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Bradley, Four Other D-Backs Prospects Make Top 100 Shipley, Lamb

Bradley, Four Other D-Backs Prospects Make Top 100 Shipley, Lamb

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MLB Franchise Notes: D-Backs' Payroll Likely To Be Third-Highest In Team History Bradley, four other D-backs prospects make Top 100 By Sports Business Daily Shipley, Lamb, Blair and Toussaint round out standout talent http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2015/01/29 By Steve Gilbert / MLB.com /Franchises/MLB-Fran-Notes.aspx http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/107864362/archie- bradley-four-other-d-backs-prospects-make-top-100 The Night Before 2015: Jason Aldean, FGL, Dierks Bentley Throw One Crazy Super Bowl Party Arizona sports executives now big political players By Carrie Severson / Radio.com By Dan Nowicki / The Arizona Republic http://radio.com/2015/02/01/the-night-before-jason-aldean- http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/arizona/politics/2015/ florida-georgia-line-dierks-bentley-review/ 01/31/arizona-sports-executives-now-big-political- players/22612415/ 12 Fest in the Desert turns into a display of the power of the 12s Diamondbacks new vision: A jolt of energy By Clare Farnsworth / Seahawks.com By FOX Sports Arizona http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-1/12-Fest-in- http://www.foxsports.com/arizona/video/diamondbacks-new- the-Desert-turns-into-a-display-of-the-power-of-the- vision-a-jolt-of-energy-013015 12s/227554a4-c933-4298-a84d-a109197fb760

Diamondbacks' Hale likely to experiment with different Thousands of 12s get loud at line-ups By KOMO - News By Mark Brown / Examiner.com http://www.komonews.com/news/local/290356451.html http://www.examiner.com/article/diamondbacks-hale-likely-to- experiment-with-different-line-ups Seahawks fans flock to ’12 Fest’ rally ahead of Super Bowl XLIX By Seattlepi.com http://blog.seattlepi.com/football/2015/01/31/seahawks-fans- Buxton, Bryant lead Top 100 Prospects list flock-to-12-fest-rally-ahead-of-super-bowl-xlix/ Pirates lead all Major League organizations with seven representatives talking to John McDonald about By Tyler Maun / MiLB.com rejoining organization http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20150130&conten By Paul Hoynes / Cleveland.com t_id=107986042&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_milb&sid=milb http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2015/01/cleveland_ indians_talking_to_j.html Diamondbacks hire Joe Carter By Associated Press UT students, staff head to Arizona to work Super Bowl http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12244508/arizona- XLIX diamondbacks-hire-joe-carter-assistant-general--dave- By Mary Caroline Ferguson / Tennessee Journalist stewart?ex_cid=espnapi_public http://www.tnjn.com/2015/01/30/ut-students-and-staff-head- to-arizona-to-work-super-bowl-xlix/ A Grand D-backs Experiment, Pt. I By Jeff Wiser / Inside the 'Zona - ESPN.com UT Martin Professor Has Students Working Events at http://insidethezona.com/2015/01/grand-d-backs-experiment- Super Bowl pt/ By Kate Lochte / WKMS - NPR http://wkms.org/post/ut-martin-professor-has-students- Security at stadium moving briskly at Super Bowl XLIX working-events-super-bowl By Gary Mihoces / USA Today http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/super/2015/02/01 /super-bowl-security-patriots-seahawks/22702653/

Matt Williams Super Bowl party raises more than $1 million By Megan Finnerty / The Arizona Republic http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2015/01/31/supe r-bowl-matt-williams-party-charity-mark-wahlberg/22682055/ 1

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Grudzielanek brings rugged work ethic to Cougars By Bruce Miles / Daily Herald http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20150131/sports/1501397 23/

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Toussaint was the D-backs' No. 1 pick (16th overall) in the 2014 First-Year Player Draft. The team pushed him to Missoula in the Bradley, four other D-backs prospects make Top 100 Pioneer League last year, knowing that it would be a big jump Shipley, Lamb, Blair and Toussaint round out standout talent for him, but wanted him to get the experience in that By Steve Gilbert / MLB.com atmosphere. The 18-year-old impressed during his time in the http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/107864362/archie- instructional league following the season. bradley-four-other-d-backs-prospects-make-top-100 Arizona sports executives now big political players

By Dan Nowicki / The Arizona Republic PHOENIX -- The D-backs have five players on MLB.com's http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/arizona/politics/2015/ Top 100 Prospects list that was announced Friday night on MLB 01/31/arizona-sports-executives-now-big-political- Network, highlighted by right-hander Archie Bradley at No. 15. players/22612415/

The five players are the third-most by any organization and Gov. Doug Ducey and other Arizona politicians are supported represent a jump from three last season. by some of the owners and top executives of Arizona's

professional sports franchises such as the Cardinals and the Right-hander Braden Shipley is ranked 41, Jake Diamondbacks. Lamb is No. 80, right-hander Aaron Blair is No. 81 and right- hander is No. 98. From Derrick Hall of the emceeing

Gov. Doug Ducey's inauguration to U.S. Sen. John McCain The annual ranking of 's Top 100 Prospects is assembled lounging with President at a by MLBPipeline.com Draft and prospect experts Jonathan Mayo game, politics and sports are mixing in Arizona more than ever. and Jim Callis, who compile input from industry sources, including scouts and scouting directors. It is based on analysis of Rather than cheering from the sidelines, Phoenix-area players' skill sets, upsides, proximity to the Majors and potential professional sports executives — and in some cases, their immediate impact to their teams. The list, which is one of several relatives — are taking active roles in financing political prospect rankings on MLBPipeline.com's Prospect Watch, only campaigns, and in some cases are trying to call the plays for the includes players with rookie status in 2015. Team-by-team Top political establishment. 30 Prospects lists for 2015 will be unveiled in March.

Pro sports' cozy relationship with politics is not a new The list does not include recent Cuban free agent signees phenomenon, or unique to Arizona or metro Phoenix. Witness Yasmany Tomas and Yoan Lopez, because players who are least the fallout over New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's recent 23 years of age and have played as a professional in a league celebratory hug of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, whose recognized by the Commissioner's Office for a minimum of five team is a rival of the New Jersey-based New York Giants. Jones seasons are not eligible for consideration. bankrolled the trip for the possible 2016 Republican presidential

candidate. Bradley, who ranked fifth on last year's list, struggled at times in the Minors this past season after narrowly losing out on the No. But some say the Valley's teams are assuming a bigger role once 5 starter spot during . The 2014 season was a filled by Arizona's home-grown captains of industry. With many good learning experience for Bradley, who will enter his second of Arizona's banks, media organizations and other institutions big league camp knowing what to expect. now owned by out-of-state corporations, the sports franchises

increasingly dominate the locally based business landscape. Shipley, who was 79th on last year's list, was Arizona's first- round pick in the 2013 First-Year Player Draft and has three The stark partisan orientation of Arizona teams' political swing-and-miss pitches in his fastball, curve and change. Shipley behavior also stands out. Cardinals and Diamondbacks red, also got better as the 2014 season went along moving from appears to be Republican red. South Bend to Class A Advanced Visalia and finally to Double-

A Mobile by season's end. Franchise officials overwhelmingly favor GOP politicians and

aren't afraid to publicly cheer a candidate, as they did for Ducey Lamb put up monster numbers -- 35 doubles, 14 homers and 79 during his campaign for governor. RBIs -- in 103 games for Mobile and spent just five games with

Triple-A Reno before getting called up to the big leagues in early Ducey, the former chief executive of the Cold Stone Creamery August. Lamb, who has good range at third, gained valuable ice-cream-shop chain, received thousands in campaign experience in the Majors last year and could compete for a spot contributions from top Valley sports executives while his in Spring Training. Democratic opponent, Fred DuVal, was ignored. The sports

titans also sided with Ducey in last year's competitive six-way Blair was the No. 36 overall pick in the 2013 First-Year Player Republican gubernatorial primary. Michael Bidwill made Draft. Blair worked his way from South Bend to Mobile and headlines for urging business leaders to coalesce around Ducey saved his best for last as he went 4-1 with a 1.94 ERA for the at the expense of GOP rivals such as former Mesa Mayor Scott BayBears. A workhorse, Blair developed his curve last year, Smith and former GoDaddy executive Christine Jones. giving him three quality pitches, including a fastball in the low- to-mid 90s and a . Bidwill was later named to Ducey's inaugural committee.

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"It's not unheard of for this kind of involvement, but it's not the A national furor over two bills passed by the Republican- way that the majority of owners behave," said Andrew Zimbalist, controlled Arizona Legislature also threatened big games set for an economics professor at Smith College in Massachusetts and the state. an expert on the sports industry. "The majority of owners try to cuddle up to both parties so that they can have some influence Passage of Senate Bill 1062, the 2014 right-to-refuse-service no matter who wins, and they might make donations to measure, was soon followed by rumors the NFL might yank candidates of both parties. The majority of owners, however, Super Bowl XLIX. The measure prompted a public outcry tend to be Republican. They like to have lower taxes." because it was seen as discriminatory toward the lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender community. Gov. Jan Brewer Some observers say sports figures are better known but diffused the situation by vetoing the socially conservative otherwise no different than other members of the business legislation. community who are interested in a vibrant economy and other civic priorities. Others worry that franchise owners' celebrity Uproar over SB 1070, the state's tough 2010 immigration- could give them out-sized influence with starstruck politicians. enforcement law that Brewer signed, led some to pressure to move its 2011 All-Star Game from Chase The relationship seems to be getting cozier. Field in Phoenix, although the calls to do so went unheeded.

