Kinston’s Name the Team Campaign Narrows List to Five Contenders

After more than 1300 name submissions, fans have a chance to choose one of the five following names for the team moving from the California League (Single-A) to Kinston (NC) and the Carolina League (Single-A):  Down East Eagles, Down East HamHawks, Down East Hogzillas, Down East Shaggers, Down East Wood Ducks.  Learn more and vote here.  Watch news report about unhappy fans here.

Sam Lynn Garage Sale Saturday

Though the Bakersfield Blaze (Single-A, California League) franchise is over after 75 years, fans have one last chance to get their hands on some Blaze memorabilia at an open house sale this Saturday.  Read more here.

Sam Lynn Ballpark May Not Close

It appeared Monday night that the sun had set on Sam Lynn Ballpark, as the Bakersfield Blaze (Single-A, California League) were swept out of the second round of the minor league baseball playoffs.  But, during Tuesday’s meeting, the Kern County (CA) Board of Supervisors said they want to keep the stadium open for other local non-professional baseball teams to use and there are already several organizations stepping up to the plate.  Read more and watch news report here.

Adelanto Makes Plans for Ballpark Without Mavs

After being informed of Minor League Baseball’s realignment reducing the size of the Single-A California League to eight teams, Mayor Rich Kerr said he would start making phone calls immediately. His intent: Filling Stater Bros. Stadium’s calendar as early as the beginning of November, following the city’s planned rodeo.  Read more here.  As for the High Desert Mavericks, the team is headed to the Single-A Carolina League and Kinston (NC).  Read more and watch news report here.

Blaze, Mavs Heading to Carolina League

Minor League Baseball will reportedly announce today that the Bakersfield Blaze and High Desert Mavericks will be contracted from the Single-A California League at the end of the 2016 season.  In the worst-kept industry secret, the two franchises will head east for the Single-A Carolina League.  The Cal League will become an eight-team, one-division circuit.  Read more here.  Read background story here.

Quakes, Dodgers Extend PDC

PRESS RELEASE – The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes are pleased to announce that they have agreed to a two-year extension with the Los Angeles Dodgers on their Player Development Contract (PDC), keeping the Quakes and Dodgers as partners through 2018.

Rangers Anticipating California League, Carolina League Shift

Carolina League franchises are just waiting for the first California League domino to fall.  The city of Kinston (NC) even has a signed lease in place with the Texas Rangers. Read more here.