ROAD TRIPS 2018
YOGI BERRA STADIUM
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MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
Saturday, May 26, 2018
OPENING DAY WEEKEND
QUEBEC CAPITALES vs. NEW JERSEY JACKALS
First Pitch
Showing posts with label New Jersey Jackals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Jersey Jackals. Show all posts
Sunday, May 27, 2018
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Newark Bears ~ New Jersey Jackals Put a Lickin' on Bears
From the desk of: THE BRICK CITY NINE
NEWARK BEARS: New Jersey Jackals' Push For First Place Coming at Bears' Expense.
When it rains, it pours. The Bears dropped their second straight to the Jackals, and have now lost ten of their last twelve games, as well as their last five in a row.
Jorge Vasquez pitched a dandy ninth inning for the Bears. But the same can't be said for the five Newark pitchers which preceded him in Tuesday's Game Two versus the New Jersey Jackals. Because by that time, New Jersey was leading 16-4, and fresh off scoring seven runs in the eighth inning.
Starting pitcher, Pedro Rivera, by far suffered his worst outing of the season. He only lasted 2.2 innings, walking one, surrendering seven hits, and allowing six runs; five coming in the third. In the eighth inning, Anthony Pluta got roughed up pretty badly as well. He failed to record an out, and allowed six runs on just one hit, and four walks. An E-4 by Juan Martinez opened the door for four unearned runs to score.
Daryle Ward, Eric McGee, Bryce Lane, and Juan Martinez each drove in a run for Newark.
In the second inning, New Jersey's 3B-Nick Giarraputo, was hit by a pitch and left the game. At the moment, he is the CanAm League's offensive Triple Crown Leader. He leads the circuit in batting average with a .406 mark. He is number one in home runs with eleven. And tops the circuit in RBI with thirty-three.
New Jersey's starting pitcher, Steve Fox, leads in two of three pitching categories. He leads the CanAm League in wins with five, and in ERA with a 1.91 mark. He was recently named CanAm Pitcher of the Week.
Wednesday is matinee day. The Bears and Jackals will go at it again in Game Three, then conclude this four game series Thursday.
The Jackals gained a game on Quebec, who lost to the Worcester Tornadoes Tuesday. New Jersey now sits just a half game out of first place. After tonight's loss, Newark owns last place to themselves, with Worcester only one game better.
Transactions:
INF-Courtney Billingslea was released.
Mike.BTB
NEWARK BEARS: New Jersey Jackals' Push For First Place Coming at Bears' Expense.
When it rains, it pours. The Bears dropped their second straight to the Jackals, and have now lost ten of their last twelve games, as well as their last five in a row.
Jorge Vasquez pitched a dandy ninth inning for the Bears. But the same can't be said for the five Newark pitchers which preceded him in Tuesday's Game Two versus the New Jersey Jackals. Because by that time, New Jersey was leading 16-4, and fresh off scoring seven runs in the eighth inning.
Starting pitcher, Pedro Rivera, by far suffered his worst outing of the season. He only lasted 2.2 innings, walking one, surrendering seven hits, and allowing six runs; five coming in the third. In the eighth inning, Anthony Pluta got roughed up pretty badly as well. He failed to record an out, and allowed six runs on just one hit, and four walks. An E-4 by Juan Martinez opened the door for four unearned runs to score.
Daryle Ward, Eric McGee, Bryce Lane, and Juan Martinez each drove in a run for Newark.
In the second inning, New Jersey's 3B-Nick Giarraputo, was hit by a pitch and left the game. At the moment, he is the CanAm League's offensive Triple Crown Leader. He leads the circuit in batting average with a .406 mark. He is number one in home runs with eleven. And tops the circuit in RBI with thirty-three.
New Jersey's starting pitcher, Steve Fox, leads in two of three pitching categories. He leads the CanAm League in wins with five, and in ERA with a 1.91 mark. He was recently named CanAm Pitcher of the Week.
Wednesday is matinee day. The Bears and Jackals will go at it again in Game Three, then conclude this four game series Thursday.
The Jackals gained a game on Quebec, who lost to the Worcester Tornadoes Tuesday. New Jersey now sits just a half game out of first place. After tonight's loss, Newark owns last place to themselves, with Worcester only one game better.
Transactions:
INF-Courtney Billingslea was released.
Mike.BTB
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Newark Bears ~ Winding Down a Precarious Summer
From the desk of: THE BRICK CITY NINE
NEWARK BEARS: Facing an Early; and Maybe Even Permanent; Hibernation.
Without trying to be funny, the Bears are headed towards an early; and maybe even a permanent; hibernation. Even less humorous, is there are many layers to that opening line. Said plainly, the Newark Bears are in trouble.
Even three inch Bear claws couldn't have prevented them from slipping so badly in the standings. They lost their grip sometime shortly before the first half ended. Since then, it's been a lean summer for the grizzlies from Newark. They are currently in seventh place and 7.5 games behind first place Brockton in the season's second-half standings. But the truth is, they should be in last. The New York Federals are a filler team from the New York State League; needed to keep schedule integrity. And truth be told, they aren't that good; ...not at this level anyway.
Overall this season, the Bears find themselves with a 34-41 record and in sixth place. The only teams below them are the previously mentioned Federals in last place, and the newest Atlantic League expansion team; the Rockland Boulders in seventh.
And this is where things get worse for Newark.
The Quebec Capitales lead the League in attendance. So this discussion centers on the American based teams of the CanAm League. With less than 20 games remaining in the regular season, the first-year Rockland County Boulders are the undisputed kings in attendance. The New Jersey Jackals; who play just twelve miles away from Newark are second in the League in attendance behind Rockland. Rockland plays their games forty-one miles away from Newark.
The Newark Bears surpass only the Pittsfield Colonials in attendance this season. But that is misleading. Pittsfield's home park is quite small with a limited max capacity; (3,500). Even so, they're averaging just under 800 per game. The Bears are averaging just over 900 per game. I believe that may be an average number being supported by their sponsors and that their true attendance is even weaker. But what's clearly evident, is the walk-up gate is virtually nonexistent. A routine weekday/night game usually only brings in about 200+/- fans.
And here's the kicker. Over the weekend, the Rockland Boulders bought ad-space on the bottom of the back page of the N.Y. Daily News and had commercials airing on 1050espnRadio as well. Those are expenditures the Bears are finding virtually impossible to fund right now. They no longer broadcast on radio and have ceased their web casting this season. So advertising, is strictly out of the question.
In a best case scenario, for the Newark Bears, it looks like more, severe, cut-backs are in order. I wouldn't know how well the decision to switch over to the CanAm League went for ownership. The move was designed to save them money. But I truly wonder how much longer they can exist this way?
Mike.BTB
NEWARK BEARS: Facing an Early; and Maybe Even Permanent; Hibernation.
Without trying to be funny, the Bears are headed towards an early; and maybe even a permanent; hibernation. Even less humorous, is there are many layers to that opening line. Said plainly, the Newark Bears are in trouble.
Even three inch Bear claws couldn't have prevented them from slipping so badly in the standings. They lost their grip sometime shortly before the first half ended. Since then, it's been a lean summer for the grizzlies from Newark. They are currently in seventh place and 7.5 games behind first place Brockton in the season's second-half standings. But the truth is, they should be in last. The New York Federals are a filler team from the New York State League; needed to keep schedule integrity. And truth be told, they aren't that good; ...not at this level anyway.
Overall this season, the Bears find themselves with a 34-41 record and in sixth place. The only teams below them are the previously mentioned Federals in last place, and the newest Atlantic League expansion team; the Rockland Boulders in seventh.