"Sports is big business and big business always has an interest in Robert Sarver, the Phoenix Suns' majority owner, opposed SB big government," said John J. "Jack" Pitney, Jr., a political 1070 and his players protested the law by donning "Los Suns" scientist at Claremont McKenna College in southern California. jerseys, signaling not only a more inclusive brand of politics but "It's natural: Politicians love sports because their constituents also an acknowledgment that many of the team's fans and love sports, and sports people understand that politics has a employees are Latino. great deal to do with their livelihood — subsidies for stadiums, many different kinds of regulations that affect their business at Fights over taxpayer support for baseball and football stadiums every level." and hockey arenas played out across the Valley before city and county panels, in the Arizona Legislature and via ballot measures However, political meddling in today's hyper-partisan climate throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s. Many of the biggest also brings a potential downside for teams — the possible critics of public subsidies for pro-sports facilities were anti-tax alienation of fans with different party preferences or conservatives who viewed the projects a corporate welfare philosophies. Many fans view professional sports as community giveaways to big business. This year, a possible spring-training assets that they believe should stay on the sidelines during facility for the has become an issue in a political brawls. Peoria City Council race.

"They have to be very careful, on the surface at least, to not have Glenn Hamer, president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of too partisan of a face," said Bruce Merrill, a veteran political Commerce and Industry, said sports franchise execs have no scientist and senior research fellow at 's reason to be ashamed of their political activities. They attract Morrison Institute for Public Policy. "It's behind the scenes that extra attention because they are popular and "in their own right they can still have a big influence on whether certain candidates are celebrities," but otherwise largely have the same priorities get money." and concerns of others in the business community, he said.

Sports and politics collide "They want to see a healthy economy," Hamer said. "If you have a healthy economy, generally speaking, people have more Super Bowl XLIX has highlighted the often emotional nexus of disposable income and they are attending more sports games." sports and Arizona politics. Republican ties Even as Bidwill was helping Ducey get elected, he was publicly chastising Glendale officials over hotel "gouging" and The politics of two of the families behind the Cardinals and complaining that the city has not been a good Super Bowl Diamondbacks are exclusively Republican. partner. The Bidwill family, which has owned the Cardinals for decades, In most instances where sports and politics have collided, team are reliable Republican benefactors, as is , the execs are looking out for their interests rather than picking sides Diamondbacks' managing general partner. in a debate for partisan reasons. Usually though, the sports business has been at odds with the state's conservatism. The Republic's efforts seeking comment from Michael Bidwill about his family's political activities were not successful. In 1991, Arizona lost Super Bowl XXVII, which was to be Kendrick declined through a spokesman to discuss his or his played at in Tempe, because voters initially family's contributions. rejected a Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The NFL moved the 1993 game to Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, Calif. "NFL Go According to a Republic analysis of state political contributions, To Hell. And Play The Super Bowl There," a defiant Arizona Bill Bidwill, the Cardinals' owner and chairman, gave more than bumper-sticker read. $10,000 total to Ducey, Attorney General Mark Brnovich and Secretary of State Michele Reagan during the 2014 election cycle.

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Michael Bidwill, a former federal prosecutor who worked on Republican Bob Dole's unsuccessful 1996 presidential campaign "They're certainly well-known and all that, but I'm not sure they in Arizona prior to joining the Cardinals' front office, gave more have outsized influence," McCain said of the sports executives. than $14,000 to Ducey, Reagan and other state candidates during "I know that, for example, Kendrick's wife has been active the same period. politically much more than Ken has. Bidwill has been engaged, but the guys at the (NHL's Arizona) Coyotes, I haven't noticed Other Bidwill family members doled out a total of about $15,000 anything. I haven't seen any engagement in the political arena by for Ducey, Brnovich and Reagan. Ron Minegar, the Cardinals' Sarver. So it sort of varies by the individual." executive vice president and chief operating officer, gave $1,100 to business PACs and $750 to Ducey. Last year, Sarver, as well as Kendrick, was listed on the host committee of an April 24 McCain fundraiser at the Ritz-Carlton, Kevin McCarthy, president of the watchdog Arizona Tax Phoenix. Research Association, said the Bidwills' concentration on Ducey is easier to defend because it appears to reflect a sincere belief McCain is correct that Sarver and the management of the that Ducey was the best candidate. Writing checks to all Coyotes hockey team have not been particularly active donors in candidates, Republican and Democrat, as some business recent statewide politics. operators choose to do, can only be interpreted as a cynical play for special access. In 2014, Sarver gave $912 to Ducey and $1,912 to losing Democratic Attorney General candidate Felecia Rotellini. "If what Bidwill did and Kendrick did was write big checks to a Andrew Barroway, the Coyotes' Pennsylvania-based owner, particular candidate, they're supporting that candidate and it's chairman and governor, gave Rotellini $2,000. their right to do so," McCarthy said. Sarver seems to keep a closer eye on Phoenix city politics, McCarthy sees the political activities of Bidwill and Kendrick as having donated over the past couple of years to various an outgrowth of their business advocacy. ATRA closely candidates, including Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. On Oct. 16, monitors the Arizona Legislature, and McCarthy said he is Maria Baier, a former Phoenix City councilwoman and the Suns' unaware of pending legislation sought by the state's professional senior vice president for communications and public affairs, teams. "They're not at the Capitol much," he said. organized a fundraiser for Phoenix City Councilman Sal DiCiccio, to whom Sarver contributed $2,000. McCain, R-Ariz., a voracious sports fan who pays face-value for tickets when he attends games, including Sunday's Super Bowl in In an interview with The Republic, Sarver described himself as Glendale, said he doubted the Cardinals organization would "politically, very much in the middle in terms of my views" and need to spend money on political donations to get a friendly said he is comfortable supporting either Democrats or audience with elected officials. Republicans who he believes will do a good job for Arizona.

"The Bidwills are Republican, and they always have been, going SB 1070 "was just one issue that I just felt so strongly was going back to St. Louis," McCain told The Republic. "But I honestly to be very negative for the state and do a lot of damage," Sarver have not seen any difference between them and, say, the CEO of said. "And just from a civil-rights standpoint, I didn't think it Intel or Boeing or Raytheon or other leaders in the business was appropriate." community." Sarver's background in banking has made him value jobs, he Kendrick, of the Diamondbacks, a McCain supporter over the said, which makes him put a priority on "the overall well-being years, gave more than $18,000 during the state's 2014 cycle, of our state and our economy." including $4,000 to Ducey; $4,000 to Brnovich and $4,000 to Republican state Treasurer Jeff DeWit, according state records. "Some people have strong influence in politics, but I don't think On the federal level, he gave about $175,000 to candidates and it comes from the position or the type of business they operate," causes, including $100,000 to a conservative Super PAC called Sarver said. "It comes more from their involvement, the time Grow WV, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. and money that they spend on campaigns. People have all sorts of different passions." Hall, the baseball team's president and CEO, gave $4,220 in the state, including $4,000 to Ducey. He also co-chaired with former Family contributions Suns and Diamondbacks heavyweight the finance committee of Democratic congressional candidate Mary The Kendrick family member most associated with politics and Rose Wilcox. As a Maricopa County supervisor, Wilcox was causes is not directly associated with the Diamondbacks. wounded in a 1997 shooting by a deranged critic of her vote to enact a countywide temporary sales tax to fund construction of Randy Kendrick, Kendrick's wife, is in a league of her own in the Diamondbacks' ballpark. her support for the political right, giving more than $130,000 to state political efforts in the 2014 election cycle, according to the Hall donated $2,600 to Wilcox in June, but later gave $1,000 to Arizona Secretary of State's Office, and, at the federal level, now-U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., who beat her in the more than $290,000 to Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate August primary. and U.S. House of Representatives and other conservative political action committees, according to the non-partisan Center Some less partisan for Responsive Politics. 5

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http://www.examiner.com/article/diamondbacks-hale-likely-to- A former board member of the pro-growth Arizona Free experiment-with-different-line-ups Enterprise Club, Randy Kendrick gave $25,000 to the campaign backing Proposition 122, a statewide ballot measure that With three weeks before the Diamondbacks’ and ostensibly would let Arizona refuse to enforce U.S. laws that the catchers assemble at Salt River for the commencement of spring Legislature or voters consider to be unconstitutional. She also training, there remain a few unanswered questions. donated at least $50,000 to the Arizona Republican Party. Just after the battery mates arrive, position players set up shop Her financial generosity also extended to candidates and and then the plot thickens. organizations outside Arizona. She has donated to U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, a favorite of "tea party" conservatives and a Two significant issues face manager Chip Hale, entering his first possible 2016 presidential contender. On Oct. 6, she hosted a season as Diamondbacks’ field manager. First is construction of well-attended fundraiser at her Paradise Valley home to benefit his everyday line-up, and probably more important, how he Republican U.S. Senate candidates Shelley Moore Capito of intends to play the game of baseball. West Virginia, Joni Ernst of Iowa, Monica Wehby of Oregon, and GOP U.S. House candidates Barbara Comstock of Virginia, Here, there are several options. Marilinda Garcia of New Hampshire and now-U.S. Rep. Martha McSally, R-Ariz. Assuming Hale will go with Endar Inciarte and A. J. Pollock at the top of the line-up, this immediately incorporates speed. With In a letter to The Republic published in October, Randy this approach, it could be expected the Diamondbacks would Kendrick defended billionaire brothers Charles and David Koch, pressure opponents from the start, and set the table for Paul a favorite target of the left for their big spending on conservative Goldschmidt and Mark Trumbo hitting behind. and libertarian-leaning causes, and lashed out at media scrutiny of anonymous "dark money" in politics, suggesting it is an “The style you play starts in spring training,” Hale said when he attempt to silence right-leaning financial contributors and was introduced as the franchise’s seventh manager. “You have to organizations. get that down and players have to get those things right. Everything has to be in place for the execution to work.” "Please quit calling me for comment," she wrote. "Quit with the intimidation! Quit making other donors afraid to associate and Then, Hale outlined his fundamental approach. give to great causes. Quit sullying the practice of private and anonymous free speech, which dates to the anonymously written “From the time I started in youth baseball, I was told the and published 'Federalist Papers' and the right of the NAACP to strength of your team is up the middle,” he pointed out. “We’re keep its donors private during the civil-rights era." pretty strong here but keeping guys healthy is the key.”

