Hello PawSox Fans!

Tonight in Norfolk, Virginia there is good news and bad news. First the bad news. The PawSox lost to the Norfolk Tides 8-4. The good news is the PawSox remain in first place by the thinnest of threads, only a half a game. All PawSox fans feel confident the team will get back on the winning track after losing the last three.

Last evening we played our last game of the series in Durham.The Triangle Red Sox Nation was in attendance for the game and I spoke with Nation Governor Sean the previous evening who advised me they were going to be allowed early entrance to the ball park for the PawSox batting practice. I had met Gov. Sean last season when we were down here and I was blown away by the passion these men, women and children have for their beloved Red Sox. We had exchanged some emails and it was Awesome meeting all these great folks. Today they are over 160 strong!

During batting practice more action shots were taken.

After taking this photo of Jose I had this urge for hot dogs. I couldn’t understand why. Can You?

Part of the NC Nation were watching warm ups from a very advantageous position.

Their position certainly paid off when Youk entered the dugout and took the time to stop and sign autographs for everyone.

He headed into the clubhouse and took the field a short while later. After taking some ground balls he headed over to the picnic area and met with everyone from the Triangle Nation and signed some more autographs that included some Youk Jerseys that would be auctioned off with all proceeds going to the Youk’s Kids Foundation.

Needless to say, the Triangle members were very pleased. Down here in North Carolina the cities of Durham, Raleigh and Chapel Hill are known as the Triangle. They have some great t-shirts.

PawSox Pitching Coach Rich Sauveur spent a lot of time with the group. PawSox Manager Arnie Beyeler pays a visit to the NC Nation also chatting with them, signing and posing for pictures.

Later, Ryan Lavarnway also joined the crew vaulting the short wall and meeting everyone. He signed tons of autographs and posed for pictures and even enjoyed a hot dog.

This is a picture I’m sure the family will cherish for years to come.

Gov. Sean and Ryan yuck it up a bit.

This is the visitors bullpen right near the picnic area.

This is what it looks like during the game. The fans get to interact with the players.

The game gets underway and I spend some time with these fine folks who are all very pleased with all the visits they received. I am also able to quench my urge for a hot dog! Look at this! Hot Dog Heaven! Just laying there sizzling away, calling my name!

Since this is our last night here, the truck has to get moved near the clubhouse. The bus had arrived for the players, and it was time to say our goodbyes, thanks and best wishes. These are some great people, and a lot of them!

After the game, The Durham Bull Aaron and his crew load up the truck and it’s time to take the drive to Norfolk a little more than a 3 hour drive. I have great memories of my trips to Durham. I have met some fantastic people.

I would like to thank Zach Weber the PR guy for the Bulls. This young gentleman did a phenomenal job with all the media. In the 4 days we were there he never missed a step. He is always polite, professional and with a great sense of humor. He checks with everyone to be sure they don’t need anything. He is a true asset to the Bulls organization. I overheard some of the Japanese media folks, which there was a whole lot of, complimenting Zach for the job he done. I couldn’t agree more, Thanks again.

The weather is clear and at this hour traffic should not be a problem. About an 1.5 hours into the drive, it was time for a pit stop. Grab a coffee and a red-hot and continue on.

At about 2 in the morning I pull into the Norfolk Tide lot. Visiting Clubhouse manager Mark is there at the ready with his crew. The truck gets unloaded and I head to the hotel just about one mile from the stadium. I see Chris at the front desk, the same guy I have seen here for the last several years and he tells me I have a water view balcony room. Of course this news makes me happy, although at this hour I only have an interest in viewing the inside of my eyelids! Chris is a cool guy that always seems wide awake, regardless of the time.

Feeling a bit thirsty from the red-hot and coffee there are two bottle of water on the desk in the room. I had depleted my supply of CVS six-pack water for $1.29 the day before so downing one of these bottles would be refreshing. However, as you know the Rollin’ with Rick blog is always informative.

Upon arrival in the room, this is what you see on the desk.

The first one is complimentary.

Closely check the second one. You may find to gulp it down will cost you $2.50. One would suffice for the time being.

I wake in the morning and head out to the balcony. It’s a sunny day with a cool breeze. There’s a tug boat pushing an empty barge. I wonder why they would call them “tug” boats when they actually “push” other vessels. It’s like how can slow up and slow down mean the same thing? How can Fat Chance and Slim Chance mean the same thing?  Oh well, that’s for another day.

Time to head to the airport and pick up a rental van to shuttle the players and staff. PawSox play at 1;00 Sunday. Listen to the game on 920 am or the many other stations that carry game. Don’t forget that the PawSox return to McCoy on May 24th to start a homestand.

Get your tickets and come cheer on the PawSox with all the fun and excitement of a professional baseball at very affordable prices, and seeing with your own eyes we are………….”Here For You!”

Love hearing from you.

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros         rickm@pawsox.com

Hello PawSox Fans!

It’s the last evening in Durham for the PawSox. It was a tough loss last evening being shut out for only the second time this season. Dont think it’s habit-forming, I have faith they will rebound well.

One the first day of my arrival here I’m given a media pass. This allows full access should something need to picked up, dropped off and/or transported.