And this is where things get worse for Newark.
The Quebec Capitales lead the League in attendance. So this discussion centers on the American based teams of the CanAm League. With less than 20 games remaining in the regular season, the first-year Rockland County Boulders are the undisputed kings in attendance. The New Jersey Jackals; who play just twelve miles away from Newark are second in the League in attendance behind Rockland. Rockland plays their games forty-one miles away from Newark.
The Newark Bears surpass only the Pittsfield Colonials in attendance this season. But that is misleading. Pittsfield's home park is quite small with a limited max capacity; (3,500). Even so, they're averaging just under 800 per game. The Bears are averaging just over 900 per game. I believe that may be an average number being supported by their sponsors and that their true attendance is even weaker. But what's clearly evident, is the walk-up gate is virtually nonexistent. A routine weekday/night game usually only brings in about 200+/- fans.
And here's the kicker. Over the weekend, the Rockland Boulders bought ad-space on the bottom of the back page of the N.Y. Daily News and had commercials airing on 1050espnRadio as well. Those are expenditures the Bears are finding virtually impossible to fund right now. They no longer broadcast on radio and have ceased their web casting this season. So advertising, is strictly out of the question.
In a best case scenario, for the Newark Bears, it looks like more, severe, cut-backs are in order. I wouldn't know how well the decision to switch over to the CanAm League went for ownership. The move was designed to save them money. But I truly wonder how much longer they can exist this way?
Mike.BTB
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Newark Bears ~ Tough Times In The DEN
From the desk of: A Newark Bears Fan In Brooklyn
NEWARK BEARS: How Much Longer Can They Sustain Operations?
When talking about the New York Metropolitan area, I speak of the 50 mile radius around the city. Within this area live approximately 15 million people. Serving the baseball minded citizens within that population demographic, is an abundance, maybe even an over-abundance of professional baseball teams; be it from the Major Leagues; various levels of Minor League ball; or the Independent Circuits. On any given day, no one within fifty miles of my laptop is more than just a relatively short trip away from a baseball game.
Some would argue the market (the NorthEast market) is saturated. Yet, the Atlantic League is hoping to expand with a second team on Long Island (pending a loan from the Nassau County residents). That will bring the number of teams on Long Island Proper to four; the Mets; Brooklyn Cyclones; Long Island Ducks; and the expansion team in Nassau County.
The Yankees in the Bronx and the Baby Bombers in Staten Island; the Hudson Valley Renegades and the new Rockland Boulders, both just north of the city, round out the nearest New York teams.
Then there are the local New Jersey teams. The Somerset Patriots; Lakewood Blue Claws; New Jersey Jackals; and of course, the Newark Bears finish a listing of the baseball options a local fan has if they're willing to take a short drive and diversify their baseball experiences.
What's evidently clear in the baseball rich Tri-State/Metropolitan market is there exists an extraordinarily fierce direct competition for the almighty fan dollar. Leaving the Major League teams out of the rest of this discussion, a look at this season's local attendance figures shows there is rabid interest and devotion to the game of baseball at all levels of play, and that those passions and pursuits of Fandome are reflecting in healthy gate receipts thoughout the area.
Here's a brief look at some of these team's respective success at the gate this season:
* I rounded off numbers for ease.
ATLANTIC LEAGUE:
- Long Island Ducks ~ ...Will welcome their five-millionth fan in their twelve year history before the start of Saturday's game. They lead the Atlantic League in attendance as they have every year in the circuit. After 43 home dates this season, attendance stands at 240,000; an average of 5,500. They are a resoundingly successful organization.
- Somerset Patriots ~ ...Another extremely well run organization and a resounding success in their own right as winners of five Atlantic League Championships. They are number two in attendance this season behind Long Island. In 42 home dates they've drawn 230,000; an average of 5,400 per game.
* There is great potential for gate success with an expansion team in Nassau County should the residents approve an August 1st referendum to fund a sports complex.
The Bridgeport Bluefish of Connecticut appear to be a franchise struggling and in clear trouble.
NEW YORK - PENN LEAGUE:
- Brooklyn Cyclones ~ ...Clearly the largest success story of the Tri-State area baseball scene. Having broken and set many records in Minor League attendance, after the Mets and Yankees, the Brooklyn team is the undisputed attendance champ. Many times over their 11 year history 9,000+ fans have packed MCU Park for baseball in Coney Island. This season marks the three-millionth fan to attend a Cyclones game. It's the fastest any minor league team has ever achieved that number; and the Cyclones play A-Level Short Season. But of course that comes with playing in Brooklyn; home of 2.5 million of the 15+ million Tri-Stae area residents. The Cyclones, like the Long Island Ducks, have led their respective League in attendance every season of their existence. This season, after 20 home dates, 140,000 fans have come through the gates for an average of 7,000 per game.
- Staten Island Yankees ~ ...It took a few years to catch on, but catch on it did. Staten Island is now routinely one of the NY-PL attendance leaders. This season they rank third in the circuit behind Aberdeen, MD. and Brooklyn. After 20 home dates 120,000 fans have come through for a 2011 average of 6,000 a game.
- The Hudson Valley Renegades are a near twenty year old; very vibrant and healthy organization with a strong fan base in Peekskill-NY.
CANADIAN/AMERICAN LEAGUE:
- Rockland Boulders-NY ~ ...a first year expansion success of the CanAm League. They're a new team with a brand new park and attendance wise rank second in the circuit (#1 among the American teams). In 24 dates 61,000 fans have come through for an averae of 2,500 per game.*
- New Jersey Jackals ~ ...A very stable, CanAm success. They are always among the League leaders in attendance. In 31 home dates, they've received 56,000 fans for an average of 1,800 fans a game. It ranks them third.*
* To put CanAm League attendance in perspective, the Canadian team; Quebec Capitales; lead the League by a wide margin. In 31 home dates, they've received 88,500 fans for a 2,800 per game average. Of the American teams, with an average of six fewer home dates than the rest of the League (due to on-going construction of their park to open the season) the Rockland Boulders are having an impressive debut season.
# The Sussex Skyhawks (Northern NJ) team folded after the 2010 season.
What's evidently clear from these figures, is that even in a saturated market such as this, there seems to be room for everyone to carve out a profitable niche in the area and enjoy a slice of the financial pie. Most, if not all of the local area teams seem to be doing just fine (relatively speaking) at the gate this season; all except....The Newark Bears; a team which plays in New Jersey's largest city and in the second largest metropolis of the Tri-State/Metropolitan area.
They play a mere 12 miles away from the New Jersey Jackals and 35 miles from the Rockland Boulders. They are only about 20 minutes away from the Somerset Patriots to the south and a short half-hour drive from my location in Brooklyn ...or Staten Island.
Yet, in 37 home dates this season, only 29,000 fans have come through their turnstiles; a meager average of 775 fans per game (which is not nearly reflective of the dire straights they really find themselves in. Their attendance is actually worse than that). Originally a two-time Champion of the Atlantic League, due to continuing poor attendance figures over the years, the Bears were forced to make a switch into the CanAm League this season in order to slash operating expenses.
The CanAm League offered the Newark Bears smaller roster sizes; fewer scheduled games; and considerably less travel as ways to cut spending in the face of a years long battle with a dwindling gate. Former Yankee favorite; catcher-Rick Cerone's vision of Baseball in his home town, once realized, now faces extinction. The original owner of the Newark Bears has since sold the team. Today, the Bears are under new ownership and implemented this plan to switch Leagues and possibly save the franchise.