Though Randy Kendrick emphasized she was proud of her From a defensive standpoint, the Diamondbacks appear to be association with Charles Koch, there are signs the solid up-the-middle. With either Aaron Hill or at Diamondbacks organization is more wary of appearing so second and Owings or at short, Pollock emerged partisan. last season as one of the top defensive centerfielders in the game. After Hall participated in the Jan. 5 inauguration ceremony of Ducey, Reagan, Brnovich, DeWit, Superintendent of Public Behind the plate, the Diamondbacks elevated Tuffy Gosewisch Instruction Diane Douglas and state Mine Inspector Joe Hart — to number one on the depth chart. Though not expecting a all Republicans — a Twitter user with the handle @bmain249 major, offensive production from Gosewisch, Hale is likely to be wrote he was "sad" that Hall was involved with politics and that more than satisfied in Gosewisch’s approach the game. he had lost some respect for him. In command of a starter on any given night and the staff in Hall tweeted back that he was "just emcee for the state. No general, Gosewisch is capable of calling a strong game, remains politics. All good." aware of how to keep a focused, is regarded as a strong student of the game and maintains an engaging, clubhouse Diamondbacks new vision: A jolt of energy personality. By FOX Sports Arizona http://www.foxsports.com/arizona/video/diamondbacks-new- Coming into spring training, Hale then must decide how he vision-a-jolt-of-energy-013015 wants to play the game.

In new manager Chip Hale, the Diamondbacks have a high- At the top of the line-up, he can start with “small ball,” and energy baseball lifer who is well suited for motivating a young utilize the speed of Inciarte and Pollock. roster. Then again, he can go with power and rely on Goldschmidt, (Video embedded on webpage). Trumbo, Hill, and rookie third baseman Yasmany Tomas to Diamondbacks' Hale likely to experiment with different knock in runs at a sure and steady pace. line-ups By Mark Brown / Examiner.com The latter approach will not likely be Hale’s modus-operandi.

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Telling reporters through the current off-season that he likes the The other half of the Cubs' possible future left side of the infield combination of youth and experience and speed and power, comes in at No. 5 in Addison Russell. A Fourth of July Hale will likely experiment in the spring with different acquisition from the A's, he transitioned almost seamlessly from combinations. Plus, he will not the divulge cards up his sleeves the Double-A Texas League to the Southern League. In 50 as not to tip off opponents. games with Tennessee, the 21-year-old .294/.332/.536 with 12 homers while showing no ill effects from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for much of the first half of the season.

Buxton, Bryant lead Top 100 Prospects list The first pitcher to crack the Top 100 is Nationals right-hander Pirates lead all Major League organizations with seven Lucas Giolito. Awards came in droves for the 20-year-old during representatives and after his breakout 2014 season. Giolito was twice named By Tyler Maun / MiLB.com South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Week with Class A http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20150130&conten Hagerstown, earned a spot at the Futures Game. He also was t_id=107986042&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_milb&sid=milb tabbed an MiLB.com Organization All-Star and the Sally League's Most Outstanding Major League Prospect and Most may consider 2014 a lost season, but there's one Outstanding Pitcher. In 20 starts for the Suns, Giolito went 10-2 thing he didn't lose: his place as the top prospect in baseball. The with a 2.20 ERA and 1.00 WHIP while limiting opponents to a Twins will enter the campaign atop MLB.com's list of .197 batting average. the Top 100 Prospects. Another shortstop makes the top 10 at No. 7 in Dodgers Buxton is the highest-rated of six Twins prospects on this year's prospect . The younger brother of Mariners third list, tying the team with the Cubs for the second-most of any baseman Kyle, Seager dominated the to the Major League organization; only the Pirates -- with seven -- have tune of a 1.044 OPS in 80 games before being promoted to more. Minnesota youngsters, however, rank highest in prospect Double-A Chattanooga at the age of 20. In 38 games with the points accumulated with 464, 40 points more than the second- Smokies, he hardly slowed down, batting .345/.381/.534. place Cubs. The youngest member of the list is another Dodgers prospect, Although he saw action in only 31 games between Class A left-hander Julio Urias. After debuting in 2013 as a 16-year-old in Advanced Fort Myers and Double-A New Britain last year due the , Urias made 25 appearances -- 20 starts -- to a wrist injury and concussion, Buxton's five-tool abilities kept for Class A Advanced Rancho Cucamonga last season and him atop the list. The 21-year-old center fielder batted impressed with a 2-2 record and 2.36 ERA. Though the Dodgers .234/.307/.395 in his limited time in 2014, and his Arizona Fall were cautious with the young southpaw's workload, he pitched a League stint also was cut short due to injury. Should Buxton full season without issue. return to full speed this spring, Twins general manager Terry Ryan has said he could make his big league debut in 2015. One of the game's premier power prospects is the Rangers' lone top 10 representative. Third baseman Joey Gallo missed out on a Cubs slugger checks in second in this year's Top 100 share of the Minor League lead with 42 homers, one shy of rankings. The third baseman took the Minor Leagues by storm Bryant. The Las Vegas native matched his 21-homer output in in his first full professional season last year, batting 58 games with Class A Advanced Myrtle Beach in the first half .325/.428/.661 and capturing the Minors home title with 43 of the season with 21 more with Double-A Frisco in the second between Double-A Tennessee and Triple-A Iowa. half. Gallo was named Most Valuable Player of the Futures Game where, after putting on a show in batting practice, he A trio of shortstops occupy the next three spots. Like Buxton, hammered the game-winning homer for Team USA. the Astros' Carlos Correa is coming off injury-shortened season. The first overall pick in the 2012 Draft suffered a broken right Another Futures Game selection, Mets right-hander Noah last June but dazzled in 62 games with Class A Advanced Syndergaard rounds out the top 10. Having spent all of last Lancaster, batting .325/.416/.510 at the age of 19. season with Triple-A Las Vegas, he went 9-7 with a 4.60 ERA in the hitter-friendly , striking out 145 batters Cleveland's Francisco Lindor is next. Only 20 last season, he while walking 43 over 133 . The Mets hope Syndergaard ascended to Triple-A for the first time, riding his third straight will follow the road of young stars Matt Harvey, Zack Wheeler midseason All-Star selection -- honored as a member of Double- and Jacob deGrom to Queens. A Akron -- to Columbus. In 38 games, Lindor more than held his own with a .273/.307/.388 slash line. Two players who closed 2014 in MLB.com's top 10 are outside The Puerto Rico native also made an Futures Game appearance looking in this year. Twins third baseman Miguel Sano missed all in July, his second in three seasons. of last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery but should be ready for Spring Training and, like Buxton, could make his ---- Major League debut. D-backs right-hander Archie Bradley Francisco Lindor ✔ @Lindor12BC pitched in 18 games between Double-A Mobile, Triple-A Reno Correa #3 my man is good #puertorico #anotherpuertorican and a rehab start in the Arizona League, going 3-7 with a 4.45 #puertoricannation #WBC17 ERA in a season hampered by elbow soreness. ---- Beyond the Pirates with their MLB-best seven representatives in the Top 100, the Twins and Cubs each boast six. The Rangers, 7

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Mets, Royals, D-backs and Red Sox claim five players on the list. into 2015. I replied that there are a bunch of experiments to run Four teams placed just one player among the Top 100: the and that the team is in a great shape to run those experiments. Brewers, Cardinals, Tigers and champion Giants. I’m not sure if that was a satisfactory answer or not (leaning towards “or not”), but that’s how I see it. The Diamondbacks Pittsburgh's highest-ranked prospect is right-hander Tyler are in a great position to find out just what they have at a bunch Glasnow at No. 12. The Bucs have three more players in the of positions. Top 50, including righty Jameson Taillon, /outfielder Josh Bell and outfielder . Last week I took some time to briefly discuss the projections for Diamondback hitters and pitchers. As you could have guessed, Offseason trades have put some of the game's premier prospects they weren’t rosy. There was a lot of average and below average in new locales entering 2015. Former Marlins prospect Andrew performances projected outside of Paul Goldschmidt and A.J. Heaney is ranked No. 25 heading into his first season with the Pollock. But you knew that and so does everyone else. We can Angels, while Rays shortstop Daniel Robertson is ranked 65th, choose to look at that two ways. A) the team is low on impact three weeks after he was traded by the A's. talent is going to probably be mediocre in 2015, or B) there are a lot of interchangeable parts on the D-backs roster and we are The Tigers' lone representative on the list is slugger Steven about to witness a grand experiment where some cream will Moya, who checks in at No. 100. He spent 133 games with undoubtedly rise to the top. Double-A Erie last season, batting .276/.306/.555 with 35 homers and 105 RBIs. I’m focussed on option B, and yes I know that means that we’ll see plenty of struggles, but I truly believe that D-backs fans are Diamondbacks hire Joe Carter about to witness some successes along the way. Players can’t By Associated Press break through if they’re never given an opportunity, and on this http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12244508/arizona- team, there’s no shortage of replaceable players who can and diamondbacks-hire-joe-carter-assistant-general-manager-dave- should be swapped out to give others a chance. Think about it: stewart?ex_cid=espnapi_public there’s really only a handful of guys who deserve their spot on the diamond no matter what. Goldy, Pollock, Chris Owing and PHOENIX -- The Arizona Diamondbacks have hired Joe Carter Josh Collementer, some bullpen pieces and maybe Jeremy as special assistant to general manager . Hellickson since the team gave up assets for him. Even then “no matter what” might be a little strong. But after that, well, things Carter and Stewart played together for two seasons with get pretty dicey. , including the Blue Jays' 1993 World Series championship team. And that’s fine.

