Tag Archives: IronPigs

May 7, 2013 · 2:38 pm

Superb!

Ethan Martin with a SUPERB game!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

The IronPigs won their fourth straight last night by a 4-1 score at Coca Cola Park. The story was the pitching: Ethan Martin was pounding the strike zone early with his fastball running 92-94 on the stadium gun, touching 96 once. He gave up a couple hard hits during those first few innings–some were caught, and some should have been caught. By the third inning he was mixing in the curve and the change more, and was not giving up contact at all.

Mike Stutes, returning to form
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Diekman again Dominant
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

But Ethan threw a lot of pitches, and that meant that the bullpen was going to be called upon to come through once again. Since Coach Burris gave them ‘what for’ the other day about giving up walks, they’ve given no quarter–and no free passes. Last night, Mike Stutes and Jake Diekman came through with two clean innings and a ninth with a double only, respectively. Stutes’ last three outings have been dominant and he’s been pitching more than one inning each time. Diekman has regained control and is re-emerging as a lefty option for the Phillies bullpen when needed. It’s really good to see both of these guys return to form, as we’ve seen them pitch this well in the past.

—

Castro game winner!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Look! He does it again!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner

In case you missed it, the IronPigs won in dramatic fashion–twice–thanks to a Leandro Castro walk-off–twice–Saturday and Sunday. Starting pitchers in those games were Tom Cochran on Saturday, and Adam Morgan on Sunday. While not dominant, both pitched well and kept the team in the game with an opportunity to win late. And both times the bullpen held Indianapolis scoreless to give the ‘Pigs’ bats a chance. Cochran had been 0-3 at Reading since having been activated from extended Spring Training, and came to the IronPigs in exchange for struggling reliever Justin Friend. Morgan was coming off his weakest outing of the year, and wasn’t always sharp, but did enough to help the team get the win. This capped off the Indy series with a three-out-of-four win. That is significant, as Indy had the best record in the International League when the series began.

Young Adam Morgan continues to develop
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Not to be outdone, the SteelHawks also managed a dramatic win Sunday evening. They were down by 10 late in the fourth quarter, got a fortunate call on a potential fumble, and managed a last minute touchdown. The defense was able to prevent a winning field goal by Columbus and the offense added another TD at the buzzer. It was nice to feel the satisfaction of a dramatic win as opposed to the dramatic losses we’ve suffered at times this season. There are two more home games this season. I’d encourage you to get out to one if you have the chance. My youngest was at the game for the first time this past weekend, and really had a good time. “It’s better than hockey,” he says.

So where’s the Chicken Dinner? It all started Saturday morning as I took time off to help produce over 400 chicken dinners for a fundraiser. Since then, I can’t stop saying, “winner, winner, chicken dinner.” Thanks Las Vegas.

—

Odds and Ends and Roster Notes

As I mentioned above, Tom Cochran was added from Reading in exchange for Justin Friend, to finally fill Jon Pettibone’s vacant starter’s spot. The move left Reading down TWO starters with Brody Colvin’s balky hamstring. Reading added a free agent starter, lefty Greg Smith, who had been in the International League with Scranton and Pawtucket in 2011.

Zach Miner’s done well in all roles, lately
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

As we detailed yesterday, we’ll likely lose another starter to the Phillies by Friday to take Halladay’s spot. My guess is Tyler Cloyd, in which case we’ll know by Wednesday as that would be his scheduled start. I would presume that Zach Miner would return to the starting role or at least continue his half-and-half with Cesar Jimenez. Miner has extensive experience as a starter, and has pitched well lately. If it were up to me, I’d go ahead and get him stretched out for starting again. I know it’s thought to be a shorter path to the Phillies as a reliever, but you never know the way things have been going up there, and with the resurgence of De Fratus and Stutes with the ‘Pigs, starter could be valuable as well. Also, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Savery stay up (he was called to make the immediate fill-in for Halladay’s spot on the roster) as a lefty reliever, and have Horst return. Horst hasn’t done well, and does have two options, I believe. We’ll see if my prediction about Brian Bass’ phone ringing comes true, soon, too.

Joe Savery deserves to stay with the Phillies
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Andres Blanco remains on the DL in Florida. In passing, Matt Provence said on the radio the other day that it is not likely he’ll play this year. At the Horn and Bell, we’re searching for more information and confirmation as of this writing. Matt Tolbert was removed from the IronPigs DL roster and added to Clearwater. He played one game 4/24, then was added to the Threshers’ 7-day DL. His status is unknown at this time as well.