The fan base of the Newark Bears is non-respondent, dormant, or not at all existent these days. There appears to be no speakable support from the local residents; so crucial to any organization. Less than 1,000 fans a game will doom this city's legacy so rich in Baseball History. But on far too many nights, the Bears play before a very sparse, two to three hundred fans a night.
Just five years ago, although their attendance woes were already taking hold, there once was a fully-stocked gift shop with a very handsome variety of team items. Today there is only a fold out table with nary a souvenir available for purchase. There are letters missing from the great names mounted on Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium's Ring of Fame adorning the press box and (empty) suite level facade. The selection of items remaining in concession stands still open for fans have been minimized. At times, it seems like there is more staff personnel walking the concourse than there are fans attending the game. Chasing down a foul ball would be a race against yourself or versus two really rambunctious kids who couldn't sit still.
They no longer have their games broadcast on radio, and similarly ceased web casting this season. They maintain a web site which currently comprises the total extent of their media reach outside of what the Newark/NJ Star-Ledger may provide.
Centrally located among all these successful teams, as an organization which plays in such a large, downtown environment which Newark provides; with secure parking connected to the park no less; it's hard to believe the Bears can't draw more fans. The park is clean, very accessible, and sits under the backdrop of the downtown Newark skyline. And beyond the center field fence, lies a picturesque view of Manhattan.
Newark Bears manager, Tim Raines; a dynamic player in his day; stole many bases over his Hall of Fame worthy career. But he, along with his player/son; Tim Raines Jr., haven't been able to steal the hearts of the locals; much less spark moderate interest. On the field, with some Major League veterans on the roster, the Bears sport a rather potent offense. It's in starting pitching where this team lacks talent. As such, they've hovered around the .500 mark much of this season. But even in their most recent Championship season of 2007 (back in the Atlantic League), they struggled mightily at the gate; to include a poor showing during the playoffs and championship round.
The question now is, - How much longer can this organization survive without a change in fortunes and a stark rise in attendance before it's forced to fold operations; or in a best case scenario, remain in the hands of an owner willing to withstand the bleeding?
Anything beyond 2011 is looking bleak at this point. And that's a tremendous shame. Outside of the Yankees in N.Y. and the Brooklyn Cyclones/Brooklyn Dodgers connection, there is presently no city within even seventy-five miles of N.Y. Harbor that owns such a mature and rich tradition in Baseball as the City of Newark does. But alas, the Newark Bears are not the Yankees. However, Newark's history does own a branch on the family tree as the city once was home to the New York Yankees minor league affiliate; purchased and owned by the late Colonel Jacob Ruppert. Newark's history is undeniably real and needs...or should have an outlet for Baseball fans throughout the area to learn from; be prideful of; and passionate about.
Additionally, the Negro League liniages of Newark are also something that need to be embraced; celebrated; and promoted as part of an overall experience at a Newark Bears game. Perhaps the finest "Negro League Baseball Museum" imaginable; perhaps even finer...to rival the Negro League Museum in Kansas City; is in order for the East Coast, and more specifically Newark. There may be no better or appropriate place than Newark to capture the essence of Baseball's Negro Leagues in all the North East. It's just a thought. But the Bears' ownership and the Honorable Mayor Corey Booker; who's always worked hard for, and closely with the Bears; need to think of something in order to keep baseball operations in Newark ongoing and getting fans in the ballpark.
It's too easy for someone who actually writes for a living (unlike me) to take a cold hearted look at demographics and median incomes of the various team locations in the Tri-State area and draw ignorant conclusions from them. To that method I simply point to a Mr. George Steinbrenner; whom I had no great love for (I'm a Mets Fan), BUT, who is a person I always praised for keeping his team in the South Bronx throughout it's darkest days, and having the patience to outlast various City Administrations until he finally came across one friendly to his cause (unlike Walter O'Malley). So I would say, save me the crime riddled urban rhetoric and demographic-based determinations of what ails the Newark Bears' market. Sure, to ignore the stigma Newark has rightfully earned because of a darker past is not possible. But moving on and separation from the past, is. That's precisely what Corey Booker is trying to do; forge ahead.
Being surrounded by many more successful teams in the immediate area I think points to fixable reasons why fans aren't showing up to the ball park in Newark. Somehow, igniting the passion within people to again venture out to the ball park is the first step. Passion and inspiring people to move....Taking the first step is always hardest when moving from a sedentary position; like the Newark Bears' fan base presently finds itself. They're out there...; somewhere.
They must be found because Baseball games in Newark really should have a future beyond this season. The history in this city is worth every feasable effort.
Mike.BTB
NEWARK BEARS: How Much Longer Can They Sustain Operations?
When talking about the New York Metropolitan area, I speak of the 50 mile radius around the city. Within this area live approximately 15 million people. Serving the baseball minded citizens within that population demographic, is an abundance, maybe even an over-abundance of professional baseball teams; be it from the Major Leagues; various levels of Minor League ball; or the Independent Circuits. On any given day, no one within fifty miles of my laptop is more than just a relatively short trip away from a baseball game.
Some would argue the market (the NorthEast market) is saturated. Yet, the Atlantic League is hoping to expand with a second team on Long Island (pending a loan from the Nassau County residents). That will bring the number of teams on Long Island Proper to four; the Mets; Brooklyn Cyclones; Long Island Ducks; and the expansion team in Nassau County.
The Yankees in the Bronx and the Baby Bombers in Staten Island; the Hudson Valley Renegades and the new Rockland Boulders, both just north of the city, round out the nearest New York teams.
Then there are the local New Jersey teams. The Somerset Patriots; Lakewood Blue Claws; New Jersey Jackals; and of course, the Newark Bears finish a listing of the baseball options a local fan has if they're willing to take a short drive and diversify their baseball experiences.
What's evidently clear in the baseball rich Tri-State/Metropolitan market is there exists an extraordinarily fierce direct competition for the almighty fan dollar. Leaving the Major League teams out of the rest of this discussion, a look at this season's local attendance figures shows there is rabid interest and devotion to the game of baseball at all levels of play, and that those passions and pursuits of Fandome are reflecting in healthy gate receipts thoughout the area.
Here's a brief look at some of these team's respective success at the gate this season:
* I rounded off numbers for ease.
ATLANTIC LEAGUE:
- Long Island Ducks ~ ...Will welcome their five-millionth fan in their twelve year history before the start of Saturday's game. They lead the Atlantic League in attendance as they have every year in the circuit. After 43 home dates this season, attendance stands at 240,000; an average of 5,500. They are a resoundingly successful organization.
- Somerset Patriots ~ ...Another extremely well run organization and a resounding success in their own right as winners of five Atlantic League Championships. They are number two in attendance this season behind Long Island. In 42 home dates they've drawn 230,000; an average of 5,400 per game.
* There is great potential for gate success with an expansion team in Nassau County should the residents approve an August 1st referendum to fund a sports complex.
The Bridgeport Bluefish of Connecticut appear to be a franchise struggling and in clear trouble.
NEW YORK - PENN LEAGUE:
- Brooklyn Cyclones ~ ...Clearly the largest success story of the Tri-State area baseball scene. Having broken and set many records in Minor League attendance, after the Mets and Yankees, the Brooklyn team is the undisputed attendance champ. Many times over their 11 year history 9,000+ fans have packed MCU Park for baseball in Coney Island. This season marks the three-millionth fan to attend a Cyclones game. It's the fastest any minor league team has ever achieved that number; and the Cyclones play A-Level Short Season. But of course that comes with playing in Brooklyn; home of 2.5 million of the 15+ million Tri-Stae area residents. The Cyclones, like the Long Island Ducks, have led their respective League in attendance every season of their existence. This season, after 20 home dates, 140,000 fans have come through the gates for an average of 7,000 per game.
