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**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:04 PM

BeachBoys Ride Late Surge to Handle Honu

Waikiki scored twice in the sixth frame and added three more in the ensuing inning en route to a 5-1 victory over the visiting North Shore Honu tonight at Waipahu's Hans L'Orange Park. Thanks to a Honolulu loss earlier in the day, Waikiki's win vaulted the BeachBoys a half game ahead of the Sharks in the race for the Hawaii Winter Baseball East Division title.

New York Mets prospect Lucas Duda doubled, tripled and drove home a run in support of Waikiki (16-17-1), while teammate Michael McKenry delivered a two-run single in the seventh inning to pad his squad's lead. Michael Wilson also notched a double and racked up his league-leading 30th RBI of the campaign.

Harold Williams earned his first victory of the season after tossing an inning in relief of starter Kenichi Matsuoka. Brant Rustich tossed the game's final 2 1/3 innings without allowing a hit or run, and picked up his first save of the year.

Stephen Chapman buoyed North Shore (22-11-1) at the dish, collecting two hits including a double, and scored the team's only run. Bud Norris (2-1, 3.65 ERA) took the loss after allowing two runs on three hits through three innings out of the bullpen.

Both teams return to Hans L'Orange Park tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. (Hawaii time) for the second of a three-game set.

**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:04 PM

Blake Wood Strikes Out 12 Sharks in CaneFires Victory

West Oahu starter Blake Wood threw 65 of his 99 pitches for strikes as the 6-4, 225-pound Kansas City Royals prospect racked up 12 strikeouts to help the CaneFires stop the Honolulu Sharks, 4-3, this afternoon at Waipahu's Hans L'Orange Park.

Wood (2-1, 3.55 ERA) surrendered two runs on six hits, but in his five innings on the hill, half of the 24 batters he faced were retired via strikeout. Ken Miyamoto tossed the final two innings of the game and not only lowered his league-leading ERA to 0.33, but also notched his third save of the season.

CaneFires (13-20-2) centerfielder Ryan Rogowski went 2-4 with two RBIs, while teammate Jamie Hoffmann finished a perfect 3-3 on the afternoon with two runs scored. Hidekazu Hoshi notched two triples, and drove in a run for West Oahu.

Honolulu (15-19-2) leadoff man Fuminori Yokogawa collected two hits and drove in two, while teammate Miguel Abreu also picked up two base knocks, including a double. George Kontos (3-4, 3.71 ERA) was saddled with the loss, surrendering three runs on seven hits and striking out three through five innings.

Both squads return to Hans L'Orange Park tomorrow at noon (Hawaii time) for the finale of the three-game set. Honolulu's loss dropped it one game behind the Waikiki BeachBoys in the race for the HWB East Division title.

**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:06 PM

Jim Gabella to Manage the Chukars

Idaho Falls - The Kansas City Royals announced today the Minor League coaching staffs for the 2008 season. Jim Gabella was named the new manager of the Chukars, moving to Idaho Falls after spending the last 4 seasons in Burlington, Iowa. Jon Williams was named the new hitting coach, while Jerry Nyman returns for his second season as the Chukars pitching coach.

Before taking over the helm in Burlington, Iowa, Gabella spent 8 seasons as an area scout for the Cleveland Indians. He began his coaching career as the head baseball coach at Broward Community College in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida from 1984-1985. From 1985-88, Gabella became an area scout for the Milwaukee Brewers where he signed several future stars such as Derek Thompson, Brain Synder and Gary Sheffield. In 1989, he returned to coaching in the Indians farm system with stops in Burlington, Watertown, Colorado Springs and Canton-Akron. Gabella played in the Chicago White Sox and Seattle Mariners organizations, as well as the Independent Rocky Mount Pines League from 1976-1980. In 1995, Gabella was named the New York-Penn League's Manager of the year. He just recently was named the Royals Dick Howser Award winner in 2006.

"We will definitely miss Brian Rupp with everything he as done not only for the Chukars, but with his involvement in our community," said Chukars President/General Manager Kevin Greene. "We wish him nothing but the best in Iowa. However, we couldn't be more thrilled than to have an experienced manager in Jim Gabella taking over the helm next season!"

