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Bradley, four other D-backs prospects make Top 100 Shipley, Lamb, Blair and Toussaint round out standout talent By Steve Gilbert / MLB.com http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/107864362/archie-bradley-four-other-d-backs-prospects-make-top-100 Arizona sports executives now big political players By Dan Nowicki / The Arizona Republic http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/arizona/politics/2015/01/31/arizona-sports-executives-now-big-political-players/22612415/ Diamondbacks new vision: A jolt of energy By FOX Sports Arizona http://www.foxsports.com/arizona/video/diamondbacks-new-vision-a-jolt-of-energy-013015 Diamondbacks' Hale likely to experiment with different line-ups By Mark Brown / Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/article/diamondbacks-hale-likely-to-experiment-with-different-line-ups

Buxton, Bryant lead Top 100 Prospects list Pirates lead all Major League organizations with seven representatives By Tyler Maun / MiLB.com http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20150130&content_id=107986042&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_milb&sid=milb Diamondbacks hire Joe Carter By Associated Press http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12244508/arizona-diamondbacks-hire-joe-carter-assistant-general-manager-dave-stewart?ex_cid=espnapi_public A Grand D-backs Experiment, Pt. I By Jeff Wiser / Inside the 'Zona - ESPN.com http://insidethezona.com/2015/01/grand-d-backs-experiment-pt/ Security at stadium moving briskly at Super Bowl XLIX By Gary Mihoces / USA Today http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/super/2015/02/01/super-bowl-security-patriots-seahawks/22702653/ Matt Williams Super Bowl party raises more than $1 million By Megan Finnerty / The Arizona Republic http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2015/01/31/super-bowl-matt-williams-party-charity-mark-wahlberg/22682055/

MLB Franchise Notes: D-Backs' Payroll Likely To Be Third-Highest In Team History By Sports Business Daily http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2015/01/29/Franchises/MLB-Fran-Notes.aspx The Night Before 2015: Jason Aldean, FGL, Dierks Bentley Throw One Crazy Super Bowl Party By Carrie Severson / Radio.com http://radio.com/2015/02/01/the-night-before-jason-aldean-florida-georgia-line-dierks-bentley-review/ 12 Fest in the Desert turns into a display of the power of the 12s By Clare Farnsworth / Seahawks.com http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-1/12-Fest-in-the-Desert-turns-into-a-display-of-the-power-of-the-12s/227554a4-c933-4298-a84d-a109197fb760 Thousands of 12s get loud at Chase Field By KOMO - Seattle News http://www.komonews.com/news/local/290356451.html Seahawks fans flock to ’12 Fest’ rally ahead of Super Bowl XLIX By Seattlepi.com http://blog.seattlepi.com/football/2015/01/31/seahawks-fans-flock-to-12-fest-rally-ahead-of-super-bowl-xlix/ Cleveland Indians talking to John McDonald about rejoining organization By Paul Hoynes / Cleveland.com http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2015/01/cleveland_indians_talking_to_j.html UT students, staff head to Arizona to work Super Bowl XLIX By Mary Caroline Ferguson / Tennessee Journalist http://www.tnjn.com/2015/01/30/ut-students-and-staff-head-to-arizona-to-work-super-bowl-xlix/ UT Martin Professor Has Students Working Events at Super Bowl By Kate Lochte / WKMS - Kentucky NPR http://wkms.org/post/ut-martin-professor-has-students-working-events-super-bowl

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Grudzielanek brings rugged work ethic to Cougars By Bruce Miles / Chicago Daily Herald http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20150131/sports/150139723/

MLB NEWS February 2, 2015 • MLB.com http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/mlb/news/mlb_news_index.jsp ASSOCIATED PRESS February 2, 2015 • Sports.yahoo.com http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews MLB TRANSACTIONS February 2, 2015 • MLB.com http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/transactions

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Bradley, four other D-backs prospects make Top 100 Shipley, Lamb, Blair and Toussaint round out standout talent By Steve Gilbert / MLB.com http://m.dbacks.mlb.com/news/article/107864362/archie-bradley-four-other-d-backs-prospects-make-top-100 PHOENIX -- The D-backs have five players on MLB.com's Top 100 Prospects list that was announced Friday night on MLB Network, highlighted by right-hander Archie Bradley at No. 15. The five players are the third-most by any organization and represent a jump from three last season. Right-hander Braden Shipley is ranked 41, third baseman Jake Lamb is No. 80, right-hander Aaron Blair is No. 81 and right-hander Touki Toussaint is No. 98. The annual ranking of baseball's Top 100 Prospects is assembled by MLBPipeline.com Draft and prospect experts Jonathan Mayo and Jim Callis, who compile input from industry sources, including scouts and scouting directors. It is based on analysis of players' skill sets, upsides, proximity to the Majors and potential immediate impact to their teams. The list, which is one of several prospect rankings on MLBPipeline.com's Prospect Watch, only includes players with rookie status in 2015. Team-by-team Top 30 Prospects lists for 2015 will be unveiled in March. The list does not include recent Cuban free agent signees Yasmany Tomas and Yoan Lopez, because players who are least 23 years of age and have played as a professional in a league recognized by the Commissioner's Office for a minimum of five seasons are not eligible for consideration. Bradley, who ranked fifth on last year's list, struggled at times in the Minors this past season after narrowly losing out on the No. 5 starter spot during Spring Training. The 2014 season was a good learning experience for Bradley, who will enter his second big league camp knowing what to expect. Shipley, who was 79th on last year's list, was Arizona's first-round pick in the 2013 First-Year Player Draft and has three swing-and-miss pitches in his fastball, curve and change. Shipley got better as the 2014 season went along moving from Class A South Bend to Class A Advanced Visalia and finally to Double-A Mobile by season's end. Lamb put up monster numbers -- 35 doubles, 14 homers and 79 RBIs -- in 103 games for Mobile and spent just five games with Triple-A Reno before getting called up to the big leagues in early August. Lamb, who has good range at third, gained valuable experience in the Majors last year and could compete for a spot in Spring Training. Blair was the No. 36 overall pick in the 2013 First-Year Player Draft. Blair worked his way from South Bend to Mobile and saved his best for last as he went 4-1 with a 1.94 ERA for the BayBears. A workhorse, Blair developed his curve last year, giving him three quality pitches, including a fastball in the low-to-mid 90s and a changeup.

Toussaint was the D-backs' No. 1 pick (16th overall) in the 2014 First-Year Player Draft. The team pushed him to Missoula in the Pioneer League last year, knowing that it would be a big jump for him, but wanted him to get the experience in that atmosphere. The 18-year-old impressed during his time in the instructional league following the season.

Arizona sports executives now big political players By Dan Nowicki / The Arizona Republic http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/arizona/politics/2015/01/31/arizona-sports-executives-now-big-political-players/22612415/ Gov. Doug Ducey and other Arizona politicians are supported by some of the owners and top executives of Arizona's professional sports franchises such as the Cardinals and the Diamondbacks. From Derrick Hall of the Arizona Diamondbacks emceeing Gov. Doug Ducey's inauguration to U.S. Sen. John McCain lounging with Arizona Cardinals President Michael Bidwill at a game, politics and sports are mixing in Arizona more than ever. Rather than cheering from the sidelines, Phoenix-area professional sports executives — and in some cases, their relatives — are taking active roles in financing political campaigns, and in some cases are trying to call the plays for the political establishment. Pro sports' cozy relationship with politics is not a new phenomenon, or unique to Arizona or metro Phoenix. Witness the fallout over New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's recent celebratory hug of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, whose team is a rival of the New Jersey-based New York Giants. Jones bankrolled the trip for the possible 2016 Republican presidential candidate. But some say the Valley's teams are assuming a bigger role once filled by Arizona's home-grown captains of industry. With many of Arizona's banks, media organizations and other institutions now owned by out-of-state corporations, the sports franchises increasingly dominate the locally based business landscape. The stark partisan orientation of Arizona teams' political behavior also stands out. Cardinals and Diamondbacks red, also appears to be Republican red. Franchise officials overwhelmingly favor GOP politicians and aren't afraid to publicly cheer a candidate, as they did for Ducey during his campaign for governor. Ducey, the former chief executive of the Cold Stone Creamery ice-cream-shop chain, received thousands in campaign contributions from top Valley sports executives while his Democratic opponent, Fred DuVal, was ignored. The sports titans also sided with Ducey in last year's competitive six-way Republican gubernatorial primary. Michael Bidwill made headlines for urging business leaders to coalesce around Ducey at the expense of GOP rivals such as former Mesa Mayor Scott Smith and former GoDaddy executive Christine Jones. Bidwill was later named to Ducey's inaugural committee.

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"It's not unheard of for this kind of involvement, but it's not the way that the majority of owners behave," said Andrew Zimbalist, an economics professor at Smith College in Massachusetts and an expert on the sports industry. "The majority of owners try to cuddle up to both parties so that they can have some influence no matter who wins, and they might make donations to candidates of both parties. The majority of owners, however, tend to be Republican. They like to have lower taxes." Some observers say sports figures are better known but otherwise no different than other members of the business community who are interested in a vibrant economy and other civic priorities. Others worry that franchise owners' celebrity could give them out-sized influence with starstruck politicians. The relationship seems to be getting cozier. "Sports is big business and big business always has an interest in big government," said John J. "Jack" Pitney, Jr., a political scientist at Claremont McKenna College in southern California. "It's natural: Politicians love sports because their constituents love sports, and sports people understand that politics has a great deal to do with their livelihood — subsidies for stadiums, many different kinds of regulations that affect their business at every level." However, political meddling in today's hyper-partisan climate also brings a potential downside for teams — the possible alienation of fans with different party preferences or philosophies. Many fans view professional sports as community assets that they believe should stay on the sidelines during political brawls. "They have to be very careful, on the surface at least, to not have too partisan of a face," said Bruce Merrill, a veteran political scientist and senior research fellow at Arizona State University's Morrison Institute for Public Policy. "It's behind the scenes that they can still have a big influence on whether certain candidates get money." Sports and politics collide Super Bowl XLIX has highlighted the often emotional nexus of sports and Arizona politics. Even as Bidwill was helping Ducey get elected, he was publicly chastising Glendale officials over hotel "gouging" and complaining that the city has not been a good Super Bowl partner. In most instances where sports and politics have collided, team execs are looking out for their interests rather than picking sides in a debate for partisan reasons. Usually though, the sports business has been at odds with the state's conservatism. In 1991, Arizona lost Super Bowl XXVII, which was to be played at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, because voters initially rejected a Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The NFL moved the 1993 game to Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, Calif. "NFL Go To Hell. And Play The Super Bowl There," a defiant Arizona bumper-sticker read.