Since my pictures on Youk weren’t very good the previous evening were not very good I was determined to improve my skills. It was reported that Youk would have a scheduled day off and play third base tonight.

After a very late lunch at Bojangles Chicken and Biscuits I head to the ballpark. It’s a warm day and there is a threat of rain just around game time. At the stadium there is a buzz about Dice K pitching and Hideki Matsui playing for the Bulls. The Japanese media is in full force. I have the opportunity to chat with some of the media and learn the game will be taped and played later on Japan TV on a channel described to me as Americas ESPN.

With camera loaded with fresh batteries I head onto the field for the PawSox batting practice. It’s my first time trying this and it does feel a bit awkward. Being in the thick of the action allows the chance to get some great photos.

Youk is taking ground balls at third with makes for a great photo-op being this close. Check out these shots!

PawSox broadcaster Aaron Goldsmith asks Youk for an interview and he agrees. They both settle into the dugout.

Aaron switches to a video interview.

Pitcher Clay Mortensen heads back into the clubhouse by ducking and skulking by. He avoids being part of the final cut of the interview and something you would have never seen or known about had you not read Rollin’ with Rick.

After batting practice I head up into the press box. The Japanese media is everywhere. They had to set up a temporary press room to accommodate everyone. When Dice K pitched at McCoy during the last homestand, Vice President of Stadium Operations Mick, the PawSox McGuyver who can make anything, built a portable press area in the stands behind home plate.

Every available room was used for the media.

 

Sometimes carrying a camera around is a bit cumbersome. The strap is always slipping off your shoulder. It’s not comfortable and always in the way if you wear it around your neck, but after seeing this guy lugging his camera around, lifting it up like he was working out at the gym, I feel the need to hug this fine camera the PawSox have let me use.

The sun has disappeared somewhat and replaced with ugly-looking clouds. There is excitement all around for this match up of Dice vs. Matsui. Up and down the street people are heading for the gates.

The drizzle starts and the grounds crew roll out the tarp.

A short while later the gates are opened, the Sox fans pour in.

After about an hour delay the tarp is removed, the National Anthem is played and we’re ready to play ball.

During the first inning Dice gives up a home run down the right field line. It appeared to be just foul but I must admit I lost sight of the ball at a crucial moment. Lars Anderson is talking to the ump and signaling it was a foul ball. PawSox Skipper Arnie Beyeler is soon taking on all three umps, but to no avail. The three umps huddle up and come away signaling it was indeed a homerun.

Little did I know the foul pole is sponsored by Burt’s Bees! The PA announcer lets everyone know that a homerun hit the pole and as a result every fan will receive lip balm!

Everyone got a chance to watch Dice and Matsui matchup.

It was evident there were Matsui fans in the house.

When I got back to the hotel and checked the PawSox website about the game, can you guess what photo was used for the story? Yep indeedy, 2 in a row!

Looking forward to the game this evening. I have been invited to join the North Carolina Triangle Red Sox Nation in the BBQ area for the game. I met the Governor of the Nation Sean Bunn last season and he invited me to join them.

I continue to try to convince Sean to bring the Triangle Nation to McCoy so we can show off the best ballpark, fans and staff in the world. I know if Sean brings the crew to a game they will all say, “Wow! They certainly are……………”Here For You!”

Would love to hear from you.

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros

Herllo PawSox Fans!

The first place PawSox did it again coming from behind to beat the Durham Bulls 5-4. With the Bulls pitching staff giving up 10 walks and Lars Anderson launching a three run dinger in the 5th the PawSox never quit. This team is always exciting to watch. They never surrender.

It was a great night for baseball. Kevin Youkillis was in the lineup as the DH and I wanted to get some fantastic photos of him to send back to Kevin who would use the photo for the post game story. Thats the goal. Unfortunately, I’m still working on my photography skills. I have improved over the last couple of years but still fall far short of good.

My trick is to take as many shots as I can and hopefully get lucky. I get to the stadium and take my primo seat. First row, right at the dugout that I can use for stability.

I get in my warm ups by taking a picture of the bull down the left field line. If a player hits the bull he wins a steak from Tabacco Road Grill that overlooks the stadium. If a player hits the grass, they win a salad.

There is also a “Hit Burt, Win Balm” sign on the center/right field wall. I Googled what Burt’s Bees was and learned they have a plethora of all natural products including lip balm. So I guess a player that pokes Burt will win the lip balm.

The Bulls have the Big Blue Monster with a replica scoreboard of Fenway.

Youk comes to bat and I start to shoot. There is a loud roar of YOOOUUUUK from the Sox fans in attendance. I take about 32 pictures and when reviewed none are suitable for the website. These are two of the better ones taken. Not very good at all.

I take shots of other players including the back of Hideki Matsui who is playing for the Bulls. Its easy when they stay still.

Youk comes to bat again. With my elbows set on the dugout the camera clicks away. After reviewing I may have got lucky with one! This was the best one of the bunch, keep my fingers crossed.

Lars Anderson rips a bomb down right field and a shot of him coming home to high fives from the two men on, including Youk would be great. Unfortunately………….this is the result.

However, with a little cropping, the picture is pretty good. Of course you cant tell who is in the picture except the back of Youk.