- Staten Island Yankees ~ ...It took a few years to catch on, but catch on it did. Staten Island is now routinely one of the NY-PL attendance leaders. This season they rank third in the circuit behind Aberdeen, MD. and Brooklyn. After 20 home dates 120,000 fans have come through for a 2011 average of 6,000 a game.
- The Hudson Valley Renegades are a near twenty year old; very vibrant and healthy organization with a strong fan base in Peekskill-NY.
CANADIAN/AMERICAN LEAGUE:
- Rockland Boulders-NY ~ ...a first year expansion success of the CanAm League. They're a new team with a brand new park and attendance wise rank second in the circuit (#1 among the American teams). In 24 dates 61,000 fans have come through for an averae of 2,500 per game.*
- New Jersey Jackals ~ ...A very stable, CanAm success. They are always among the League leaders in attendance. In 31 home dates, they've received 56,000 fans for an average of 1,800 fans a game. It ranks them third.*
* To put CanAm League attendance in perspective, the Canadian team; Quebec Capitales; lead the League by a wide margin. In 31 home dates, they've received 88,500 fans for a 2,800 per game average. Of the American teams, with an average of six fewer home dates than the rest of the League (due to on-going construction of their park to open the season) the Rockland Boulders are having an impressive debut season.
# The Sussex Skyhawks (Northern NJ) team folded after the 2010 season.
What's evidently clear from these figures, is that even in a saturated market such as this, there seems to be room for everyone to carve out a profitable niche in the area and enjoy a slice of the financial pie. Most, if not all of the local area teams seem to be doing just fine (relatively speaking) at the gate this season; all except....The Newark Bears; a team which plays in New Jersey's largest city and in the second largest metropolis of the Tri-State/Metropolitan area.
They play a mere 12 miles away from the New Jersey Jackals and 35 miles from the Rockland Boulders. They are only about 20 minutes away from the Somerset Patriots to the south and a short half-hour drive from my location in Brooklyn ...or Staten Island.
Yet, in 37 home dates this season, only 29,000 fans have come through their turnstiles; a meager average of 775 fans per game (which is not nearly reflective of the dire straights they really find themselves in. Their attendance is actually worse than that). Originally a two-time Champion of the Atlantic League, due to continuing poor attendance figures over the years, the Bears were forced to make a switch into the CanAm League this season in order to slash operating expenses.
The CanAm League offered the Newark Bears smaller roster sizes; fewer scheduled games; and considerably less travel as ways to cut spending in the face of a years long battle with a dwindling gate. Former Yankee favorite; catcher-Rick Cerone's vision of Baseball in his home town, once realized, now faces extinction. The original owner of the Newark Bears has since sold the team. Today, the Bears are under new ownership and implemented this plan to switch Leagues and possibly save the franchise.
The fan base of the Newark Bears is non-respondent, dormant, or not at all existent these days. There appears to be no speakable support from the local residents; so crucial to any organization. Less than 1,000 fans a game will doom this city's legacy so rich in Baseball History. But on far too many nights, the Bears play before a very sparse, two to three hundred fans a night.
Just five years ago, although their attendance woes were already taking hold, there once was a fully-stocked gift shop with a very handsome variety of team items. Today there is only a fold out table with nary a souvenir available for purchase. There are letters missing from the great names mounted on Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium's Ring of Fame adorning the press box and (empty) suite level facade. The selection of items remaining in concession stands still open for fans have been minimized. At times, it seems like there is more staff personnel walking the concourse than there are fans attending the game. Chasing down a foul ball would be a race against yourself or versus two really rambunctious kids who couldn't sit still.
They no longer have their games broadcast on radio, and similarly ceased web casting this season. They maintain a web site which currently comprises the total extent of their media reach outside of what the Newark/NJ Star-Ledger may provide.
Centrally located among all these successful teams, as an organization which plays in such a large, downtown environment which Newark provides; with secure parking connected to the park no less; it's hard to believe the Bears can't draw more fans. The park is clean, very accessible, and sits under the backdrop of the downtown Newark skyline. And beyond the center field fence, lies a picturesque view of Manhattan.
Newark Bears manager, Tim Raines; a dynamic player in his day; stole many bases over his Hall of Fame worthy career. But he, along with his player/son; Tim Raines Jr., haven't been able to steal the hearts of the locals; much less spark moderate interest. On the field, with some Major League veterans on the roster, the Bears sport a rather potent offense. It's in starting pitching where this team lacks talent. As such, they've hovered around the .500 mark much of this season. But even in their most recent Championship season of 2007 (back in the Atlantic League), they struggled mightily at the gate; to include a poor showing during the playoffs and championship round.
The question now is, - How much longer can this organization survive without a change in fortunes and a stark rise in attendance before it's forced to fold operations; or in a best case scenario, remain in the hands of an owner willing to withstand the bleeding?
Anything beyond 2011 is looking bleak at this point. And that's a tremendous shame. Outside of the Yankees in N.Y. and the Brooklyn Cyclones/Brooklyn Dodgers connection, there is presently no city within even seventy-five miles of N.Y. Harbor that owns such a mature and rich tradition in Baseball as the City of Newark does. But alas, the Newark Bears are not the Yankees. However, Newark's history does own a branch on the family tree as the city once was home to the New York Yankees minor league affiliate; purchased and owned by the late Colonel Jacob Ruppert. Newark's history is undeniably real and needs...or should have an outlet for Baseball fans throughout the area to learn from; be prideful of; and passionate about.
Additionally, the Negro League liniages of Newark are also something that need to be embraced; celebrated; and promoted as part of an overall experience at a Newark Bears game. Perhaps the finest "Negro League Baseball Museum" imaginable; perhaps even finer...to rival the Negro League Museum in Kansas City; is in order for the East Coast, and more specifically Newark. There may be no better or appropriate place than Newark to capture the essence of Baseball's Negro Leagues in all the North East. It's just a thought. But the Bears' ownership and the Honorable Mayor Corey Booker; who's always worked hard for, and closely with the Bears; need to think of something in order to keep baseball operations in Newark ongoing and getting fans in the ballpark.
It's too easy for someone who actually writes for a living (unlike me) to take a cold hearted look at demographics and median incomes of the various team locations in the Tri-State area and draw ignorant conclusions from them. To that method I simply point to a Mr. George Steinbrenner; whom I had no great love for (I'm a Mets Fan), BUT, who is a person I always praised for keeping his team in the South Bronx throughout it's darkest days, and having the patience to outlast various City Administrations until he finally came across one friendly to his cause (unlike Walter O'Malley). So I would say, save me the crime riddled urban rhetoric and demographic-based determinations of what ails the Newark Bears' market. Sure, to ignore the stigma Newark has rightfully earned because of a darker past is not possible. But moving on and separation from the past, is. That's precisely what Corey Booker is trying to do; forge ahead.
Being surrounded by many more successful teams in the immediate area I think points to fixable reasons why fans aren't showing up to the ball park in Newark. Somehow, igniting the passion within people to again venture out to the ball park is the first step. Passion and inspiring people to move....Taking the first step is always hardest when moving from a sedentary position; like the Newark Bears' fan base presently finds itself. They're out there...; somewhere.
They must be found because Baseball games in Newark really should have a future beyond this season. The history in this city is worth every feasable effort.