A national furor over two bills passed by the Republican-controlled Arizona Legislature also threatened big games set for the state. Passage of Senate Bill 1062, the 2014 right-to-refuse-service measure, was soon followed by rumors the NFL might yank Super Bowl XLIX. The measure prompted a public outcry because it was seen as discriminatory toward the lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender community. Gov. Jan Brewer diffused the situation by vetoing the socially conservative legislation. Uproar over SB 1070, the state's tough 2010 immigration-enforcement law that Brewer signed, led some to pressure Major League Baseball to move its 2011 All-Star Game from Chase Field in Phoenix, although the calls to do so went unheeded. Robert Sarver, the Phoenix Suns' majority owner, opposed SB 1070 and his players protested the law by donning "Los Suns" jerseys, signaling not only a more inclusive brand of politics but also an acknowledgment that many of the team's fans and employees are Latino. Fights over taxpayer support for baseball and football stadiums and hockey arenas played out across the Valley before city and county panels, in the Arizona Legislature and via ballot measures throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s. Many of the biggest critics of public subsidies for pro-sports facilities were anti-tax conservatives who viewed the projects a corporate welfare giveaways to big business. This year, a possible spring-training facility for the Milwaukee Brewers has become an issue in a Peoria City Council race. Glenn Hamer, president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said sports franchise execs have no reason to be ashamed of their political activities. They attract extra attention because they are popular and "in their own right are celebrities," but otherwise largely have the same priorities and concerns of others in the business community, he said. "They want to see a healthy economy," Hamer said. "If you have a healthy economy, generally speaking, people have more disposable income and they are attending more sports games." Republican ties The politics of two of the families behind the Cardinals and Diamondbacks are exclusively Republican. The Bidwill family, which has owned the Cardinals for decades, are reliable Republican benefactors, as is Ken Kendrick, the Diamondbacks' managing general partner. The Republic's efforts seeking comment from Michael Bidwill about his family's political activities were not successful. Kendrick declined through a spokesman to discuss his or his family's contributions. According to a Republic analysis of state political contributions, Bill Bidwill, the Cardinals' owner and chairman, gave more than $10,000 total to Ducey, Attorney General Mark Brnovich and Secretary of State Michele Reagan during the 2014 election cycle.

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Michael Bidwill, a former federal prosecutor who worked on Republican Bob Dole's unsuccessful 1996 presidential campaign in Arizona prior to joining the Cardinals' front office, gave more than $14,000 to Ducey, Reagan and other state candidates during the same period. Other Bidwill family members doled out a total of about $15,000 for Ducey, Brnovich and Reagan. Ron Minegar, the Cardinals' executive vice president and chief operating officer, gave $1,100 to business PACs and $750 to Ducey. Kevin McCarthy, president of the watchdog Arizona Tax Research Association, said the Bidwills' concentration on Ducey is easier to defend because it appears to reflect a sincere belief that Ducey was the best candidate. Writing checks to all candidates, Republican and Democrat, as some business operators choose to do, can only be interpreted as a cynical play for special access. "If what Bidwill did and Kendrick did was write big checks to a particular candidate, they're supporting that candidate and it's their right to do so," McCarthy said. McCarthy sees the political activities of Bidwill and Kendrick as an outgrowth of their business advocacy. ATRA closely monitors the Arizona Legislature, and McCarthy said he is unaware of pending legislation sought by the state's professional teams. "They're not at the Capitol much," he said. McCain, R-Ariz., a voracious sports fan who pays face-value for tickets when he attends games, including Sunday's Super Bowl in Glendale, said he doubted the Cardinals organization would need to spend money on political donations to get a friendly audience with elected officials. "The Bidwills are Republican, and they always have been, going back to St. Louis," McCain told The Republic. "But I honestly have not seen any difference between them and, say, the CEO of Intel or Boeing or Raytheon or other leaders in the business community." Kendrick, of the Diamondbacks, a McCain supporter over the years, gave more than $18,000 during the state's 2014 cycle, including $4,000 to Ducey; $4,000 to Brnovich and $4,000 to Republican state Treasurer Jeff DeWit, according state records. On the federal level, he gave about $175,000 to candidates and causes, including $100,000 to a conservative Super PAC called Grow WV, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. Hall, the baseball team's president and CEO, gave $4,220 in the state, including $4,000 to Ducey. He also co-chaired with former Suns and Diamondbacks heavyweight Jerry Colangelo the finance committee of Democratic congressional candidate Mary Rose Wilcox. As a Maricopa County supervisor, Wilcox was wounded in a 1997 shooting by a deranged critic of her vote to enact a countywide temporary sales tax to fund construction of the Diamondbacks' ballpark. Hall donated $2,600 to Wilcox in June, but later gave $1,000 to now-U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., who beat her in the August primary. Some less partisan

"They're certainly well-known and all that, but I'm not sure they have outsized influence," McCain said of the sports executives. "I know that, for example, Kendrick's wife has been active politically much more than Ken has. Bidwill has been engaged, but the guys at the (NHL's Arizona) Coyotes, I haven't noticed anything. I haven't seen any engagement in the political arena by Sarver. So it sort of varies by the individual." Last year, Sarver, as well as Kendrick, was listed on the host committee of an April 24 McCain fundraiser at the Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix. McCain is correct that Sarver and the management of the Coyotes hockey team have not been particularly active donors in recent statewide politics. In 2014, Sarver gave $912 to Ducey and $1,912 to losing Democratic Attorney General candidate Felecia Rotellini. Andrew Barroway, the Coyotes' Pennsylvania-based owner, chairman and governor, gave Rotellini $2,000. Sarver seems to keep a closer eye on Phoenix city politics, having donated over the past couple of years to various candidates, including Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. On Oct. 16, Maria Baier, a former Phoenix City councilwoman and the Suns' senior vice president for communications and public affairs, organized a fundraiser for Phoenix City Councilman Sal DiCiccio, to whom Sarver contributed $2,000. In an interview with The Republic, Sarver described himself as "politically, very much in the middle in terms of my views" and said he is comfortable supporting either Democrats or Republicans who he believes will do a good job for Arizona. SB 1070 "was just one issue that I just felt so strongly was going to be very negative for the state and do a lot of damage," Sarver said. "And just from a civil-rights standpoint, I didn't think it was appropriate." Sarver's background in banking has made him value jobs, he said, which makes him put a priority on "the overall well-being of our state and our economy." "Some people have strong influence in politics, but I don't think it comes from the position or the type of business they operate," Sarver said. "It comes more from their involvement, the time and money that they spend on campaigns. People have all sorts of different passions." Family contributions The Kendrick family member most associated with politics and causes is not directly associated with the Diamondbacks. Randy Kendrick, Kendrick's wife, is in a league of her own in her support for the political right, giving more than $130,000 to state political efforts in the 2014 election cycle, according to the Arizona Secretary of State's Office, and, at the federal level, more than $290,000 to Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives and other conservative political action committees, according to the non-partisan Center for Responsive Politics.

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A former board member of the pro-growth Arizona Free Enterprise Club, Randy Kendrick gave $25,000 to the campaign backing Proposition 122, a statewide ballot measure that ostensibly would let Arizona refuse to enforce U.S. laws that the Legislature or voters consider to be unconstitutional. She also donated at least $50,000 to the Arizona Republican Party. Her financial generosity also extended to candidates and organizations outside Arizona. She has donated to U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, a favorite of "tea party" conservatives and a possible 2016 presidential contender. On Oct. 6, she hosted a well-attended fundraiser at her Paradise Valley home to benefit Republican U.S. Senate candidates Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, Joni Ernst of Iowa, Monica Wehby of Oregon, and GOP U.S. House candidates Barbara Comstock of Virginia, Marilinda Garcia of New Hampshire and now-U.S. Rep. Martha McSally, R-Ariz. In a letter to The Republic published in October, Randy Kendrick defended billionaire brothers Charles and David Koch, a favorite target of the left for their big spending on conservative and libertarian-leaning causes, and lashed out at media scrutiny of anonymous "dark money" in politics, suggesting it is an attempt to silence right-leaning financial contributors and organizations. "Please quit calling me for comment," she wrote. "Quit with the intimidation! Quit making other donors afraid to associate and give to great causes. Quit sullying the practice of private and anonymous free speech, which dates to the anonymously written and published 'Federalist Papers' and the right of the NAACP to keep its donors private during the civil-rights era." Though Randy Kendrick emphasized she was proud of her association with Charles Koch, there are signs the Diamondbacks organization is more wary of appearing so partisan. After Hall participated in the Jan. 5 inauguration ceremony of Ducey, Reagan, Brnovich, DeWit, Superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas and state Mine Inspector Joe Hart — all Republicans — a Twitter user with the handle @bmain249 wrote he was "sad" that Hall was involved with politics and that he had lost some respect for him. Hall tweeted back that he was "just emcee for the state. No politics. All good."

Diamondbacks new vision: A jolt of energy By FOX Sports Arizona http://www.foxsports.com/arizona/video/diamondbacks-new-vision-a-jolt-of-energy-013015 In new manager Chip Hale, the Diamondbacks have a high-energy baseball lifer who is well suited for motivating a young roster. (Video embedded on webpage).

