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lehmsbobby
12-25-2010, 11:37 PM
Hey guys, with 2011 just around the corner I thought I'd start a spring training thread.

I am in the midst of trying to pinpoint the weekend, (2 weekend(s) hopefully)
that I will make my favorite mecca.

As a San Franciscan and Giants fan, I am worried about how crowded ST will be. That being said I am thinking of going the weekend of February 25th as my first trip down to AZ to avoid the Giants WS traffic in March.

Spring Training is my favorite time of the year, lots of opportunities for autos and getting game used stuff from players, and since I am younger, if I'm lucky maybe having the chance to batboy (have 1 time each of the last 3 years).

While I'm in the PHX area, I love to go to Don and Charlies where, in the last 3 years and in minimal visits I have met Muhammed Ali, Joe Torre, Rollie Fingers, Aaron Rowand, Lou Pinella and others. It is a hotspot to see your favorite players.

I'd like to know where everyone thinks is the best spot to stay (for decently cheap), eateries, and hotspots to get autos and game used, and also what to do after games.

dcgreg25
12-26-2010, 03:42 PM
Good idea for a thread. I am heading to Phoenix in early March for Indians Spring Training. I have never done Spring Training so I would be interested in others' insights as well.

rays54
12-26-2010, 04:25 PM
I don't have the date but around early March at the Goodyear complex, the Reds and Indians have a Fanfest, whereas you can get the teams during their practice times within the stadium. Last year the reds were early morning and around 11:00 am the Indians came out to practice. The Padres and Mariners also have fanfests. Check schedules or call the ballparks.

DJaeger22
12-26-2010, 07:37 PM
my brother, a friend and i are trying to head down to the tampa st.pete area for a week during spring training to catch some games around mid march since theres a few teams in that area yankees mostly

stlbats
12-27-2010, 08:16 PM
I have been down to Florida several times for ST. One thing I learned after a couple of years is to decide what you are going for mostly? If you are going for autographs, player interaction, ect., then definately the best time to go is the very start of ST. Mid February or so. All the teams I have been to, once the games begin, its not as easy for autographs and close up player interaction.

Right when ST begins, the crowds are less and you can get right up close to most players and they were very approachable on the practice fields.

Jason

rdeversole
12-27-2010, 09:43 PM
I'll be in Goodyear for the Reds! Also looking forward to seeing Josh Willingham on the A's. I'd like to find out the best way to try and acquire some GU from my favorite players.

kudu
12-27-2010, 11:22 PM
I've seen several players at the Tilted Kilt after games in Peoria, AZ.

lehmsbobby
01-08-2011, 02:10 AM
Bump

cubbs1232
01-08-2011, 01:53 PM
i agree with stlbats, the best time to go if your going for autos is the 1st week or 2 when pitchers and catchers arrive. I go to Rays spring training every year and for the most part a lot of the position players report at the same time as pitchers and catchers and you dont have to deal with all the crowds. usually for that 1st week theres at most 25 fans there looking for sigs.

scootmagroot
01-08-2011, 07:07 PM
I go to AZ for spring training every year. Usually come away with something from a player. I will probably make 2 trips again this year.....once before the games start, and once for the games. The players have always been real cool during ST....back in HS, we gave some walkie talkies to a Padres player and he took it into the dugout during the game and BS'd with us during their at bat.

As far as places to go in AZ, last year Jake Peavy took my friend and I to a country type bar right near the fields in Peoria (he still rents a place next to the fields). There is quite a few places right around the Peoria complex that a lot of players go to.

Christie's is a good place to go too..........if you're over 21. :D

lehmsbobby
01-18-2011, 10:58 PM
BUMP!

i have booked the weekend of Feb 25th, trying to go a second time the weekend of march 18th

xpress34
01-19-2011, 12:17 AM
I go to AZ for spring training every year. Usually come away with something from a player. I will probably make 2 trips again this year.....once before the games start, and once for the games. The players have always been real cool during ST....back in HS, we gave some walkie talkies to a Padres player and he took it into the dugout during the game and BS'd with us during their at bat.

As far as places to go in AZ, last year Jake Peavy took my friend and I to a country type bar right near the fields in Peoria (he still rents a place next to the fields). There is quite a few places right around the Peoria complex that a lot of players go to.

Christie's is a good place to go too..........if you're over 21. :D

Wonder if Peavy will be at the same place this year being there with the White Sox...

xpress34
01-19-2011, 12:23 AM
I am just getting geared up for my 2011 Spring Training Sabbatical.

Like every year, it will be in AZ - but I don't have to go down to Tucson for games this time! Just to see mom and the brothers - 2 of 3, oldest lives in Surprise.

Looking (as usual) at the next to last week (Mar 19th - 26th) and it has always been good for me...

Everything I'm looking to get done this year revolves around the Rangers and Rockies (as usual) but I need to catch up to Jayson Nix w/ White Sox for one needed auto on a card for a set.

I will start (again as usual) my own thread when time is closer, but would love to meet up with some of you guys down there!

