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March 11, 2013 · 3:19 am

Catching Up 3-11-13

Spring training is in full swing but I’m going to let Decal, Kram and Dipro handle that for now. Really interesting comment from Decal regarding the bench clearing incident when Canada faced Mexico recently:

Maybe we could also arrange a Canada/Mexico rematch at Coca-Cola Park. There were no less than 10 past, present or future Ironpigs involved in the big brawl at the World Baseball Classic on Saturday. Pete Orr and 2012 Reading LHP Jay Johnson were ejected. Others on the Canadian roster were Phillippe Aumont, Scott Mathieson, R.J. Swindle, John Suomi, &Tyson Gillies while team Mexico was represented by Rodrigo Lopez, Oscar Villarreal and Sebastian Valle who was behind the plate for Mexico when the bean ball incident took place.

Also included was some video:

***

With that said Friday was the Steelhawk’s first game of the 2013 season as well their first game in the new league. (PIFL) I have to say I am disappointed in the results. These guys have been working hard, I know this. I’ve seen it. Great folks in a great organization. They ended up losing on a last minute trick play to the Alabama Hammers. Despite the incredibly poor video (without audio) and the radio station play by play announcers on a separate web link calling our team the SteelDogs for the first three quarters (I gave him a break as he sounded like Charlie Manuel) I have to say I feel let down. Almost, almost upset about this loss. The Steelhawks dominated in this game only to have multiple penalties, mistakes and missed kicks to deflate their efforts. I don’t want you to think I’m trying to put down my team, but I don’t want it to be known that I was happy. If I don’t care about a team and its players I usually shake off a loss and give out compliments regardless. If I love the team, the players and staff… I care. I care a lot. I want them to succeed. The Steelhawk’s home opener is at Stabler Arena this coming Sunday and I will be there with beer and bbq tailgating. If you haven’t had my bbq, show up and try some. Come on out and help us Bring the Noise!

***

Come Saturday I found myself at the Independence Family Fun Center in Schnecksville to see our Lehigh Valley Rollergirls take on the Ithaca Suffer Jets. While pre-bout league estimates gave our Hissy Fits a 10% chance of victory, the gals fought hard after a “rink malfunction” delayed the game almost an hour. I nearly had super bowl flashbacks revisiting repeat after repeat of commercials but my attention (as were many others) was focused on the woman who was remarking the floor in a tight dress and high heels. I’ll let you use your imagination as the photo’s were deemed a bit too provocative for this blog.

Anyways, The Hissy Fits ended up falling to the Suffer Jets and all headed out to Grumpy’s BBQ for food and festivity.

How much do I love the Roller Derby, Let me count the ways….

1. Beautiful, athletic women in tight clothes.

2. Great roller derby names like Helen DeRink, Daisy Destructo, Vanilla Creamher and Levelin Levi.

3. BYO everything. How many sporting events allow you to bring your own beer. (No glass) Cash Money $$$$ savings there!

4. You get to party with them all afterwards at a BBQ place! Free food!

5. An exciting sporting event. Cheers, hard hits, fast action.

What’s not to love?!

That’s all I got for now.

OinK! Screech! Roll On!

Who I’d Like to See at a Ballgame – Wish List

Saw this video on Twitter:

http://www.milb.com/multimedia/vpp.jsp?content_id=25645591&topic_id=&sid=t1174&tcid=vpp_copy_25645591&v=3

The State College Spikes have apparently inked a deal for a member of the Duck Dynasty crew to make an appearance.

The face is a mystery but the voice gives a hint that Duck Dynasty fans would recognize as Mountain Man.

For those in the dark, this is Mountain Man:

I once met Max Patkin at the Reading Phillies.. a few year later Mr. Belding of Saved by the Bell fame

Reading Phillies a few years back.

Also met The King Jerry Lawler at Coca Cola Park.

I guess what I’m saying is I like meeting these people.

*********************************************************

My top ten list of people I’d like to meet at the ballpark!

Number 10 – Anyone from Duck Dynasty.

It’s still in my head from seeing that video but this show is great. Also could probably upgrade my duck call at the same time.

Number 9 – Chunk from the Goonies

Who didn’t love the Goonies? He’s been seen at other ballparks in the area.. why not ours?

Number 8 – Jennifer Lawrence

Who DOESN’T want to meet Jennifer Lawrence? (Note – Jennifer, I can be reached personally at editor@LVNoiseNation.com if you would like to come to a game with the Noise Nation! Junk food and Budweiser included!)

Number 7 – Old Phillies

How about an Old Timers night? We had Ryne Sandberg for 2 full seasons but how about a Lenny Dykstra or Darren Daulton night? Pete Rose and Mike Schmidt secretly visited the Park but only for those who dropped a chunk of change into the bucket. The thought process was if you hadn’t heard they were coming, you can’t afford to attend. Let’s bring out some old Phillies!