Diamondbacks' Hale likely to experiment with different line-ups By Mark Brown / Examiner.com

http://www.examiner.com/article/diamondbacks-hale-likely-to-experiment-with-different-line-ups With three weeks before the Diamondbacks’ pitchers and catchers assemble at Salt River for the commencement of spring training, there remain a few unanswered questions. Just after the battery mates arrive, position players set up shop and then the plot thickens. Two significant issues face manager Chip Hale, entering his first season as Diamondbacks’ field manager. First is construction of his everyday line-up, and probably more important, how he intends to play the game of baseball. Here, there are several options. Assuming Hale will go with Endar Inciarte and A. J. Pollock at the top of the line-up, this immediately incorporates speed. With this approach, it could be expected the Diamondbacks would pressure opponents from the start, and set the table for Paul Goldschmidt and Mark Trumbo hitting behind. “The style you play starts in spring training,” Hale said when he was introduced as the franchise’s seventh manager. “You have to get that down and players have to get those things right. Everything has to be in place for the execution to work.” Then, Hale outlined his fundamental approach. “From the time I started in youth baseball, I was told the strength of your team is up the middle,” he pointed out. “We’re pretty strong here but keeping guys healthy is the key.” From a defensive standpoint, the Diamondbacks appear to be solid up-the-middle. With either Aaron Hill or Chris Owings at second and Owings or Nick Ahmed at short, Pollock emerged last season as one of the top defensive centerfielders in the game. Behind the plate, the Diamondbacks elevated Tuffy Gosewisch to number one on the depth chart. Though not expecting a major, offensive production from Gosewisch, Hale is likely to be more than satisfied in Gosewisch’s approach the game. In command of a starter on any given night and the staff in general, Gosewisch is capable of calling a strong game, remains aware of how to keep a pitcher focused, is regarded as a strong student of the game and maintains an engaging, clubhouse personality. Coming into spring training, Hale then must decide how he wants to play the game. At the top of the line-up, he can start with “small ball,” and utilize the speed of Inciarte and Pollock. Then again, he can go with power and rely on Goldschmidt, Trumbo, Hill, and rookie third baseman Yasmany Tomas to knock in runs at a sure and steady pace. The latter approach will not likely be Hale’s modus-operandi.

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Telling reporters through the current off-season that he likes the combination of youth and experience and speed and power, Hale will likely experiment in the spring with different combinations. Plus, he will not the divulge cards up his sleeves as not to tip off opponents.

Buxton, Bryant lead Top 100 Prospects list Pirates lead all Major League organizations with seven representatives By Tyler Maun / MiLB.com http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20150130&content_id=107986042&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_milb&sid=milb Byron Buxton may consider 2014 a lost season, but there's one thing he didn't lose: his place as the top prospect in baseball. The Twins outfielder will enter the campaign atop MLB.com's list of the Top 100 Prospects. Buxton is the highest-rated of six Twins prospects on this year's list, tying the team with the Cubs for the second-most of any Major League organization; only the Pirates -- with seven -- have more. Minnesota youngsters, however, rank highest in prospect points accumulated with 464, 40 points more than the second-place Cubs. Although he saw action in only 31 games between Class A Advanced Fort Myers and Double-A New Britain last year due to a wrist injury and concussion, Buxton's five-tool abilities kept him atop the list. The 21-year-old center fielder batted .234/.307/.395 in his limited time in 2014, and his Arizona Fall League stint also was cut short due to injury. Should Buxton return to full speed this spring, Twins general manager Terry Ryan has said he could make his big league debut in 2015. Cubs slugger Kris Bryant checks in second in this year's Top 100 rankings. The third baseman took the Minor Leagues by storm in his first full professional season last year, batting .325/.428/.661 and capturing the Minors home run title with 43 between Double-A Tennessee and Triple-A Iowa. A trio of shortstops occupy the next three spots. Like Buxton, the Astros' Carlos Correa is coming off injury-shortened season. The first overall pick in the 2012 Draft suffered a broken right last June but dazzled in 62 games with Class A Advanced Lancaster, batting .325/.416/.510 at the age of 19. Cleveland's Francisco Lindor is next. Only 20 last season, he ascended to Triple-A for the first time, riding his third straight midseason All-Star selection -- honored as a member of Double-A Akron -- to Columbus. In 38 International League games, Lindor more than held his own with a .273/.307/.388 slash line. The Puerto Rico native also made an Futures Game appearance in July, his second in three seasons. ----

Francisco Lindor ✔ @Lindor12BC Correa #3 my man is good #puertorico #anotherpuertorican #puertoricannation #WBC17 ----

The other half of the Cubs' possible future left side of the infield comes in at No. 5 in Addison Russell. A Fourth of July acquisition from the A's, he transitioned almost seamlessly from the Double-A Texas League to the Southern League. In 50 games with Tennessee, the 21-year-old hit .294/.332/.536 with 12 homers while showing no ill effects from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for much of the first half of the season. The first pitcher to crack the Top 100 is Nationals right-hander Lucas Giolito. Awards came in droves for the 20-year-old during and after his breakout 2014 season. Giolito was twice named South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Week with Class A Hagerstown, earned a spot at the Futures Game. He also was tabbed an MiLB.com Organization All-Star and the Sally League's Most Outstanding Major League Prospect and Most Outstanding Pitcher. In 20 starts for the Suns, Giolito went 10-2 with a 2.20 ERA and 1.00 WHIP while limiting opponents to a .197 batting average. Another shortstop makes the top 10 at No. 7 in Dodgers prospect Corey Seager. The younger brother of Mariners third baseman Kyle, Seager dominated the California League to the tune of a 1.044 OPS in 80 games before being promoted to Double-A Chattanooga at the age of 20. In 38 games with the Smokies, he hardly slowed down, batting .345/.381/.534. The youngest member of the list is another Dodgers prospect, left-hander Julio Urias. After debuting in 2013 as a 16-year-old in the Midwest League, Urias made 25 appearances -- 20 starts -- for Class A Advanced Rancho Cucamonga last season and impressed with a 2-2 record and 2.36 ERA. Though the Dodgers were cautious with the young southpaw's workload, he pitched a full season without issue. One of the game's premier power prospects is the Rangers' lone top 10 representative. Third baseman Joey Gallo missed out on a share of the Minor League lead with 42 homers, one shy of Bryant. The Las Vegas native matched his 21-homer output in 58 games with Class A Advanced Myrtle Beach in the first half of the season with 21 more with Double-A Frisco in the second half. Gallo was named Most Valuable Player of the Futures Game where, after putting on a show in batting practice, he hammered the game-winning homer for Team USA. Another Futures Game selection, Mets right-hander Noah Syndergaard rounds out the top 10. Having spent all of last season with Triple-A Las Vegas, he went 9-7 with a 4.60 ERA in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League, striking out 145 batters while walking 43 over 133 innings. The Mets hope Syndergaard will follow the road of young stars Matt Harvey, Zack Wheeler and Jacob deGrom to Queens. Two players who closed 2014 in MLB.com's top 10 are outside looking in this year. Twins third baseman Miguel Sano missed all of last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery but should be ready for Spring Training and, like Buxton, could make his Major League debut. D-backs right-hander Archie Bradley pitched in 18 games between Double-A Mobile, Triple-A Reno and a rehab start in the Arizona League, going 3-7 with a 4.45 ERA in a season hampered by elbow soreness. Beyond the Pirates with their MLB-best seven representatives in the Top 100, the Twins and Cubs each boast six. The Rangers,

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Mets, Royals, D-backs and Red Sox claim five players on the list. Four teams placed just one player among the Top 100: the Brewers, Cardinals, Tigers and World Series champion Giants. Pittsburgh's highest-ranked prospect is right-hander Tyler Glasnow at No. 12. The Bucs have three more players in the Top 50, including righty Jameson Taillon, first baseman/outfielder Josh Bell and outfielder Austin Meadows. Offseason trades have put some of the game's premier prospects in new locales entering 2015. Former Marlins prospect Andrew Heaney is ranked No. 25 heading into his first season with the Angels, while Rays shortstop Daniel Robertson is ranked 65th, three weeks after he was traded by the A's. The Tigers' lone representative on the list is slugger Steven Moya, who checks in at No. 100. He spent 133 games with Double-A Erie last season, batting .276/.306/.555 with 35 homers and 105 RBIs.

Diamondbacks hire Joe Carter By Associated Press http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12244508/arizona-diamondbacks-hire-joe-carter-assistant-general-manager-dave-stewart?ex_cid=espnapi_public PHOENIX -- The Arizona Diamondbacks have hired Joe Carter as special assistant to general manager Dave Stewart. Carter and Stewart played together for two seasons with Toronto, including the Blue Jays' 1993 World Series championship team. Carter's walk-off three-run home run off Mitch Williams in Game 6 gave the Blue Jays a come-from-behind victory to clinch their second straight world championship. Stewart was the starting pitcher and worked six innings in that game. He had 12 seasons with at least 25 home runs and became the first player with 100 RBIs in consecutive seasons for three teams -- Cleveland, San Diego and Toronto.

