Kudos & Brickbats

Well, mid-season has passed us in the Midwest League and its time to praise the good and lambaste the bad. Being in a benevolent spirit today, I'll give out the kudos first.

First of all, high praise to the Peoria Chiefs for bringing back Albert Pujos and 3 other Chiefs who have become Cardinals. I got there an hour before the gates opened and 2 hours before the signing was scheduled, and still, my wife, my friend Tom, his son and I were about 200th in line. The Chiefs had it set up well though, and strictly enforced the one item per person limit, as well they should've. It became obvious early that only about half the people standing in line would get to the tables in an hours time. Still, you've got greedy assholes who'll flop down 4 cards in front of Kerry Robinson, but on the whole, the players did well as did the Chiefs staff.

I got 2 8x10's signed by Pujols and Polanco (I'm counting Nancy's efforts on my behalf as well, and a card and an 8X10 from both Robinson and Stechschulte.

Kudos to Wisconsin, Fort Wayne and West Michigan who got their baseball sets out early and kept them fan friendly($5 or $6 a set). Burlington's are out too ($8) and Lansing as well ($7.50). A giant brickbat goes out to Kane County. TWENTY BUCKS A SET! When I asked why the exhorbiant price, I was told that 1 of 20 sets would have a signed Adrian Gonzalez card and that all sets are individually numbered. Big deal. A piece of paper with a number in each set and a 5 percent chance of getting an autograph from someone you can ask for one at the ballpark jacks up the set to $20. Kane County's just using the fact that they have the 2000 #1 draft pick to gouge MWL fans, Marlin fans and autograph collectors. Thanks guys.

Kudos to Dayton if I've got the right info. I called the ballpark today and was told that fans will be able to order card sets when they come in in a couple of weeks. No more of that Kroger giveaway fiasco that jacked last year's set up so ridiculously last year. A brickbat to myself. In my previous column I reported that Milt Pappas would be coming to Clinton on the 7th of July. I should've double-checked my facts. The date is actually July 20th. A big brickbat to Kevin Krause. I went up to the Quad Cities last week for $1 beer night. (Yes, I enjoy my beer, and consider Blue Moon, when I can find it on tap, as close to ambrosia as anything I'm likely to find in my lifetime). Anyway, it started badly. The programs they gave away last year they're asking 50 cents for now, and they're still the April issue. Then I opened it up and discovered that the Bandit in charge couldn't be bothered to put numbers next to the players name, making it really tough for us autographers. Getting a beer took me over two innings. It doesn't matter what you advertise it for if you haven't the staff to accommodate the crowd. Looks like he's already set his eyes on Ohio and is saying a final season F-You to Quad City fans. Moral of the story should be obvious to any community. You deal with a lawyer and you're going to get slimed.

They ARE bringing Andre Dawson to John O'Donnell on the 12th, I believe, but only fans who ante up $25 for the buffet before the game will get an autograph opportunity. At least that's the way I understand the set-up.

A brickbat to the Chiefs now. I realize youi sell bottled water now. Is it just a coincidence that the water fountains at the stadium are non-functional now?

Vida Blue is still scheduled to appear at Burlington on the 27th. George Brett will be sometime the first part of August. That's as close to a date as anyone who knows (if they do yet) is willing to give out right now. I don't think ther'll be any advance fanfare or word on this one. I suspect the lucky fans will have to be there that night. Wish me luck. Nancy and I are going to the AAA All-Star game in Indianapolis Tuesday and Wednesday, leaving the homestead in charge of Dylan, who would've enjoyed joining us, but couldn't adjust his work schedule. Tuesday from Noon to 6pm is a fanfest that includes an autograph session, a softball game and a home run derby. The game is Wednesday evening. Looks like you know what my next column will be.

Till then, take care and have fun with the hobby. I sure try to.

~ Rich Hanson