Once I get everything in line, I will put up dates, itinerary, etc... but 1st the wife and I have a quick early Feb trip to Vegas planned!!!

All the best -

Smitty

scootmagroot
01-19-2011, 01:34 AM
Wonder if Peavy will be at the same place this year being there with the White Sox...


This was last year when he was with the Sox. He said he liked the place and he was there from his beginning with the Padres, so I would assume so.

mwbosoxfan
01-21-2011, 09:36 AM
We're headed to Fort Myers to spring training for the first time. The two scheduled games that we are going to are 1 o'clock games in mid March. I would love to hear any suggestions on any "must-do" items, best ways to catch players, as well as things to avoid doing. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

mariner_gamers
01-21-2011, 10:00 AM
I live in Phoenix and will be at the Mariners practice fields throughout March. Look for the guy with the bag of Mariner game bats, stop by and say hi!

sox83cubs84
01-21-2011, 11:14 PM
We're headed to Fort Myers to spring training for the first time. The two scheduled games that we are going to are 1 o'clock games in mid March. I would love to hear any suggestions on any "must-do" items, best ways to catch players, as well as things to avoid doing. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Beyond left field is a practice diamond which produces a decent number of BP home runs over its left field fence. There are nets up but many go over or through them. Two biggest obstacles to a productive day: 1) kids, many of whom will flock to you and stand next to and around you if you're lucky enough to catfch one or two; (2) Ballhawks from Chicago, most of whom will try to catch everything that comes out, and will think nothing of "pimping" you (running or reaching in front of you to steal a baseball you have a shot at). Also, there is a medical facility parking lot across the street in left field, and, sometimes, a facility employee or security guard will restrict you from sprinting into the parking lot to chase or catch fly balls.

Dave Miedema

mwbosoxfan
01-22-2011, 11:37 AM
Beyond left field is a practice diamond which produces a decent number of BP home runs over its left field fence. There are nets up but many go over or through them. Two biggest obstacles to a productive day: 1) kids, many of whom will flock to you and stand next to and around you if you're lucky enough to catfch one or two; (2) Ballhawks from Chicago, most of whom will try to catch everything that comes out, and will think nothing of "pimping" you (running or reaching in front of you to steal a baseball you have a shot at). Also, there is a medical facility parking lot across the street in left field, and, sometimes, a facility employee or security guard will restrict you from sprinting into the parking lot to chase or catch fly balls.

Dave Miedema

Dave- Thanks for the tips. On a 1 o'clock game in mid March, how early does any activity start on the practice fields and how open is the entire facility. Thanks again.

John

sox83cubs84
01-22-2011, 09:12 PM
Dave- Thanks for the tips. On a 1 o'clock game in mid March, how early does any activity start on the practice fields and how open is the entire facility. Thanks again.

John

Don;t recall specifics inside the stadium...but the lot i mentioned can have action as early as 10-11 AM.

Dave Miedema

mwbosoxfan
01-24-2011, 12:18 PM
Don;t recall specifics inside the stadium...but the lot i mentioned can have action as early as 10-11 AM.

Dave Miedema

Dave- Thanks for the info!

John

hrocket
01-25-2011, 05:20 PM
I went last year for the 1st time, it was great. I noticed that some of the parks had small practice fields outside the main park. Has anyone ever graphed those parks, are they easy to get to?

For example, Camelback Ranch has a bunch of baseball fields around the main park, has anyone graphed those?

What's the best time to get there in the morning?

OaklandAsFan
02-01-2011, 03:20 AM
if you guys are not interested in actually watching the games and only scoring graphs the teams take BP on their home fields before heading to the game. so if, for example, you wanted to get the Giants but they were playing vs Oakland that day go watch BP up in Scottsdale (which would be free to get into and have 1/10 the people there to deal with)

xpress34
02-01-2011, 12:18 PM
if you guys are not interested in actually watching the games and only scoring graphs the teams take BP on their home fields before heading to the game. so if, for example, you wanted to get the Giants but they were playing vs Oakland that day go watch BP up in Scottsdale (which would be free to get into and have 1/10 the people there to deal with)

That's true at single facility parks, but not like Surpise, Camel Back Ranch, etc that have two teams sharing the facility as the other team is usually playing a home game.

- Smitty

OaklandAsFan
02-01-2011, 06:25 PM
but with the dual facility places they each have their own practice fields and that is what they use to take BP. For instance if the Rangers were playing in Surprise on a certain day you could still go watch the Royals BP on their fields (though player access is horrible on the Royals side of that complex so why bother really)

hrocket
02-02-2011, 07:04 PM
but with the dual facility places they each have their own practice fields and that is what they use to take BP. For instance if the Rangers were playing in Surprise on a certain day you could still go watch the Royals BP on their fields (though player access is horrible on the Royals side of that complex so why bother really)


If most games are at 1pm, what time would the BP take place before they get on the bus for the game at other fields?

For example, if the Dodgers are playing at Surprise, what time would they be doing BP and what time would they get on the bus, and what time would they arrive at Surprise?