A Grand D-backs Experiment, Pt. I By Jeff Wiser / Inside the 'Zona - ESPN.com http://insidethezona.com/2015/01/grand-d-backs-experiment-pt/ The Diamondbacks, like most other professional baseballers, are about to head back to work in earnest. Just about everyone’s got a countdown going to when pitchers and catchers report since we’re all eager to see what the 2015 story of baseball has in store for us. Foreshadowing: it’ll be great. No, really, I think Arizona Diamondback fans have a lot to look forward to in 2015. Because, if you’ve been paying attention, there’s a lot of questions and not a lot of answers. But guess what! We’ll soon have a bunch of those answers. I’ve just recently come around to this point of view after an entire offseason of analyzing the team. There are some sources around the greater baseball community that we at Inside the ‘Zona lean on for information or to cross-reference ideas. It’s rare for those sources to come to us and ask what the hell is going on, however. But that’s just what happened when one such source reached out and asked what the plan was heading

into 2015. I replied that there are a bunch of experiments to run and that the team is in a great shape to run those experiments. I’m not sure if that was a satisfactory answer or not (leaning towards “or not”), but that’s how I see it. The Diamondbacks are in a great position to find out just what they have at a bunch of positions. Last week I took some time to briefly discuss the projections for Diamondback hitters and pitchers. As you could have guessed, they weren’t rosy. There was a lot of average and below average performances projected outside of Paul Goldschmidt and A.J. Pollock. But you knew that and so does everyone else. We can choose to look at that two ways. A) the team is low on impact talent is going to probably be mediocre in 2015, or B) there are a lot of interchangeable parts on the D-backs roster and we are about to witness a grand experiment where some cream will undoubtedly rise to the top. I’m focussed on option B, and yes I know that means that we’ll see plenty of struggles, but I truly believe that D-backs fans are about to witness some successes along the way. Players can’t break through if they’re never given an opportunity, and on this team, there’s no shortage of replaceable players who can and should be swapped out to give others a chance. Think about it: there’s really only a handful of guys who deserve their spot on the diamond no matter what. Goldy, Pollock, Chris Owing and Josh Collementer, some bullpen pieces and maybe Jeremy Hellickson since the team gave up assets for him. Even then “no matter what” might be a little strong. But after that, well, things get pretty dicey. And that’s fine. We have to accept that this is the state of the roster right now. It’s better than it was last year and it’s trending in a reasonably good direction. But there are plenty of areas of concern that we here at Inside the ‘Zona will be watching closely. I want to take a stab at some of these and explain why I think there’s plenty to look forward to this season (we’ll do position players today and pitchers on Thursday). Here are just a few of the areas worth looking forward to. Who Plays Third Base? This has been a hot topic since Yasmany Tomas was added to the puzzle since the D-backs have Jake Lamb and Brandon Drury in the queue at the hot corner. I’m not going to re-hash my belief that Tomas is better-suited for an outfield corner, nor will I fully discuss why I think it’s just fine that they want to give him a shot at third to start him out. It’s all good, time will allow this experiment to play out and it’ll be fun to see what happens. As of now, I can see Tomas getting the start at third, Lamb beginning the year in Reno (where he really could use some time) and Drury either starting at third in Mobile or at second in Reno. Either way, Tomas will get a crack at the starting job, and if he can handle it, Lamb becomes an expendable trade asset that has some value. Drury will likely spend almost all or the entirety of 2015 in the minors, so the team can decide if they want to Tomas to stay at third in 2016 and move Drury to second, or, they can decide move Tomas to the OF and give Drury the job provided 2015 goes well for him in the upper minors.

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They again, Tomas could quickly prove himself unready for third base during Spring Training and Lamb could open the season as the team’s third baseman. They’d have to clear an outfield corner spot for Tomas if that were the case and I have no doubt that they’d do so to get their newest major league asset into he lineup since they’re paying him his full salary whether he’s in the minors or the majors. In essence, there’s no benefit to sending him to Reno. In this case, they’d have some time to both evaluate Lamb at third as a potential long-term fit and evaluate Drury at either second or third base depending on how Lamb progresses. That’s a lot of words and a lot of scenarios, but this is all about experiments and, hey, at least there appear to be a number of options. It’s up in the air for now and that’s how it’ll likely stay for at least the first few months of the season. Tomas, Lamb and Drury are important assets and it’s likely that by the start of 2016, we won’t be asking who’s job it is anymore; we’ll have our answer. Until then, it’s something to watch closely. Can the Middle Infield Progress? The middle infield logjam had been well-chronicled here but it was finally (somewhat) cleared up winter when Didi Gregorius was jettisoned to the Yankees. A few in the game feel that he was never given enough of a shot and we’ll have to see how he develops in New York to find a resolution. Regardless, the middle infield moves forward with Aaron Hill in need of a bounce-back campaign and Chris Owings in need of proving he’s healthy and can handle a full season at shortstop. These two need to produce for the Diamondbacks to have a chance at getting back to .500 in the near future. But they’re not alone. I think it’s safe to say that Cliff Pennington is a good defender who doesn’t hit much, but the intrigue revolves around a couple of younger players. Can Nick Ahmed show some of the stick he showcased in Reno in 2014? Does he start the year in the minors? He’ll surely see the majors at some point in 2015, and when he does, he’ll have to prove that he truly belongs. His defensive abilities are enough to keep him around on their own, but if he can do any kind of damage at the plate, he may just force his way into the lineup on a somewhat regular basis should Hill or Owings scuffle. Then again, Brandon Drury has seen time at second base and should be considered an option there. Most scouts like him better at third, but in the short-term, he could likely play some second if it means getting his bat in the major league lineup. He could be ready as early as August if he continues to tear through the minors and, if third base is clogged up, could see a somewhat significant amount of time in Arizona, especially if any of the second base options suffer an injury. He has the offensive upside that the organization covets and he’ll need a chance to face major league pitching in the very near future. Again, we see a lot of candidates and a lot of possible combinations. There are incumbents who the team is counting on, but should they falter, there are others in the wings who are ready for a chance to prove they belong. Can they capitalize on the chance when it comes? We should get some clarity here as the season wears on. Will the Outfield be Optimized?

Mark Trumbo is a bad defender who wasn’t good at the plate last year. Cody Ross is expensive and coming off of a major injury and a return that was severely underwhelming. David Peralta has some major splits to overcome to show that he’s more than just a bat against righties. Ender Inciarte needs to prove that both his defense and average-isn offense are for real. A.J. Pollock needs to prove he can stay healthy for a full season. Oh, and we may just see Yasmany Tomas thrown into this mix at some point, too. With three outfielders in the lineup every day, Arizona has to have offensive production from this unit. So, what’s the best combination? Pollock in center is a given so long as he’s able. But in the corners, the D-backs have options. Considering he cost the team Tyler Skaggs and Adam Eaton, Mark Trumbo is going to start every day to begin the season, but given his struggles against righties, that may not be the best idea. A platoon of him and David Peralta makes so much sense, yet I’m not sure we see it. Plus, that may stunt Peralta’s growth as he needs at-bats against lefties to improve if he’s going to do so. Instead, it’s likely Trumbo in right and Peralta in left on most days, and depending on who’s pitching, one should rake and one should suffer in a big way. That pushes Ender Inicarte, the team’s second-most valuable outfielder, to the bench on a mostly full-time basis and relegates Cody Ross to a bench bat role. No one’s going to quibble with the latter, but Arizona is leaving production, especially that of the defensive variety, on the bench by not starting Inciarte. He showed little in the way of splits last year, making him a good option against both righties and lefties. If the organization chooses to prioritize defense at some point, he could become an above-average option in left field, doing enough in the field to improve upon his average offensive production. Runs saved are valuable, and you may have noticed, the pitching staff could likely benefit from some help in the field. Tomas is a wild card and should he get moved to the outfield, someone’s gotta go. That might mean sending a major league asset like Peralta or Inciarte to the minors. The team could also just cut Cody Ross, but that would require eating his entire salary, something they won’t be willing to do until at least after the All Star break when they’ve seen enough to know he hasn’t recovered some of his value. Still, Tomas getting moved to the outfield would require some kind of transaction, which could even include the team moving one of Peralta or Inciarte. Either way, this is a secondary concern, but one that will take some time to play out. Does Hernandez Stick on the 25-Man and Can O’Brien Catch? We’ve applauded the D-backs for selecting Oscar Hernandez in the Rule 5 draft and it was a smart move considering the catching depth in the organization. But, he’s a 21-year old who’s never played above A-ball and by all accounts, will be in way over his head in the majors. Can the team take up a valuable roster spot on his behalf to let him develop? At this point, that appears to be the plan. Of course, the other catching talk has revolved around Peter O’Brien and the positive reviews he’s receiving internally. Scouts outside the organization, however, have been pretty united in stating that he’s not a viable major league catching prospect. The raw power he has in undeniable and it plays better behind the

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plate than anywhere else and the D-backs are doing the right thing by trying to make it work. All signs point to O’Brien being a diligent worker who’s working hard to see to it that he makes it to the majors as a catcher. Both of these are propositions that are hard to feel confident betting on, however, and it’s not out of the realm of possibility that the D-backs do add another catcher at some point in the coming weeks. They may want to get into Spring Training before making a move, allowing them some additional time to evaluate the situation. Just as we’ve seen above, there are options here, but no clear ones aside from Tuffy Gosewisch, which doesn’t instill a lot of confidence in the catching department. But we’ll know a lot more in the coming months. A Shaky but Exciting Situation People want to know who’s going to start, who’s going to make the roster and what the 2015 Arizona Diamondbacks look like. I think we can pencil in the Opening Day lineup somewhat easily, but it’s not about where you start, it’s where you finish. And if we’re reading into the situation correctly, where this team finishes will be vastly different from where it starts. And again, that’s just fine. We’ll have no shortage of situations to monitor as 2015 plays itself out. Third base, outfield, middle infield, catcher, all of these are somewhat up for grabs. The only way to find clarity is to experiment with the options that the team has and that grand experiment is about to begin. Keep your eyes peeled because even though the team won’t contend for the NL West crown this season, their next title run begins this season as the building blocks of the next contender will start to be revealed in short order.