Number 6 – Henry Winkler

aaaaayyyyyyyyy!

I know, I know.. but I still want to meet the Fonz! I still have my hot chocolate mug I need to get autographed.

Number 5 – Micro Championship Wrestling

I know I made a few pleas to invite them to the park in the past. This crew looks like a lot of fun! Let’s bring them in!

Number 4 – Emilio Estevez

So I can yell, “Emmmeeeiiiliiooo!”

Number 3 – Hulk Hogan

Because I know you took your vitamins and said your prayers while watching Wrestling Superstars!

Number 2 – Alabama to sing “Cheap Seats”

Number 1 – All of you.

The friends we’ve made these past few years are priceless. A few have come and a few have gone. I can’t say enough how these friendships have impacted my life. Come out to a game!

**** Let’s get together and come up with 100 reasons why Jennifer Lawrence should join us for a ball game! Send all submissions to editor@LVNoiseNation.com!

OinK! Screech! Roll On!

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March 7, 2013 · 3:11 pm

IronPigs – Top Secret Information – Eyes Only

This information is so secret it cannot be published.

Click the e-mail link below or send a blank e-mail to:

Agent.Dewan@gmail.com

You will automatically receive further instructions.

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Filed under Coca Cola Park, Lehigh Valley IronPigs

March 7, 2013 · 12:50 pm

Checking the Weather

While we’re thankful here in Kram’s Korner that we didn’t just get 10 inches of snow, fact is, it’s not baseball weather yet. Mother Nature’s not ready. In fact, she’s not provided Clearwater, Florida with a ton of nice weather, either. That’s where our guys are battling for jobs to see who breaks camp with the AAA IronPigs. Here’s a roster update on which way the wind is blowing right now–what I’m hearing and what to watch for:

Catcher:

Young Tommy Joseph is impressing all around. He’s hitting the ball, calling good games for the MLB pitchers, and throwing guys out. Right now, I have him as a lock to break camp with the IronPigs. Get ready to chant: TOE! JOE! TOE! JOE!

As for the other, who knows? Valle could go back to Reading or back up Tommy, or he could be on the DL as he battles a broken finger. Or he could get traded. He’s with the Mexican WBC team right now, so we’ll see what happens when he gets back, as well as who gets sent to minor league camp first. It is assumed that Humberto Quintero–older and more experienced–will back up Kratz in Philadelphia. Remember that Lerud had MLB time last year as well. Also recall, the IronPigs started with three catchers last year. Cameron Rupp should be “the guy” in Reading, as he’s been getting some time in MLB camp too, of late. Finally, there was a rumor that the Phillies were scanning the market for another veteran back-up type. Don’t be surprised to see a last minute addition to this derby.

Infield:

It looks like it’s coming down to three guys for two back-up spots in Philly: Frandsen, Galvis, and Betancourt. Yuni has a 3/24 out clause, so the Phillies will have to make a decision by then if they want to keep him. Given that kind of clause, I really doubt he’ll accept an assignment to Lehigh Valley; he’ll have a whole week to hook on with another MLB team who needs a shortstop (St Louis?). But, if they keep him, they could option Galvis to the IronPigs to play every day. This is what I’m hoping for, but I’m not holding my breath. Charlie Manuel has already counted up all the at-bats he can give Galvis, and he’s got him at 3B now, too, to boot (poor choice of words..). You can count on Michael Martinez and Pete Orr for the IronPigs at this juncture.

Josh Fields has been getting time at 1B with the big club thus far. I think this is because Michael Young is the starter at 3B, Kevin Frandsen (or, Galvis) is the backup, and they want a long look at young Cody Asche. While I still kind of expect to see Fields at 3B with the ‘Pigs, Ache has–like Joseph–been impressing on both sides of the ball. I didn’t think they’d start him at LHV, but it is possible. I wonder if another Cody–Overbeck–could be the odd guy out. Or, perhaps, Fields gets the DH. Let’s see what the minor league camp looks like when they start playing games.

Outfield:

Dom Brown has a strangle-hold on one corner spot, and Delmon Young will definitely start the season on the DL. In fact, they’re saying Young could be ready mid-April or so. I wonder, if the weather’s warm enough, if he’ll get a rehab assignment in Allentown during the Bison series April 19-22?

But I digress. Mayberry and Nix should hold down the other corner outfield spot, leaving Darrin Ruf to battle Rule 5 guy Ender Inciarte for the last spot. Young Ender has impressed me as I’ve watched him in the MLB spring training games. He’s been patient at the plate, stolen a couple bases, and played an energetic CF as Ben Revere’s backup. If they want to keep him, he has to stay on the 25-man. Plus, Ruf’s not done well at the plate or in LF. Right now, I think Ruf comes to Allentown as they delay the decision on Inciarte. They can offer him back at any time, and it gives them a chance to see if Tyson Gillies (currently playing for Canada in the WBC) can arrive in Allentown healthy and ready to play.