Thanks OakandAsFan for the help

OaklandAsFan
02-03-2011, 07:08 AM
you should be hitting parks between 9-10 for BP. They will arrive at the game about an hour before 1st pitch so the players who are scheduled to play that day will hop on the bus (or their cars) somewhere around 11

OaklandAsFan
02-12-2011, 04:02 PM
http://i569.photobucket.com/albums/ss131/Mdragon75/0180370b.jpg

I have a couple of tickets for sale at Dbacks ST games this year if anyone is interested. The pic above is the view from the seat.

1 ticket available for each game

3/2- Dbacks vs Mariners
3/4 Dbacks vs Padres
3/5 Dbacks vs Rangers
3/13 Dbacks vs Cubs


I also have one seat for sale for 3/19 A's vs the White Sox at Phoenix Muni.

Each ticket would be $30, 25 face value for the ticket plus $5 for the parking pass.

The A's ticket would be $27, $22 for the ticket face value and $5 for parking and this is in a handicap accessible seat behind the A's dugout.

LMK if you're interested.

Thanks

rays54
02-18-2011, 10:07 AM
Went to Goodyear and Salt River Fields. All players that came out signed.
Love the Reds new Spring Training uniforms. Dbacks players all signed.
Good day for autographs.

OaklandAsFan
02-18-2011, 12:47 PM
Went to Goodyear and Salt River Fields. All players that came out signed.
Love the Reds new Spring Training uniforms. Dbacks players all signed.
Good day for autographs.

You are pretty much guaranteed to get Dbacks graphs if you visit them at Salt River. Kirk Gibson has made it a team rule to spend 15 minutes after each practice signing for the fans. He actually started this when he took over as manager, he knew the fan base needed something to show appreciation and required players to sign after bp every day.

lehmsbobby
02-18-2011, 01:12 PM
1 week till departure!

BMH
02-18-2011, 10:58 PM
Landed in Phoenix today, nice flight in...had a medical emergency on the plane so they kicked it up a notch and let go straight in, knocked half an hour off the flight. Start with the Reds tomorrow and hit the Cubs Sunday. Seeing the rest of the teams until the 28th then get to go back home. Weather isn't as warm as I was hoping. I should have brought my mountain bike.

sox83cubs84
02-18-2011, 11:44 PM
If you're going for baseballs, keep in mind that, while all MLB teams allow baseballs legally caught in BP to be kept, it can go either way on minor league diamonds. When in Tucson the White Sox were nothing but wonderful to me...one day, I was by myself, and had to give about half my catches back...NO because the Sox farmhands wanted hem back, but because there was only room for 20 or so in my bag, and I nabbed 36 of 'em!:D :D

On the other hand, I hawked a diamond the Astros minor leaguers were hitting on in Kissimmee about 15 years ago, and, after nabbing my seventh, a minor league coach (Jack Billingham) actually came out to where I was, demaned the 7 baseballs back, and chided me that I was "trespassing" and he could "have me arrested". The next time I went there, more fans joined me and we all got to keep our catches. The difference? The second time there was a game shceduled at the MLB stadium, and such was not the case the first time when Billingham confronted me (which probably explained the "trespassing" comment.

Dave Miedema

both-teams-played-hard
02-19-2011, 01:35 AM
If you're going for baseballs, keep in mind that, while all MLB teams allow baseballs legally caught in BP to be kept, it can go either way on minor league diamonds. When in Tucson the White Sox were nothing but wonderful to me...one day, I was by myself, and had to give about half my catches back...NO because the Sox farmhands wanted hem back, but because there was only room for 20 or so in my bag, and I nabbed 36 of 'em!:D :D

On the other hand, I hawked a diamond the Astros minor leaguers were hitting on in Kissimmee about 15 years ago, and, after nabbing my seventh, a minor league coach (Jack Billingham) actually came out to where I was, demaned the 7 baseballs back, and chided me that I was "trespassing" and he could "have me arrested". The next time I went there, more fans joined me and we all got to keep our catches. The difference? The second time there was a game shceduled at the MLB stadium, and such was not the case the first time when Billingham confronted me (which probably explained the "trespassing" comment.

Dave Miedema

Jack Billingham and I graduated from Winter Park High School (he's about 25 years older). I went to High School with his daughter. She carried in her wallet a photo of her and Johnny Bench that was printed in the Cincinnati Enquirer in the 70s. My mother taught Jack Billingham's grandson in the 5th grade, a few years ago.
I have many found memories of Osceola Stadium at Spring Training in the mid 80s.

RRexpressfan94
02-19-2011, 12:41 PM
i may be going to phoenix with my dad during the week of 3/14. being 16 and appear to look more like a kid then some guys, may have some luck getting some players to give me some GU stuff

lehmsbobby
02-19-2011, 01:04 PM
I'm in the same boat RRexpress. Last year went down for two weekends.


First day of the trip- got to batboy for the Giants and got a game used John Bowker bat, got to see Posey and others from the inside and chat with the players.