Mike.BTB
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
NEWARK BEARS ~ Drop Matinee To Rival Jackals
From the desk of: GROWLINGS FROM BROOKLYN
NEWARK BEARS: New Jersey Jackals Take Lead In Overall Essex County Cup Challenge.
The Bears' winning streak ended at six games today. They lost this afternoon to their rival, the New Jersey Jackals in game two of this three game series. The Bears and Jackals split the two games in Newark. They will conclude the series tomorrow at Yogi Berra Stadium which also starts a seven game road trip for the Bears.
The Jackals shut out the Bears 4-0 and limited them to four hits. They now take a three games to two lead over the Bears in the season long Essex County Cup Challenge Series.
Tim Raines Jr. picked up one of Newark's hits. Catcher Eric McGee went 2 for 3 today. And Daryle Ward had a double for the Bears to round out their offense.
Today's starter Aaron Kalb didn't have a particularly bad outing. Rather, he had a quite good outing, but got tagged with today's loss. The Jackals jumped out to a first inning, three run lead while the Bears couldn't get anything going versus Jackals' starter and former Bear, Chris Vasami. He limited the Bears to three hits over five and two thirds innings pitched. A very good Jackals' bullpen took care of the rest for New Jersey.
Aaron Kalb's Line:
6 ~ innings.
84 pitches; 52 strikes.
4 ~ hits.
3 ~ runs; 2 earned.
2 ~ walks.
6 ~ strikeouts.
After finishing out this series against New Jersey tomorrow, the Bears head to Brockton and Worcester.
Mike.BTB
NEWARK BEARS: New Jersey Jackals Take Lead In Overall Essex County Cup Challenge.
The Bears' winning streak ended at six games today. They lost this afternoon to their rival, the New Jersey Jackals in game two of this three game series. The Bears and Jackals split the two games in Newark. They will conclude the series tomorrow at Yogi Berra Stadium which also starts a seven game road trip for the Bears.
The Jackals shut out the Bears 4-0 and limited them to four hits. They now take a three games to two lead over the Bears in the season long Essex County Cup Challenge Series.
Tim Raines Jr. picked up one of Newark's hits. Catcher Eric McGee went 2 for 3 today. And Daryle Ward had a double for the Bears to round out their offense.
Today's starter Aaron Kalb didn't have a particularly bad outing. Rather, he had a quite good outing, but got tagged with today's loss. The Jackals jumped out to a first inning, three run lead while the Bears couldn't get anything going versus Jackals' starter and former Bear, Chris Vasami. He limited the Bears to three hits over five and two thirds innings pitched. A very good Jackals' bullpen took care of the rest for New Jersey.
Aaron Kalb's Line:
6 ~ innings.
84 pitches; 52 strikes.
4 ~ hits.
3 ~ runs; 2 earned.
2 ~ walks.
6 ~ strikeouts.
After finishing out this series against New Jersey tomorrow, the Bears head to Brockton and Worcester.
Mike.BTB
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
NEWARK BEARS ~ Beware! Bear Traps Abound
From the desk of: GROWLING IN BROOKLYN
NEWARK BEARS: No Respect In The Booth Is No Problem On The Field!
"Growling In Brooklyn" just found it's cause.
Grrr!
The New Jersey Jackals were winners of their last three coming into tonight's game against the Bears as the Essex County Challenge resumed in Newark tonight. For the Bears' part, they just completed a five game sweep against the New York Federals over the weekend.
I listened to the Jackals' game feed and heard their announcer offering up a huge slice of homer-pie. All he did was complain about how there was no one in the park; how the PA system was set too loudly for so few people; how, because of the way center field is situated in Riverfront Stadium to take advantage of the NYC skyline view, it means the sun sets directly behind home plate interfering with the center fielder's vision; and it seemed as if he went on and on and on.... So the fact the Bears were leading 4-2 after five innings pleased me very much.
And I think what happened is I felt this new rivalry juice me up tonight for the first time. After a day at the park like I spent Monday in Newark, I didn't appreciate the Jackals' announcer going on ad-nausea with his criticisms of the Bears' situation.
And so, it's on Guys! New Jersey Jackals be warned; the new rival of the Newark Bears is my rival too.
As a matter of fact, I was put off earlier by the same kind of nonsense when I was listening to the first game of a double-header between the Quebec Capitales and the Brockton Rox. In between games, the gentleman handling the microphone took a call. Eventually, he and the caller got to talking about the Newark Bears. Imagine that? But it was the Brockton announcer who was guilty of most of the disparagement over the state of baseball in Newark. The gentleman didn't believe the city/area was capable of supporting the team and generally had less than kind words to say regarding the Bears; especially when compared to his home town Brockton Rox.
This CanAm League sure is one tough circuit, huh? It's rough being the new club in the League I guess. Inhospitable receptions, blistering observations, and misguided perceptions seem to be ruling the 'net with anti-Bear bias today. Good I say! It'll just make the rest of the season that much more fun for me, especially when we play New Jersey and Brockton.
In the course of me putting together this post, New Jersey tied the Bears at four apiece in their top half of the sixth inning. And long ago in this game, my favorite broadcaster of the day started his dissertation about how good the Jackal's bullpen was and bragging about how they were running a streak of 14.2 consecutive scoreless innings pitched. That is, until is got snapped today.
Into the Jackals bullpen the Bears went, like a bull through a china shop. Kyle LaMotta led off the home sixth with a walk. He promptly got caught stealing 1-3-6 for the first out. Tim Raines Jr. who was 5 for 5 today, doubled. The next batter, Daryle Ward followed with another double scoring Raines. Danny Santiesteban then singled to drive in Ward from second. Burt Reynolds capped off the Bears scoring for the inning when he tripled to left, scoring Danny all the way from first.
The Bears added one more in the seventh for good measure when Tim Raines Jr. collected his fifth hit of the afternoon; another RBI double scoring Brandon Watson to make the score 8-4 Bears.
And that was the way this contest ended; with New Jersey losing. Does a loss to the Bears make a sound if no one is around to hear it?
Hey Mr. Jackal announcer guy, can you hear me now?
Atta boy Bears!
Mike.BTB
ESSEX COUNTY EXECUTIVE'S CUP CHALLENGE:
New Jersey Jackals
vs.
NEWARK BEARS
From Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium
BRICK CITY
Tuesday Night Final:
Jackals 4
BEARS 8
NEWARK BEARS: No Respect In The Booth Is No Problem On The Field!
"Growling In Brooklyn" just found it's cause.
Grrr!
The New Jersey Jackals were winners of their last three coming into tonight's game against the Bears as the Essex County Challenge resumed in Newark tonight. For the Bears' part, they just completed a five game sweep against the New York Federals over the weekend.
I listened to the Jackals' game feed and heard their announcer offering up a huge slice of homer-pie. All he did was complain about how there was no one in the park; how the PA system was set too loudly for so few people; how, because of the way center field is situated in Riverfront Stadium to take advantage of the NYC skyline view, it means the sun sets directly behind home plate interfering with the center fielder's vision; and it seemed as if he went on and on and on.... So the fact the Bears were leading 4-2 after five innings pleased me very much.
And I think what happened is I felt this new rivalry juice me up tonight for the first time. After a day at the park like I spent Monday in Newark, I didn't appreciate the Jackals' announcer going on ad-nausea with his criticisms of the Bears' situation.
And so, it's on Guys! New Jersey Jackals be warned; the new rival of the Newark Bears is my rival too.