Jon Willams, who just recently joined the Royals organization this year, spent the season as hitting coach for the Burlington Royals. Before starting a career in coaching, Williams spent 6 years as a catcher in the San Francisco and Atlanta organizations. Williams was selected by the Giants in the 44th round of the 2001 draft out of the University of Missouri.

Jerry Nyman will return for his second year as the Chukars Pitching Coach. Entering his 21st year as a professional coach, Nyman spent three years as the Tampa Bay Devil Rays Minor League Pitching Coordinator before returning to Eastern Idaho. Prior to his work in Tampa Bay, Nyman was the Pitching Coach in Idaho Falls in 2003. He began his coaching career in 1987 with Salinas; an independent club located in Salinas, California. Shortly after his stint in California, he moved on to coach at Class "A" Welland in the Pittsburgh organization. Nyman made 30 career appearances at the Major League level with the Chicago White Sox (1968-1969) and the San Diego Padres (1970), accumulating a career record of 6-7 with 3 complete games, 2 shutouts, and a 4.57 ERA.

Brian Rupp, who managed the Chukars since 2004, was named the new skipper of the Burlington (IA) Bees; the Midwest League Class "A" affiliate of the Royals. Under Rupp, the Chukars were led to the Pioneer League Playoffs three out of his four years. Former Hitting Coach Patrick Anderson was named to the same position for the Burlington (NC) Royals; the Appalachian League "Rookie Level" affiliate of the Royals.

**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:08 PM

Cutters Promote Top Staff

The Williamsport Crosscutters announced that long-time employees Doug Estes and Gabe Sinicropi have each been promoted to Vice-President.

Estes is now the team's Vice-President/General Manager with Sinicropi serving as Vice-President/Marketing & Public Relations. 2008 will mark their 15th year heading up the Williamsport club, longevity rarely seen in Minor League Baseball front offices.

In making the announcement Team President Paul Velte stated, "It gives us great pleasure to add the title of Vice-President to these two dedicated individuals. Doug and Gabe have provided our club with hard work and leadership for the last 14 years in Williamsport. They have led the charge in building our successful franchise from the ground up and weaving the ball club into the fabric of the community."

The Williamsport Crosscutters 2008 season opens on June 17. Season Tickets and Bonus Book plans are now available at the Cutters Bowman Field offices, by phone at (570) 326-3389 or online at Williamsport Crosscutters

**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:10 PM

BlueClaws announce new official host hotel

LAKEWOOD, N.J. - The Lakewood BlueClaws, class- A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, have announced that the Quality Inn of Toms River will be the new Official Host Hotel for the team.

"The Quality Inn is a great hotel and a place we are proud to have representing the BlueClaws to the rest of the league," said General Manager Geoff Brown.

The hotel is located 15 minutes from the ballpark on Route 37 West in Toms River.

"We are looking forward to a great relationship with the Lakewood BlueClaws," said Bob Van Bochove, General Manager of the Quality Inn in Toms River. "We are very excited to host the teams of the South Atlantic League and we look forward to participating in the many great events the BlueClaws offer."

The Lakewood BlueClaws have announced their 2008 season schedule. Plan your spring with the most affordable professional baseball ticket in New Jersey. Having led the South Atlantic League in attendance each year of operation, in 2007 they became the fastest team in league and New Jersey history to reach the three million fan plateau. For tickets or more information call 732-901-7000 or visit the BlueClaws website at NJ Minor League Baseball team Lakewood BlueClaws official site for family fun activities in NJ and New Jersey day trips, plus business meeting facility, corporate event fireworks, children's birthday parties, and more!.

**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:11 PM

Michigan Baseball Foundation Grant Applications Available

Applications for grants funded by the Michigan Baseball Foundation, the 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that owns and operates Dow Diamond, are now available. The MBF grant applications are available online at Great Lakes Loons Baseball: Michigan Baseball Foundation.

"This is the reason we established the foundation: to give back to deserving community organizations," said Bill Stavropoulos, President and Founder of the Michigan Baseball Foundation. "We look forward to making this grant process an annual tradition."