Next weekend- three bats, one shattered rusty ryal, one nobody from the angels, but its always my favorite trip of the year.

Unfortunately with SAT's only am taking one trip down this year, to see the Giants first 3 games since the World Series! should be a mad house

BMH
02-21-2011, 11:27 PM
Here are a few shots from my trip so far. No real shots of anyone up close. I'm not very comfortable doing that since I've got to work with these guys and unlike the media they usually don't run away from us since we are giving them free stuff. Anyway, forgot my camera during the Reds visit and was in a hurry to leave the Cubs. Shultzy with Colorado gave us a grand tour of the new facility and I must say it is super nice.

http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0413.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0413.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0412.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0412.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0411.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0411.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0410.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0410.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0409.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0409.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0408.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0408.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0407.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0407.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0406.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0406.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0405.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0405.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0404.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0404.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0403.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0403.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0402.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0402.jpg)
http://i634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/th_DSCN0401.jpg (http://s634.photobucket.com/albums/uu68/br93lx/2011%20Spring%20Training/?action=view&current=DSCN0401.jpg)

lehmsbobby
02-24-2011, 09:52 PM
10 hours till flight time! Ill try and take some pics of the reigning world champs and keep you guys updated on the best weekend of the year!!!

lehmsbobby
02-28-2011, 10:16 PM
Hey Guys,

just got back from the mecca and am really sad to come home, always the best weekend of the year. I'm hoping as a high school senior already finished with his apps next year to come down for at least a week next spring training.

Anways I arrived friday, actually was on the same plane as Giants radio announcer Dave Fleming which was cool. Got to the game as the gates opened and started on a World Series ball. I was a bit disorganized on what I exactly wanted, but ended up getting Buster Posey and Aubrey Huff on the ball. Not a great day, but gave me insight on my goal for the year: all the starters (hitters/pitchers) and Bochy on one ball. Went to my favorite Don and Charlie's for dinner and saw Jeff Kent, Bud Selig, Xavier Nady, and Brad Ziegler, an average showing for D and C's.

Saturday: Same team arrived early, had a weak pre game as I didnt get a great spot for autos. Only added Jonathon Sanchez to the ball. However after the game I scored a Tony Delmonico game used bat that is cracked but with some cool use.

Sunday: Game at the new Dbacks facility. Absolutely stunning. Native Americans gave them 200 mil to build it and boy is it crazy. Looks like a mini regular season ballpark. Anyways I scored great front row tix so I got to talk to the guys as they walked to the on-deck circle. Giants arrived pretty late, and I was only able to add Pablo Sandoval to the ball, and was thrown a ball by Buster Posey.

Overall it was not my best year for autos or GU, but seeing the world champs made it a year to remember. I encourage others who visit spring training to give us some reports, as I'd love to hear your guys's stories.

lcstate collector
03-02-2011, 12:26 PM
Here is my ST update. Got back from AZ on Sunday. I had a great spring training. I watched an intersquad game in Goodyear with the Indians, went to the Peoria Fan Fest, and saw the Rangers and Royals play. I got 61 different players to autograph various items. Talked a lot with Brendan Ryan, went to the same college as me, he is a great guy. The only game used item I picked up was a homerun ball Josh Hamilton hit during batting practice. I am thinking of going back in a few weeks. Drew

markfd
03-02-2011, 06:41 PM
My Spring Training 2011 trip has come and gone. I was down at Nats camp in Viera this past Friday-Sunday. It was a great time as usual, this was my 6th Nats Spring Training and probably my most successful in getting the signatures I wanted. I will post photos once I download and organize them from my camera. I got the following GU items signed:

Bats
Ian Desmond 2010 Bat (cracked)
Danny Espinosa 2010 Bat (cracked)
Jesus Flores 2008 Bat (broken in two)
Livan Hernandez Bat (uncracked) not sure when it was used
Jordan Zimmermann 2010 bat (uncracked)

Jerseys
Drew Storen 2010 (alternate red)
Yunesky Maya 2010 (alternate red)
Chris Marrero 2008 (1st big league camp coolbase blue)
Destin Hood 2009 (1st big league camp home white jersey)

There is a story about Destin Hood. Destin was in accelerated minor league camp again this year. When I asked him to sign his first pro jersey, he checked it out and thought it was really cool and then he commented as he was signing that he wished the team gave the players first crack at buying their own jersey. I then told him I had the coolbase jersey he wore everyday at his first camp in my bag too and that he could have it and he was giddy and almost speechless, he thanked me very much and ran back into the locker room so he could put it away before practice. I was happy to reunite Destin with his jersey.

allstarsplus
03-02-2011, 07:49 PM
My Spring Training 2011 trip has come and gone. I was down at Nats camp in Viera this past Friday-Sunday. It was a great time as usual, this was my 6th Nats Spring Training and probably my most successful in getting the signatures I wanted. I will post photos once I download and organize them from my camera. I got the following GU items signed:

