Stadium Renderings Released

On Tuesday, renderings of the Marlins’ new stadium were released giving fans a glimpse of the long awaited new ballpark for the first time.    Along with the renderings came news that the stadium agreement had been modified in light of new concessions by the Marlins.     Among the changes were stipulations built in should Jeffrey Loria sell the team within seven years of the agreement.   If Loria was to do this, the county’s profits would be nearly doubled.   Also modified was the team’s rent which will increase by two percent.    Finally, any cost overrun due to scheduling problems will be covered by the team.

The agreement is up for vote on February 13, 2009.   Below are the renderings from the Miami Herald, click on each picture for a full view:

Nolasco, Amezaga, Ross Avoid Arbitration

The Marlins continued a wave of signings on Tuesday by inking Ricky Nolasco, Alfredo Amezaga and Cody Ross all to one year deals. Ross signed for $2,250,000, Nolasco signed for $2,400,000 and Amezaga’s contract is worth $1,300,000.  Only one player remains eligible for arbitration and that is Dan Uggla who in all likelihood will have his contract decided by an arbitrator.

Nolasco is set to start Opening Day against Washington as he looks to be the staff ace for a second consecutive season.    Amezaga will serve the same utility role he has served the past few seasons filling in for both infield and outfield spots.   Ross will be a starting outfielder for the 2009 Marlins in either left or right field depending on where Jeremy Hermida starts.   Hermida avoided arbitration on Monday by signing a one year deal.

While the Marlins and Uggla may technically still discuss a contract before an arbitrator does, the team has a policy of not continuing contract negotiations past today at noon.

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