In Toronto, Gregor Chisholm wrote Blue Jays President & CEO Mark Shapiro "finally appears to be letting his guard down and embracing the role as primary spokesman for the business side" of the organization. There has been a "noticeable shift" in the way Shapiro is "presenting himself to the public." He seems to be "taking a proactive approach to changing his narrative" (TORONTO STAR, 2/23).
STANDING-ROOM STEAL: In Tampa, Marc Topkin notes the Rays' new Ballpark Pass plan, which offers a "standing room only ticket to all games for the bargain price of $36 a month," proved to be "quite popular, as the team sold out the initial allotment, which was fewer than 1,000." The club is "taking names for a waitlist, and could decide to make more available, though space is somewhat limited in the standing areas around the outfield" (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 2/25).
SECRET COWBOY: D-backs Exec VP & GM Mike Hazen said that the club was "not aware" P Madison Bumgarner "had been participating in rodeo events for years under a secret identity." In Phoenix, Nick Piecoro notes Hazen "would not say whether Bumgarner," who signed a 5-year, $85M deal with the club last December, is "contractually forbidden from such activies." However, Hazen said that he "does not tell players what they can or cannot do off the field." Piecoro notes all guaranteed contracts include language "prohibiting players from participating in dangerous activities" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 2/25).
