The MLB Rangers are "planning a multimillion-dollar renovation to the center-field plaza at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington that could add a sports bar and reconfigure the visitors' bullpen," according to Sandra Baker of the FT. WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM. Rangers Exec VP/Communications John Blake said that "details won't be released until possibly later this week." He added that "some demolition work has started." Baker reports plans filed with the state indicate that the work will "likely involve the demolition of Vandergriff Plaza and adjacent spaces to accommodate a new concession pavilion, club pavilion, renovation of a suite for a sports bar, and a mezzanine and family entertainment area." The filing said that project costs are "estimated at $11 million," with renovations to be completed by April 1. The city of Arlington "issued a building permit for the project on Oct. 12 that shows the work area will involve about 65,590 square feet of space." Baker notes it "appears that the renovation plans were well under way before a bullpen controversy erupted in Game 5 of the World Series," when Cardinals manager Tony La Russa "claimed he couldn't be heard over the bullpen phone" (FT. WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM, 11/2).