After the game and getting back to the hotel, checking the website, there it was a picture of Youk with a caption about the game. In parenthesis are the words (photo by Rick Medeiros) Got lucky again.

The PawSox play again this evening at 7:05. Dice K takes the hill for the PawSox and Youk is scheduled to be at third. Remember when Youk was playing third at McCoy on his way to the Bigs? McCoy has the best fans in the world. The PawSox also have the best staff in the world. It’s just one big happy PawSox Family! The fans love that we are…….”Here For You!”

Would love to hear from you.

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros

Hello PawSox Fans!

The PawSox begin their 8 game road trip with an impressive 8-2 win down here in Durham, North Carolina. The day began a bit overcast but progressed into nice baseball weather.

After losing the day game on Tuesday to prevent the sweep of the Columbus Clippers, both teams had to prepare to hit the road. The driver for the Clippers truck got loaded by the visiting team clubhouse crew to head back to Columbus.

The teams luggage in stored in the bus for the trip to the airport so they can head home to columbus. The PawSox flight is set for early Tuesday morning. The teams “personals” are going clean meaning the players personal baseball attire and undergarments will be washed, dried and packed in their bags.

By washing the clothes it makes it a bit easier for the visiting clubhouse crew of the destination city. They just have to unpack and hang everything in each players locker. After regular night games all the personals are stuffed into mesh, very large laundry bags and the visiting clubhouse crew will wash everything when they arrive.

Our truck awaits to be loaded. One of three of the trainers trunks is loaded on first.

A day game affords us an additional time cushion of about 5-6 hours. It takes a bit of the stress off during the trip. A short while later our truck is almost loaded.

 

Sandwiches and soft drinks are packed and we’re ready the go. The is one small problem, there is no “we” there is only me! My friend and driving partner Lou is nowhere in sight. Since we do have this cushion I’m not very worried and wait for his arrival.

As time ticks by there is still no sign of Lou. I give him a call and he tells me he’s running a bit late and will be here in 10 minutes. He should have told me it was going to be one of those doctor appointment 10 minutes. You know what I mean? It’s when you have a doctors appointment, you shower, clean shaved and get dressed. You have a seat in the waiting room and the receptionist tells you, “The doctor will see you in about 10 minutes. By the time the doctor sees you, he tells you look good with a beard.

After sitting in the truck gawking at the time, tapping my fingers on the steering wheel and watching the moments tick off the GPS I head back into the office to wait. The aforementioned “cushion” is being deflated a bit by his tardiness. Finally he arrives and we’re off.

It’s about a 12 hour drive to Durham and after yapping at Lou about punctuality, and listening to his apology we still have plenty of time to make the trip. It’s only 5:30.

The rain starts, slow at first and then pours. The sun peeks out a bit, hides again and more rain. We breeze through Connecticut and cross the New York border making good time. The GPS voice says to take the next exit and suddenly flickers on and off. I take the exit and have no idea where we are.

The GPS comes back on and starts with that recalculating BS. When it finally comes back to life we are right in the middle of heavy city traffic………in the Bronx!

Once again that cushion deflates just a bit more. After 27 lost minutes that we will never get back, we are on 95 south again and back on track. I apply some of my favorite hand cream. Yes, I do use hand cream, the stress relief kind.

In New Jersey it’s time for fuel. We decide to stop at the Thomas Edison Service Area. We head into the building before taking on fuel. They have a burger joint, fried chicken place, cafe, deli and pizza place.

We look at the chicken under those hot lights that would have made Mr. Edison proud. Since it doesn’t look appetizing we pass. We don’t feel like burgers and the pizza place is closing. I talk to guy behind the counter at the pizza place. There is this one lonely slice of pepperoni sitting there under those hot lights. The pepperoni is actually curled and black and the edges of the slice are curled up indicative it has been there for quite some time.

There is also a lonely calzone. I ask the guy if he could give the calzone a tap with the spatula he was holding. In doing so, there was no movement. I asked him to tap it a bit harder which he did and the thing didn’t dent at all. The thing was hard as a rock and the guy laughed and said its been there for quite some time. He used the edge of the spatula laughing and gave it a whack causing a slight line. He scooped it up and tossed it in the trash still laughing. He told me they were closing. I told him he could have sold the calzone for a wheel chock to the many truckers in the service area. There was no way a truck would be able to roll over that thing. I grab a coffee and Lou grabs his soda.

We head over to the gas pumps. In New Jersey state law prevents you from pumping your own gas. There are no self-serve pumps in the state. I tell the attendant to Fill ‘er Up. I ask him if he would clean all the splattered bug on the windshield and he points to the squeegee and walks away.

The truck is thirsty and takes $100. The Penske truck is actually pretty good with gas mileage. We started with just a hair above a half a tank and made it this far. I take the drivers seat again and we continue on our journey. I tell Lou to get some sleep because it will be his turn soon. Although tired he really cant sleep. Could it be the country music blasting? He dozes a bit and then takes the wheel. I get a little sleep and wake up from the rain pounding the windshield. Mother Nature took care of those splattered bugs.

We get into Durham at just about 5:00 am. We made good time. Since we dont have to be at Durham Bulls Athletic Park until 9:00 we have time for breakfast. Where would we go for breakfast?   Aaaaahhhh!

I go for the Toddle House ham and cheese omelet.