Welcome to the IronPigs, Humberto Quintero!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Finally, Humberto Quintero somewhat surprisingly passed through waivers (I thought the Yankees would grab him) and just as surprisingly (I thought he’d opt for free-agency) accepted his assignment to AAA. Once he reported to the IronPigs this past weekend, Tyson Gillies was moved to Reading to make room. I think we’ll see Tyson back here if he can stay healthy and gain some confidence in his new swing. I thought his approach at the plate was good; just some bad luck and not always getting the ball squared up. It was fortunate to get another catcher, though, as Tommy Joseph is currently nursing a mild concussion. I imagine they could even put him on the 7-day DL if they needed the space (Bass?).

Get Well Soon, Tommy
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Out by a mile! Nice tag Tommy!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

—

What’s Next?

The ‘Pigs continue their series with Louisville tonight with Tyler Cloyd bobbleheads. Get there early if you must have one. They always go fast, and I think he’ll soon be a Phillie again. Could he get promoted on his own bobblehead day? Golly, that would be something.

BJ Rosenberg is on the mound tonight. I had mentioned before that his pitching looked less “violent” to me this year as compared with last year. I thought I saw some of that return in his last start, but ultimately he didn’t do well. Here’s hoping he returns to form as some of the others have of late. If we didn’t need starters so badly, I’d even propose moving him back to the ‘pen temporarily–but there’s no time for that now. Go get them, BJ!

Wednesday we’ll find out about our rotation; then Thursday is the second of the 2013 Education Days, as Tom Cochran takes the mound. The IronPigs will head out on their first southern road trip following the game, to Durham and Norfolk. You’ll see guys like Richie T and Mike Fontenot with the Bulls, and Kyle Hudson with the Tides, if you’re watching on MiLB.TV.

—

As always, photos are here thanks to the hard work and expertise of Cheryl Pursell. Here are some additional photos from recent games:

Ruf Rakes!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Pete Orr is heating up!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Ride the J-Train! J-Mitch goes big fly!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Cesar, the forgotten. All he does it hit!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Justin De Fratus brings the heat
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Big Gerrit Cole, soon to be a Pittsburgh Pirate
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Thanks all,

See you at the park,

@Kram209

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

Tagged as IronPigs, Phillies Pitching

May 3, 2013 · 11:49 pm

Welcome Back Cloyd-er!

Tyler Cloyd pitched a gem tonight against one of the hottest AAA teams in the land. Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

The Tyler Cloyd we’ve come to know and love as a dominant pitcher for the IronPigs returned tonight, much to the chagrin of the AAA-leading Indians. He scattered four hits over eight quick innings with zero walks. His ten strikeouts tied his career high. Only a Matt Hague solo home-run to the lawn spoiled the potential shut-out. Justin De Fratus worked an efficient ninth to close things down on a dominant win at Coca Cola park this evening in front of 9,411.

Castro, Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

IronPigs scoring came courtesy of an all-around team effort, aggressive base running, and outstanding performances by the Dictator and the J-Train. Leandro Castro and Jermaine Mitchell caused all kind of havoc for the first-place Indians. Castro went 2/3 with a 2B, 2 RBI and a run scored, while JMitch went 2/4 plus reached on an error and a BB. He had a 3B (almost tried for an inside-the-park), and RBI, and scored twice. That’s the kind of set-up you need out of that lead-off spot!

The J-Trane on Track! Safe at Second!
(c) Cheryl Pursell

…and safe at home too!
(c) Cheryl Pursell

And speaking of lead-off hitters, word from Twitter as of this writing, had Tyson Gillies headed to New Hampshire to join the AA Reading Fightin Phils to make room for catcher Humberto Quintero who accepted his assignment to AAA and will report to the IronPigs tomorrow. We wish Tyson well as he continues to work on his new batting stance and swing. In fact, we saw him working with roving hitting instructor and Iron Pig Emeritus Andy Tracy yesterday during batting practice. In addition to the extra work, Tyson still found time to talk with us on camera about grilling with his roommates and finding sushi on the road trips. Look for video and audio from that interview in upcoming posts.

Jordy Mercer, who broke our back with a three-run double last night, was called up to the Pirates today and similarly helped defeat the Washington Nationals. Good for him! In other Pirate news, top pitching prospect and former #1 overall draft pick Gerrit Cole will start against the ‘Pigs tomorrow night at Coca Cola Park. He’s similarly young and talented as our roster, and it should be fun to watch. Rehab-ing Major League-er Charlie Morton was throwing hard tonight for the Indians, but didn’t have the control necessary to keep the ‘Pigs in check, despite not giving up a hit. He threw 49 pitches over three innings giving up a run and two BB with one K. On Sunday, the ‘Pigs should see another rehabbing MLBer, Francisco Liriano (again). That will be interesting as well because the ‘Pigs saw him in Indy on the recent road trip. I will be curious to see how our young hitters adjust, seeing him a second time (and, as somewhat of a Pirates fan myself, Liriano’s ability to adjust, as well.)