Bats
Ian Desmond 2010 Bat (cracked)
Danny Espinosa 2010 Bat (cracked)
Jesus Flores 2008 Bat (broken in two)
Livan Hernandez Bat (uncracked) not sure when it was used
Jordan Zimmermann 2010 bat (uncracked)

Jerseys
Drew Storen 2010 (alternate red)
Yunesky Maya 2010 (alternate red)
Chris Marrero 2008 (1st big league camp coolbase blue)
Destin Hood 2009 (1st big league camp home white jersey)

There is a story about Destin Hood. Destin was in accelerated minor league camp again this year. When I asked him to sign his first pro jersey, he checked it out and thought it was really cool and then he commented as he was signing that he wished the team gave the players first crack at buying their own jersey. I then told him I had the coolbase jersey he wore everyday at his first camp in my bag too and that he could have it and he was giddy and almost speechless, he thanked me very much and ran back into the locker room so he could put it away before practice. I was happy to reunite Destin with his jersey.

Mark, I love the Destin Hood story. That was so nice of you to do that for him as that was certainly a priceless act of kindness.

Klattsy
03-02-2011, 10:03 PM
I then told him I had the coolbase jersey he wore everyday at his first camp in my bag too and that he could have it and he was giddy and almost speechless, he thanked me very much and ran back into the locker room so he could put it away before practice. I was happy to reunite Destin with his jersey.

Good gesture Mark. I once gave a player all the baseball cards I had of his because he said he collected them too. I was depressed for a while as I then didn't have any, but karma came back and last year he was auctioning off some of his stuff, he sent me 2 jerseys, a sleeveless jersey (all signed) and a dugout jacket for next to nix, plus he also certified a GU bat on eBay for me. Good deeds don't go un-rewarded!

Mark.

dcgreg25
03-02-2011, 10:24 PM
Heading down to Indians ST with my dad next week. My first trip...looking forward to it.

Rob L
03-03-2011, 12:30 AM
Got back from Angels Spring Training on Sunday. Watched the Angels kick the Dodgers butt on opening day. Kids got alot of autographs, including Jered Weaver and best of all - Mike Trout. A great time as always. I love these yearly weekend trips. The tickets with the family and dinner while we are out there are my anniversary gift every year!

jake33
03-03-2011, 11:57 AM
anyone at or going to orioles spring training? Looking for get a helmet autographed.... email jahimiak33@yahoo.com

mlbforeverhomer
03-03-2011, 12:11 PM
If anyone plans on seeing the Indians this spring please let me know.

Thank you,

prichmond
03-03-2011, 01:21 PM
we are headed down next weekend for three games. its the best vacation we take. I am curious someone mentioned being a bat boy. My son is 15 and I would love to have him do that. It sounds next to impossible to do does anyone have details?

Thanks
pete

lehmsbobby
03-03-2011, 05:51 PM
just figure out who is getting the batboys and hover around them. Thats how I did it the past few years.

dcgreg25
03-03-2011, 08:43 PM
If anyone plans on seeing the Indians this spring please let me know.

Thank you,

I am heading down next week to catch some Indians game.

mariner_gamers
03-03-2011, 09:45 PM
If anyone plans on seeing the Indians this spring please let me know.

Thank you,

I am going Saturday for Mariners graphs and the game. My buddy is a pro photographer (not working the game) and he will be there. If you are looking for picks etc let me know and I will see what we can do.

shaunharr
03-03-2011, 11:03 PM
If anybody will be seeing the Astros' and could possibly get a J.R. Towles or German Duran bat, lmk!

sox83cubs84
03-04-2011, 12:18 AM
If anybody will be seeing the Astros' and could possibly get a J.R. Towles or German Duran bat, lmk!

I was planning to be in Kissimmee as of yesterday, but too many debts remained, and I felt it prudent to stay home and try to take care of those.

Turned out staying home was a good idea...yesterday there was a gas leak in our condo building, and had I not been home, I'm not sure what would have happened to my epts, or my wife once she came home from work.

Being there for my family in a time of concern offset any sadness I felt from not being in Florida.

Dave Miedema

sox83cubs84
03-04-2011, 12:21 AM
I was planning to be in Kissimmee as of yesterday, but too many debts remained, and I felt it prudent to stay home and try to take care of those.

Turned out staying home was a good idea...yesterday there was a gas leak in our condo building, and had I not been home, I'm not sure what would have happened to my epts, or my wife once she came home from work.

Being there for my family in a time of concern offset any sadness I felt from not being in Florida.