As you can see it was pretty tasty.

We still have a few hours to kill. We head to the Marriott to see if we can check in. The hotel is only a few blocks away from the stadium. The front desk guy tells us there is no way. He tells me they are sold out and check out time is11:00 and they wont have a room available until about 1:00. Now what do we do?

I call around and find a hotel available for immediate check-in. Its only 1.7 miles from the Marriott so I tell the guy, “I’ll take it.”  I cancel my reservation at the Marriott and head to check in. We get the Superior Room that includes a fridge and microwave. There is a slight problem. They have a king size bed. Lou is flying out later this afternoon to go to Long Island for a meeting with his bat company so its an issue only for a few hours.

We flip a coin to see who gets the bed and who gets the chair. The chair really wasnt that bad to take a snooze. As I watched Lou sleeping soundly in that big king bed I was so tempted to douse him with water and scurry back to my comfortable chair.

We set the alarm and at 8:57 am we are at the stadium. I call visiting clubhouse manager Aaron and let him know we’re here. Aaron is the true Durham Bull. The Bull Crew meet us at the truck and start to unload all the equipment. Although they all enjoy good laughs, when its time to work, they all have those bullish game faces. During the off-season Aaron could probably make a lucrative living as a pro wrestler.

Once unloaded Lou and I head back to the hotel. We again flip a coin and once again I take my spot in the comfortable chair. We decide to have lunch at about 2 and head to the airport right after. Near the hotel is Jimmy’s famous Hot Dogs. It’s on the way to the airport so we give it a try.

We order the special. Hamburger, Hot Dog, Fries and a soda.

It looked terrific and tasted even better! It was my first time eating a hot dog with slaw on it. Good call on choosing this place for lunch. They make fresh slaw and chili sauce every morning.

We head to the airport and I bid my travel buddy goodbye. I head back to the hotel where there will be no more coin flips. The bed is all mine.

I hope the weather holds up for the game this evening at 7:05. You can enjoy the game on 920 am and several other stations. You can also follow the game on game day located on pawsox.com

I hope the PawSox continue to win. Come cheer on the PawSox when they return to McCoy. Its great family fun with an awesome atmosphere. Come see how we are………”Here For You!”

Would love to here from you.

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros

Hello PawSox Fans!

 

What a fantastic weekend at McCoy Stadium. If you missed it, shame on you! Not only did the PawSox win and hold on to first place, but there was so much going on. On Saturday it was the 3rd annual motorcycle and classic car show. This event continues to grow in popularity. Everyone is given a ballot and has the opportunity to vote for the best car and motorcycle. Folks enjoyed hot dogs and hamburgers, soft drinks and even some frosty cold adult amber-colored beverages. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful day.

 

There was a live band.

 

The cars were impressive. This oldie was from back in the 50′s. These folks had the props to go with the vehicle including the old food tray that back in the day would hang off the window frame of the door.

 

There were old pickup trucks like this beauty.

 

I never heard of an Allard before the show, but learned that it’s a 2010 with a sticker price of $130,000.00! I was chatting with the owner for a bit and he explained it was a replica of the vehicles they made many years ago. Quite impressive.

 

How about this vehicle with the crazy hydraulics.

 

The real crazy hydraulics.

 

The 66 Dodge Charger brought back memories because I had a gray one.

 

The best in show was this 1977 Cadillac. It’s an awesome car that caught my eye as soon as it drove up. The doors opened in a weird way.

The motor was absolutely spotless.

 

The owner of the Caddy sat along side listening to Johnny Cash music…from an 8 track player! A well deserved honor for best in show.

 

Once the car show was over, it was time for the kids and parents to take to the field for the Free Youth Clinic. Several players manned stations to give tips on hitting, fielding, pitching and catching. Nate Spears and Tony Thomas gave instructions to the kids on playing the infield.

 

Ryan Lavarnway handled the catching lessons.

 

Once the clinic was done, everyone had a chance to grab some autographs.

 

The fun and excitement continued when it was time to open the gates. It was Star Wars Day! I will admit that I never saw the movie nor do I know all of the characters. But they were there to pose with fans.

I know what Chewbaca looks like and Darth Vader, and I believe this is an Ewok, but I could be wrong. (Please let me know if I’m right.)

After every Sunday day game it’s run the bases. Kids are allowed to go onto the field and take a lap around the base paths. The Star Wars folks joined in.

The PawSox play a 12:05 game on Monday before heading to Durham, North Carolina. The equipment will be loaded onto the truck, and we head south. The PawSox return home on May 24th with some more action packed days.

Visit pawsox.com for all latest information on promotions and special events. There is always something special going on at McCoy. Great family fun at affordable prices that are guaranteed to please you…..We all know this because we are…….”Here For You!”

Love to hear from you.

 

Yours in Baseball,

 

Rick Medeiros                rickm@pawsox.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

            Hello PawSox Fans!

          What an exciting day and night yesterday. The day started off with a noon time game as the PawSox battled the Rochester Red Wings and came from behind with a 2 run double belted by Mauro Gomez in the bottom of the 8^th. The pitching staff handled the rest and the PawSox won 7-6…

       When the game was over, some of the players changed there cleats and donned a pair of bowling shoes. East Providence Lanes Hosted the 3^rd annual Strike for Cancer bowling fundraiser to benefit The Tomorrow Fund. The Tomorrow Fund is a great organization that assists families with a child fighting cancer.