Security at stadium moving briskly at Super Bowl XLIX By Gary Mihoces / USA Today http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/super/2015/02/01/super-bowl-security-patriots-seahawks/22702653/ GLENDALE, Ariz. — Seattle Seahawks fans Greg Thomas and his wife, Sue, were delighted by how quickly they made it through Super Bowl XLIX security to get into University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday. That was in sharp contrast to a long line they waited out a day earlier to get into a Seahawks fan party. "It maybe took us five minutes to get through security and get in," said Thomas, 63, of Mattawa, Wash. The Super Bowl prohibits backpacks, fanny packs and purses larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. Clear plastic or vinyl bags are permitted, including one-gallon freezer bags. Sue Thomoas, 62, said they were aware of that, so they brought a couple of sweatshirts and other personal items in two clear plastic bags. Screening began at noon MT. They arrived about 12:30 and went through a patdown and metal detector. On Saturday, they went to a Seahawks fan rally hosted by team owner Paul Allen at Chase Field, home of baseball's Arizona Diamondbacks. A crowd of about 25,000 showed up.

"We stood in line for two hours to get in that stadium, and it was a horrible bottleneck to get in," said Greg. "There was no rhyme or reason to it. They only had three gates open out of the whole facility. It was a nightmare to get in. We lined up about 12:45 and we got in about 2:45." Enrique Garibay, 27, of Mexico City, came Sunday with a small camera, allowed as long as the lens is no longer than 6 inches. "There was a line, but it took only 4-5 minutes," said Garibay. Patriots fans Glen Wyllie and Russell Amero came from Canada. "Less than five minutes to get in. That's pretty good," said Wyllie, 44 of Halifax, Nova Scotia, who was attending his first Super Bowl. Amero, 44, of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, had one small hitch. "They took a beer from me. I had a beer in my pocket," he said. Both welcomed the safety measures. "You want security. You've had stuff like the Boston Marathon (bombing) and other stuff going on in the rest of the world," said Wyllie. Added Amero: "It was a concern of mine coming here to this big event, that it would be a target. ... And I appreciate all the security they have here. That was one of my first pictures, taking pictures of the guys in their Army fatigues with the guns. That makes you feel a little safer." Inside the stadium, the GameDay Fan Plaza was open to ticket holders before taking their seats. Entertainment included marching bands, and the Super Bowl Gospel Choir and other live music.

Matt Williams Super Bowl party raises more than $1 million By Megan Finnerty / The Arizona Republic http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2015/01/31/super-bowl-matt-williams-party-charity-mark-wahlberg/22682055/ PARADISE VALLEY, Ariz. -- More than $1.1 million was raised for charity at the Big Game, Big Event fundraiser, one of the swankiest VIP bashes held during Super Bowl week in Arizona. "It just shows what a philanthropic state we are," event co-chair Linda Pope said as the event was getting underway Saturday night in Paradise Valley. Big Game, Big Give has been held in the Super Bowl host city since its inception six years ago, and each year, it tops the list of most elegant game-related parties. On Saturday night, the Valley version of this all-VIP charity bash was on its way to being the most over-the-top yet. Washington Nationals manager and former Diamondback Matt Williams and his wife, Erika, hosted the event at their 20,000-square-foot Paradise Valley home. It was to feature fireworks and even a visit from the Transformer Optimus Prime. A

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massive cake from Phoenix's Tammie Coe bakery was large enough to feed 500 and in the shape of the University of Phoenix stadium, including the roll-out field. The goal was to raise $1 million for the Giving Back Fund, one of the primary beneficiaries of the night, along with the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Phoenix. "You get the right people together, they can do amazing things," Matt Williams said. Actor and producer Mark Wahlberg and "Transformers" director Michael Bay were also among the hosts. The guest list included Walmart heirs Melani and Rob Walton, Arizona's Republican U.S. Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake, and Arizona Cardinals president Michael Bidwill. It was co-chaired by Linda Pope and her husband Bill. Gannett Co., Inc., USA TODAY, The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com were among the sponsors. Guests walked a block-long red carpet before entering the Williams' walled estate. Once inside, there were photo opportunities with the Budweiser Clydesdales. A bronze-colored, flaming sculpture of the mythical Phoenix was the courtyard's centerpiece. Early arrivers included Bay and Cindy McCain, both co-hosts. Former San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, "No Country for Old Men" and "Fargo" producer Joel Coen and a handful of Washington Nationals players followed. Gov. Doug Ducey attended, along with many of the Valley's biggest charitable donors. The party had an over-the-top Arizona theme developed by Linda Pope. Inside to the right, they could visit an Old West Tombstone saloon. To the left, a Route 66-themed area. In the backyard, a Flagstaff theme came complete with a Snowbowl ski lift. And on a rooftop deck, officials from Flagstaff's Lowell Observatory had set up telescopes and were passing around pieces of moon rock. "People always get excited to hold a piece of the moon, no matter who they are," said Jeffrey Hall, director of Lowell Observatory. "American Idol" winner and Glendale native Jordin Sparks was performing later in the evening. More than $100,000 in goods was donated for gift bags, raffles and prizes from Saks Fifth Avenue, including a mink stole. The online auction items included a week-long trip to Deer Valley, Utah, for skiing, and a trip to the American Idol Finale in Hollywood, with VIP tickets to an afterparty with celebrities from the show. There were also trips to the Daytona 500, a tour of the White House and several days in Washington, D.C., as a guest of the Nationals, and the chance to fly to an Arizona Diamondbacks road game on the team plane. Many opening bids started at $20,000.

MLB Franchise Notes: D-Backs' Payroll Likely To Be Third-Highest In Team History

By Sports Business Daily http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2015/01/29/Franchises/MLB-Fran-Notes.aspx FOX SPORTS ARIZONA's Jack Magruder reported the D-Backs "are positioned to spend about" $91M on payroll this season. That figure "would be the third-highest" in team history, yet still "among the lower third" in MLB. D-Backs GM Dave Stewart said that the team is "unlikely to shed salary" even after "losing money last season." The team at some point "will need to make room" for the $16M outlay in P Yoan Lopez' deal -- his $8.25M signing bonus plus an $8M tax to MLB for "over-spending their international bonus pool" (FOXSPORTSARIZONA.com, 1/28). ANNIVERSARY PARTY: In DC, Dan Steinberg reported the Nationals next week will begin unveiling plans "to celebrate the franchise’s 10th anniversary." The team is "going about its promotional schedule release in a non-traditional manner, with a '10 Days of Teddy' campaign." Beginning next week, the Nats' Twitter feed "will post a clue about the location of its Teddy Roosevelt mascot," and the first person to locate the mascot hat will find a box with a baseball that lists "one of the 10th anniversary items." Whoever finds the box and "tweets a photo of its contents will get the ball, a voucher for that item, and two tickets to the game at which it will be distributed" (WASHINGTONPOST.com, 1/28). HOW TO CATCH A FISH: MLB.com's Joe Frisaro noted the Marlins "went the extra mile to make a strong first impression on their latest acquisition, with five team executives traveling 18 hours by plane to Japan to properly welcome" OF Ichiro Suzuki. He becomes "the first Japanese-born player in franchise history" after signing a one-year, $2M contract on Tuesday. Marlins President David Samson said, "Baseball is so important in Japan, and it's so important to the worldwide growth and international growth of baseball. To not come here, and to not give this the proper import that it truly deserves wouldn't have been smart" (MLB.com, 1/28). DEFENDING THE DEN: In Chicago, Christopher Placek reported Cubs Chair Tom Ricketts on Tuesday "defended plans" to complete the Wrigley Field renovations "over a five-year span during off-seasons, instead of getting the work done sooner at a cheaper cost -- which would have required the Cubs to find a temporary home in the meantime." Ricketts also said that he and other team officials "are in discussions about ways to honor" late Baseball HOFer Ernie Banks this season (Chicago DAILY HERALD, 1/28). FOUNDING FATHERS: In San Diego, Dennis Lin notes the Padres this season will "wear home brown-pinstripe uniforms" for five Wednesday day games. The uniforms were previously worn by the team from '85-90. The Padres' "Way Back Wednesdays" also will feature "in-game music, graphics and other entertainment elements in a nod to an era well before Petco Park" (SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE, 1/29).

The Night Before 2015: Jason Aldean, FGL, Dierks Bentley Throw One Crazy Super Bowl Party By Carrie Severson / Radio.com http://radio.com/2015/02/01/the-night-before-jason-aldean-florida-georgia-line-dierks-bentley-review/

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Phoenix streets buzzed last night thanks to Super Bowl XLIX excitement, and The US Airways Center was no exception. Country fans in town for the big game had the show of the year at the CBS Radio’s The Night Before concert. The stage was shared by ACM Award Nominees Florida Georgia Line, Dierks Bentley and Jason Aldean who all entertained the crowd for an hour each. Since it was the night before the biggest game of the year, the Patriots and Seahawks cheerleaders were incorporated between sets, as well as surprise guests, Super Bowl predictions, and some healthy team taunting. Florida Georgia Line brought out crowd favorites “Sun Daze,” “Round Here,” “Stay,” “This is How We Roll,” and “Dirt,” which Tyler Hubbard dedicated to the crowd. Hubbard and Brian Kelley introduced their next single, “Sippin on Fire,” before taking a few shots of Fireball themselves. “We want our fans to get to know us better,” Hubbard said as the duo changed out of their boots and shirts into sneakers and Phoenix Suns gear. They danced around the stage to covers like Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass,” Bruno Mars’ “Treasure,” and the country mainstay “Friends in Low Places.” Kelley jumped down into the crowd to snap a few selfies, before the duo closed out their set to “Cruise.” The Patriot cheerleaders took the floor to entertain the crowd, just ahead of surprise guest Paul Goldschmidt, first baseman for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Before introducing hometown favorite, Dierks Bentley, Goldschmidt made a few comments about the Super Bowl. “You can’t be an Arizona Cardinals fan and root for the Seahawks,” Goldschmidt said. Dierks Bentley came running onto the stage to his hit, “5-1-5-0.” The crowd welcomed Bentley back to Phoenix warmly, signing along to every song. Home was the theme for Bentley’s set. During “Free and Easy,” Bentley dropped to his knees and said, “It’s good to be home.” He brought a fan up on stage for a shotgun beer challenge. Bentley won (of course) and moved into his hits, “Feel That Fire,” “Up on the Ridge,” and “Say You Do” before getting personal about what it felt like to be back in his hometown. He reminisced about sitting up top, nearly able to touch the ceiling, in that very arena during his first country concert: Garth Brooks. He remembered watching Travis Tritt and Alan Jackson from the audience when he was a boy as well. Bentley and crew covered Jackson’s, “Dallas,” which the audience knew just as well as his own hits. It was what came next that really brought out Bentley’s emotions. He talked about his dad and their drive from Phoenix to Nashville in 1994 in a 1994 Chevy truck. “I still drive that 1994 truck,” Bentley said. “Thanks to all you country fans I could have bought a new truck. I’ve even been offered free trucks. I turn them all down.”