Dave Miedema

2nd paragraph, that should read "my pets"...Mac (dog) plus Sabrina and Blackie (cats)...all I want for Christmas is an edit feature.:)

Dave Miedema

mariner_gamers
03-08-2011, 08:18 PM
Today I saw King Felix sign about 20 and Ichiro sign about 300 auto's. I got Mariners prospect Marcus Littlewood to sign a bat out of what had to be one of his first orders. The look of excitement on the kids face and his reaction when I handed him his bat to sign was awesome!!! Got Saunders to sign his game bat and jersey. Still huntin Ackley, Figgy and Mad Milton......

mariner_gamers
03-09-2011, 03:02 PM
if you guys are not interested in actually watching the games and only scoring graphs the teams take BP on their home fields before heading to the game. so if, for example, you wanted to get the Giants but they were playing vs Oakland that day go watch BP up in Scottsdale (which would be free to get into and have 1/10 the people there to deal with)

Thanks for the heads-up on this. The Mariners play away today and I was able to get my Ackley AFL bat and photomatched 8x10 signed today. I sure wish he had a nicer sig but what can you do!! Also thanks to Godwulf for the heads up about the AFL pictures on eBay. Got Mad Milton and Carp out of the way today as well!! 8 game bats and 1 jersey signed so far this spring.....only got a few left to get!

hrocket
03-10-2011, 05:34 PM
In regards to graphing teams at home for away games, do you know what time the teams have BP if they are playing away and night?

ballhawknet
03-12-2011, 08:24 AM
(2) Ballhawks from Chicago, most of whom will try to catch everything that comes out, and will think nothing of "pimping" you (running or reaching in front of you to steal a baseball you have a shot at).
Dave Miedema[/quote]


Dave Dave Dave ( shakes head )

Why must you continue to have such a bad attitude ? You ( like all of us ) only have so much time on this earth to have fun and try and get along. Yet time after time you throw these little jabs at the Ballhawks . And then ... turn around and ask for things from us ... like money for the bus , OR rides home , OR rides around spring training facilities ....( i could go on and on ) . Think of all the money you have lost because we wont deal with you on baseballs anymore. Why do you think Moe sold me that ball ? I offered less !!! .. or maybe the same I forget . Its because you talk bad about us .

And you wonder why we dont talk to you , or invite you to other parks with us , or included you in things such as stories , or film pieces. It is because of this very sad , petty attitude you have ... talking bad about everyone AND THEN pretending you are part of this group .

Of course we try to catch everything that comes out ... that is what we do .
Most of us out in our 40's ...and 50 's !!! . If you want to catch a ball , dont stand next to me ...lol.

" reaching in front of you to steal a ball " .. lol. How silly is that ? How can we steal something you dont own ? Now try hard and same something nice for once about the ballhawks ... talk about Moe or Rich , Andy or myself about how many hundreds of balls we have donated to little leagues , or actual kids at the park . Personally Ive never , ever, seen you GIVE a ball to anyone . But thats ok . It is your choice and I dont think bad of you because of it. Maybe you too have given balls to charities or little leagues. I actually dont know .

So chear up Dave , the whole world isnt against you. Try and have a positive attitude. And for pete sake stop talking bad about people. You only come off as a bitter and jealous old man .

peace

shaunharr
03-12-2011, 12:27 PM
(2) Ballhawks from Chicago, most of whom will try to catch everything that comes out, and will think nothing of "pimping" you (running or reaching in front of you to steal a baseball you have a shot at).
Dave Miedema


Dave Dave Dave ( shakes head )

Why must you continue to have such a bad attitude ? You ( like all of us ) only have so much time on this earth to have fun and try and get along. Yet time after time you throw these little jabs at the Ballhawks . And then ... turn around and ask for things from us ... like money for the bus , OR rides home , OR rides around spring training facilities ....( i could go on and on ) . Think of all the money you have lost because we wont deal with you on baseballs anymore. Why do you think Moe sold me that ball ? I offered less !!! .. or maybe the same I forget . Its because you talk bad about us .

And you wonder why we dont talk to you , or invite you to other parks with us , or included you in things such as stories , or film pieces. It is because of this very sad , petty attitude you have ... talking bad about everyone AND THEN pretending you are part of this group .

Of course we try to catch everything that comes out ... that is what we do .
Most of us out in our 40's ...and 50 's !!! . If you want to catch a ball , dont stand next to me ...lol.

" reaching in front of you to steal a ball " .. lol. How silly is that ? How can we steal something you dont own ? Now try hard and same something nice for once about the ballhawks ... talk about Moe or Rich , Andy or myself about how many hundreds of balls we have donated to little leagues , or actual kids at the park . Personally Ive never , ever, seen you GIVE a ball to anyone . But thats ok . It is your choice and I dont think bad of you because of it. Maybe you too have given balls to charities or little leagues. I actually dont know .

So chear up Dave , the whole world isnt against you. Try and have a positive attitude. And for pete sake stop talking bad about people. You only come off as a bitter and jealous old man .

peace[/quote]


What the heck is this all about? Who are the Ballhakws?
Are ya'll fighting about catching foul balls or something?

kellsox
03-12-2011, 01:01 PM
There is something puzzling to me about 40-50 year old men running around a street trying to catch baseballs, but that's just me....

ballhawknet
03-12-2011, 05:46 PM
There is something puzzling to me about 40-50 year old men running around a street trying to catch baseballs, but that's just me....


