In Seattle, Danny O’Neil noted a “patch on the Mariners' right sleeves” this season will honor longtime broadcaster Dave Niehaus, who died in December. That patch is a black oval with "DAVE, My Oh My!" stitched in white, along with “the image of an old-time microphone.” The patches “will be available at Mariners team stores, for $10, beginning April 8, the day of the Mariners' home opener.” Proceeds will benefit the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (SEATTLE TIMES, 3/31).
A DAY IN THE PARK: In California, John Maffei notes the Padres “will show every televised road game this season on the big screen at the Park in the Park at Petco Park.” All of the “elements of the public park will remain open for 'Away at the Park,' including Picnic Hill, the beach area, the youth baseball field and the children's tot lot adjacent to J Street.” Fans can also “bring leashed dogs” (NORTH COUNTY TIMES, 4/1).
DON’T BANK ON IT: In Denver, Penny Parker reported FirstBank, the Denver-based company “that intended to give out free Rockies tickets for home games Friday, Saturday and Sunday, pulled the plug on the plan late Tuesday after a ‘miscommunication’ between the bank and the Rockies.” The tickets instead “were given to Mile High United Way, which handed them out to various charities to give to recipients of their services” (DENVER POST, 3/31).
A BRAND NEW YEAR: In Cleveland, Bud Shaw writes under the header, “Opportunity Is There For Cleveland Indians To Win Back Some Fans.” Shaw: “Indians fans in 2011 need not be ardent believers convinced the glory days are a'comin. … Casual fans will do just fine. Present and breathing is enough to start out.” After three years of “hurt feelings, alienation and recrimination, Opening Day 2011 feels as much like a re-start in marriage counseling as it does a new beginning for town and team.” The Indians have “a lot” to do to “take advantage and win back some love and support.” Shaw: “More than they appear capable of given their youth, the team payroll and other not-so-piddling considerations” (Cleveland PLAIN DEALER, 4/1).
