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**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:17 PM

SAVANNAH, Ga. - Big Water Catering and Events, of Riverview Drive in Savannah, took home the award and $500 prize for first place in the second annual Sand Gnats Chili Bowl Cook-Off Saturday afternoon at Historic Grayson Stadium.

The second place prize of $250 went to Georgetown Woods Apartments, whose chili was prepared by Leesa Daugherty. Robert Hoffman and Family took home the people's choice award for best chili while the Lazaretto Boat Club won the award for best-decorated booth.

WSAV Sports Anchor Ken Slats, Education Reporter Randi Hempel, I-95 DJ Don Scott, and Trip and Clayton Crouch of America's Second Harvest Food Bank were the honorary judges for the event. Trophies were provided by Savannah Awards while the big screen TV was provided by Aaron's on Victory Drive.

The event was held in conjunction with Connect Savannah, WSAV, I-95, Z102, WBMQ, and the Savannah Blood Alliance. Proceeds from the event went to America's Second Harvest Food Bank of Coastal Georgia

The Sand Gnats begin the home portion of the 2008 season April 11 when the Columbus Catfish come to town. Season tickets for the 2008 season are available now at the Sand Gnats offices at Historic Grayson Stadium. For more information, call 912-351-9150 or visit between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:18 PM

Giants Name Roberto Kelly First base Coach

SAN FRANCISCO - The San Francisco Giants have named former Augusta GreenJackets manager Roberto Kelly their first base coach, club Senior Vice President and General Manager Brian Sabean announced today. Kelly will also oversee the team's baserunning and outfield defense for manager Bruce Bochy next season.

The former All-Star outfielder has spent the last three seasons as the skipper of the Giants' South Atlantic League entry Augusta, guiding them to a 285-157 ledger (.622) and two playoff appearances. The 2006 SAL Manager of the Year has guided Augusta to the best record in all of minor league baseball in each of the last two seasons, going 92-47 in 2006 and 89-51 in 2007.

"Roberto has served notice of his potential as a teacher of the game over the last three years with Augusta," said Sabean. "He brings a wealth of knowledge about winning baseball to Bruce's staff and we look forward to having him on the Major League club."

The 43-year-old Panamanian played 14 years in the majors with the New York Yankees (1987-92 and 2000), Cincinnati Reds (1993-94), Atlanta Braves (1994), Montreal Expos (1995), Los Angeles Dodgers (1995), Minnesota Twins (1996-97), Seattle Mariners (1997) and Texas Rangers (1998-99). He owned a .290 lifetime batting average with 124 home runs, 585 RBI, 687 runs scored and 235 stolen bases over 1,337 games. Kelly made four appearances in the post season.

With Kelly's appointment, Bochy has completed the coaching staff for his second season with the Giants. New hitting instructor Carney Lansford will join holdovers Ron Wotus (bench coach), Dave Righetti (pitching coach), Tim Flannery (third base coach), Mark Gardner (bullpen coach) and Bill Hayes (bullpen catcher).

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:19 PM

'Caps Honored Again, Franchise Wins National Promotions Trophy

COMSTOCK PARK, MI - The Whitecaps 2007 season was as successful off the field as it was on. The team captured its fifth Midwest League Championship in 14 years and the franchise was also named the Class A Team of the Year by MiLB.com. Now, the 'Caps have another award to add to the trophy shelf. Earlier today, Minor League Baseball named the Whitecaps the winner of the Larry MacPhail Promotional Trophy for all of the minor leagues.

"This is a huge honor for our promotions department, lead by Mickey Graham and Brian Oropallo, and our entire staff," said Whitecaps Vice President Jim Jarecki. "2007 was a special year and this adds that extra celebration to the season."

In early October, the Whitecaps received the Larry MacPhail Promotional Trophy for the Midwest League. With that win, the team was placed in contention for the award on the national level. There were 11 total nominees for the national award, representing the 11 leagues in minor league baseball.

"Our goal in 2007 was to make sure there was never a dull moment at the ballpark and, with this award, I think we can say we succeeded," said Whitecaps Promotions Coordinator Brian Oropallo. "We had a lot of fun creating all the promotions and I think the fans had a great time coming to the ballpark. That's what minor league baseball is all about - fun."