As a matter of fact, I was put off earlier by the same kind of nonsense when I was listening to the first game of a double-header between the Quebec Capitales and the Brockton Rox. In between games, the gentleman handling the microphone took a call. Eventually, he and the caller got to talking about the Newark Bears. Imagine that? But it was the Brockton announcer who was guilty of most of the disparagement over the state of baseball in Newark. The gentleman didn't believe the city/area was capable of supporting the team and generally had less than kind words to say regarding the Bears; especially when compared to his home town Brockton Rox.
This CanAm League sure is one tough circuit, huh? It's rough being the new club in the League I guess. Inhospitable receptions, blistering observations, and misguided perceptions seem to be ruling the 'net with anti-Bear bias today. Good I say! It'll just make the rest of the season that much more fun for me, especially when we play New Jersey and Brockton.
In the course of me putting together this post, New Jersey tied the Bears at four apiece in their top half of the sixth inning. And long ago in this game, my favorite broadcaster of the day started his dissertation about how good the Jackal's bullpen was and bragging about how they were running a streak of 14.2 consecutive scoreless innings pitched. That is, until is got snapped today.
Into the Jackals bullpen the Bears went, like a bull through a china shop. Kyle LaMotta led off the home sixth with a walk. He promptly got caught stealing 1-3-6 for the first out. Tim Raines Jr. who was 5 for 5 today, doubled. The next batter, Daryle Ward followed with another double scoring Raines. Danny Santiesteban then singled to drive in Ward from second. Burt Reynolds capped off the Bears scoring for the inning when he tripled to left, scoring Danny all the way from first.
The Bears added one more in the seventh for good measure when Tim Raines Jr. collected his fifth hit of the afternoon; another RBI double scoring Brandon Watson to make the score 8-4 Bears.
And that was the way this contest ended; with New Jersey losing. Does a loss to the Bears make a sound if no one is around to hear it?
Hey Mr. Jackal announcer guy, can you hear me now?
Atta boy Bears!
Mike.BTB
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
NEWARK BEARS ~ Lose In First Visit To Yogi Berra Stadium
From the desk of: Growlings from Brooklyn
NEWARK BEARS: N.J. Jackals Take Game Two In This New Rivalry Between Neighbors.
New Jersey 7
I listened to a very entertaining game tonight on web-cast as Newark made their first ever trip into their new rival's park; Yogi Berra Stadium; home of the New Jersey Jackals, for game two of the Essex County Series. Game one was played in, and won by Newark last Sunday. After an off day yesterday, the newly christened rivalry series made it's debut in Little Falls as part of a home-and-home.
I'm sure the end result of tonight's game wasn't quite what the Bears had in mind. But like I said, it was an absolute good listen even though it snapped a short two game win streak for Newark. The Bears record now stands at 2-3 for the young season.
The Bears and Jackals traded first inning runs. Then Newark broke out with four more in the top of the second inning. An error, a wild pitch, and three Newark hits, including a Tim Raines Jr. double, had the Jackals down 5-1 early.
New Jersey immediately started chipping away at that lead. They got a run back in the bottom of the second inning. After two more New Jersey runs in the third, and another run in the sixth inning, we had a tie game.
Then came the decisive eighth inning. Newark's Billy Alvino singled to lead off the Bear's eighth. The Bears regained the lead 6-5, when Tim Raines Jr. stepped in again and tripled home Alvino.
On a side note, after going hitless on the first two games of the season, Tim Raines Jr. has been a hitter possessed. He had another four hits tonight (4 for 5) to go along with two RBI. Tonight's effort raised his batting average to a lofty .429 and climbing.
But the Jackals had something else in mind this evening other than losing a second straight game to the Bears and marveling at Raines. A double by Jeremy Slayden and a two run home run by Chris White gave New Jersey their first lead of the night in late dramatic fashion. The Jackals bullpen put the Bears to rest in the top of the ninth by striking out two batters to finish this game off; a game which the Bears seemed in control of for most of the night but still sensed it slipping with every home run New Jersey clubbed out tonight (three to be exact).
Alex Smith started this game for Newark and to his detriment, allowed New Jersey to hang around in those first few innings. But he pitched five innings and was staked to a 5-4 lead when Newark turned to their bullpen. Andrew Pluta relieved Smith and had an outing he'd much sooner forget. In three innings work, he gave up five hits and three runs; and more importantly the lead. He was tabbed with tonight's loss. For Alex Smith, a drab no decision.
Newark and New Jersey finish this three game series tomorrow, Wednesday, at Yogi Berra Stadium with an 11:05AM start time.
Mike.BTB
The Essex County Executive's Cup Challenge
The Inaugural Series is tied 1-1.
Game Three ~ Tomorrow
June 1, 2011
FINAL:
Newark 6New Jersey 7
I listened to a very entertaining game tonight on web-cast as Newark made their first ever trip into their new rival's park; Yogi Berra Stadium; home of the New Jersey Jackals, for game two of the Essex County Series. Game one was played in, and won by Newark last Sunday. After an off day yesterday, the newly christened rivalry series made it's debut in Little Falls as part of a home-and-home.I'm sure the end result of tonight's game wasn't quite what the Bears had in mind. But like I said, it was an absolute good listen even though it snapped a short two game win streak for Newark. The Bears record now stands at 2-3 for the young season.
The Bears and Jackals traded first inning runs. Then Newark broke out with four more in the top of the second inning. An error, a wild pitch, and three Newark hits, including a Tim Raines Jr. double, had the Jackals down 5-1 early.
New Jersey immediately started chipping away at that lead. They got a run back in the bottom of the second inning. After two more New Jersey runs in the third, and another run in the sixth inning, we had a tie game.
Then came the decisive eighth inning. Newark's Billy Alvino singled to lead off the Bear's eighth. The Bears regained the lead 6-5, when Tim Raines Jr. stepped in again and tripled home Alvino.
On a side note, after going hitless on the first two games of the season, Tim Raines Jr. has been a hitter possessed. He had another four hits tonight (4 for 5) to go along with two RBI. Tonight's effort raised his batting average to a lofty .429 and climbing.
But the Jackals had something else in mind this evening other than losing a second straight game to the Bears and marveling at Raines. A double by Jeremy Slayden and a two run home run by Chris White gave New Jersey their first lead of the night in late dramatic fashion. The Jackals bullpen put the Bears to rest in the top of the ninth by striking out two batters to finish this game off; a game which the Bears seemed in control of for most of the night but still sensed it slipping with every home run New Jersey clubbed out tonight (three to be exact).
Alex Smith started this game for Newark and to his detriment, allowed New Jersey to hang around in those first few innings. But he pitched five innings and was staked to a 5-4 lead when Newark turned to their bullpen. Andrew Pluta relieved Smith and had an outing he'd much sooner forget. In three innings work, he gave up five hits and three runs; and more importantly the lead. He was tabbed with tonight's loss. For Alex Smith, a drab no decision.
Newark and New Jersey finish this three game series tomorrow, Wednesday, at Yogi Berra Stadium with an 11:05AM start time.
Mike.BTB
Monday, May 30, 2011
NEWARK BEARS ~ Defeat Their Newest Rival For Second Win
From the desk of: Growlings From Brooklyn
NEWARK BEARS: Bears Take First Game In
The Essex County Challenge.
FINAL SCORE ~ Sunday, May 29, 2011 vs New Jersey Jackals:
New Jersey 3
Newark 4
Born more from an off-field community partnership between the New Jersey Jackals and the Newark Bears to help strengthen each other's presence in the area; work with charities and community programs; Essex County announced the two teams would play for the County Executive's Cup. Dubbed, The Essex County Challenge, at the end of each season, which ever team wins the most games between the two head-to-head, win bragging rights for a year.