Carter's walk-off three-run off Mitch Williams in We have to accept that this is the state of the roster right now. Game 6 gave the Blue Jays a come-from-behind victory to clinch It’s better than it was last year and it’s trending in a reasonably their second straight world championship. Stewart was the good direction. But there are plenty of areas of concern that we and worked six innings in that game. here at Inside the ‘Zona will be watching closely. I want to take a stab at some of these and explain why I think there’s plenty to He had 12 seasons with at least 25 home runs and became the look forward to this season (we’ll do position players today and first player with 100 RBIs in consecutive seasons for three teams pitchers on Thursday). Here are just a few of the areas worth -- Cleveland, San Diego and Toronto. looking forward to. A Grand D-backs Experiment, Pt. I By Jeff Wiser / Inside the 'Zona - ESPN.com Who Plays Third Base? http://insidethezona.com/2015/01/grand-d-backs-experiment- pt/ This has been a hot topic since Yasmany Tomas was added to the puzzle since the D-backs have Jake Lamb and Brandon The Diamondbacks, like most other professional baseballers, are Drury in the queue at the hot corner. I’m not going to re-hash about to head back to work in earnest. Just about everyone’s got my belief that Tomas is better-suited for an outfield corner, nor a countdown going to when pitchers and catchers report since will I fully discuss why I think it’s just fine that they want to give we’re all eager to see what the 2015 story of baseball has in store him a shot at third to start him out. It’s all good, time will allow for us. Foreshadowing: it’ll be great. No, really, I think Arizona this experiment to play out and it’ll be fun to see what happens. Diamondback fans have a lot to look forward to in 2015. Because, if you’ve been paying attention, there’s a lot of As of now, I can see Tomas getting the start at third, Lamb questions and not a lot of answers. But guess what! We’ll soon beginning the year in Reno (where he really could use some have a bunch of those answers. time) and Drury either starting at third in Mobile or at second in Reno. Either way, Tomas will get a crack at the starting job, and I’ve just recently come around to this point of view after an if he can handle it, Lamb becomes an expendable trade asset that entire offseason of analyzing the team. There are some sources has some value. Drury will likely spend almost all or the entirety around the greater baseball community that we at Inside the of 2015 in the minors, so the team can decide if they want to ‘Zona lean on for information or to cross-reference ideas. It’s Tomas to stay at third in 2016 and move Drury to second, or, rare for those sources to come to us and ask what the hell is they can decide move Tomas to the OF and give Drury the job going on, however. But that’s just what happened when one provided 2015 goes well for him in the upper minors. such source reached out and asked what the plan was heading 8

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They again, Tomas could quickly prove himself unready for third Mark Trumbo is a bad defender who wasn’t good at the plate base during Spring Training and Lamb could open the season as last year. Cody Ross is expensive and coming off of a major the team’s third baseman. They’d have to clear an outfield corner injury and a return that was severely underwhelming. David spot for Tomas if that were the case and I have no doubt that Peralta has some major splits to overcome to show that he’s they’d do so to get their newest major league asset into he lineup more than just a bat against righties. needs to since they’re paying him his full salary whether he’s in the minors prove that both his defense and average-isn offense are for real. or the majors. In essence, there’s no benefit to sending him to A.J. Pollock needs to prove he can stay healthy for a full season. Reno. In this case, they’d have some time to both evaluate Lamb Oh, and we may just see Yasmany Tomas thrown into this mix at third as a potential long-term fit and evaluate Drury at either at some point, too. With three in the lineup every second or third base depending on how Lamb progresses. day, Arizona has to have offensive production from this unit.

That’s a lot of words and a lot of scenarios, but this is all about So, what’s the best combination? Pollock in center is a given so experiments and, hey, at least there appear to be a number of long as he’s able. But in the corners, the D-backs have options. options. It’s up in the air for now and that’s how it’ll likely stay Considering he cost the team Tyler Skaggs and , for at least the first few months of the season. Tomas, Lamb and Mark Trumbo is going to start every day to begin the season, but Drury are important assets and it’s likely that by the start of given his struggles against righties, that may not be the best idea. 2016, we won’t be asking who’s job it is anymore; we’ll have our A platoon of him and David Peralta makes so much sense, yet answer. Until then, it’s something to watch closely. I’m not sure we see it. Plus, that may stunt Peralta’s growth as he needs at-bats against lefties to improve if he’s going to do so. Can the Middle Infield Progress? Instead, it’s likely Trumbo in right and Peralta in left on most days, and depending on who’s pitching, one should rake and one The middle infield logjam had been well-chronicled here but it should suffer in a big way. was finally (somewhat) cleared up winter when Didi Gregorius was jettisoned to the Yankees. A few in the game feel that he That pushes Ender Inicarte, the team’s second-most valuable was never given enough of a shot and we’ll have to see how he outfielder, to the bench on a mostly full-time basis and relegates develops in New York to find a resolution. Regardless, the Cody Ross to a bench bat role. No one’s going to quibble with middle infield moves forward with Aaron Hill in need of a the latter, but Arizona is leaving production, especially that of bounce-back campaign and Chris Owings in need of proving the defensive variety, on the bench by not starting Inciarte. He he’s healthy and can handle a full season at shortstop. These two showed little in the way of splits last year, making him a good need to produce for the Diamondbacks to have a chance at option against both righties and lefties. If the organization getting back to .500 in the near future. chooses to prioritize defense at some point, he could become an above-average option in left field, doing enough in the field to But they’re not alone. I think it’s safe to say that Cliff improve upon his average offensive production. Runs saved are Pennington is a good defender who doesn’t hit much, but the valuable, and you may have noticed, the pitching staff could intrigue revolves around a couple of younger players. Can Nick likely benefit from some help in the field. Ahmed show some of the stick he showcased in Reno in 2014? Does he start the year in the minors? He’ll surely see the majors Tomas is a wild card and should he get moved to the outfield, at some point in 2015, and when he does, he’ll have to prove someone’s gotta go. That might mean sending a major league that he truly belongs. His defensive abilities are enough to keep asset like Peralta or Inciarte to the minors. The team could also him around on their own, but if he can do any kind of damage at just cut Cody Ross, but that would require eating his entire the plate, he may just force his way into the lineup on a salary, something they won’t be willing to do until at least after somewhat regular basis should Hill or Owings scuffle. the All Star break when they’ve seen enough to know he hasn’t recovered some of his value. Still, Tomas getting moved to the Then again, Brandon Drury has seen time at second base and outfield would require some kind of transaction, which could should be considered an option there. Most scouts like him even include the team moving one of Peralta or Inciarte. Either better at third, but in the short-term, he could likely play some way, this is a secondary concern, but one that will take some second if it means getting his bat in the major league lineup. He time to play out. could be ready as early as August if he continues to tear through the minors and, if third base is clogged up, could see a somewhat Does Hernandez Stick on the 25-Man and Can O’Brien Catch? significant amount of time in Arizona, especially if any of the second base options suffer an injury. He has the offensive upside We’ve applauded the D-backs for selecting Oscar Hernandez in that the organization covets and he’ll need a chance to face the Rule 5 draft and it was a smart move considering the major league pitching in the very near future. catching depth in the organization. But, he’s a 21-year old who’s never played above A-ball and by all accounts, will be in way Again, we see a lot of candidates and a lot of possible over his head in the majors. Can the team take up a valuable combinations. There are incumbents who the team is counting roster spot on his behalf to let him develop? At this point, that on, but should they falter, there are others in the wings who are appears to be the plan. ready for a chance to prove they belong. Can they capitalize on the chance when it comes? We should get some clarity here as Of course, the other catching talk has revolved around Peter the season wears on. O’Brien and the positive reviews he’s receiving internally. Scouts outside the organization, however, have been pretty united in Will the Outfield be Optimized? stating that he’s not a viable major league catching prospect. The raw power he has in undeniable and it plays better behind the 9

│ plate than anywhere else and the D-backs are doing the right thing by trying to make it work. All signs point to O’Brien being "We stood in line for two hours to get in that stadium, and it was a diligent worker who’s working hard to see to it that he makes it a horrible bottleneck to get in," said Greg. "There was no rhyme to the majors as a catcher. or reason to it. They only had three gates open out of the whole facility. It was a nightmare to get in. We lined up about 12:45 Both of these are propositions that are hard to feel confident and we got in about 2:45." betting on, however, and it’s not out of the realm of possibility that the D-backs do add another catcher at some point in the Enrique Garibay, 27, of Mexico City, came Sunday with a small coming weeks. They may want to get into Spring Training before camera, allowed as long as the lens is no longer than 6 inches. making a move, allowing them some additional time to evaluate the situation. Just as we’ve seen above, there are options here, "There was a line, but it took only 4-5 minutes," said Garibay. but no clear ones aside from Tuffy Gosewisch, which doesn’t instill a lot of confidence in the catching department. But we’ll Patriots fans Glen Wyllie and Russell Amero came from Canada. know a lot more in the coming months. "Less than five minutes to get in. That's pretty good," said A Shaky but Exciting Situation Wyllie, 44 of Halifax, Nova Scotia, who was attending his first Super Bowl. People want to know who’s going to start, who’s going to make the roster and what the 2015 Arizona Diamondbacks look like. I Amero, 44, of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, had one small hitch. think we can pencil in the lineup somewhat easily, but it’s not about where you start, it’s where you finish. And if "They took a beer from me. I had a beer in my pocket," he said. we’re reading into the situation correctly, where this team finishes will be vastly different from where it starts. Both welcomed the safety measures.