The Whitecaps previously won the Midwest League award in 2002, but this is the first time the franchise has won the MacPhail trophy on the national level. "This award reinforces what we're doing both at games and within the community," said Jarecki. "Coming to a Whitecaps game is an experience and our staff made sure that every night was special. New promotions like Big Top Tuesdays and Thrifty Thursdays joined favorites like Field of Dreams and Super Hero Night to create a great, fun filled atmosphere. The bar has been set and the promotions department is already coming up with ways to top it next year."

The Larry MacPhail Trophy was established in 1966 and is given out annually to one team in Minor League Baseball that has distinguished itself in on-field and off-field promotions. The award will be presented to the Whitecaps at the Baseball Winter Meetings in December.

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:20 PM

Lugnuts 2008 season tickets on-sale now

LANSING - The snow might be on its way to mid-Michigan, but it's never too early to start thinking about summer. The Lansing Lugnuts have placed all season ticket packages for 2008 on-sale, with packages starting at just $54.

"We are very proud of our season ticket packages this year," Lugnuts General Manager Pat Day said. "Season tickets make terrific, affordable gifts that everyone in the family can enjoy. Each season ticket option this season provides the type of entertainment and value that our fans have come to expect from us year in and year out."

Along with the many benefits of being a season ticket holder, every season ticket purchase receives free food vouchers and a free ticket to the second annual Crosstown Showdown presented by Auto-Owners Insurance between the Lugnuts and the Michigan State Spartans on Thursday, April 24th. Season ticket holders can also upgrade to The Clubhouse, the Lugnuts new suite level lounge featuring cocktails, carvery and camaraderie coming in 2008.

The Lugnuts are also pleased to announce that Nuts and Bolts, the team's official retail store, has moved to Eastwood Towne Center for the holiday season. The store features all of the latest Lugnuts merchandise, including some new items that have arrived just in time for the holiday season.

Season tickets will be on-sale at Nuts and Bolts, but can also be purchased by visiting the Lugnuts' official website, The Lansing Lugnuts, or by calling (517) 485-4500.

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:21 PM

Former Snapper Helps Team USA Claim Gold

Brian Duensing has pitched some big games in his career, including while he was a member of the 2006 Snappers, but nothing compares to this. Duensing was the starting pitcher for the victorious Team USA in this year's IBAF World Cup gold medal game against Cuba. Brian and Team USA defeated Cuba by a final score of 6-3, ending Cuba's 25-year gold medal run and ending a 33-year gold medal absence of their own.

In Sunday's (November 18th) gold medal game, Duensing went four and two third's innings allowing two runs (one earned) off of five hits. Brian also struck out two Cuba batters in the effort. Duensing was replaced by the eventual Team USA winner, Angels' minor leaguer Steven Sell, in the bottom of the fourth inning.

The gold medal win by Team USA was their first since 1974.

While a member of the Snappers, Brian went 2-3 with a 2.94 ERA in 70.1 innings pitched. Duensing compiled 55 strike outs compared to just 14 walks.

Brian was the Twins' third round pick in the 2005 June draft. Born in Marysville, Kansas, this 5-11 left hander attended the University of Nebraska where he was a Collegiate Baseball Honorable-Mention Freshman All-American, Big 12 All-Freshman Team, and a member of the NCAA Lincoln All-Regional Team in 2002.

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:22 PM

Massengill is the Rawlings Woman Executive of the Year

Kinston, NC - Kinston Indians General Manager Shari Massengill is the winner of the 2007 Rawlings Woman Executive of the Year Award. This is one of minor league baseball's top national awards. The Woman Executive of the Year is chosen from all of the women in all levels of minor league baseball.

"It is an unbelievable honor to be recognized amongst all of the hard working women in Minor League Baseball," Massengill said. "It is exciting to be a part of a time when women have such an increasing role in baseball. This award means a lot to me and our organization."

Since 1976, The Woman Executive of the Year Award is given annually to a female executive "who made an outstanding contribution to her club, league or to baseball." Massengill is the first Carolina League recipient of this award.

In full-season baseball's smallest city, the Indians welcomed 115,195 fans in 2007. That's the biggest attendance at Grainger Stadium since 2001 and the second biggest mark this decade. The attendance total eclipses last year's total attendance of 112,253 fans, even with twice as many rainouts as last year.

The K-Tribe also saw an increase in revenues across the board, including ticket sales, concessions and sponsorship in 2007. The K-Tribe also increased their community involvement during the 2007 season. The team implemented the Tribe Tales reading program in local public schools and joined forces with the Lenoir County Boys and Girls club to help raise money and awareness.