“I Hold On,” came next and the audience sang right along with Bentley. “I wish my dad was here to see this, y’all,” he said. “But you know what? My mom is here! Mom, I love you. We made it.” Bentley gave the audience, “What was I Thinking,” “Sideways,” “Home,” and closed out his set with “Drunk on a Plane.” The Seahawks cheerleaders danced for the crowd as the stage was prepped for heavyweight Jason Aldean. Scott McCreery, another surprise guest, and Matt Hasselbeck, took the stage to welcome Aldean on stage. By the time Aldean took the stage the audience was ready to rock, and Aldean delivered. He wasted no time jumping on stage and opened up with “Hicktown.” Aldean mentioned it had been a few months since the band had been on the road and all he wanted to do during The Night Before was have fun. He played hit after hit like, “Tattoos on this Town,” “Amarillo Sky,” “Big Green Tractor,” “My Kinda Party,” and “Take a Little Ride” before talking to the crowd. Aldean mentioned his late night out in Scottsdale the night prior. He and Bentley hung out at Bentley’s bar, Whiskey Row. Aldean woke up a bit foggy and said, “There’s no party like a Super Bowl party.” He went right into another string of hits while his fiancé, Brittany Kerr, danced on the side of the stage during his entire set. Aldean gave the audience, “Just Getting Started,” “When She Says Baby,” “Night Train,” “Crazy Town,” “Burn Down” and “Dirt Road Anthem.” He closed out the show with, “She’s Country” as the crowd two-stepped on the floor. The Night Before was the country concert of the year and it just happened to take place the night before the Super Bowl.

12 Fest in the Desert turns into a display of the power of the 12s By Clare Farnsworth / Seahawks.com http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-1/12-Fest-in-the-Desert-turns-into-a-display-of-the-power-of-the-12s/227554a4-c933-4298-a84d-a109197fb760 When the Seahawks decided to host a celebration for fans on the eve of Super Bowl XLIX, they figured 5,000 12s who attend. Instead, an estimated gathering of 20,000 packed Chase Field on Saturday afternoon. PHOENIX – Just how strong is the Power of the 12s? The Seahawks were anticipating a crowd of 5,000 for Saturday’s 12 Fest in the Desert, and an estimated throng of 25,000 showed up at Chase Field. The event to celebrate the team playing in Super Bowl XLIX against the New England Patriots on Sunday started at 1:30 p.m.

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But 12s started lining up outside the home of the Arizona Diamondbacks at 10 a.m. and by noon the line was so long it stretched down the block and across the corner. Once inside – yes, the roof of the stadium was closed on yet another unseasonably cloudy and drizzly day in the Valley of the Sun – the 12s gobbled up 12 Flags, wristbands, towels and other celebratory souvenirs that were being handed out. There also was music provided by the Walkens and interactive games stationed throughout the infield and outfield. During the onstage ceremony, Steve Raible, the radio voice of the Seahawks, introduced owner Paul Allen and club president Peter McLoughlin. Also on hands to link the team’s impressive present with its past glory were eight members of the Seahawks’ Ring of Honor – the Hall of Fame duo of wide receiver Steve Largent and defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy; strong safety Kenny Easley, the honorary captain for Sunday’s game; quarterbacks Jim Zorn and Dave Krieg; running back Curt Warner; defensive end Jacob Green; and coach Chuck Knox. Cornerback Dave Brown and radio play-by-play man Pete Gross were represented by their widows, Rhonda and Bev. The only drawback was the wait to get in because of the length of the line. But even the wait turned out to be worth it. “It was fun,” said Gonzalo Ibarra. “Getting in was kind of a hassle, but it was fun. We had lots of fun with the games for the kids. It was family friendly. We enjoyed it.” Ibarra, who was wearing a No. 3 Russell Wilson jersey, attended with his wife, their two sons and their daughter. They now live in Rio Rico, Ariz., but are 12s because they used to live in Bellingham. “We’ve followed the Seahawks since we lived in the Pacific Northwest,” he said. “We’re proud 12s in Cardinal territory.” In the Seahawks.com tradition, were put five of the 12s through the “Look Who’s Coming to the Game” – or in this case, the 12 Fest – routine: Heather Bronson Age: 42 From: Originally from Seattle, but now lives in Tempe and San Felipe, Baja California. Accompanied by: her husband, Steve; and their friends, Alex and Dee Vargas. Fan since: “Since the day I was born.” Favorite all-time Seahawk: “Steve Largent,” she said before the question could even be completed. “I had a major crush on him growing up.” Favorite current Seahawk: “That’s a tough one, because they’re all so good. But I’d say the Legion of Boom; Marshawn (Lynch), for what he stands for; and Russell Wilson because he carries the whole team. But they’re all such a family, it’s hard to pick.” Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “Percy Harvin’s return,” she said of the 87-yard kickoff return to open the

second half. “I had been holding my breath the whole time. But that’s when I thought we were OK.” Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl XLVIII: “Richard Sherman’s tip,” she said of his Immaculate Deflection to ice the 2013 NFC Championship game. Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “I think it’s going to be a three-point difference, and it’s going to be the Seahawks.” Manuel Arredondo Age: 33 From: Denver. Yes, he’s a 12 from Bronco territory. Accompanied by: 12 other members of the Rocky Mountain Seahawkers. Fan since: “Honestly, since Pete Carroll,” he said of Carroll being hired as coach in 2010. “I’ve been a USC fan forever and we he came over, I came over. I knew this was coming. I already predicted it. We’re going to Re-Pete, then Three-Pete.” Favorite all-time Seahawk: Earl Thomas. “Because we’re from the same area,” he said of the Seahawks’ All-Pro free safety, who is from Orange, Texas. Arredondo is from Beaumont. Favorite current Seahawk: “Earl Thomas, and all of the Legion of Boom.” Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “We were in Denver at the Lucky Strike bowling alley and had to have police escorts because the (Bronco) fans were so mad that they actually corralled other Seahawk fans and brought them to Lucky Strike.” Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl XLVIII: “Probably the Green Bay game,” he said of the Seahawks’ miracle comeback in the NFC Championship game two weeks ago. “I was so stressed. I probably had three heart attacks, I was so scared.” Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “34-21, Seahawks.” Tall Allen Age: 41 From: Seattle Accompanied by: his wife, Melodie. Fan since: “Since ’76. There was a raffle in ’76 to see if you could guess how many quarters could fit in a football. My mom won it and she got a football signed by all the original Seahawks.” Favorite all-time Seahawk: “That’s hard. Real hard. I don’t know.” Favorite current Seahawk: Marshawn Lynch. “I like him a lot. For the obvious reasons,” he said of the Seahawks’ Beast Mode running back. Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “The beginning. The safety,” he said of snap sailing past Broncos QB Peyton

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Manning on the first play of the game. “And then it just kept going. I was pretty much in awe the whole game. As soon as it was over, I watched it again.” Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl XLVIII: “The NFC Championship game against the Packers. Unreal.” Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “27-20, Seahawks.” Lindsey Jensen Age: 26 From: Bellevue. “I bought my ticket to come to this game two months ago. And my boyfriend got the tickets. He pulled it off.” Accompanied by: her boyfriend, Neal Slotcig. Fan since: “For about five years, which is when I started liking football.” Favorite all-time Seahawk: Marshawn Lynch. “I just like how he gets so much (flak) and just takes it.” Favorite current Seahawk: Marshawn Lynch. “He’s such a Beast.” Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “Right at the beginning,” she said of the first-play safety. Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl XLVIII: “The last game,” she said of the overtime victory over the Packers in the NFC Championship game. “I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’m not going to Arizona.’ And then we did it. And here I am.” Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “We’re obviously winning. We’re going to win by 10.” Eddie Bjorgo Age: 57 From: Lake Stevens Accompanied by: his wife, Sharol. Fan since: “Since 1980.” Favorite all-time Seahawk: Kam Chancellor. “I just love how he plays. He’s a phenomenal player,” he said of the All-Pro strong safety. Favorite current Seahawk: Kam Chancellor. Favorite moment from Super Bowl XLVIII: “Just watching Pete Carroll on the sideline. The excitement. Totally excited.” Favorite moment in franchise history, other than Super Bowl XLVIII: “The last game,” he said of the NFC Championship game. “You just don’t stop believing in these guys. You’ve got to believe in them. They’ve got heart.”

Prediction for Sunday’s Super Bowl XLIX: “The Seahawks will win by 13.”

Thousands of 12s get loud at Chase Field By KOMO - Seattle News http://www.komonews.com/news/local/290356451.html PHOENIX -- Several thousand Seahawks fans crowded into Phoenix's Chase Field for a huge pre-Super Bowl rally Saturday. Although "huge" may be an understatement. Event organizers said they planned for about 5,000 fans to show up at the stadium where MLB's Arizona Diamondbacks call home. Instead, a crowd of several thousand more 12s poured into Chase Field, with lines to get into the event wrapped all around the stadium. "Being here right now, it's like having a piece of home," said Heather Bronson. "And this, this is amazing out here, it's more than I could have ever expected." Bronson came from the Baja Peninsula in Mexico to be here. At the front of the line, was 9-year-old Anthony, who says he is a big Seahawks fan. "Like, really big," he said. After all, he's been a season ticket holder for... nine years. "As soon as he was born, that day, I called the Seahawks and said I want them in my son's name," his father said. Inside Chase Field, it was everything you'd expect from Seahawks fans -- a full 12 takeover. "We came here to represent, because Seattle's our team," one fan said. "Seahawks rule; we love our Seahawks." It was sheer joy from start to finish. "Just personally, I would really like to thank you from the bottom of my heart, for supporting the team and doing everything you've done," team owner Paul Allen told the crowd. But all this celebrating is just a warmup "Favorite part?" one fans said. "Well, it's going to be tomorrow during the Super Bowl!"

