganization push
Peter Freund, owner of two MiLB teams and a partner with the New York Yankees, has been enlisted by Major League Baseball to help navigate issues as MLB takes over control of Minor League Baseball and address the challenges created by contraction to 120 affiliates. (more…)
Ballpark Digest Broadcaster Chat for October 6, 2020
Jesse Goldberg-Strassler, Mick Gillispie and Kevin Reichard discuss the most recent news in MiLB contraction regarding the Appy League, the changing demographics of game broadcasts, and different terms for game gear, including a pill, aspirin, pigskin and loaf of bread, on this week’s Ballpark Digest Broadcaster Chat. (more…)
Royals’ Kevin Uhlich to retire
Kevin Uhlich, who oversaw the 2009 Kauffman Stadium renovation, will retire from his role as Senior Vice President/Business Operations of the Kansas City Royals, effective October 30. (more…)
Ballpark Digest Broadcaster Chat for September 22, 2020
Jesse Goldberg-Strassler, Mick Gillispie and Kevin Reichard discuss hurricanes and natural disasters at the ballpark, the late scout Gary Hughes, the future of scouting and the term pickle on this week’s Ballpark Digest Broadcaster Chat. (more…)
Personnel news: Gastonia, Kenosha and Fargo-Moorhead
We have personnel news from the new Gastonia Atlantic League team, the Kenosha Kingfish (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) and the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (independent; American Association). (more…)
Wright new Chief Commercial Officer for U.S. Soccer
After departing from Minor League Baseball as Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer, David Wright has hired as the new Chief Commercial Officer of the U.S. Soccer Federation. (more…)