MLB Franchise Notes: Shapiro Plans To Return As Indians GM In '10

Indians Exec VP & GM Mark Shapiro yesterday said that he has "every intention of returning" as GM next season, despite rumors that he "might be ready to take another job" with the club. The Indians, currently at 49-63 and fourth in the AL Central, are "calling this season an organizational failure," and Indians President Paul Dolan said that the "organization will be reviewed piece by piece at the end of the season." But Shapiro said, "It is my firm expectation that I will be general manager in 2010. ... We've got to look to address why our team isn't achieving up to the level of talent that we think should create wins and losses. Not only us, but other people within the industry, objectively and subjectively, believe this as well" (Paul Hoynes, Cleveland PLAIN DEALER, 8/12).

BASES LOADED: In DC, Chico Harlan cites sources as saying that the Nationals are "narrowing their search" for a permanent GM, with acting GM Mike Rizzo, Red Sox Assistant GM Jed Hoyer and D'Backs VP/Player Personnel Jerry Dipoto "emerging as the primary candidates." The Nationals will "likely determine the job after the Monday deadline for draft pick signings" (WASHINGTON POST, 8/12).

Dodgers Have Partnered With Snoop Dogg For "This Is My Town" Billboard Ad Campaign

TAKING A TOUR OF HOLLYWOOD: The Dodgers have launched their first mobile ticketing unit, the Dodger Ticket Truck, which is designed to take Dodgers tickets directly to fans in their own communities. The mobile unit will offer ticket specials exclusive to the Ticket Truck, hoping to increase the team's visibility around L.A. The Dodgers also have partnered with rapper Snoop Dogg for the "This is My Town" billboard ad campaign, which debuted yesterday around the city (Dodgers). Tickets purchased from the truck will not carry a service charge (L.A. TIMES, 8/12).

CHEAP SEATS: TICKETNEWS.com's Alfred Branch Jr. reported the Mets are "discounting prime tickets at select games at Citi Field in August and September through a promotion" with TheaterMania.com. Prices are being cut by as much as 50% to a total of 15 games, including contests against the Phillies, Braves and Cubs (TICKETNEWS.com, 8/10).