Seahawks fans flock to ’12 Fest’ rally ahead of Super Bowl XLIX By Seattlepi.com http://blog.seattlepi.com/football/2015/01/31/seahawks-fans-flock-to-12-fest-rally-ahead-of-super-bowl-xlix/ Tens of thousands of Seattle Seahawks fans stormed downtown Phoenix on Saturday for a fan rally ahead of Super Bowl XLIX. “12 Fest” converted Chase Field — usually the home of Major League Baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks — into a Hawks extravaganza, where a reported 25,000 fans enjoyed performances from the Sea Gals, met Seahawks alums and

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played games ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the New England Patriots. Seattle Mayor Ed Murray, team owner Paul Allen and announcer Steve Raible were among the luminaries who took the stage, as well as several members of Seattle’s Ring of Honor, including a rare appearance by former head coach Chuck Knox. Check out some of the sights and sounds from the seattlepi.com team at 12 Fest.

Cleveland Indians talking to John McDonald about rejoining organization By Paul Hoynes / Cleveland.com http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2015/01/cleveland_indians_talking_to_j.html CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Indians have talked to recently retired John McDonald about joining the organization. It's unclear what role McDonald would fill, but it would probably be along the lines of a special advisor to the baseball operations department. The Indians have an opening since Jason Bere was recently named bullpen coach on manager Terry Francona's coaching staff. Bere had been a special advisor for the Tribe for the last nine years. McDonald's specialty is defense and the Indians could use the help. They were last in the big league in errors last season. The Indians picked McDonald in the 12th round of the 1996 draft. He was a middle infielder stuck in an organization behind Omar Vizquel and eventually Robbie Alomar. McDonald, however, persevered He spent parts of 16 seasons in the big leagues - in service time he totaled 13 full seasons - while playing for the Indians, Blue Jays, Tigers, Diamondbacks, Pirates, Phillies, Red Sox and Angels. He did two tours with the Indians and Blue Jays and never wore out his welcome wherever he played because of his ability to catch a ground ball, especially in the middle infield. McDonald, 5-9 and 185 pounds, had his busiest season in 2007 with the Blue Jays. He appeared in 123 games and hit .252 (82-for-327) with 20 doubles, one homer and 31 RBI. He spent last season with the Angels and announced his retirement on Jan. 7. His retirement was announced on the Twitter accounts of the Indians, Angels, Blue Jays and Diamondbacks.

UT students, staff head to Arizona to work Super Bowl XLIX By Mary Caroline Ferguson / Tennessee Journalist http://www.tnjn.com/2015/01/30/ut-students-and-staff-head-to-arizona-to-work-super-bowl-xlix/ UT students and staff are now in Glendale, Arizona to work behind the scenes of Super Bowl XLIX. This year’s game will be against the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. This will be the ninth year a UT team has worked the Super Bowl.

Debbie Mackey, a senior lecturer and director of the Human Resource Management master’s program, and Brian Russell, head of the Thornton’s Student Life Center, will be leading the team members throughout their experience. “Students get to see all aspects of business through the biggest sporting event of the year. They are able to network with alumni’s and learn about opportunities to further their career,” Mackey said. Team members have the opportunity to network with different professionals in Arizona. On Wednesday, they went to the Waste Management Phoenix Open Golf Tournament and met with a professional golfer and caddie. They were able to ask them questions about their sport and business backgrounds. On Thursday, they were able to tour the Arizona Diamondbacks stadium. They will begin working with the NFL on Saturday and Sunday. “What I’m most excited about is the Super Bowl. It is an incredible experience, and I am really excited to see the atmosphere of the game. The Super Bowl is a bucket-list event for many people, so I expect it to be a great environment,” said Will Crocket, one of the team members. Crockett said students wanting to get involved go through an application process that involves an interview that focuses on past experiences and student involvement. Students need to gain experience in event management and other related fields. He also said the best thing to do is be proactive in looking for opportunities to build resume experience.

UT Martin Professor Has Students Working Events at Super Bowl By Kate Lochte / WKMS - Kentucky NPR http://wkms.org/post/ut-martin-professor-has-students-working-events-super-bowl Six students from the University of Tennessee at Martin's sports business program are working hospitality events with their sports management professor at both the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona this weekend. On Sounds Good, Kate Lochte speaks with Dr. Dexter Davis about how he works with the NFL to arrange for the students to help and explains what the students experience while they're there. While working at Alfred State college SUNY and Niagara University, Dr. Davis wanted a way to differentiate from other sports management programs and initially sought to take students to help during Spring Training for a week. So he contacted every Major League Baseball team and ended up in Jupiter, Florida on the training grounds of the Cardinals and Marlins. While there, he made contact with a person affiliated with the Miami Dolphins who was seeking volunteers for the Super Bowl in Miami. He took some students down and they did a great job working 18 hour days with whatever was needed. NFL On Location liked the professionalism of his students. This group contacts local organizing groups during the Super Bowl and other events and pairs them with volunteer groups like Dr. Davis' class.

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He says they've been in Phoenix since last Friday, initially helping with the Pro Bowl, which isn't quite as exotic or extravagant as the Super Bowl, but their primary job was acting as way-finders for people looking for hospitality events. Last Monday, NFL On Location said they were short people at the NFL Experience in the fan zone, where people go to check out sponsor booths and members of the media set up. Dr. Davis says as an educational experience, he wants his students to learn that there is a whole year or more of preparation that goes into events like this and that these things don't just come together instantly. That the business side of an industry like the NFL Super Bowl is a major production, likening it to a Broadway show with rehearsals and practice. The students also got to be tourists, too. On one of the days off, they toured the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies spring training facility along with some other sight-seeing. -- He says they'll spend another day working the NFL experience before managing the Super Bowl. They'll help manage player appearances, escorting them through security into the stadium while they interact with fans, before escorting them away. He says each student had to go through an FBI clearance to enter and exit the stadium. Once the hospitality events are over, the students get to hang out in the stadium during the Super Bowl and after the game, they'll help fans into the field for the post game experience and help them to their hospitality venues. Dr. Dexter Davis, assistant professor sport management at UTM, has worked hospitality for NFL on location at the Super Bowl for a decade. This is the second year he's also brought students to work with him. Six UTM students are with Davis in Glendale, Arizona working both the Pro Bowl and the Super Bowl to learn about the hospitality business that goes with professional sports events.

Grudzielanek brings rugged work ethic to Cougars By Bruce Miles / Chicago Daily Herald http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20150131/sports/150139723/ What I remember most about Mark Grudzielanek during his two years with the Cubs were his grand entrances into the clubhouse. He'd give it a limp and a gimp, all with a pained expression on his face before going in for treatment on his ankle or whatever else ailed him. But when it came to be game time, particularly in the star-crossed 2003 season, Grudzielanek ended up taking the field more often than not and playing a solid second base.

Grudzielanek is 44 now and looking much more relaxed after a few years away from the game. He will make his return to baseball this season as the new manager of the Kane County Cougars. And as a manager, he says he will expect the same of his players as he did of himself during his major-league career. Grudzielanek was front and center Friday night at Fifth Third Bank Ballpark as the Cougars and their new parent organization, the Arizona Diamondbacks, met the media. "I played the way I played; that was just me," Grudzielanek said. "I just played hard, did my thing, and it kind of worked. When you leave the game, you want to be remembered as, 'This guy played the game hard. He played it right. He knew what he was doing. He did what it took to help his team win.' "If I want the kids to leave with something, it's effort and attitude and going about their business the right way, understanding that jersey, that uniform, can be taken off at any given time. So enjoy each and every day." Grudzielanek played parts of 15 seasons in the big leagues -- 2003 and 2004 with the Cubs -- finishing in 2010 with Cleveland. He's just now returning to the game, even though he said the managerial bug bit a few years back. "Probably in the middle of my career, because as a player,

obviously, we know best," he said. " 'What is he thinking, what is he doing?' All the managers that I played for. That thought (managing) has always crossed my mind, but thanks to the Diamondbacks for that and for believing and giving me the opportunity. "Basically, I've been off for a few years, getting reacquainted with my family, hanging out with my boys I took some time off after my last season, going kind of crazy to get back in the game. "With the passion and love I had, it was time to get back in." Grudzielanek was a key member of the 2003 Cubs, who came within five outs of the World Series before losing the infamous Game 6 of the championship series against the Marlins and then falling in Game 7. "I don't think there's a day where somebody doesn't say something about that year to me at a certain time and moment, with the Bartman incident," he said. "It's what could have been. What do you do?" Before that, though, the 2003 season was a magical ride for the Cubs. "Incredible," Grudzielanek said. "At some point, I just wish that every player could experience what we did that year, because that's how special it was." Good first impression:

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The Diamondbacks moved into Kane County when the Cubs left after two years as the Cougars' parent organization and moved their Class A Midwest affiliate to South Bend. Arizona's introduction to fans and media at Friday night's "Meet the Diamondbacks" event was just as impressive as that of the Cubs two winters ago. In addition to Grudzielanek and his coaching staff, also present was Mike Bell, director of player development, and Bob Gebhard, vice president and special assistant to the general manager. Bell is a member of the famous Bell family. He's the son of former big-league third baseman Buddy Bell and the grandson of former big-leaguer Gus Bell. Gebhard is an old-school type who was the first GM of the Colorado Rockies. He talked of good things for the Diamondbacks and the Cougars. "I say this after we lost 98 games last year," he said of the big-league club. "I really believe that this is an organization, and I've been with a lot of them, that puts the emphasis on signing the right players, on developing, and part of developing is winning. "There are organizations that in the minor leagues, the only thing that is important is developing. We feel very strongly that winning helps developing." The Cougars won the Midwest League title last year as a Cubs farm club. This coming season will mark the franchise's 25th year. Team owners Dr. Bob Froehlich and his wife, Cheryl, were on hand Friday. "Obviously, everyone wants to have a winning team, that's a given," Bob Froehlich said. "It's about the people. It's about the process. It's about the product. That's what we're most excited about. "You'll be blown away by these (Diamondbacks) people … They do things the right way, and they're so great communicating the process with everyone. "We need a competitive product. They're doing things the right way, so we're very comfortable with this relationship."