POST-GAME:
The Brick City Nine evened up their season record at 2-2 with their first ever victory over new top rival; the New Jersey Jackals. Newark kept the bats going Sunday with another ten hits after totaling 18 hits the game prior.
In the first two games of the season versus Rockland, Tim Raines Jr. went hitless and the Bears remained winless. In his last two games, he is five for nine and the Bears won two in a row. Danny Santiesteban also continued some hot hitting going three for three, with a double and RBI.
Eric Eden started for the Bears and lasted 6.2 innings. He walked two batters while striking out none and surrendered seven hits. He gave up two runs but only one of them earned. The effort was good enough for his first win of the season.
Newark and New Jersey will take Memorial Day off before playing game two of the series on Tuesday at Yogi Berra Stadium; home of the Jackals.
Mike.BTB
NEWARK BEARS: Bears Take First Game In
The Essex County Challenge.
FINAL SCORE ~ Sunday, May 29, 2011 vs New Jersey Jackals:
New Jersey 3
Newark 4
Born more from an off-field community partnership between the New Jersey Jackals and the Newark Bears to help strengthen each other's presence in the area; work with charities and community programs; Essex County announced the two teams would play for the County Executive's Cup. Dubbed, The Essex County Challenge, at the end of each season, which ever team wins the most games between the two head-to-head, win bragging rights for a year.
POST-GAME:
The Brick City Nine evened up their season record at 2-2 with their first ever victory over new top rival; the New Jersey Jackals. Newark kept the bats going Sunday with another ten hits after totaling 18 hits the game prior.
In the first two games of the season versus Rockland, Tim Raines Jr. went hitless and the Bears remained winless. In his last two games, he is five for nine and the Bears won two in a row. Danny Santiesteban also continued some hot hitting going three for three, with a double and RBI.
Eric Eden started for the Bears and lasted 6.2 innings. He walked two batters while striking out none and surrendered seven hits. He gave up two runs but only one of them earned. The effort was good enough for his first win of the season.
Newark and New Jersey will take Memorial Day off before playing game two of the series on Tuesday at Yogi Berra Stadium; home of the Jackals.
Mike.BTB
Sunday, May 29, 2011
NEWARK BEARS ~ Win First Game in a Romp
From the desk of: Growling in Brooklyn
NEWARK BEARS: Win Their First Ever Game In CanAm League and Avoid Sweep by Rockland.
FINAL SCORE:
Rockland Boulders 4
NEWARK BEARS 16
After dropping the first two games of the season, the Newark Bears roared back at their competition Saturday night. They finally won their first game of the season and also avoided a sweep at the hands of the Rockland Boulders. Rockland only rolled out three pitchers against Newark and the Bears clawed them all.
Newark pounded out 18 hits and plated 16 runs tonight in a romp over the Boulders at Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium. Tim Raines Jr. had a break-out game as well with his first three hits of the season. In going 3 for 5 tonight, he drove in 6 RBI. Todd Gossage also chipped in with 3 more RBI. The two combined for 9 RBI and 4 runs scored.
Other notable swings - Lead-off batter Brandon Watson set the table with a 4 for 6 day; an RBI and 2 runs scored. Catcher Billy Alvino went 3 for 3; two runs scored and an RBI. And first baseman Brian Nichols went 3 for 5 batting clean-up today with two runs scored.
Ryan Lobban was the starting pitcher for Newark tonight, hurling five innings and is credited with the win. He gave up four hits and surrendered three runs all coming in the fifth, while walking two and striking out two. By then the Bears were leading 9-3 and the bullpen took care of the rest.
TJ Hose relieved Lobban with two innings pitched. He gave up two hits, allowed a run and struck out two. Andrew Pluta pitched the final two innings to seal the deal for Newark. He allowed only one hit and struck out two, including the last batter of the game in a non-save situation.
NEXT GAME:
The Newark Bears face their officially declared rival; the New Jersey Jackals for the first time since being newly minted foes. The first game of a home-and-home series is in Newark Sunday with a start time of 1:05pm. Both teams head to the home of the Jackals for the second game on Monday.
Mike.BTB
NEWARK BEARS: Win Their First Ever Game In CanAm League and Avoid Sweep by Rockland.
FINAL SCORE:
Rockland Boulders 4
NEWARK BEARS 16
After dropping the first two games of the season, the Newark Bears roared back at their competition Saturday night. They finally won their first game of the season and also avoided a sweep at the hands of the Rockland Boulders. Rockland only rolled out three pitchers against Newark and the Bears clawed them all.
Newark pounded out 18 hits and plated 16 runs tonight in a romp over the Boulders at Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium. Tim Raines Jr. had a break-out game as well with his first three hits of the season. In going 3 for 5 tonight, he drove in 6 RBI. Todd Gossage also chipped in with 3 more RBI. The two combined for 9 RBI and 4 runs scored.Other notable swings - Lead-off batter Brandon Watson set the table with a 4 for 6 day; an RBI and 2 runs scored. Catcher Billy Alvino went 3 for 3; two runs scored and an RBI. And first baseman Brian Nichols went 3 for 5 batting clean-up today with two runs scored.
Ryan Lobban was the starting pitcher for Newark tonight, hurling five innings and is credited with the win. He gave up four hits and surrendered three runs all coming in the fifth, while walking two and striking out two. By then the Bears were leading 9-3 and the bullpen took care of the rest.
TJ Hose relieved Lobban with two innings pitched. He gave up two hits, allowed a run and struck out two. Andrew Pluta pitched the final two innings to seal the deal for Newark. He allowed only one hit and struck out two, including the last batter of the game in a non-save situation.
NEXT GAME:
The Newark Bears face their officially declared rival; the New Jersey Jackals for the first time since being newly minted foes. The first game of a home-and-home series is in Newark Sunday with a start time of 1:05pm. Both teams head to the home of the Jackals for the second game on Monday.
Mike.BTB
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
The Can/Am League Welcomes The NEWARK BEARS ~ 2011
In the Midst of Financially Trying Times, the Independent NEWARK BEARS Baseball Club Switches to the Canadian/American League as a More Cost Effective Alternative to the Atlantic League.
This year marks the seventh season of CanAm League operations. The Canadian/American League is the reorganized version of the old NorthEastern League which formed back in 1995.
For the 1999 season, the NorthEastern League merged with the elder Northern League; formed back in 1993; and operated as a Northern League Eastern Division. The two leagues split apart again after the 2002 season. The Northeastern League resumed independent operations and in 2005, reorganized as the CanAm League. But, in name, the CanAm League actually has a history that traces all the way back to 1936 when it was originally tailored to be an Upstate New York and Ontario, Canada circuit.
This League plays a shorter schedule than does the Atlantic League of Baseball. On average, they play ninety-four games a season. This season kicks off on Thursday, May 26th. The healthiest organizations; - the Broxton Rox and the Quebec Capitales have consistently lead the League in attendance averaging crowds of well over three-thousand per game.
Last season, Quebec defeated Pittsfield to win their second consecutive title and the team's third
CanAm Championship.
PREVIOUS CHAMPIONS:
2005 ~ Worcester Tornadoes
2006 ~ Quebec Capitales
2007 ~ Nashua Pride
2008 ~ Sussex SkyHawks
2009 ~ Quebec Capitales
2010 ~ Quebec Capitales
This season's returning teams include the Quebec Capitales; Pittsfield Colonials; Brockton Rox; New Jersey Jackals; and the Worcester Tornadoes. Gone are the Sussex Skyhawks of New Jersey after five years of operation. They will be replaced by a new team making a debut in the CanAm League; the Rockland Boulders of New York.