The Michigan Baseball Foundation will consider funding Mid-Michigan non-profit organizations that use the grant money to fund specific projects and/or programs. The grants are not intended to fund day-to-day operations. The decision to fund an organization's program or project also will be determined by whether or not one or more of the following guidelines are met. These guidelines reflect the purposes for which the Michigan Baseball Foundation was organized:

- The organization contributes to regional economic development by expanding employment opportunities and promoting the general welfare of the area

- The organization is based in the Mid-Michigan area and serves young people

- The funded project/program promotes amateur sports

Primary consideration will be given to organizations in Midland, Bay, Saginaw, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Isabella, Genesee, Tuscola, Huron, Arenac, and Iosco counties. An MBF Grants Committee will review all grant applications and will respond to all applicants. All grant applications must be received by the Michigan Baseball Foundation (P.O. Box 365; Midland, MI 48640) by January 15, 2008. Grant recipients will be notified by March 15, 2008. Recipients will also be asked to respond to the Michigan Baseball Foundation Board of Directors on the success of the program or project for which the grant was used.

The Michigan Baseball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, which was formed in 2006 to enhance the efforts of regional organizations that serve young people and to enhance the efforts of regional economic development through creative partnerships and grants. The Michigan Baseball Foundation owns and operates Dow Diamond, home of the Great Lakes Loons, a Class A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For more information on the MBF grant applications, contact Patti Tuma at ptuma@loons.com or by phone at 989-837-6120.

**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:12 PM

Changes in Whitecaps, Berlin Front Office

COMSTOCK PARK, MI - The West Michigan Whitecaps and Berlin Raceway are announcing several changes to their front office staffs. Following successful baseball and racing seasons, Whitecaps Professional Baseball Corporation, which owns both venues, is reorganizing and promoting several long-time employees.

Dan Glowinski has accepted the Box Office Manager position for Berlin Raceway. The Grand Haven native graduated from Grand Valley State University and began his career with the organization in 2005 as an Operations Intern at Berlin Raceway. Following the 2005 season, Glowinski was hired on full-time as a Ticket Sales Consultant.

Michael Kujawa has been promoted from Ticket Sales Consultant to Senior Ticket Sales Consultant and Special Events Coordinator. Kujawa joined the Whitecaps in October of 2005 after working at JDC Marketing and Consulting. A native of Novi, Michigan, Kujawa graduated from Grand Valley State University.

Drew Willard has been named the new Group Sales Operations Manager. Willard joined the Whitecaps in October of 2005 as a Ticket Sales Consultant. He hails from Jackson, Michigan and graduated from Central Michigan University.

Meghan Brennan is leaving her position as Ticket Sales Consultant and Ticket Operations Coordinator to take over as the Box Office Manager for the Whitecaps. Brennan will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Whitecaps Box Office. Brennan joined the Whitecaps in November of 2005 after completing an internship with the Richmond Braves. She is from Columbus, Ohio and graduated from Bowling Green State University.

Taking over for Brennan as Ticket Sales Consultant and Ticket Operations Coordinator is Jessica Nicol, who was a Whitecaps Ticket Sales Intern during the 2007 season. In her new position, Nicol will be responsible for coordinating ticket fulfillment. A native of Cass City, Michigan, Nicol graduated from Grand Valley State University.

Another former intern, Mike Klint, has joined the staff full-time. Klint was an Operations Intern at Berlin Raceway during the 2007 season and has been hired on as a Ticket Sales Consultant. Klint is from North Muskegon, Michigan and graduated from Central Michigan University.

**truebluefan** · 11-14-2007, 10:12 PM

Royals Announce Bees 2008 Field Staff

Burlington, IA (November 13, 2007) - For the first time in five years, the Burlington Bees will have a new skipper at the helm as the Kansas City Royals named Brian Rupp as the team's field manager in 2008. Rupp replaces Jim Gabella in the Bees dugout after an unprecedented four-year run as the Bees' skipper. Rupp moves up from short-season Idaho Falls where he had been managing the Chukars for the last four seasons and this assignment marks his return to the Midwest League after a nine-year hiatus. He was the Peoria Chiefs manager in 1999 when the Chiefs were an affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. The Royals also announced that hitting coach Ryan Long will return for a second season with the Bees and former Major Leaguer Doug Henry will join the Royals organization from the Atlanta Braves, and be the Bees pitching coach. The Royals will announce an Athletic Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Coach at a later date.