We welcome back Tom Cochran, as well, who will start for the ‘Pigs tomorrow night. Some say Life is a Highway, but I think he can beat Gerrit Cole. Then again, I might be some kind of lunatic. Lunantic Fringe, that is:

or, the original (with Red Rider):

Stay tuned for video interviews, and NoiseCast episode 5, and I’ll see you at the park!

@Kram209

IronPigs Roster Coming Into Focus

The Phillies made a couple of roster moves today that brought us one step closer to the IronPigs opening day roster. But before we get into that, lets review some of the baseball happenings of the day:

Jesse Biddle battled R A Dickey in the AAA game. Delmon Young (yeah, him; first action) and Cody Overbeck homered.
Jiwan James, projected to be back at Reading, had his knee scoped yesterday. That’ll put him on the shelf for a while and open a spot in Reading for another OF for opening day. (Susdorf? DMitch? Castro? Valle???)
Sebastian Valle started in the AA game. In LEFT FIELD. Another clue that he’ll start in Reading. Left field in Allentown is occupied (wait for it).
Adam Morgan pitched well for the Big Phils. The young lefty looked a bit pumped–perhaps over-throwing at times. However, his off-speed stuff looked great. He got several strikeouts and left with the lead.

So let’s get to the moves:

Outfielders Darrin Ruf and Jermaine Mitchell re-assigned to minor league camp.
Rodrigo Lopez was released.

What this means for the IronPigs’ roster:

Pencil in Ruf and JMitch for two opening-day OF spots: Left and, presumably, Right (Gillies in CF).
One less arm in the Starters’ pool. I’ve got Cloyd or Cochran starting against Reading, with Pettibone as the opening day guy. Followed by Martin, Cook, and the other of Cloyd or Cochran in some order. Then, pick one from Morgan, Bass, Miner, JRod…

But questions remain. There are many, but these are mine on this fine Friday evening:

Could Morgan start with the IronPigs?
Could Asche?
What happens to Josh Fields?
Who could open on the DL? Rosenberg?
Is there a trade still to be made? Will it involve Cloyd or Valle? Will it be for Inciarte so that he can go to AA?
Will there be any surprise additions?
Like many, I’m assuming Galvis to Philly. But, we’ll find out soon with Betancourt’s early opt-out this weekend.

Yours in baseball,

@Kram209

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

Tagged as IronPigs, Phillies, roster

March 17, 2013 · 12:24 am

Greetings From Clearwater

Frequent NoiseNation photographer extraordinaire Cheryl Pursell recently returned from a trip to Clearwater, Florida. She filed a report (and some photos) from Spring Training:

Cheryl reports that Galvis and Frandsen should make the Phillies as reserve infielders at the expense of Yunesky Betancourt, who has an opt-out on March 24: “I don’t see Betancourt making the Phillies, unless of course they do what they did last year, give the job to the guy who will walk (Pierre instead of Podsednik).”

Cheryl confirms what we’ve all seen of Domonic Brown: He’s been playing very well. She has him in Right Field to start the season, with Nix or Mayberry in Left, and Ruf on the IronPigs. She feels the IronPigs should have good pitching, both starters and relievers despite the fact that the Phillies’ starters didn’t always impress during her stay.

Cheryl also met up with one of our old friends, Rich Thompson. Here’s what she said: “I had Rich Thompson sign my jersey. I told him everyone from [NoiseNation] was asking about him & wanted to know how he was doing—he said to say “great” & that he doesn’t tweet much because he doesn’t have access to a computer, nor does he own a smart phone. I told him, I too have a “dumb” phone. He laughed & sends his regards.”

Thanks again to Cheryl for the report and the photos!

Let’s Go Pigs!

@Kram209

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

Tagged as IronPigs, Phillies, rich thompson, spring training

March 11, 2013 · 3:16 pm

Too Much Swag: Season Tickets 2013

I stopped by the park on my way to the office this morning to pick up my season ticket packages. There was no line, and I walked right up. This probably reinforces my supposition that I’m the only one champing at the bit to pick up my tickets.

No matter, though. The ticket staff was happy to see me and found my tickets quickly. Then it came time to load me up with swag. As in the past, the IronPigs have some gifts for the season ticket holders on pick-up. I’m not sure which level of season tickets you need to receive the gifts, but I don’t think it’s a secret either. In fact, if you don’t qualify, this could be the impetus to increase your ticket level for next year. Or, there could be different swag for different levels. At any rate, there was so much swag this year they couldn’t even fit it through the little window at the ticket counter. They had to walk it out to me.