TheirMission:  “To provide financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families who are treated in The Tomorrow Fund Clinic Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Center at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.”

Some of us show up early to set up. Hal, Katie, Ryan and Marissa, the PawSox interns get everything organized. Bowling alleys have certainly changed over the years. Now they have videos playing, automatic computerized scoring and even the speed of your ball is displayed. This place if fantastic! 

 

I remember as a young lad we had the Tiverton Bowling lanes. On Saturdays, after school or during the summer vacation my friends and I would work there as “pin setters.” Where the pins were, there was this silver steel pedal you would press and these spikes like rods would come through the floor. You would set the pins on the rods, press the pedal again and the rod would drop and you then jump onto the padded shelf they had.

The bowler would throw the first ball, and you’d jump down grab the ball, roll it down the very steep ramp and remove any7 of the deadwood pins. Jump back up on the shelf and do it over and over again. For 4 hours we were paid 2 bucks! Now everything is computerized and much easier.

The interns get all the food set up. There is fried rice, pizza, sandwiches, donuts and much more.

There was a silent auction with all proceeds going to The Tomorrow Fund. There’s an autographed jersey and several autographs bats.

Some of the other items up for bid were a golf outing with pitching coach Rich Sauveur, gift packages and much more. One of the first to show up was hitting Coach Gerald Perry.  He had the look of determination on his face as he put on his “bowling shirt.”

A short while later PawSox Skipper Ernie Bailer arrived with a few of the players. Prior to getting their lane assignments they shared some yucks.

Within no time, the lanes came to life. The folks that paid the donation were told what player/coach they would be playing with, and it was Game On! Everyone was having an awesome time.

Skipper Beyeler chats it up with some young fans.

Che-Hsaun Lin takes time to pose with some fans.

Paws also did some bowling after greeting everyone in attendance.

The Red Sox game was on TV. Not good results, but never give up hope.

Lars Anderson took a moment for a picture with one of his favorite fans.

All the players had their individual bowling style.

Che-Hsuan Lin had the use the Body English style.

Nate Spears had the “I’ll wave and use Mind Control” to get the ball over technique.

+

Tony Thomas used the Professional Bowlers Style and the pins didn’t stand a chance!

It was a fun evening. Thank you very much to the Players, Coaching staff and training staff.  A special thanks to all the folks that came out and offered a donation to this very good cause. You wouldn’t be able to happen without the fans! Thanks!

 7:05 this evening, bowling wont matter as both teams take the field. Tomorrow we have Photoball Night. First 3,000 kids 14 and under will receive a ball with the photos of Ryan Lavarnway, Jose Iglesias and Will Middlebrooks.

Flex tickets, group outings are still available. Go to pawsox.com for information or call 401-724-7300 to speak with a PawSox staff. Come join the fun and excitement of a game at McCoy! We are………”Here For You!”

Love hearing from you!

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros                          rickm@pawsox.com

Hello PawSox Fans!

The PawSox return home tomorrow (Monday) and Dice K is scheduled to take the mound at McCoy. The PawSox beat Andy Pettitte and the Scranton Yankees earlier today in Rochester, New York. The Scranton Yankees don’t have a field, so all of their games for their entire 2012 season are on the road! The Scranton Yankees will be playing 4 games at McCoy in August where they will be the home team! The baseball players life during the season is very hectic with not many days off and add to that all games being on the road and it certainly does not leave you with much family time.

Like I said in my previous blog, it’s always nice to come back home. It was a tough drive home from Toledo. The weather was awful at times with torrential rains and wind slowing traffic to a crawl. There were a couple of accidents, one shut down the highway for almost 2 hours and there was construction. It seemed like it took forever just to get out of Ohio.

The team bused from Toledo to Batavia, New York for one game and then over to Scranton and would bus home from there. Therefore, the equipment is stored and transported by the two buses they have and everything, players, coaches and equipment are transported by bus. I left Toledo late Tuesday afternoon.

I had just started my drive and landed smack in the middle of one of those traffic jams where people have their vehicles off and walking around chatting with others. I used the time to make some calls and play some video games on my phone. Not only was I feeling a bit cranky but also a bit hungry. A sign up ahead showed there was a service area 2 miles up the road. I wondered if I could walk there, grab some vittles and make it back before the traffic was moving. Was it walking distance? Isn’t anywhere walking distance if you have the time? Isnt that a great question?

Anyway, after almost 2 hours the traffic lightens up a bit and we move to a crawl. Crawling is always better than stopped. I have a whole day and a half to make it back to McCoy, so there is absolutely no rush. I pull off the highway into the service area. Once inside I see they have a big food court. There’s pizza shops, burger joints, Chinese food and a whole lot more. For the first time in my life I’m going to try Popeye’s Chicken.

After checking the menu, the chicken tenders with Cajun fries and biscuit seems appealing to me. The lady behind the counter asks, here or to go and I reply, “To go please.”

I shell out $6.33 for my feast. The guy to my right says, “That sounds good, I’ll have the same.” The lady ask for here or to go. He says he will eat here. She rings him up and his tab is $6.59!