The 2008 campaign will be Rupp's fifth year with the Royals after leading the Chukars to the post-season in three of the last four years and the Pioneer League Championship Series in each of the last two seasons. His overall record with the Chukars was 161-143. The upcoming season will be his eighth as a minor league manager. The '99 season in Peoria was his managerial debut when he led the Chiefs to a 63-76 record. He stayed in the Cardinals organization for three more years. He was the hitting coach for Double-A Arkansas in 2000, managed New Jersey in the short-season New York-Penn League in 2001, and managed Johnson City in the short-season Appalachian League in 2002. His career managerial record is 288-298.

As a player, Rupp was drafted by the Cardinals in the 43rd round of the 1992 draft after a standout career at the University of Missouri-St. Louis where he is a member of the UMSL Sports Hall of Fame. He played seven seasons in the Cardinals minor league system, getting as high as Triple-A. He was the Arizona League MVP and batting champion in his first year and won the South Atlantic League batting title in 1993 with Savannah. He had a .295 career average over 742 career games. Rupp makes his home near St. Louis in Florissant, MO. He and his wife Stacie have one son, Andrew.

Gabella had been the Bees manager for the last four years, the longest tenure for a manager in the organization's 46 years in the Midwest League. Under Gabella, the Bees were 245-305, but he led the team to its only winning half as a Royals affiliate in the first half of 2006. Gabella and his family still make their permanent home in Burlington, but Jim will be managing Idaho Falls in the Pioneer League next year. He will also take on the added responsibility of coordinating the Royals extended spring training program next year, with an estimated 70 players to be in camp. Gabella was the recipient of the 2006 Dick Howser Trophy from the Royals, presented annually to a staff member for outstanding contributions to player development. He is currently in Hawaii wrapping up his season as the manager of the West Oahu Canefires in the Hawaiian Winter Baseball League.

Long returns for his second season as the Bees hitting coach, and his second year back with the Royals where he started his playing career as a 2nd-round pick in 1991. He played ten years in the Royals system, including six games in the Major League s in 1997. Long returned to the Royals organization last year after spending six years as a hitting coach in the Chicago White Sox minor league system. Long and his wife Olivia make their off-season home in Pearland, TX near Houston.

Henry joins the Royals after three seasons as a pitching coach in the Atlanta Braves organization. Last year, he was the pitching coach for the Rome Braves in the South Atlantic League. He started his professional coaching career with Myrtle Beach in 2005 and was with the Danville Braves in the Appalachian League in 2006. Like Long, Henry has playing roots with the Royals. He finished his eleven-year Major League career with Kansas City in 2001, and was 2-2 in 53 relief appearances for the Royals. He was originally drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 8th-round of the 1985 draft out of Arizona State University. He made it to the Major Leagues with the Brewers in 1991 and pitched four seasons in Milwaukee. He also pitched for the New York Mets (1995-96), San Francisco Giants (1997 and 2000), and Houston Astros (1998-2000). For his career, he was 34-42 with a 4.19 ERA and 82 saves in 582 relief appearances. Following his retirement from professional baseball in '02, Henry coached at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater before joining the Braves. Henry and his wife Monique make their home in Hartland, WI, with their four children: Danielle, Jason, Zachary, and Mikayla.

Bobby St. Pierre was the Bees pitching coach in 2007 and will serve that same capacity with the Burlington Royals of the short-season Appalachian League this year. Former Bees hitting coach Patrick Anderson (2002-06) will also be in Burlington, NC this year after one season in Idaho Falls. St. Pierre and Anderson will work together for the first time professionally, but played together and against one another growing up in the Maryland. Three other former Bees' staff members remain within the organization. Hitting coach Terry Bradshaw (2001) and pitching coach Tom Burgmeier (2003-05) will be back at Triple-A Omaha with manager Mike Jirschele whose son, Jeremy, played for the Bees in each of the last two seasons. Steve Luebber (2006) will return to high-A Wilmington for a second season as the Blue Rocks pitching coach.

A full listing of the Royals field staffs and roving instructors for the upcoming season is available on the Royals website at The Official Site of Kansas City Royals: Homepage. For more information, or media requests to set up interviews with Brian Rupp, Ryan Long, Doug Henry, or Jim Gabella, contact Bees' Asst. GM of Baseball Operations/Broadcaster Randy Wehofer at (319) 754-5705 or by email at randy@gobees.com.

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