The 2007 season marked Massengill's 11th season with the K-Tribe and second as General Manager. In September, Massengill was honored with the Calvin Falwell Award, given to the top executive in the Carolina League.

Massengill, a native of Kinston, has worked in a number of roles with the team. During her tenure at Grainger Stadium, she's been the Director of Sales, Group Sales, and Assistant General Manager. She has played a large role in group sales and merchandise. During stadium renovations, Massengill was an instrumental member of the committee that designed the new picnic area at Grainger Stadium.

The award will be presented to Massengill during the Baseball Winter Meetings, which takes place in Nashville, TN during the first week of December.

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:23 PM

Trio of JetHawks Named to Topps Class A All Star Team

A trio of Lancaster JetHawks stars have been named to the Topps' Class A All-Star Team, adding to the numerous awards bestowed on the team following its record-breaking 2007 campaign.

First baseman Aaron Bates and outfielders Bubba Bell and Zach Daeges have been honored for their outstanding performances during what was an incredible season in Lancaster as the three prospects led a historic offensive output that shattered several longstanding club and league records. Earlier this Fall, the players were also named to the post-season California League All Star team.

Bates' .465 on-base percentage led all of Class A and his .592 slugging percentage was third best in the classification. The California native became the first player in California League history to record four homeruns in one game when he accomplished the feat on May 19 against the Lake Elsinore Storm.

Bell, who was named California League MVP and Rookie of the Year, in addition to being the MVP of the mid-season All Star Game in Stockton was also named the Topps California League Player of the Year several weeks ago. The Texan adds to his hardware collection with this honor after leading Class A with a .370 average and .665 slugging percentage. The fan favorite led the JetHawks to the first half division title before being called up to AA Portland.

Daeges spent the entire season in Lancaster and paced all of Minor League Baseball in runs scored (124), extra-base hits (81) and doubles (55), the latter also tied a California League record for two-baggers in a season. The Iowa native tied for third in the Minors with 113 RBI and also led the California League in hits with 170. Daeges was also named Offensive Player of the Year for Class A by MiLB.com

These three honors follow the season which saw the club break California League records for home runs (217), RBI (1,008) and Runs Scored (1,081). The team finished the regular season with the best record in the California League and won both halves before being ousted in the Division Finals by the Lake Elsinore Storm.

The three honors garnered the Boston Red Sox the most representatives of any organization on the Topps All Star Team. Colorado and San Francisco placed two each on the 12-man squad.

The JetHawks open the 2008 regular season on April 3 at High Desert before returning to Clear Channel Stadium for the home opener on April 10 against the Lake Elsinore Storm. Tremendous ticket packages starting at only $56 are available for purchase now by calling 661.726.5400.

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:24 PM

JetHawks Offering Free Shipping On Any Merchandise Order Over $50 Through December 3

The Lancaster JetHawks, California League Class A affiliate of the World Champion Boston Red Sox, are offering fans a tremendous opportunity to grab merchandise featuring the club's new team identity and have it shipped free in time for the Holidays.

All orders over $50 placed on-line between November 20 and December 3 will be shipped at no cost, ensuring great savings on all items featured at the JetHawks official team website. Apparel and caps featuring the new logos of the JetHawks have been selling quickly since the team unveiled its new identity on October 24. T-Shirts, polo-shirts and children's wear as well as official New Era game caps are all available and make perfect gifts for the Holiday season.

In addition, merchandise commemorating the Boston Red Sox World Series Championship has arrived and is available in very limited quantities in-person at the JetHawks team store and on-line. Short sleeve official locker room t-shirts and logo baseballs are available for purchase and are a great way to celebrate the Red Sox second world title in the last four years.

The special Holiday shipping offer extends to any merchandise purchase totaling $50 or more, including close-out items featuring the classic JetHawks logos and baseball cards.

The JetHawks open the 2008 regular season on April 3 at High Desert before returning to Clear Channel Stadium for the home opener on April 10 against the Lake Elsinore Storm. Tremendous ticket packages starting at only $56 are available for purchase now by calling 661.726.5400.

**truebluefan** · 11-20-2007, 03:25 PM

RockHounds Named Franchise of the Year

Excerpt from Minor League Baseball Release:

"The RockHounds have become a quiet, but solid, success story despite operating in one of the smallest markets in Double-A baseball.

Their community relationship is maintained on a year-round basis through the team's charity work, raising more than $100,000 this year. The RockHounds have paid particular attention to the schools and involving the community youth in sports, using the fund

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