I ask why the difference in price and of course the guy on the side wants to know also and we’re told it’s because in Ohio if you eat in, there’s a tax. When you order To Go there is no tax. So the guy says he wants his to go, and the adjustment is made in the price to reflect the same amount as mine.

The guy asks the counter lady what happens if he went to sit down at one of the tables and ate with his family. She replied, “Nothing. You are free to grab a table and stay as long as you wish.” She gave us some advice, a Ohio motto…..”It’s always to go in Ohio!” Next time you’re in Ohio and make a quick stop for food, remember that motto! It would make it easier if they made a sign.

Speaking of signs, while traveling you see all sorts of signs. Slow down, Click it or Ticket, Road Work Ahead, etc… However, you see some pretty humorous signs. Like how about this one to let you know very valuable info.

Or this one. (Perhaps I shouldn’t have picked up that guy in the orange jumpsuit.

Some signs are a bit confusing.

How do you get in?

Should we post a sign like this at the next “Bark in the Park?”

This one at the zoo really shows how much they care for their animals.

Businesses have some fun signs.

How about this marketing strategy from Dairy Queen….Scream until Dad stops the car!

Signs are all around us! Why not follow the signs that head to McCoy Stadium for the upcoming home stand? Visit pawsox.com for all the latest in special events and promotions. Don’t forget on Thursday at East Providence Lanes, just up the road from McCoy, we have the annual Strike for Cancer. For only $25.00 you’ll be able to bowl with one of the PawSox players, eat, drink and be merry while supporting a very good cause, the Tomorrow Fund that helps families dealing with kids with cancer.

Hope to see you at McCoy and at the bowling alleys. One of the signs you’ll see at McCoy are on the ushers shirts……..”Here For You!”

Would love to hear from you!

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros        rickm@pawsox.com

Hello PawSox Fans,

It always feels good to get back home. When I arrive at the office, and see all those friendly faces of my co-workers/friends, its like coming home to a couple of puppies who are so glad to see you. First there is Bill who sees me and smiles ear to ear and says, “Hey welcome back buddy!” Mike Abramson, who was walking to his desk greets me with, “Hey glad to see you’re back, we all missed you very much.” Tommy started jumping up and down clapping his hands with a big smile saying, My best friend is back!” Like I always said, no matter where you travel…..There’s no place like Home!

Once the last game in Columbus, OH was completed, the skies opened up with torrential rains. I’m hoping a slows a bit for the 2.5 hour drive to Toledo. There was the threat of rain throughout the game and we’re all pleased it held up. Not only did the rain hold off but the PawSox were able to win the finale and prevent the sweep.

During my time in Columbus,  I was able to meet some Red Sox fans. I enjoying meeting them and ask them how they became Sox fans. The vast majority are originally from the New England area and relocated. All were PawSox fans. Many of them told me about their trips to McCoy.

It’s nice to check out the different vantage points in the stadiums to watch the game. During the later innings of one of the games I settled in on a shelf table along the concourse. I just got myself a soft drink to watch the end of the game. One of the Clippers belts a hard single down the left field line and this lady and I assume her husband, start whooping it and ringing cowbells! I figure them to be around the mid 50′s range and they are whooping it up!

The next batter came to the plate and took ball one. The lady screams as loud as she can, “Hey good eye, good eye!” The pitcher throws over to first to hold the runner on, and he scurries back to first sliding head first to avoid the tag. Once again this lady screams, “Good eye, Good Eye!” Next pitch was a ball outside and the same phrase was repeated with a very loud “Woooooooo Hoooooooooo!” at the end. The next pitch, the ball is called a strike and crowd moans and starts calling out to the home plate umpire the usual insults. I look at this woman, she opens this small duffel bag that contains one of those red horns you blow in to make that loud foghorn sound. This one is an expandable one!!!! She blows as loud as possible and then boo’s the umpire.

The batter hits a bloop single into center field and she is yelling, “Get in there baby, get in there and drop!” I can not believe how loud she is. In the duffel bag she goes again, and now produces a cowbell about the size of a ’67 Chevy…Now she starts ringing this thing as fast and as hard as she could, all the while just screaming with the guy that was with her. I saw the bag contained various size cowbells and of course that red horn. They were having a great time at a great ballpark and that’s what it’s all about. Some folks enjoyed the game without even being in the stadium.

Now we’re between innings and time for the Hot Dog Race…The Cowbell lady is cheering hard for Relish. She now has two bells and hubby has one.

I head over to the AEP Power Pavilion located in center field. As you can see its a good size structure.

There are three levels and each has food and drink. Each level also has areas to watch the game. The top-level has bleachers.

I have included a story about the bar and Joe Santry. I located a story written in 2009 by Don Delco. Please take a moment to give it a read. I always enjoy my time with Joe.

Clippers historian was key in transformation of Huntington Park.

By DON DELCO

Wednesday July 1, 2009

Columbus Clippers historian and media relations director Joe Santry enjoyed the mid-day walk from his office in right field to Huntington Park’s AEP Power Pavilion beyond the left field fence.