I guess if you say it like THAT ... LOL

Really ? Your puzzled as to the why some one would find catching a home run exciting , thrilling , ... a rush .... holding history in your hand , being on tv , being a small part of the game ? Really? Your " puzzled " ok ... lol.


quote=shaunharr
What the heck is this all about? Who are the Ballhakws?
Are ya'll fighting about catching foul balls or something?


Fighting ? No , just calling out some on for being a d$@#@$ag.

Btw , you can check out the new Ballhawks Movie at

http://www.ballhawksmovie.com/?page_id=1053
(http://www.ballhawksmovie.com/?page_id=1053)

sox83cubs84
03-12-2011, 10:56 PM
I guess if you say it like THAT ... LOL

Really ? Your puzzled as to the why some one would find catching a home run exciting , thrilling , ... a rush .... holding history in your hand , being on tv , being a small part of the game ? Really? Your " puzzled " ok ...


Fighting ? No , just calling out some on for being a d$@#@$ag.


I'll give you credit for one thing, Dave...you're better at catching baseballs than you are at spelling, punctuation, and grammar! :p :p :p

Dave Miedema

shaunharr
03-13-2011, 12:13 AM
I don't see the point in fighting over a baseball, and standing outside a stadium for hours each day, but to all his own.

ballhawknet
03-13-2011, 06:44 AM
I don't see the point in fighting over a baseball, and standing outside a stadium for hours each day, but to all his own.


Who is fighting ? ... lol. Not sure where you got that idea . Personally I don't understand wacking a golf ball 250 yards ... finding it , then wacking it again . ( If I hit a ball that far and can find it ... its going in my pocket and im calling it a good day ) . So to not understand the point of something you have never done I guess doesn't surprise me. By the way , its a ballpark , not stadium :) And its not like we are standing there staring in the sky for 3 hours...lol. Or standing there waiting during every batter . Between the barbecues , beer , woman , and baseball conversations , I cant think of a better way to spend my afternoons :)


And yes , I have bad speeling , bad puncuation ! and or grammer..im in a damn hurry to either sleep , work , or look out my window waiting for spring.

sox83cubs84
03-13-2011, 08:33 PM
Who is fighting ? ... lol. Not sure where you got that idea . Personally I don't understand wacking a golf ball 250 yards ... finding it , then wacking it again . ( If I hit a ball that far and can find it ... its going in my pocket and im calling it a good day ) . So to not understand the point of something you have never done I guess doesn't surprise me. By the way , its a ballpark , not stadium :) And its not like we are standing there staring in the sky for 3 hours...lol. Or standing there waiting during every batter . Between the barbecues , beer , woman , and baseball conversations , I cant think of a better way to spend my afternoons :)


And yes , I have bad speeling , bad puncuation ! and or grammer..im in a damn hurry to either sleep , work , or look out my window waiting for spring.

That said, Dave, I think it's time that you and I returned this thread to its original purpose, which was spring training stories, not what I say about you and your buddies in a post, or why you and your pals no longer include me in on things that are done. We've both made our points, let's get back to 2011 on-site Grapefruit and Cactus League stories.

Dave Miedema

dcgreg25
03-13-2011, 09:11 PM
Just got back in town this afternoon from a week in Phoenix. Perfect weather mid-80s and sunny all week. Hit three Indians games including the Padres, Cubs and Angels as well as checking out the Indians new facility in Goodyear. It was my first Spring Training but definitely not my last. Here are a few pics. The last one is my favorite as the sprinklers went off in the middle of the Indians vs. Cubs game.

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm233/gregguy25/IMG_0948.jpg

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm233/gregguy25/IMG_1010.jpg

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm233/gregguy25/IMG_1013.jpg



http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm233/gregguy25/IMG_1041.jpg



http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm233/gregguy25/IMG_0958.jpg

godwulf
03-14-2011, 06:40 PM
if you guys are not interested in actually watching the games and only scoring graphs the teams take BP on their home fields before heading to the game. so if, for example, you wanted to get the Giants but they were playing vs Oakland that day go watch BP up in Scottsdale (which would be free to get into and have 1/10 the people there to deal with)

I tried this last year. Went to Scottsdale with my '98 Hensley Meulens bat, and for some reason the Giants' batting coach was somewhere else that day. Went to Phoenix Muni with my two Jack Cust bats, and...well, I didn't get the bats signed, and I'll leave it at that. I am just dumb enough to try it again, though.

I may try Scottsdale (and Hensley) this Wednesday, and I see that the A's have got away day games Monday through Thursday next week. Of course, Cust is gone, but I've got a Conor Jackson bat or two that I could get signed. I also have a Gil Patterson jersey, from his days as a pitching coordinator with the DBacks, that I could bring out, unless you think he might have already split.