The swag was contained in a nice bag labeled “Ticket Plan Holder:”

Hats:

They’re not fancy, but they are kind of nice. They are cotton/canvas and have a Velcro closure. They are made in China and have four stitch rows on the brim. They are blue and white, with the Sunday logo, and have “Season Ticket Holder” stitched on the side.

Glasses:

No, not that kind of glasses. They were labeled “pint glasses” on the dispense slip, but they’re more of a small highball glass–a bit smaller than a standard pint beer glass, with a heavy base. They’re etched with “Iron Pigs Lehigh Valley Est 2008.” Perfect for a rum and Coke:

IronClipper Rewards Booklet:

These are small coupon books that are usually given out to the plan holders and group leaders. They contain coupons from the major game and stadium sponsors–of various levels of usefulness. New this year are coupons for concessions. Nice. But also noted are some limits on some of the coupons for which month they can be used. Read your coupons carefully and take advantage of them if you can.

Details with the tickets:

Once again, the ticket holders are invited to an “Appreciation Night” on Tuesday, July 16 for the showing of the All Star Game. We’ve talked about this before, and it’s a nice time–even better last year when we were able to throw the ball on the field. Also noted with the tickets is that in-seat service via the bypass lane app will be available again this year in the Club Level.

Unless I’m missing it, there is no information about batting practice viewing for this year. We never get those dates right away anyway, so could be they are yet to come. Or, could be they’ve discontinued it. We shall see, and I’ll post here when I find out as some folks didn’t receive them last year.

__________

Finally, here’s another view: If frequent comment contributor Lefty33 is still around, I’d expect he’d probably agree with this–and I can’t say I totally disagree either:

While I feel appreciated when I receive this swag, there is another thing they could do: a discount. How about $1.00: $1.00 per seat times 72 games times 4 seats equals $288.00. You can buy a lot of hats and drinking glasses for $288. Or, maybe a discount on advertising for those of us who own businesses? Nope, they don’t do that either.

What do other organizations do? Over the weekend I was perusing the web site for Autozone Park, home of the AAA Memphis Redbirds, affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. I was drawn to it as it was referred to as the “Taj Mahal” of minor league baseball. It’s not. But, I noticed that Club Level tickets are $20.00 in advance, or $23.00 on game day. This is much more than the $15 the IronPigs charge. BUT, purchase a full season plan in the Autozone Club Level and pay only $950/seat. That’s $13.19/game–less than the $14 I pay having locked in my seat price with a multi-year extension.

So I ask you, should the IronPigs do that? Raise single-game and same-day ticket prices while providing a healthy discount for season ticket holders? I’m not sure, myself. I think we should watch and find out how much difficulty they have selling those $20 Hot Corner tickets this year for our answer. Probably, the poor press they’d receive for raising ticket prices to Memphis-level would out-weigh any benefit from the season ticket holders. And, to think of it this way, since we support this team so well here in the Lehigh Valley, it’s like a subscription: We purchase so many tickets that it allows the everyday price to remain low. Just my thoughts. What are yours?

@Kram209

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

Tagged as IronPigs, season tickets, ticket holder gifts

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

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

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

February 20, 2013 · 7:04 pm

IronPigs Season Ticket Stuff

Just a short note for the fellow Season Ticket holders out there. I know the IronPigs communication with Season Ticket holders faltered a bit at times last year, so I’ll help out here:

1. Pre-Sale Opportunity:

One of the benefits of being a season ticket holder is access to single-game tickets before the general public. As I’ve mentioned before, I often take advantage of this in order to have extra seats for when I know I will have guests in town over the summer–as well as to set up mini-group outings that are smaller than the 20 seats needed for a conventional “group.” The pre-sale starts this Friday morning. Season ticket holders should watch email for the link and code necessary to purchase tickets. My experience is that ticket reps do not have any extra “pull,” but can help if you’re having trouble navigating the system.

2. Season Ticket Package Pick-Up

Season ticket packages will be available for pick-up starting Tuesday, March 5 at 9AM. This is usually when I have my extra tickets printed as well.

3. Think you might want season tickets? Now’s the time, if you’re on the edge. Give a call to the ticket team before the single-game tickets start eating into the season ticket plan availability.

4. Other non-season ticket odds and ends:

They’ve extended the deadline until February 28 if you’d like to become a ball girl. Alas, I still lack the softball experience necessary. I wonder if this means they haven’t had enough applicants? There might be more interest over the summer when folks see them in action. My advice: no deadline. Take rolling applicants for now.
There are some new additions to the media and broadcast teams for the IronPigs. Check out the bios on the IronPigs’ web site when you have a chance.
Friday night is the Phantoms/Penguins game at the Wells Fargo in Philly. I’ll be going; and I’ll report back here. I hear the Phantoms have some kind of announcement tomorrow morning, too. Stay tuned.