The new park has received glowing reviews since opening in April. Santry’s pride for the park was evident during the long walk to the three-story building. It’s not because he designed the outfield dimensions, laid each brick or hammered each nail. Santry and a handful of collaborators helped Huntington Park become more than a home field for the Clippers with its museum honoring professional baseball in the state’s capital.

“Long before we were a football town, we were an important baseball town,” Santry said. “That’s one thing people don’t realize. When they think of Columbus, they think of the Horseshoe and that we’re in the middle of a cornfield. But we’re a great sports town.”

Santry, 55, is not an imposing physical presence. He is slight of stature and wears glasses. Yet, when the topic of conversation turns to baseball, he commands a room in his ability to tell a story.

“When Babe Ruth used to come into town with the Yankees and play exhibition games, the players stayed at the Neil House,” Santry said. “Everyone thought Ruth was a notorious ladies’ man and his teammates thought at night he’d be out chasing girls.

“What he did every year he came was buy a brand new car and go to Lazarus and buy all the toys there. He’d then drive to St. Vincent’s orphanage on the near east side and donate the toys and cars. The only thing he asked was that nobody ever knew this. It was between him and the kids. We didn’t find out until we were told stories and shown pictures by older women who were children at that time.”

At a moment’s notice, Santry will tell stories of hilarious hijinks, broken hearts, heroics, heartwarming tales and sad endings. His common themes are baseball, players and Columbus.

As Huntington Park’s construction was moving into its final phase, the Clippers president and general manager, Ken Schnacke, approached Santry. Two decades earlier, Schnacke asked Santry to be the Clippers’ official historian.

Now, Schnacke wanted to put Santry’s love of the city’s baseball history on display.

“Joe, I got a job for you,” Schnacke told Santry. “Let’s start at this end of the bar and start with the first picture.”

Inside the second floor of the pavilion is a 130-foot bar. Beginning at one end are pictures and factoids of baseball history as it relates to Columbus starting with the Buckeyes in 1886 and ending with the groundbreaking of Huntington Park.

Among those helping Santry was Grove City resident and vintage baseball collector Tracy Martin. Two years before Huntington Park was completed, Martin met with Schnacke.

“My idea I threw at Ken was to have things on display like in a museum setting,” Martin said. “Joe and I worked together to bring as much of a museum-type atmosphere in the space they had available.”

The bar is 130 feet long.

There’s a picture of Stump Merrill the Yankee Legend who was recently at McCoy when the Scranton Yankees were in town.

They have memorabilia along the walls.

I enjoyed my visit to Columbus once again. They have a great staff who are always there if you need anything. Once the truck gets loaded I’m off to Toledo. The rain was  heavy for a while, but about an hour into the drive it stopped. I contact the clubhouse guy in Toledo who is awaiting  my arrival. The equipment is unloaded and I head to the hotel.

After playing 4 games in Toledo the PawSox will be heading to Batavia, NY to play the Scranton Yankees. Since they’ll be busing to Batavia the equipment will be loaded in the bus compartments.

The PawSox return to McCoy on Monday the 7th. Check out pawsox.com for all the promotions and special events. Thursday, May 10th join PawSox players and staff for Strike Against Cancer at East Providence lanes at 7:00 pm.  On Saturday the 12th its photoball giveaway and Sunday is the very popular Star Wars Day and after the game, just like they do in Columbus, kids can run the bases.

Come cheer on the PawSox and have a great time meeting new people and have a great family day/night at the ballpark. We’re looking forward to seeing you! You already know our motto……We are……………..”Here For You!”

Love to hear from you!

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros                   rickm@pawsox.com

Hello PawSox Fans!

 

Its our last evening in Columbus for one more game against these pesky Columbus Clippers. They have beaten the PawSox in 3 straight games so tonight we can stop the bleeding and get back on the winning track. The three games have been good, hard-fought games with the PawSox just falling short. They had the lead in the last two games and lets hope they grab the lead this evening and hold onto it.

 

Cord Phelps crosses home-plate last evening after belting a home run to bring the Clippers within one run. Subsequently they win the game and we have our last shot this evening to avoid a sweep.

 

The game is just about to get underway. It was a very sunny day in the high 70′s. However, it’s becoming a bit hazy and there is a chance of rain and thunderstorms during the game.

 

Its “Getaway Day” today, meaning that once the game is over, the equipment gets packed and it’s off to Toledo, just about 2.5 hours away on a clear day. Getaway days are always a bit different. One of the biggest differences is checking out of the hotel by 11am. Most hotel check out times are the same, but they usually allow us a later checkout by a couple of hours. The big difference you notice is getaway days when we travel back to McCoy. We checkout of the room by say 2:00 pm, attend the game and after the game travel back home. That usually means you don’t see a bed for at least 24 hours. It’s always exciting and a challenge.

 

During our visit here last season I went to Joe Santry to the Mohawk Restaurant located in the German Village area. If you are a loyal reader of my blog you know that The Mohawk is famous for its Turtle Soup as well as being a hangout for Al Capone during the earlier years. The meal was fantastic and I did try the turtle soup. It was ok but I couldn’t help but think of the little pet turtles I had as a young boy that I later released in a pond. Did they grow and make their way to Columbus and ended up being shredded up and made into this soup that I am now eating? (That is an actual hunk of turtle on the spoon.)