Pitchers:

I haven’t heard much in the wind about the spots. Predictions kind of remain the same. The only note is young lefty Adam Morgan. I had him slotted to start the season in Reading, and come up mid-season with Asche and perhaps Joseph. Like the two former, he’s been impressing and I wouldn’t be shocked to see him break with the ‘Pigs. I’m not predicting it; it just wouldn’t blow me away.

So that’s what I’m hearing in the wind. I’ve also heard that some exciting announcements are forthcoming from the IronPigs about new additions to Coca Cola Park. Mr. Landes wasn’t kidding on Pig Day when he said he had other secrets. Please stay tuned, and we’ll keep you informed right here at the Horn and Bell.

@Kram209 (Twitter)

PS: Go SteelHawks!

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Filed under Kram's Korner - From the Club Level, Lehigh Valley IronPigs

Tagged as adam morgan, coca cola park, cody asche, IronPigs, Phillies, roster, spring training, Tommy Joseph

March 5, 2013 · 1:20 pm

222 Game Officially Announced; Season Tickets Clarified

Several folks have asked me in the past week or two if there will be a “Route 222 Challenge” or “222 Showcase” game this year with Reading. Indeed there will be; it is on the magnet schedule from last year and everything–but it was made official today by the IronPigs.

It will be hosted by the IronPigs this year, at 6:35PM on Tuesday April 2. Tickets are available now for $6.00. All seating for the game is General Admission, with only the lower bowl open. I do believe suite holders have access to their suites as well, but club level amenities are limited. If it is consistent with the past, all ticket proceeds will benefit either IronPigs Charities or another charity. Concessions will be open, but may be somewhat limited compared with a regular season game (some of the carts and sands may not be running, but main concessions will.) In the past, full season ticket holders received tickets complimentary. Indeed mine have been loaded into my account already. I believe I will need to have the tickets printed when I pick up my ticket cards, as they are listed as “in will call” instead of “card created” on my account.

A bunch of us from the NoiseNation made the trip to Reading last year for the game. The weather was nice and the attendance was good. In the past, turn out at Coca Cola Park for this game has been lacking. Granted, the weather has been poor, but I’d really like to see us, as a fan base, support this game better. It is an excellent opportunity to preview our team, as well as get a sneak peak at some of the talented prospects who will be in Reading this season. Rosters have not been set, yet, of course. But, I expect that many of the players we see on Tuesday April 2 in Reading Phillies uniforms will turn up in IronPigs–or even Philadelphia–uniforms before the end of the 2013 baseball season.

Why to they play this game? Well, it’s a nice dress rehearsal for the staff and crew of the stadium. It’s also a nice chance for the players to adapt to playing under the lights–and in the cold–compared with the mid-day sun of Florida spring training games. Plus, it raises a little money for charity along the way. All in all, I love it and I’m glad they do it. I love getting a look at the Reading players, but I wouldn’t mind another Phillies exhibition again one of these years. Perhaps they’ll consider it for the 10th anniversary?

A more official season ticket announcement was made this morning as well, clear confusion about the pick up schedule. As I said previously, Full, 36-game, and 18-game packages will be available Monday March 11. 9-game packs will be available Thursday March 14. This clearing up the confusion stemming from an email dated February 22, which stated that season ticket packages would be available March 5, and a tweet from yesterday which stated that the 9-game plans would be available March 12. I know, I know. It’s probably just me. I’m like a kid at Christmas. I know many folks who won’t bother picking them up until opening night.

Soon, I’ll see you at the park,

@KRAM209

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Tagged as 222 game, coca cola park, fightins, IronPigs, Phillies

March 4, 2013 · 8:41 pm

Former IronPig Uses His Head – Ouch Edition

From Yahoo Sports:

Carlos Carrasco pitched three innings after being hit in the side of the head by a comebacker in the first, Mark Reynolds and Nick Swisher each homered to help the Cleveland Indians beat the Chicago Cubs 13-5 Monday.

Hope you are doing well Carlos! We Pig fans haven’t forgotten you!

OinK!

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March 4, 2013 · 4:47 pm

Update: 5+5 Option, and Season Ticket Pickup

Email just received by the NoiseNation media desk reveals that the General Admission 5+5 ticket is available. I still do not see them as an available option on the web site, so if you’re interested perhaps you should call. They also mention the availability of limited single-game tickets in the club level. Again, not popping up on the web app–perhaps better luck by calling. Also, I noticed that you can buy accessible seating in the Bacon Strip online, where in the past you could only purchase accessible seats by phone or in person. I hope they have additional, though, hate to think they’ll have only outfield for those requiring accessible seating.