And again, that’s just fine. "You want security. You've had stuff like the Boston Marathon (bombing) and other stuff going on in the rest of the world," We’ll have no shortage of situations to monitor as 2015 plays said Wyllie. itself out. Third base, outfield, middle infield, catcher, all of these are somewhat up for grabs. The only way to find clarity is to Added Amero: "It was a concern of mine coming here to this experiment with the options that the team has and that grand big event, that it would be a target. ... And I appreciate all the experiment is about to begin. Keep your eyes peeled because security they have here. That was one of my first pictures, taking even though the team won’t contend for the NL West crown pictures of the guys in their Army fatigues with the guns. That this season, their next title run begins this season as the building makes you feel a little safer." blocks of the next contender will start to be revealed in short order. Inside the stadium, the GameDay Fan Plaza was open to ticket holders before taking their seats. Entertainment included Security at stadium moving briskly at Super Bowl XLIX marching bands, and the Super Bowl Gospel Choir and other By Gary Mihoces / USA Today live music. http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/super/2015/02/01 /super-bowl-security-patriots-seahawks/22702653/ Matt Williams Super Bowl party raises more than $1 million By Megan Finnerty / The Arizona Republic GLENDALE, Ariz. — fans Greg Thomas and http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2015/01/31/supe his wife, Sue, were delighted by how quickly they made it r-bowl-matt-williams-party-charity-mark-wahlberg/22682055/ through Super Bowl XLIX security to get into Stadium on Sunday. That was in sharp contrast to a PARADISE VALLEY, Ariz. -- More than $1.1 million was long line they waited out a day earlier to get into a Seahawks fan raised for charity at the Big Game, Big Event fundraiser, one of party. the swankiest VIP bashes held during Super Bowl week in Arizona. "It maybe took us five minutes to get through security and get in," said Thomas, 63, of Mattawa, Wash. "It just shows what a philanthropic state we are," event co-chair Linda Pope said as the event was getting underway Saturday The Super Bowl prohibits backpacks, fanny packs and purses night in Paradise Valley. larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. Clear plastic or vinyl bags are permitted, including one-gallon freezer bags. Big Game, Big Give has been held in the Super Bowl host city since its inception six years ago, and each year, it tops the list of Sue Thomoas, 62, said they were aware of that, so they brought most elegant game-related parties. On Saturday night, the Valley a couple of sweatshirts and other personal items in two clear version of this all-VIP charity bash was on its way to being the plastic bags. Screening began at noon MT. They arrived about most over-the-top yet. 12:30 and went through a patdown and metal detector. Nationals manager and former Diamondback Matt On Saturday, they went to a Seahawks fan rally hosted by team Williams and his wife, Erika, hosted the event at their 20,000- owner at Chase Field, home of baseball's Arizona square-foot Paradise Valley home. It was to feature fireworks Diamondbacks. A crowd of about 25,000 showed up. and even a visit from the Transformer Optimus Prime. A 10

│ massive cake from Phoenix's Tammie Coe bakery was large By Sports Business Daily enough to feed 500 and in the shape of the University of http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2015/01/29 Phoenix stadium, including the roll-out field. /Franchises/MLB-Fran-Notes.aspx

The goal was to raise $1 million for the Giving Back Fund, one FOX SPORTS ARIZONA's Jack Magruder reported the D- of the primary beneficiaries of the night, along with the Mark Backs "are positioned to spend about" $91M on payroll this Wahlberg Youth Foundation and Boys & Girls Clubs of season. That figure "would be the third-highest" in team history, Metropolitan Phoenix. yet still "among the lower third" in MLB. D-Backs GM Dave Stewart said that the team is "unlikely to shed salary" even after "You get the right people together, they can do amazing things," "losing money last season." The team at some point "will need Matt Williams said. to make room" for the $16M outlay in P Yoan Lopez' deal -- his $8.25M signing bonus plus an $8M tax to MLB for "over- Actor and producer Mark Wahlberg and "Transformers" spending their international bonus pool" director Michael Bay were also among the hosts. The guest list (FOXSPORTSARIZONA.com, 1/28). included Walmart heirs Melani and Rob Walton, Arizona's Republican U.S. Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake, and Arizona ANNIVERSARY PARTY: In DC, Dan Steinberg reported the Cardinals president Michael Bidwill. It was co-chaired by Linda Nationals next week will begin unveiling plans "to celebrate the Pope and her husband Bill. Gannett Co., Inc., USA TODAY, franchise’s 10th anniversary." The team is "going about its The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com were among the promotional schedule release in a non-traditional manner, with a sponsors. '10 Days of Teddy' campaign." Beginning next week, the Nats' Twitter feed "will post a clue about the location of its Teddy Guests walked a block-long red carpet before entering the Roosevelt mascot," and the first person to locate the mascot hat Williams' walled estate. Once inside, there were photo will find a box with a baseball that lists "one of the 10th opportunities with the Budweiser Clydesdales. A bronze-colored, anniversary items." Whoever finds the box and "tweets a photo flaming sculpture of the mythical Phoenix was the courtyard's of its contents will get the ball, a voucher for that item, and two centerpiece. tickets to the game at which it will be distributed" (WASHINGTONPOST.com, 1/28). Early arrivers included Bay and Cindy McCain, both co-hosts. Former San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, "No Country for HOW TO CATCH A FISH: MLB.com's Joe Frisaro noted the Old Men" and "Fargo" producer Joel Coen and a handful of Marlins "went the extra mile to make a strong first impression players followed. Gov. Doug Ducey on their latest acquisition, with five team executives traveling 18 attended, along with many of the Valley's biggest charitable hours by plane to Japan to properly welcome" OF Ichiro Suzuki. donors. He becomes "the first Japanese-born player in franchise history" after signing a one-year, $2M contract on Tuesday. Marlins The party had an over-the-top Arizona theme developed by President said, "Baseball is so important in Japan, Linda Pope. Inside to the right, they could visit an Old West and it's so important to the worldwide growth and international Tombstone saloon. To the left, a Route 66-themed area. In the growth of baseball. To not come here, and to not give this the backyard, a Flagstaff theme came complete with a Snowbowl ski proper import that it truly deserves wouldn't have been smart" lift. And on a rooftop deck, officials from Flagstaff's Lowell (MLB.com, 1/28). Observatory had set up telescopes and were passing around pieces of moon rock. DEFENDING THE DEN: In Chicago, Christopher Placek reported Cubs Chair Tom Ricketts on Tuesday "defended plans" "People always get excited to hold a piece of the moon, no to complete the renovations "over a five-year span matter who they are," said Jeffrey Hall, director of Lowell during off-seasons, instead of getting the work done sooner at a Observatory. cheaper cost -- which would have required the Cubs to find a temporary home in the meantime." Ricketts also said that he and "American Idol" winner and Glendale native Jordin Sparks was other team officials "are in discussions about ways to honor" late performing later in the evening. Baseball HOFer Ernie Banks this season (Chicago DAILY HERALD, 1/28). More than $100,000 in goods was donated for gift bags, raffles and prizes from Saks Fifth Avenue, including a mink stole. The FOUNDING FATHERS: In San Diego, Dennis Lin notes the online auction items included a week-long trip to Deer Valley, Padres this season will "wear home brown-pinstripe uniforms" Utah, for skiing, and a trip to the American Idol Finale in for five Wednesday day games. The uniforms were previously Hollywood, with VIP tickets to an afterparty with celebrities worn by the team from '85-90. The Padres' "Way Back from the show. There were also trips to the Daytona 500, a tour Wednesdays" also will feature "in-game music, graphics and of the White House and several days in Washington, D.C., as a other entertainment elements in a nod to an era well before guest of the Nationals, and the chance to fly to an Arizona Petco Park" (SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE, 1/29). Diamondbacks road game on the team plane. The Night Before 2015: Jason Aldean, FGL, Dierks Bentley Many opening bids started at $20,000. Throw One Crazy Super Bowl Party By Carrie Severson / Radio.com MLB Franchise Notes: D-Backs' Payroll Likely To Be http://radio.com/2015/02/01/the-night-before-jason-aldean- Third-Highest In Team History florida-georgia-line-dierks-bentley-review/ 11

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“I Hold On,” came next and the audience sang right along with Phoenix streets buzzed last night thanks to Super Bowl XLIX Bentley. “I wish my dad was here to see this, y’all,” he said. “But excitement, and The US Airways Center was no exception. you know what? My mom is here! Mom, I love you. We made Country fans in town for the big game had the show of the year it.” at the CBS Radio’s The Night Before concert. The stage was shared by ACM Award Nominees Florida Georgia Line, Dierks Bentley gave the audience, “What was I Thinking,” “Sideways,” Bentley and Jason Aldean who all entertained the crowd for an “Home,” and closed out his set with “Drunk on a Plane.” hour each. Since it was the night before the biggest game of the year, the Patriots and Seahawks cheerleaders were incorporated The Seahawks cheerleaders danced for the crowd as the stage between sets, as well as surprise guests, Super Bowl predictions, was prepped for heavyweight Jason Aldean. Scott McCreery, and some healthy team taunting. another surprise guest, and , took the stage to welcome Aldean on stage. Florida Georgia Line brought out crowd favorites “Sun Daze,” “Round Here,” “Stay,” “This is How We Roll,” and “Dirt,” By the time Aldean took the stage the audience was ready to which Tyler Hubbard dedicated to the crowd. Hubbard and rock, and Aldean delivered. He wasted no time jumping on stage Brian Kelley introduced their next single, “Sippin on Fire,” and opened up with “Hicktown.” before taking a few shots of Fireball themselves. Aldean mentioned it had been a few months since the band had “We want our fans to get to know us better,” Hubbard said as been on the road and all he wanted to do during The Night the duo changed out of their boots and shirts into sneakers and Before was have fun. Phoenix Suns gear. They danced around the stage to covers like Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass,” Bruno Mars’ He played hit after hit like, “Tattoos on this Town,” “Amarillo “Treasure,” and the country mainstay “Friends in Low Places.” Sky,” “Big Green Tractor,” “My Kinda Party,” and “Take a Little Ride” before talking to the crowd. Kelley jumped down into the crowd to snap a few selfies, before the duo closed out their set to “Cruise.” Aldean mentioned his late night out in Scottsdale the night prior. He and Bentley hung out at Bentley’s bar, Whiskey Row. Aldean The Patriot cheerleaders took the floor to entertain the crowd, woke up a bit foggy and said, “There’s no party like a Super just ahead of surprise guest Paul Goldschmidt, first baseman for Bowl party.” the Arizona Diamondbacks. Before introducing hometown favorite, Dierks Bentley, Goldschmidt made a few comments He went right into another string of hits while his fiancé, about the Super Bowl. Brittany Kerr, danced on the side of the stage during his entire set. “You can’t be an Arizona Cardinals fan and root for the Seahawks,” Goldschmidt said. Dierks Bentley came running Aldean gave the audience, “Just Getting Started,” “When She onto the stage to his hit, “5-1-5-0.” The crowd welcomed Says Baby,” “Night Train,” “Crazy Town,” “Burn Down” and Bentley back to Phoenix warmly, signing along to every song. “Dirt Road Anthem.”