 

Anyway, Joe had also told me about a sausage place. After we finished our lunch at the Mohawk, we headed a short distance down the road to Schmidth’s Sausage Haus, a German Sausage place that has been there since 1886! From generation to generation they continued serving great sausage meals. Next door is the Schmidth’s Fudge Haus making fresh chocolate and fudge. Joe sure knows his way around, and everyone knows him! I enjoy spending time with Joe, it’s always interesting. In the next blog I will share with you a story written about Joe in 2009.

During the off-season while home one evening I was flipping through the channels and saw the Food Network was at The Sausage Haus! They were talking about the magnificent half pound cream puffs and other awesome pastries. They showed all the different sausages they make including their special “Bahama Mama Sausage” which they developed with special spices. I couldn’t wait to return here to give it a try.

 

After checking out of the hotel and running the shuttle to the ball-park for the players it was time to head for the Bahama Mama. I head in and meet Sam. She tells me she will be with me shortly. I check out all the sausages in the case and all the desserts.

Sam shows me to my table. Its 3:00 on a Monday and a good crowd. I meet my server Linda who hands me my menu and I order my usual water. The menu is loaded with good stuff including the “Autobahn Buffet.” There is no speed limit and you stop when you want to! Have you ever seen a sausage buffet? All different types of sausages including sausage stew.

 

They have Sauerkraut and German Mashed Potatoes. They even have Apple chunk apple sauce with cinnamon sprinkled. Being that it’s a getaway day and I have a long night ahead with the travel, I decide to pass on the Autobahn Buffet.

I order the Bahama Mama and I am not disappointed.

 

While enjoying my meal I look around and see the old wooden floors, the old thick, hard wood walls that they don’t build anymore. I can’t think of my in the food business that have been at it since 1886! I take some shot of the photos on the wall. There are actual paintings from German Artists from the 1800. This place is all it’s cracked up to be. The German potato salad was different in a good way, it was warm. I am not a big fan of sauerkraut, but that’s ok, it was a great meal.

Even Arnold ate here and signed his picture, “I’ll be back.”

 

I pay my tab and thank Linda for doing such an awesome job.

 

I head over to the ballpark and watch batting practice.

Aaron and Steve once again choose the inside broadcast area, so the area they would have occupied I can have. Right now its the top of the sixth with the PawSox losing 4-3. Lets make a comeback!

UPDATE: PawSox just took the lead top of the ninth 6-4

 

Cheer on the PawSox when they’re on the road or at home. The PawSox will be home starting on May 7th. Get your tickets now online or by calling 401-724-7300. You can also buy them right online at pawsox.com and check out all the upcoming promotions and also the very good deal with the flex tickets. See you at the game and you’ll see we are……..”Here For You!”

 

Love to hear from you…

 

Yours in Baseball,

 

Rick Medeiros

Hello PawSox Fans!

 

Our second day in Columbus and unfortunately the same result as the first day playing the Columbus Clippers, a PawSox loss.

This evening was a very chilly one but the forecast is for a much better day tomorrow when the PawSox play again at 1:05. Be sure to tune in to one of the many stations that carry the game and cheer the team on!

Huntington Park is such a beautiful stadium. They make you feel at home. As with the PawSox it is like a family. The hospitality is magnificent. Clubhouse Director George and the Visiting Clubhouse Manager Jeff are really on top of things making it a very pleasurable experience.

As you walk to the park along the sidewalk you can see the field.

 

I have seen fans with lawn chairs sitting on the sidewalk enjoying the game.

 

When you head into the main office you see the Back to Back Championship banner. Quite a feat indeed going back to back. Something the whole organization is very proud of, and rightfully so.

 

As you enter the door, there he is, Marvin! He gives you that typical Marv greeting.

 

He’s munching on Funnel Cake Fries something I have never heard of or seen until now. He offers me some but I have to decline because I’m wearing my black PawSox fleece. The fleece certainly wouldn’t look right with that white powered sugar spread all over it.

 

As you head to the elevator to go into the stadium, there it is again….Back to Back Champions.

 

Inside the elevator they have fantastic murals and copies of newspapers.

 

I head to the outside broadcast booth and Aaron and Hyder are not there! They were here yesterday, I have a photo prove it!

 

I soon learn that due to the chill they had sought refuge inside.

 

Watching the game, Josh Kroeger comes to the plate. His picture and stats are displayed on the video board.

 

At the same time a Kroger ad is displayed.

 

Under his stats and picture a message runs advising everyone that Kroger..More Value for the Whole Family. I saw that the name was spelled just a bit different and Josh wasn’t promoting his grocery store.

 

When you walk along the concourse, they leave no doubt who went back to back in 2010 and 2011.

 

Columbus is a great looking city.

I sincerely thank the entire Columbus Clippers for their awesome hospitality and friendship.

The PawSox play tomorrow and their last game on Monday before heading to Toledo. I have made many good friends here. Hopefully they make their way to McCoy at some point during the season. We don’t have the back to back banners just yet, but hopefully in 2012 we get the start of it. They have a tremendous staff from top to bottom and I would love to show off McCoy to all of them and show we are…”Here For You!”

 

Would love to hear from you.

 

Yours in Baseball,

 

Rick Medeiros          rickm@pawsox.com