Season Ticket Holder pickup for full, 36-, and 18- game plans is now slated for Monday, March 11. 9-Game plans will be available on Tuesday, March 12. This is despite previous email notification that season tickets would be available 3/5, as well as the very same email which says “this weekend.” Oh, well. It’s like Xmas to me, so I’m having trouble with the waiting…

🙂

@Kram209

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Filed under Coca Cola Park, Kram's Korner - From the Club Level, Lehigh Valley IronPigs

Tagged as accessible seating, IronPigs, season tickets

March 3, 2013 · 10:31 pm

New General Admission Option for IronPigs: 5+5

Recent manipulation of the IronPigs ticket purchase screens has revealed a new General Admission option. It only pops up when I use my Season Ticket Holder code. It is a new option for General Admission tickets.

But lets step back for a moment: Recall that the “capacity” of Coca Cola Park was increased by 100 last season to help accommodate the Tiki Terrace (which is probably more than 100 seats, but..). This season, new seats were installed in the Hot Corner and the Bacon Strip. As I’ve said, I think this is overall a great idea to maximize space and sell more (expensive) tickets. Coke Capacity remains at 10,100 as Kurt Landes explains that the tickets will come from the General Admission allotment. This, plus the huge guitar and other signage which blocks view (we love you Wawa!) and what’s a GA fan to do?

Well, here’s a perk: A new general admission option is to buy a ticket for $10 (rather than the usual $7) and receive $5 in loaded “ballpark credit” value. So your ticket is really $5! That’s a pretty good deal! It’s hard to go to a game without spending at least $5. I spend that before I get upstairs! Like most ballpark loaded credit, you won’t be able to use it at the privately owned stands, and certainly not for parking the next night. But, I wonder if you could save them and use them all at once? Usually you can use them in the store, too, so that could be useful.

What do you think? Sounds good to me. Add your comments below. I didn’t get this option when I went to the generic buy tickets page, so you might want to ask about it if you’re interested. Perhaps it’s one of those things that can’t be announced yet….

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Filed under Coca Cola Park, Kram's Korner - From the Club Level, Lehigh Valley IronPigs

Tagged as ballpark credit, coca cola park, general admission, IronPigs, value

March 2, 2013 · 3:06 pm

IronPigs – National Pig Day – OinK

While each Pig Day usually starts out the same with everyone wishing warmer weather, the ticket lines were long, fans were eager, and the IronPigs are nearly ready.

Tickets! Anyone Got Tickets?

It seemed there were more in attendance this year than last and the lines were long for the Pork sandwiches which had new Executive Chef Jerry Rogers at the helm.

I was eager to get a look at the new seating in the Hot Corner but alas there were no seats.. installed.. yet.. But the spot looks great and there was a sample seat that was quite comfortable. As you will see in the picture below the seat is mesh – no more butt burns!

While visiting with Ron Rushe (Director of Corporate Partnerships) who was also wishing for warmer weather, General Manager Kurt Landes stopped by to talk about the Hot Corner and the upcoming season. Kurt was keen to mention there were a few more surprises coming up soon. I inquired about one of those surprises being new uniforms. Kurt replied with “There will be a few more surprises coming up soon.” If I were him I wouldn’t have told me either – ha – but regardless I’m sure, as always it will be good stuff!

I want this for my seat!

The bring a glove and pay attention section!

View from the Hot Corner

The other new seating area is unique with a good view of the field. Someone mentioned the main reason for adding this section was to hopefully have more seating options available on game day for those who don’t wish to purchase GA tickets. Which brings me back to the “Porking” Deck option…

Strips of Bacon

As always it was another fine event from the IronPigs and it was nice to chat with the returning staff. Just after entering the Park I noticed none other than Uncle Marty walking next to me so I was sure to ask him if he’s ready. He said “Ready for warmer weather”. It’s always great to see Uncle Marty at the park and you just kind of feel he belongs there. Morris, who as always was busy on his walkie took some time to talk about the upcoming season and his and Lindsey’s recent trip to Japan. I can’t wait to see what Morris has up his sleeve this summer for the on field entertainment.

Of course no trip would be complete without a stop to the Majestic Clubhouse Store where there are lots of new goodies and lots of new faces with Adam Fondl leading the charge. Was fortunate to meet first year intern Kyle. The IronPigs sure can find the good ones as the young man was professional and genuinely happy to meet some of us “regulars”. He asked us to stop by during the season and we certainly will.

Another National Pig Day in the books and as always it serves as a harbinger for Spring time at Coca-Cola Park.