New Stadium Delayed Until 2012
November 25, 2008 by Larry Walansky · Leave a Comment
Only days after the big news that the Marlins stadium plans can move forward, fans were given some bad news on Tuesday as Marlins’ President David Samson reported that the stadium will now not open until the 2012 season.
The stadium was originally scheduled to open in 2011 but was delayed by a lawsuit challenging the funding of the stadium. Groundbreaking was to occur this month until the lawsuit which was decided in the Marlins’ favor. According to Mr. Samson, it is the lawsuit which is the sole reason for the delay and it was for no other reason. In order to open the stadium in April 2012, Mr. Samson stated construction on the $515 million ballpark will need to begin in May 2009. The construction of the stadium is estimated to take 34 months. Renderings of the new ballpark are expected to be released within the next few weeks.
One issue for the Marlins is that their current lease at Dolphin Stadium expires after the 2012 season. This would leave the Marlins with no place to play in 2011. The Marlins are currently negotiating an extension to the lease to take them until the 2012 campaign.
Former Closer Traded To Cubs
November 13, 2008 by Larry Walansky · Leave a Comment
The Marlins have traded Kevin Gregg to the Chicago Cubs for pitcher, Jose Ceda. Gregg served as the Marlins’ closer for the past two seasons and was also the highest paid player on the roster during 2008. Entering 2009, he was due for another raise and the Fish have elected to make a change at closer. Down the stretch, Gregg was replaced at closer due to an injury and ineffectiveness.
Ceda is a 21 year old right handed pitcher who complied a 2.08 E.R.A in AA for the Cubs during 2008. Ceda struck out 42 while walking 14 in 30 and one third innings of work. There has no been word yet on if Ceda will be given a chance to break into the Major League bullpen to start 2009 but it would seem likely he spends at least a little time in the minor leagues this upcoming season.
As for the Marlins’ closer situation, this trade further solidifies the prospect of Matt Lindstrom inheriting the role to start the 2009 campaign. To end the season, Lindstrom served as closer and did an admirable job.