I know that there are lots of other ballparks, but Scottsdale & Phoenix are the only ones I can get to and back on weekdays without the bosses missing me. :rolleyes:

momen55
03-15-2011, 09:47 AM
going to my first game this year; tigers hosting twins. i have a few friends on each team so i expect to come out with gifts.:D

momen55
03-15-2011, 09:48 AM
going to my first game this year; tigers hosting twins. i have a few friends on each team so i expect to come out with gifts.:D

on the 17th. hopefully someone wears green.

pietraynor
03-15-2011, 12:22 PM
Tigers will be wearing green jerseys, they look nice! Have a great time, Jay.

momen55
03-16-2011, 01:44 PM
Tigers will be wearing green jerseys, they look nice! Have a great time, Jay.

where did you see them?

mariner_gamers
03-17-2011, 04:03 PM
Woo-Hoo!! Finally got my late 80's/early 90's Cooper Ken Griffey Jr gamer signed today!! I got the classic "That is not my bat" statement he gives everyone who has a gamer which did not come through his hands. I also got a rookie Reds Dan Wilson signed and a 1995 Dan Wilson/Vince Coleman used bat signed. Last but not least I got Ralph Henriquez to sign his gamer as well. That brings this years total to 12 game used bat signed. I broke last years record....... Now I am looking for Blowers, Martinez and Figgy.......

mariner_gamers
03-18-2011, 06:33 PM
A Langerhans and 2 Mike Blowers game bats signed. Edgar went home and Buhner is nowhere to be seen. Figgy and Bard are all I have left!!!!!

mariner_gamers
03-19-2011, 11:13 PM
http://a3.l3-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/139/8e6075aeedb247519013369c666a215d/l.jpg

From left to right Josh Bard, Chone Figgins, Mike Saunders, Adam Moore, Mike Carp, Ken Griffey Jr., Ryan Langerhans, Josh Wilson x 2, Mike Blowers x 2, Dan Wilson x 2, Dustin Ackley, Milton Bradley, Marcus Littlewood, Ralph Henriquez, Figgy jersey, Saunders jersey. What an awesome spring!! I have nothing left to get signed. Now I need to start building for next year.

AWA85
03-20-2011, 06:17 PM
Would you mind posting pictures of the Junior signature? Looks like it is shorter, curious to see how he is signing now!

Thanks!

mariner_gamers
03-21-2011, 01:50 PM
Here is the first pic off my bat.
http://a4.l3-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/150/8af59144fccf4923bd39f7afad061360/l.jpg

The second pic is off my buddies plastic Mariners sign.
http://a3.l3-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/146/b6a36afaa77141afba50c6730fc97e14/l.jpg

To be honest I have NEVER gotten Griffey in person so I don't know if he has an in-person frebbie graph vs. a "paid for" graph. These are definitely more compact than the other 20 some I own.

AWA85
03-21-2011, 03:33 PM
It looks good, must have been the odd angle in the big picture that had me thrown off. For somebody who always has had a neat auto, I wondered if he just scribbled something but it looks good!

xpress34
03-21-2011, 08:34 PM
Here is the first pic off my bat.
http://a4.l3-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/150/8af59144fccf4923bd39f7afad061360/l.jpg

The second pic is off my buddies plastic Mariners sign.
http://a3.l3-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/146/b6a36afaa77141afba50c6730fc97e14/l.jpg

To be honest I have NEVER gotten Griffey in person so I don't know if he has an in-person frebbie graph vs. a "paid for" graph. These are definitely more compact than the other 20 some I own.

MG -

I'm in AZ until Saturday for ST. Just wondering the best place to catch Griffey - or where you caught him - as I brought a piece with me for him.

Thanks!

- Smitty
xpress34@comcast. net

mariner_gamers
03-21-2011, 10:10 PM
He comes out on the cart and rides down to the lower practice fields. As usual he is very tough! I got his graph the first day he was on the fields. He signed about 25 graphs out of about 40 people waiting right at the dugout/field entrance by home plate. He also carts back to the clubhouse once they finish.........

Good luck I hope you can pry one out of his stingy fingers!!!

godwulf
03-22-2011, 03:26 PM
Well, it was a lot of time spent waiting for one auto, but at least I got one this time, instead of experiencing a repeat of last year's Jack Cust debacle.

I got to Phoenix Muni at 9 this morning, to watch the A's work out before getting on the bus to go play at another field, and spotted Conor Jackson right off. I had two of his bats with me - a 2007 Rawlings with an 'NLCS' stamp on the knob and two many n's in his first name, and that oddball B345 from '04 that you traded me, Dewey - but Conor didn't seem to be in a very good mood, so I only asked him to sign the Rawlings. Abbreviated, freebie sig - oh, well. What else would I have been doing with those two hours of my life? Just working, and who needs that? :rolleyes:

I did also pick up a couple of baseballs, though - one that somebody accidentally threw into the stands during long toss, and one BP foul that came screaming down the line, took one bounce and was coming right for my face as I turned that way; I just had time to extend my left hand to try to catch or at least block it, and ended up having to pick it up. Better than them having to pick me up, I guess. That was three hours ago, and I'm sure my hand will stop tingling any time now.

sox83cubs84
03-23-2011, 11:01 PM
I saw on an MLB.com photo that the Mariners brought back NOBs to their BP jerseys.

Dave Miedema