Home was the theme for Bentley’s set. During “Free and Easy,” He closed out the show with, “She’s Country” as the crowd two- Bentley dropped to his knees and said, “It’s good to be home.” stepped on the floor. The Night Before was the country concert of the year and it just happened to take place the night before He brought a fan up on stage for a shotgun beer challenge. the Super Bowl. Bentley won (of course) and moved into his hits, “Feel That Fire,” “Up on the Ridge,” and “Say You Do” before getting 12 Fest in the Desert turns into a display of the power of the personal about what it felt like to be back in his hometown. 12s By Clare Farnsworth / Seahawks.com He reminisced about sitting up top, nearly able to touch the http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-1/12-Fest-in- ceiling, in that very arena during his first country concert: Garth the-Desert-turns-into-a-display-of-the-power-of-the- Brooks. He remembered watching Travis Tritt and Alan Jackson 12s/227554a4-c933-4298-a84d-a109197fb760 from the audience when he was a boy as well. When the Seahawks decided to host a celebration for fans on the Bentley and crew covered Jackson’s, “Dallas,” which the eve of Super Bowl XLIX, they figured 5,000 12s who attend. audience knew just as well as his own hits. Instead, an estimated gathering of 20,000 packed Chase Field on Saturday afternoon. It was what came next that really brought out Bentley’s emotions. He talked about his dad and their drive from Phoenix PHOENIX – Just how strong is the Power of the 12s? to Nashville in 1994 in a 1994 Chevy truck. The Seahawks were anticipating a crowd of 5,000 for Saturday’s “I still drive that 1994 truck,” Bentley said. “Thanks to all you 12 Fest in the Desert, and an estimated throng of 25,000 showed country fans I could have bought a new truck. I’ve even been up at Chase Field. offered free trucks. I turn them all down.” The event to celebrate the team playing in Super Bowl XLIX against the New England Patriots on Sunday started at 1:30 p.m. 12

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But 12s started lining up outside the home of the Arizona second half. “I had been holding my breath the whole time. But Diamondbacks at 10 a.m. and by noon the line was so long it that’s when I thought we were OK.” stretched down the block and across the corner. Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl Once inside – yes, the roof of the stadium was closed on yet XLVIII: “Richard Sherman’s tip,” she said of his Immaculate another unseasonably cloudy and drizzly day in the Valley of the Deflection to ice the 2013 NFC Championship game. Sun – the 12s gobbled up 12 Flags, wristbands, towels and other celebratory souvenirs that were being handed out. There also Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “I think it’s going to was music provided by the Walkens and interactive games be a three-point difference, and it’s going to be the Seahawks.” stationed throughout the infield and outfield. Manuel Arredondo During the onstage ceremony, Steve Raible, the radio voice of the Seahawks, introduced owner Paul Allen and club president Age: 33 Peter McLoughlin. Also on hands to link the team’s impressive present with its past glory were eight members of the Seahawks’ From: Denver. Yes, he’s a 12 from Bronco territory. Ring of Honor – the Hall of Fame duo of wide receiver and defensive tackle ; strong safety Accompanied by: 12 other members of the Rocky Mountain , the honorary captain for Sunday’s game; Seahawkers. quarterbacks and ; running back ; defensive end Jacob Green; and . Fan since: “Honestly, since Pete Carroll,” he said of Carroll Cornerback and radio play-by-play man Pete Gross being hired as coach in 2010. “I’ve been a USC fan forever and were represented by their widows, Rhonda and Bev. we he came over, I came over. I knew this was coming. I already predicted it. We’re going to Re-Pete, then Three-Pete.” The only drawback was the wait to get in because of the length of the line. But even the wait turned out to be worth it. Favorite all-time Seahawk: . “Because we’re from the same area,” he said of the Seahawks’ All-Pro free safety, who “It was fun,” said Gonzalo Ibarra. “Getting in was kind of a is from Orange, Texas. Arredondo is from Beaumont. hassle, but it was fun. We had lots of fun with the games for the kids. It was family friendly. We enjoyed it.” Favorite current Seahawk: “Earl Thomas, and all of the Legion of Boom.” Ibarra, who was wearing a No. 3 Russell Wilson jersey, attended with his wife, their two sons and their daughter. They now live in Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “We were in Rio Rico, Ariz., but are 12s because they used to live in Denver at the Lucky Strike bowling alley and had to have police Bellingham. escorts because the (Bronco) fans were so mad that they actually corralled other Seahawk fans and brought them to Lucky Strike.” “We’ve followed the Seahawks since we lived in the Pacific Northwest,” he said. “We’re proud 12s in Cardinal territory.” Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl XLVIII: “Probably the Green Bay game,” he said of the In the Seahawks.com tradition, were put five of the 12s through Seahawks’ miracle comeback in the NFC Championship game the “Look Who’s Coming to the Game” – or in this case, the 12 two weeks ago. “I was so stressed. I probably had three heart Fest – routine: attacks, I was so scared.”

Heather Bronson Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “34-21, Seahawks.” Age: 42 From: Originally from Seattle, but now lives in Tempe and San Tall Allen Felipe, Baja California. Age: 41 From: Seattle Accompanied by: her husband, Steve; and their friends, Alex and Dee Vargas. Accompanied by: his wife, Melodie.

Fan since: “Since the day I was born.” Fan since: “Since ’76. There was a raffle in ’76 to see if you could guess how many quarters could fit in a football. My mom won it Favorite all-time Seahawk: “Steve Largent,” she said before the and she got a football signed by all the original Seahawks.” question could even be completed. “I had a major crush on him growing up.” Favorite all-time Seahawk: “That’s hard. Real hard. I don’t know.” Favorite current Seahawk: “That’s a tough one, because they’re all so good. But I’d say the Legion of Boom; Marshawn (Lynch), Favorite current Seahawk: Marshawn Lynch. “I like him a lot. for what he stands for; and Russell Wilson because he carries the For the obvious reasons,” he said of the Seahawks’ Beast Mode whole team. But they’re all such a family, it’s hard to pick.” running back.

Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “Percy Harvin’s Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “The beginning. return,” she said of the 87-yard kickoff return to open the The safety,” he said of snap sailing past Broncos QB Peyton 13

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Manning on the first play of the game. “And then it just kept Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “The Seahawks will going. I was pretty much in awe the whole game. As soon as it win by 13.” was over, I watched it again.” Thousands of 12s get loud at Chase Field Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl By KOMO - Seattle News XLVIII: “The NFC Championship game against the Packers. http://www.komonews.com/news/local/290356451.html Unreal.” PHOENIX -- Several thousand Seahawks fans crowded into Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “27-20, Seahawks.” Phoenix's Chase Field for a huge pre-Super Bowl rally Saturday.

Lindsey Jensen Although "huge" may be an understatement. Event organizers said they planned for about 5,000 fans to show up at the stadium Age: 26 where MLB's Arizona Diamondbacks call home.

From: Bellevue. “I bought my ticket to come to this game two Instead, a crowd of several thousand more 12s poured into months ago. And my boyfriend got the tickets. He pulled it off.” Chase Field, with lines to get into the event wrapped all around the stadium. Accompanied by: her boyfriend, Neal Slotcig. "Being here right now, it's like having a piece of home," said Fan since: “For about five years, which is when I started liking Heather Bronson. "And this, this is amazing out here, it's more football.” than I could have ever expected."

Favorite all-time Seahawk: Marshawn Lynch. “I just like how he Bronson came from the Baja Peninsula in Mexico to be here. gets so much (flak) and just takes it.” At the front of the line, was 9-year-old Anthony, who says he is Favorite current Seahawk: Marshawn Lynch. “He’s such a a big Seahawks fan. Beast.” "Like, really big," he said. After all, he's been a season ticket Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “Right at the holder for... nine years. beginning,” she said of the first-play safety. "As soon as he was born, that day, I called the Seahawks and Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl said I want them in my son's name," his father said. XLVIII: “The last game,” she said of the overtime victory over the Packers in the NFC Championship game. “I was like, ‘Oh Inside Chase Field, it was everything you'd expect from my God, I’m not going to Arizona.’ And then we did it. And Seahawks fans -- a full 12 takeover. here I am.” "We came here to represent, because Seattle's our team," one fan Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “We’re obviously said. "Seahawks rule; we love our Seahawks." winning. We’re going to win by 10.” It was sheer joy from start to finish. Eddie Bjorgo Age: 57 "Just personally, I would really like to thank you from the From: Lake Stevens bottom of my heart, for supporting the team and doing everything you've done," team owner Paul Allen told the crowd. Accompanied by: his wife, Sharol. But all this celebrating is just a warmup Fan since: “Since 1980.” "Favorite part?" one fans said. "Well, it's going to be tomorrow Favorite all-time Seahawk: Kam Chancellor. “I just love how he during the Super Bowl!" plays. He’s a phenomenal player,” he said of the All-Pro strong Seahawks fans flock to ’12 Fest’ rally ahead of Super Bowl safety. XLIX By Seattlepi.com Favorite current Seahawk: Kam Chancellor. http://blog.seattlepi.com/football/2015/01/31/seahawks-fans- flock-to-12-fest-rally-ahead-of-super-bowl-xlix/ Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “Just watching Pete Carroll on the sideline. The excitement. Totally excited.” Tens of thousands of Seattle Seahawks fans stormed downtown Phoenix on Saturday for a fan rally ahead of Super Bowl XLIX. Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl XLVIII: “The last game,” he said of the NFC Championship “12 Fest” converted Chase Field — usually the home of Major game. “You just don’t stop believing in these guys. You’ve got to League Baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks — into a Hawks believe in them. They’ve got heart.” extravaganza, where a reported 25,000 fans enjoyed performances from the Sea Gals, met Seahawks alums and