Additionally, the CanAm League will be an eight team circuit again due to the Newark Bears switching over from the Atlantic League (and utilization of a road team). For the last two seasons, the CanAm League only fielded six teams; marking their lowest total. For the 2005, 2006, and 2008 seasons, they managed to field the customary eight teams. The circuit sported a League-high ten teams during the 2007 season.
Managed by former MLB star Tim Raines, the Newark Bears will make their CanAm debut this season after operating in the Atlantic League for the last thirteen years. Because the CanAm League indeed plays a shorter schedule than the Atlantic League, the Newark Bears made the switch to a shorter schedule in order to lower the operating costs of their struggling franchise.
In the past, other teams have taken similar measures as the Newark Bears. The Atlantic City Surf were originally an Atlantic League team which crossed over after the 2006 season. However, despite representative crowds of twenty-five hundred plus, they ultimately folded after the 2008 season. The Nashua Pride likewise came over from the Atlantic League and were suffering crippling attendance figures like the Newark Bears face today. But they were reorganized after the 2009 season and exist today as current member, the Pittsfield Colonials.
The addition of the Newark Bears now places three teams in the NY/NJ area; three teams in Massachusetts; and the one team in Quebec, Canada. In addition to a shorter schedule, this alignment should also help Newark bring their travel expenses down. In the Atlantic League, the Newark Bears' competitors were more widely dispersed. Aside from the nearby Somerset Club and Camden down the turnpike, the Bears travelled to Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut and eastern Long Island. They now have a team 40 miles away in Rockland, N.Y., and a second team literally, right next door.
Their newest and closest rival will be the New Jersey Jackals who play twelve miles away next to Montclair St. University. That's also where the Yogi Berra Baseball Museum is located. They are an old Northeastern League hold-over from the Northern League days and won back-to-back Championships during the 2001-2002 seasons.
To date, the Jackals are the only CanAm League team I have visited. But that changes this season as I will continue to root for the Bears while they get accustomed to their new environment. I, like the Newark Bears, look forward to learning a new League and visiting their parks.
It's my sincere hope changing leagues helps the Newark Bears and new management better control costs, and that they may enjoy a promising season at the gate. There's a rich history connected with Newark Baseball that predates even the New York Mets and stretches back to the 1930's. It would be a travesty should a city so intertwined in Baseball History have it's current team go dormant due to financial reasons.
I met Newark Mayor, the Honorable Cory Booker, just as a fan shaking hands during the Bear's winning Championship game in 2007. I wish him well, as I did then, in all his endeavours and hope the Newark Bears remain a part of the local, but crowded Baseball landscape for years to come. I will try and do my part to help by hopping over from Brooklyn and attending several games a year like I've done for over a decade.
Jackals and Boulders...., consider this your fair warning.
**NOTE:
For scheduling purposes, it is still undetermined as to whether the NEW YORK FEDERALS will serve as a road team to even the number of teams at eight.
LINKS:
CanAmLeague.com
AtlanticLeague.com
RELATED POST:
Atlantic League 2011 ~ Mike.BTB
Mike.BTB
This year marks the seventh season of CanAm League operations. The Canadian/American League is the reorganized version of the old NorthEastern League which formed back in 1995.
For the 1999 season, the NorthEastern League merged with the elder Northern League; formed back in 1993; and operated as a Northern League Eastern Division. The two leagues split apart again after the 2002 season. The Northeastern League resumed independent operations and in 2005, reorganized as the CanAm League. But, in name, the CanAm League actually has a history that traces all the way back to 1936 when it was originally tailored to be an Upstate New York and Ontario, Canada circuit.
This League plays a shorter schedule than does the Atlantic League of Baseball. On average, they play ninety-four games a season. This season kicks off on Thursday, May 26th. The healthiest organizations; - the Broxton Rox and the Quebec Capitales have consistently lead the League in attendance averaging crowds of well over three-thousand per game.
Last season, Quebec defeated Pittsfield to win their second consecutive title and the team's third
CanAm Championship.
PREVIOUS CHAMPIONS:
2005 ~ Worcester Tornadoes
2006 ~ Quebec Capitales
2007 ~ Nashua Pride
2008 ~ Sussex SkyHawks
2009 ~ Quebec Capitales
2010 ~ Quebec Capitales
This season's returning teams include the Quebec Capitales; Pittsfield Colonials; Brockton Rox; New Jersey Jackals; and the Worcester Tornadoes. Gone are the Sussex Skyhawks of New Jersey after five years of operation. They will be replaced by a new team making a debut in the CanAm League; the Rockland Boulders of New York.
Additionally, the CanAm League will be an eight team circuit again due to the Newark Bears switching over from the Atlantic League (and utilization of a road team). For the last two seasons, the CanAm League only fielded six teams; marking their lowest total. For the 2005, 2006, and 2008 seasons, they managed to field the customary eight teams. The circuit sported a League-high ten teams during the 2007 season.
Managed by former MLB star Tim Raines, the Newark Bears will make their CanAm debut this season after operating in the Atlantic League for the last thirteen years. Because the CanAm League indeed plays a shorter schedule than the Atlantic League, the Newark Bears made the switch to a shorter schedule in order to lower the operating costs of their struggling franchise.
In the past, other teams have taken similar measures as the Newark Bears. The Atlantic City Surf were originally an Atlantic League team which crossed over after the 2006 season. However, despite representative crowds of twenty-five hundred plus, they ultimately folded after the 2008 season. The Nashua Pride likewise came over from the Atlantic League and were suffering crippling attendance figures like the Newark Bears face today. But they were reorganized after the 2009 season and exist today as current member, the Pittsfield Colonials.
The addition of the Newark Bears now places three teams in the NY/NJ area; three teams in Massachusetts; and the one team in Quebec, Canada. In addition to a shorter schedule, this alignment should also help Newark bring their travel expenses down. In the Atlantic League, the Newark Bears' competitors were more widely dispersed. Aside from the nearby Somerset Club and Camden down the turnpike, the Bears travelled to Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut and eastern Long Island. They now have a team 40 miles away in Rockland, N.Y., and a second team literally, right next door.
Their newest and closest rival will be the New Jersey Jackals who play twelve miles away next to Montclair St. University. That's also where the Yogi Berra Baseball Museum is located. They are an old Northeastern League hold-over from the Northern League days and won back-to-back Championships during the 2001-2002 seasons.
To date, the Jackals are the only CanAm League team I have visited. But that changes this season as I will continue to root for the Bears while they get accustomed to their new environment. I, like the Newark Bears, look forward to learning a new League and visiting their parks.
It's my sincere hope changing leagues helps the Newark Bears and new management better control costs, and that they may enjoy a promising season at the gate. There's a rich history connected with Newark Baseball that predates even the New York Mets and stretches back to the 1930's. It would be a travesty should a city so intertwined in Baseball History have it's current team go dormant due to financial reasons.
I met Newark Mayor, the Honorable Cory Booker, just as a fan shaking hands during the Bear's winning Championship game in 2007. I wish him well, as I did then, in all his endeavours and hope the Newark Bears remain a part of the local, but crowded Baseball landscape for years to come. I will try and do my part to help by hopping over from Brooklyn and attending several games a year like I've done for over a decade.
Jackals and Boulders...., consider this your fair warning.
**NOTE:
For scheduling purposes, it is still undetermined as to whether the NEW YORK FEDERALS will serve as a road team to even the number of teams at eight.
LINKS:
CanAmLeague.com
AtlanticLeague.com
RELATED POST:
Atlantic League 2011 ~ Mike.BTB
Mike.BTB
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