February 2, 2015 • sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/morenews

February 2, 2015

The 10th best general manager of all time was a lawyer and sportswriter first. Hey 11:03 am EST (NBC Sports)

Report: Belt, Giants avoid arbitration with one-year deal 10:44 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area)

Ubaldo Jimenez on 2014 struggles: “My mechanics are not the mechanics you’re used to seeing” 10:19 am EST (NBC Sports)

The Giants and Brandon Belt avoid arbitration 9:52 am EST (NBC Sports)

O'Day: Orioles bullpen may be even better this year 9:43 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Lucas Duda and the Mets avoid arbitration, agree on a one-year deal 9:25 am EST (NBC Sports)

Watch Pat Burrell go down a slip-and-slide without spilling his drink 8:54 am EST (NBC Sports)

Cafardo: make the DH universal now 8:30 am EST (NBC Sports)

Pitchers and catchers report in 16 days, you guys 7:01 am EST (NBC Sports)

Playing Time Risers 4:27 am EST (Rotoworld)

Nationals roster preview: Max Scherzer 1:42 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

February 1, 2015

There was a fire at Camden Yards 9:33 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Clint Barmes is a Padres hipster 8:25 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Jeff Samardzija would consider an extension with the White Sox 7:15 pm EST (NBC Sports)

David Ortiz and Robinson Cano give their Super Bowl XLIX predictions 6:05 pm EST (NBC Sports)

White Sox: Chris Sale has jersey number retired at FGCU 5:35 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)

Utley celebrates Super Bowl with shirtless, slip-n-sliding Burrell 5:20 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia)

Reds sign Paul Maholm to minor league deal 5:20 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Braves hold private workout for Hector Olivera 4:11 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Zack Greinke hasn’t made decision about opt-out 2:37 pm EST (NBC Sports)

PHOTOS: Harper hangs with Jordan, Jeter, Manning, RG3 & others 2:32 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Report: NL West team still talking to Phillies about Hamels 2:16 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

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

Braves' Freeman: 'I think we’re going to surprise a lot of people' 12:55 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson plans to spend another spring in Rangers camp 11:58 am EST (NBC Sports)

Jones says he'll miss Markakis, but Orioles will be fine 11:56 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

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2015 outlook: Miami Marlins 11:38 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Andruw Jones aiming to return to Major League Baseball 10:32 am EST (NBC Sports)

Washington Nationals 2015 roster preview: Nate McLouth 9:54 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Video: Ernie Banks’ memorial service 9:05 am EST (NBC Sports)

January 31, 2015

Wives of Jim Edmonds and Josh Hamilton to appear on The Real Housewives of Orange County 11:25 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Red Sox plan to use Brandon Workman out of the bullpen 10:40 pm EST (NBC Sports)

A.J. Preller still in touch with the Phillies about Cole Hamels 9:50 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Billy Williams delivers eulogy at Ernie Banks' memorial 9:16 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)

Freddie Freeman: “I think we’re going to surprise a lot of people.” 9:00 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Duquette puts Toronto in past, focuses on improving Orioles 8:16 pm EST (The Associated Press)

Someone apparently got Jayson Werth’s autograph in jail 8:10 pm EST (NBC Sports)

AP Source: RHP Richards, Angels reach $3.2 million deal 7:21 pm EST (The Associated Press)

Remembering Mr. Cub 7:10 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Chicago says goodbye to Mr. Cub Ernie Banks 6:37 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)

Rays sign Ronald Belisario to a minor league deal 6:05 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Cubs sign Mike Baxter 5:30 pm EST (NBC Sports)

MLB acknowledges progress in process for Yoan Moncada to reach free agency 5:06 pm EST (Yahoo Sports)

Wieters talks timeline for return from injury 4:51 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Angels and Garrett Richards avoid arbitration with one-year deal 4:39 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Orioles sign Mark Hendrickson, invite him to major league camp 4:11 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Norris, Orioles haven't discussed next steps 3:41 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Cubs legend Ernie Banks remembered for unwavering optimism 3:33 pm EST (The Associated Press)

Padres have discussed trade for Brewers’ Luis Sardinas 3:15 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Showalter has positive take on Duquette situation 2:37 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

2015 MLB roster outlook: Los Angeles Dodgers 2:05 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Chris Davis opens up about his Adderall suspension: “It was a moment of weakness” 2:05 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Puig: Cardinals are ‘our principal rivals,’ not Giants 1:38 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area)

Brewers say “not much has happened lately” in trade talks for Jonathan Papelbon 12:40 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Bruins' Miller excels as offseason surgery looms 12:32 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet New England)

Duquette has message for Orioles faithful at FanFest 12:21 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Chris Davis discusses Adderall use for first time 11:47 am EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Former closer David Aardsma to throw a showcase for teams on Monday 11:25 am EST (NBC Sports)

Cuban infielder Yoan Moncada is another step closer to signing with an MLB team 10:10 am EST (NBC Sports)

MLB.com names Byron Buxton as baseball’s top prospect for second straight year 8:56 am EST (NBC Sports)

Report: Red Sox willing to trade Mujica 7:32 am EST (Comcast SportsNet New England)

January 30, 2015

Neal Cotts almost retired before signing with the Rangers in 2012 10:50 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Washington Nationals 2015 roster preview: Kevin Frandsen 10:47 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Joe Kelly said he’s going to win the 2015 AL Cy Young Award 9:40 pm EST (NBC Sports)

'Mr. Cub' memorial service on CSN 8:42 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)

Yasiel Puig: “ Uribe’s a fatty” 8:30 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Watch Werth arrive at jail in Fairfax to begin sentence 7:50 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

The memories of Cubs icon Ernie Banks will live forever 7:24 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)

Rockies sign Omar Quintanilla and Rafael Betancourt 7:20 pm EST (NBC Sports)

White Sox: Consistency key for Jose Quintana in heart of rotation 6:52 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Chicago)

Red Sox sign Alexi Ogando to one-year, $1.5 million deal 6:49 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet New England)

RHP Alexi Ogando, Red Sox reach deal, pending physical 6:46 pm EST (The Associated Press)

Ernie Banks left great memories for teammate Billy Williams 6:14 pm EST (The Associated Press)

Red Sox are willing to trade Edward Mujica 6:10 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Braves trade Hale, sign former Nats catcher 6:00 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Mid Atlantic)

Around-the-horn look at AL West offseason moves 5:36 pm EST (Comcast SportsNet Bay Area)

Steve Pearce, Orioles agree to $3.7 million, 1-year contract 5:33 pm EST (The Associated Press)

Braves deal RHP David Hale to Rockies in 4-player trade 5:16 pm EST (The Associated Press)

Yasiel Puig says the Cardinals are the Dodgers’ “principal rivals,” not the Giants 5:11 pm EST (NBC Sports)

Chicagoans pay respects to Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie Banks 5:04 pm EST (Reuters)

February 2, 2015 • MLB.com

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http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/transactions

Last updated: Mon, February 2, 2015, 09:08 EST

Sunday, February 1, 2015

Team Player Transaction

Cincinnati Reds

Paul Maholm

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Saturday, January 31, 2015

Team Player Transaction

Baltimore Orioles

Mark Hendrickson

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Boston Red Sox

Luis Martinez

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Chicago Cubs Mike Baxter

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Los Angeles Angels

Garrett Richards

Signed, ( 2015)(avoids arbitration)

Tampa Bay Rays

Ronald Belisario

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Texas Rangers Juan Perez

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Friday, January 30, 2015

Team Player Transaction

Atlanta Braves Jonny Gomes

Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015; Opt 2016)(one-year contract)

Atlanta Braves Jesus Flores

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Atlanta Braves Eli Whiteside Retired

Baltimore Orioles

Steve Pearce

Signed, ( 2015)(avoids arbitration)

Boston Red Sox

Drake Britton Designated for Assignment

Boston Red Sox

Alexi Ogando

Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015)(one-year contract)

Colorado Rockies

Rafael Betancourt

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Colorado Rockies

David Hale

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

Colorado Rockies

Omar Quintanilla

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Colorado Rockies

Gus Schlosser

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

Milwaukee Brewers

Hiram Burgos

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Milwaukee Brewers

Neal Cotts Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015)

Milwaukee Brewers

Elian Herrera Designated for Assignment

New York Yankees

Scott Baker

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Oakland Athletics

Luke Carlin

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Pittsburgh Pirates

Chris Volstad

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Team Player Transaction

Atlanta Braves Eric Stults

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Boston Red Sox

Bryan LaHair

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Boston Red Sox

Daniel Nava

Signed, ( 2015)(avoids arbitration)

Boston Red Sox

Felipe Paulino

Signed to a Minor League Contract

Philadelphia Phillies

Chad Billingsley

Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015)(one-year contract)

Philadelphia Phillies

Cesar Jimenez Designated for Assignment

Pittsburgh Pirates

Jake Elmore Outrighted to Minors

San Francisco Giants

Ryan Vogelsong

Signed as Free Agent, ( 2015)(one-year contract)

San Francisco Giants

Chris Dominguez

Designated for Assignment

Toronto Blue Jays

Ramon Santiago

Signed to a Minor League Contract