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│ played games ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the New England Debbie Mackey, a senior lecturer and director of the Human Patriots. Resource Management master’s program, and Brian Russell, head of the Thornton’s Student Life Center, will be leading the Seattle Mayor Ed Murray, team owner Paul Allen and announcer team members throughout their experience. Steve Raible were among the luminaries who took the stage, as well as several members of Seattle’s Ring of Honor, including a “Students get to see all aspects of business through the biggest rare appearance by former head coach Chuck Knox. sporting event of the year. They are able to network with alumni’s and learn about opportunities to further their career,” Check out some of the sights and sounds from the seattlepi.com Mackey said. team at 12 Fest. Team members have the opportunity to network with different Cleveland Indians talking to John McDonald about professionals in Arizona. On Wednesday, they went to the rejoining organization Waste Management Phoenix Open Golf Tournament and met By Paul Hoynes / Cleveland.com with a professional golfer and caddie. They were able to ask http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2015/01/cleveland_ them questions about their sport and business backgrounds. On indians_talking_to_j.html Thursday, they were able to tour the Arizona Diamondbacks stadium. They will begin working with the NFL on Saturday and CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Indians have talked to recently Sunday. retired John McDonald about joining the organization. “What I’m most excited about is the Super Bowl. It is an It's unclear what role McDonald would fill, but it would incredible experience, and I am really excited to see the probably be along the lines of a special advisor to the baseball atmosphere of the game. The Super Bowl is a bucket-list event operations department. The Indians have an opening since Jason for many people, so I expect it to be a great environment,” said Bere was recently named bullpen coach on manager Terry Will Crocket, one of the team members. Francona's coaching staff. Bere had been a special advisor for the Tribe for the last nine years. Crockett said students wanting to get involved go through an application process that involves an interview that focuses on McDonald's specialty is defense and the Indians could use the past experiences and student involvement. Students need to gain help. They were last in the big league in errors last season. experience in event management and other related fields. He also said the best thing to do is be proactive in looking for The Indians picked McDonald in the 12th round of the 1996 opportunities to build resume experience. draft. He was a middle stuck in an organization behind Omar Vizquel and eventually Robbie Alomar. McDonald, UT Martin Professor Has Students Working Events at however, persevered Super Bowl By Kate Lochte / WKMS - Kentucky NPR He spent parts of 16 seasons in the big leagues - in service time http://wkms.org/post/ut-martin-professor-has-students- he totaled 13 full seasons - while playing for the Indians, Blue working-events-super-bowl Jays, Tigers, Diamondbacks, Pirates, Phillies, Red Sox and Angels. He did two tours with the Indians and Blue Jays and Six students from the University of Tennessee at Martin's sports never wore out his welcome wherever he played because of his business program are working hospitality events with their sports ability to catch a ground ball, especially in the middle infield. management professor at both the and Super Bowl at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona this McDonald, 5-9 and 185 pounds, had his busiest season in 2007 weekend. On Sounds Good, Kate Lochte speaks with Dr. with the Blue Jays. He appeared in 123 games and hit .252 (82- Dexter Davis about how he works with the NFL to arrange for for-327) with 20 doubles, one homer and 31 RBI. the students to help and explains what the students experience while they're there. He spent last season with the Angels and announced his retirement on Jan. 7. His retirement was announced on the While working at Alfred State college SUNY and Niagara Twitter accounts of the Indians, Angels, Blue Jays and University, Dr. Davis wanted a way to differentiate from other Diamondbacks. sports management programs and initially sought to take students to help during Spring Training for a week. So he UT students, staff head to Arizona to work Super Bowl contacted every Major League Baseball team and ended up in XLIX Jupiter, Florida on the training grounds of the Cardinals and By Mary Caroline Ferguson / Tennessee Journalist Marlins. While there, he made contact with a person affiliated http://www.tnjn.com/2015/01/30/ut-students-and-staff-head- with the Miami Dolphins who was seeking volunteers for the to-arizona-to-work-super-bowl-xlix/ Super Bowl in Miami. He took some students down and they did a great job working 18 hour days with whatever was needed. UT students and staff are now in Glendale, Arizona to work NFL On Location liked the professionalism of his students. This behind the scenes of Super Bowl XLIX. group contacts local organizing groups during the Super Bowl and other events and pairs them with volunteer groups like Dr. This year’s game will be against the New England Patriots and Davis' class. Seattle Seahawks. This will be the ninth year a UT team has worked the Super Bowl.

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He says they've been in Phoenix since last Friday, initially Grudzielanek is 44 now and looking much more relaxed after a helping with the Pro Bowl, which isn't quite as exotic or few years away from the game. extravagant as the Super Bowl, but their primary job was acting as way-finders for people looking for hospitality events. Last He will make his return to baseball this season as the new Monday, NFL On Location said they were short people at the manager of the Kane County Cougars. NFL Experience in the fan zone, where people go to check out sponsor booths and members of the media set up. Dr. Davis And as a manager, he says he will expect the same of his players says as an educational experience, he wants his students to learn as he did of himself during his major-league career. that there is a whole year or more of preparation that goes into events like this and that these things don't just come together Grudzielanek was front and center Friday night at Fifth Third instantly. That the business side of an industry like the NFL Bank Ballpark as the Cougars and their new parent organization, Super Bowl is a major production, likening it to a Broadway the Arizona Diamondbacks, met the media. show with rehearsals and practice. "I played the way I played; that was just me," Grudzielanek said. The students also got to be tourists, too. On one of the days off, "I just played hard, did my thing, and it kind of worked. When they toured the Arizona Diamondbacks and you leave the game, you want to be remembered as, 'This guy spring training facility along with some other sight-seeing. -- He played the game hard. He played it right. He knew what he was says they'll spend another day working the NFL experience doing. He did what it took to help his team win.' before managing the Super Bowl. They'll help manage player appearances, escorting them through security into the stadium "If I want the kids to leave with something, it's effort and while they interact with fans, before escorting them away. He attitude and going about their business the right way, says each student had to go through an FBI clearance to enter understanding that jersey, that uniform, can be taken off at any and exit the stadium. Once the hospitality events are over, the given time. So enjoy each and every day." students get to hang out in the stadium during the Super Bowl and after the game, they'll help fans into the field for the post Grudzielanek played parts of 15 seasons in the big leagues -- game experience and help them to their hospitality venues. 2003 and 2004 with the Cubs -- finishing in 2010 with Cleveland.

Dr. Dexter Davis, assistant professor sport management at He's just now returning to the game, even though he said the UTM, has worked hospitality for NFL on location at the Super managerial bug bit a few years back. Bowl for a decade. This is the second year he's also brought students to work with him. Six UTM students are with Davis in "Probably in the middle of my career, because as a player, Glendale, Arizona working both the Pro Bowl and the Super obviously, we know best," he said. " 'What is he thinking, what is Bowl to learn about the hospitality business that goes with he doing?' All the managers that I played for. That thought professional sports events. (managing) has always crossed my mind, but thanks to the Diamondbacks for that and for believing and giving me the opportunity.

"Basically, I've been off for a few years, getting reacquainted with my family, hanging out with my boys I took some time off after my last season, going kind of crazy to get back in the game.

"With the passion and love I had, it was time to get back in."

Grudzielanek was a key member of the 2003 Cubs, who came within five outs of the World Series before losing the infamous Game 6 of the championship series against the Marlins and then Grudzielanek brings rugged work ethic to Cougars falling in Game 7. By Bruce Miles / Chicago Daily Herald http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20150131/sports/1501397 "I don't think there's a day where somebody doesn't say 23/ something about that year to me at a certain time and moment, with the Bartman incident," he said. "It's what could have been. What I remember most about Mark Grudzielanek during his two What do you do?" years with the Cubs were his grand entrances into the clubhouse. Before that, though, the 2003 season was a magical ride for the He'd give it a limp and a gimp, all with a pained expression on Cubs. his face before going in for treatment on his ankle or whatever else ailed him. "Incredible," Grudzielanek said. "At some point, I just wish that every player could experience what we did that year, because But when it came to be game time, particularly in the star- that's how special it was." crossed 2003 season, Grudzielanek ended up taking the field more often than not and playing a solid second base. Good first impression:

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The Diamondbacks moved into Kane County when the Cubs February 2, 2015 left after two years as the Cougars' parent organization and  The 10th best general manager of all time was a lawyer moved their Class A Midwest affiliate to South Bend. and sportswriter first. Hey 11:03 am EST (NBC Sports)  Report: Belt, Giants avoid arbitration with one-year Arizona's introduction to fans and media at Friday night's "Meet deal 10:44 am EST (Comcast Bay Area) the Diamondbacks" event was just as impressive as that of the  Ubaldo Jimenez on 2014 struggles: “My mechanics are Cubs two winters ago. not the mechanics you’re used to seeing” 10:19 am EST (NBC Sports) In addition to Grudzielanek and his coaching staff, also present  The Giants and Brandon Belt avoid arbitration 9:52 am was Mike Bell, director of player development, and Bob EST (NBC Sports) Gebhard, vice president and special assistant to the general manager.  O'Day: Orioles bullpen may be even better this year 9:43 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) Bell is a member of the famous Bell family. He's the son of  Lucas Duda and the Mets avoid arbitration, agree on a former big-league third baseman Buddy Bell and the grandson of one-year deal 9:25 am EST (NBC Sports) former big-leaguer Gus Bell.  Watch Pat Burrell go down a slip-and-slide without spilling his drink 8:54 am EST (NBC Sports) Gebhard is an old-school type who was the first GM of the  Cafardo: make the DH universal now 8:30 am EST Colorado Rockies. He talked of good things for the (NBC Sports) Diamondbacks and the Cougars.  Pitchers and catchers report in 16 days, you guys 7:01 am EST (NBC Sports) "I say this after we lost 98 games last year," he said of the big-  Playing Time Risers 4:27 am EST (Rotoworld) league club. "I really believe that this is an organization, and I've  Nationals roster preview: 1:42 am EST been with a lot of them, that puts the emphasis on signing the (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) right players, on developing, and part of developing is winning. February 1, 2015 "There are organizations that in the minor leagues, the only  There was a fire at Camden Yards 9:33 pm EST (NBC thing that is important is developing. We feel very strongly that Sports) winning helps developing."  Clint Barmes is a Padres hipster 8:25 pm EST (NBC The Cougars won the Midwest League title last year as a Cubs Sports) farm club. This coming season will mark the franchise's 25th  Jeff Samardzija would consider an extension with the year. White Sox 7:15 pm EST (NBC Sports)  and Robinson Cano give their Super Bowl Team owners Dr. Bob Froehlich and his wife, Cheryl, were on XLIX predictions 6:05 pm EST (NBC Sports) hand Friday.  White Sox: has jersey number retired at FGCU 5:35 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago) "Obviously, everyone wants to have a winning team, that's a  Utley celebrates Super Bowl with shirtless, slip-n- given," Bob Froehlich said. "It's about the people. It's about the sliding Burrell 5:20 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet process. It's about the product. That's what we're most excited Philadelphia) about.  Reds sign Paul Maholm to minor league deal 5:20 pm EST (NBC Sports) "You'll be blown away by these (Diamondbacks) people … They  Braves hold private workout for Hector Olivera 4:11 do things the right way, and they're so great communicating the pm EST (NBC Sports) process with everyone.  Zack Greinke hasn’t made decision about opt-out 2:37

pm EST (NBC Sports) "We need a competitive product. They're doing things the right way, so we're very comfortable with this relationship."  PHOTOS: Harper hangs with Jordan, Jeter, Manning, RG3 & others 2:32 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Report: NL West team still talking to Phillies about Hamels 2:16 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

 Matt Harrison experiences minor setback in rehabilitation from spinal fusion surgery 1:13 pm EST (NBC Sports)

 Braves' Freeman: 'I think we’re going to surprise a lot

of people' 12:55 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson plans to spend another spring in Rangers camp 11:58 am EST (NBC February 2, 2015 • sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews Sports) http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews  Jones says he'll miss Markakis, but Orioles will be fine 11:56 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) 17

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 2015 outlook: 11:38 am EST (Comcast  Bruins' Miller excels as offseason surgery looms 12:32 SportsNet Mid Atlantic) pm EST (Comcast SportsNet New England)  aiming to return to Major League  Duquette has message for Orioles faithful at FanFest Baseball 10:32 am EST (NBC Sports) 12:21 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Washington Nationals 2015 roster preview: Nate  discusses Adderall use for first time 11:47 McLouth 9:54 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Video: Ernie Banks’ memorial service 9:05 am EST  Former closer to throw a showcase for (NBC Sports) teams on Monday 11:25 am EST (NBC Sports)  Cuban infielder Yoan Moncada is another step closer January 31, 2015 to signing with an MLB team 10:10 am EST (NBC  Wives of and Josh Hamilton to appear Sports) on The Real Housewives of Orange County 11:25 pm  MLB.com names Byron Buxton as baseball’s top EST (NBC Sports) prospect for second straight year 8:56 am EST (NBC  Red Sox plan to use Brandon Workman out of the Sports) bullpen 10:40 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Report: Red Sox willing to trade Mujica 7:32 am EST  A.J. Preller still in touch with the Phillies about Cole (Comcast SportsNet New England) Hamels 9:50 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Billy Williams delivers eulogy at Ernie Banks' memorial January 30, 2015 9:16 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)  Neal Cotts almost retired before signing with the  Freddie Freeman: “I think we’re going to surprise a lot Rangers in 2012 10:50 pm EST (NBC Sports) of people.” 9:00 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Washington Nationals 2015 roster preview: Kevin  Duquette puts Toronto in past, focuses on improving Frandsen 10:47 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) Orioles 8:16 pm EST (The Associated Press)  said he’s going to win the 2015 AL Cy Young  Someone apparently got Jayson Werth’s autograph in Award 9:40 pm EST (NBC Sports) jail 8:10 pm EST (NBC Sports)  'Mr. Cub' memorial service on CSN 8:42 pm EST  AP Source: RHP Richards, Angels reach $3.2 million (Comcast SportsNet Chicago) deal 7:21 pm EST (The Associated Press)  : “ Uribe’s a fatty” 8:30 pm EST (NBC  Remembering Mr. Cub 7:10 pm EST (NBC Sports) Sports)  Chicago says goodbye to Mr. Cub Ernie Banks 6:37 pm  Watch Werth arrive at jail in Fairfax to begin sentence EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago) 7:50 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Rays sign Ronald Belisario to a minor league deal 6:05  The memories of Cubs icon Ernie Banks will live pm EST (NBC Sports) forever 7:24 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)  Cubs sign Mike Baxter 5:30 pm EST (NBC Sports)  Rockies sign Omar Quintanilla and Rafael Betancourt  MLB acknowledges progress in process for Yoan 7:20 pm EST (NBC Sports) Moncada to reach free agency 5:06 pm EST (Yahoo  White Sox: Consistency key for Jose Quintana in heart Sports) of rotation 6:52 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)  Wieters talks timeline for return from injury 4:51 pm  Red Sox sign Alexi Ogando to one-year, $1.5 million EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) deal 6:49 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet New England)  Angels and Garrett Richards avoid arbitration with  RHP Alexi Ogando, Red Sox reach deal, pending one-year deal 4:39 pm EST (NBC Sports) physical 6:46 pm EST (The Associated Press)  Orioles sign Mark Hendrickson, invite him to major  Ernie Banks left great memories for teammate Billy league camp 4:11 pm EST (NBC Sports) Williams 6:14 pm EST (The Associated Press)  Norris, Orioles haven't discussed next steps 3:41 pm  Red Sox are willing to trade Edward Mujica 6:10 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) EST (NBC Sports)  Cubs legend Ernie Banks remembered for unwavering  Braves trade Hale, sign former Nats catcher 6:00 pm optimism 3:33 pm EST (The Associated Press) EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)  Padres have discussed trade for Brewers’ Luis Sardinas  Around-the-horn look at AL West offseason moves 3:15 pm EST (NBC Sports) 5:36 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area)  Showalter has positive take on Duquette situation 2:37  Steve Pearce, Orioles agree to $3.7 million, 1-year pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) contract 5:33 pm EST (The Associated Press)  2015 MLB roster outlook: Dodgers 2:05  Braves deal RHP to Rockies in 4-player pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic) trade 5:16 pm EST (The Associated Press)  Chris Davis opens up about his Adderall suspension:  Yasiel Puig says the Cardinals are the Dodgers’ “It was a moment of weakness” 2:05 pm EST (NBC “principal rivals,” not the Giants 5:11 pm EST (NBC Sports) Sports)  Puig: Cardinals are ‘our principal rivals,’ not Giants  Chicagoans pay respects to Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie 1:38 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area) Banks 5:04 pm EST (Reuters)  Brewers say “not much has happened lately” in trade talks for Jonathan Papelbon 12:40 pm EST (NBC Sports) February 2, 2015 • MLB.com 18

│ http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/transactions Traded From from Braves, Colorado Gus Schlosser (for C Jose Briceno, Rockies Last updated: Mon, February 2, 2015, 09:08 EST four-player deal)

Sunday, February 1, 2015 Milwaukee Signed to a Minor League Hiram Burgos Brewers Contract Team Player Transaction Milwaukee Neal Cotts Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015) Cincinnati Signed to a Minor League Brewers Paul Maholm Reds Contract Milwaukee Elian Herrera Designated for Assignment Saturday, January 31, 2015 Brewers

Team Player Transaction New York Signed to a Minor League Scott Baker Yankees Contract Baltimore Mark Signed to a Minor League

Orioles Hendrickson Contract Oakland Signed to a Minor League Luke Carlin Athletics Contract Boston Red Signed to a Minor League Luis Martinez Sox Contract Pittsburgh Signed to a Minor League Pirates Contract Signed to a Minor League Mike Baxter Contract Thursday, January 29, 2015

Los Angeles Garrett Signed, ( 2015)(avoids Team Player Transaction

Angels Richards arbitration) Signed to a Minor League Eric Stults Tampa Bay Ronald Signed to a Minor League Contract

Rays Belisario Contract Boston Red Signed to a Minor League Bryan LaHair Signed to a Minor League Sox Contract Juan Perez Contract Boston Red Signed, ( 2015)(avoids Daniel Nava Friday, January 30, 2015 Sox arbitration)

Team Player Transaction Boston Red Signed to a Minor League Felipe Paulino Sox Contract Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015; Atlanta Braves Jonny Gomes Opt 2016)(one-year contract) Philadelphia Chad Signed as Free Agent, (

Phillies Billingsley 2015)(one-year contract) Signed to a Minor League Atlanta Braves Jesus Flores Contract Philadelphia Cesar Jimenez Designated for Assignment Phillies

Atlanta Braves Eli Whiteside Retired Pittsburgh Jake Elmore Outrighted to Minors Baltimore Signed, ( 2015)(avoids Pirates Steve Pearce Orioles arbitration) San Francisco Ryan Signed as Free Agent, (

Boston Red Giants Vogelsong 2015)(one-year contract) Drake Britton Designated for Assignment Sox San Francisco Chris Designated for Assignment Boston Red Signed as Free Agent, ( Giants Dominguez Alexi Ogando Sox 2015)(one-year contract) Toronto Blue Ramon Signed to a Minor League

Colorado Rafael Signed to a Minor League Jays Santiago Contract

Rockies Betancourt Contract

Traded From from Braves, Colorado David Hale Atlanta (for C Jose Briceno, Rockies four-player deal)

Colorado Omar Signed to a Minor League

Rockies Quintanilla Contract

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