Killer Moose

Yesterday, I went to the Mariners game with my buddy, Ben, who owns Centerfield Sports (shameless plug). The game was disappointing for Mariners fans (who incidentally sounded as though they were outnumbered). The Red Sox dominated the afternoon en route to a 9-2 victory.

But, not to be outdone, the Moose attempted to take out Coco Crisp on his way out to centerfield in the middle of the 5th inning. If you missed it, here's the clip:

The Frogs Are Back

Last Night was Opening Night for the Everett AquaSox. And other than the typical, minor kinks that come with the first game of the season, everything went really well. The team played well, the fans turned out in droves and the post-game fireworks show was awesome.

2007 will be my 12th season working for the team. Currently I'm there in a more limited capacity that doesn't require me to be at all the games. However, I do plan to be at the ballpark quite a lot this summer. The ballpark is an intoxicating place. You just can't get away from it.

Last night I roamed the stadium taking photos for our sponsors and future print materials. After the game, I helped write the team press release, which was something I'd never done before. In two weeks I'll have another first when I fill in for our PA Announcer for an entire game as he's out for a wedding. I'm really looking forward to it.

Jay Buhner and Dino Rossi were both on hand last night for the festivities. I have to say, once again, that I'm always impressed with Buhner. He goes out of his way to connect on a personal level with his fans. He sat for at least an hour before the game signing in the autograph booth. Not to mention the fact that he probably signed 500 more from his seat in the stands.

It could be worse

I went to see my beloved Mariners tonight only to be tortured by another dismal showing by a team destined to end the year somewhere around the .500 mark. We saw yet another miserable outing from starting pitcher Miguel Batista who gave up 7 runs to the Yankees through two and a third innings. Poor base running and virtually no clutch hitting also played into the evening's outcome.

The good news in all of this is that Felix Hernandez is scheduled to pitch again Tuesday after being on the DL for three weeks. Let's just hope we can string a few wins together to make the summer interesting.

I'm Working For Jay Buhner

Those who know me know that I'm a huge fan of baseball. I've worked for the Everett AquaSox, a Minor League affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, for going on 12 seasons. When I'm not on the road playing music, there's nowhere else I'd rather be than at the ballpark on gameday.

During my time with the ballclub I've met dozens of current and former Major League Baseball players. Guys like Phil Niekro, Brooks Robinson, Cal Ripken, Jr., Randy Johnson, Alex Rodriguez, Felix Hernandez and many others have made it exciting to come to work each day.

No one impressed me more than former Seattle Mariners right fielder, Jay Buhner. In 2001, Jay made three injury rehabilitation starts at Everett Memorial Stadium with the Everett AquaSox. I also spent an evening with Jay in 2004 when the team was handing out bobblehead dolls in his likeness. I've never seen someone give back to the fans with a more willing and genuine attitude than Jay. Each night he was in town, he made it a point to sign autographs for anyone who was willing to stick around long enough to get through the massive lines.

That being said, I was thrilled to learn this week that Jay has purchased a minority interest in the AquaSox. This can only mean good things for the club. Jay plans to be at the ballpark this summer and intends on bringing some of his "buddies" along with him. If you're a fan of baseball, collect autographs, or simply looking for a fun way to spend your summer evenings, be sure to check out the AquaSox. Minor League Baseball is a crazy kind of fun that is worth the price of admission.

Opening Day

This week saw the start of yet another baseball season. It truly is the time of year when all fans have some glimmer of hope that their team will somehow find glory come November. I, however, am not so optimistic in regards to my beloved Mariners. Nevertheless, I'll be there to support my team despite the end result.

Bleak outlooks aside, there always seems to be something magical about Opening Day. You can feel the anticipation in the air as the ballpark comes alive with fanfare and great food. In my lifetime, I've only missed the Mariners opening day 3 times. It's a ritual I look forward to with anticipation every year. This time around, I had the privilege of taking part in the production of opening day ceremonies at Safeco Field. Part of the gig allowed me to be on the field for most of the pre-game activities. Best of all, the day concluded in victory for the Mariners. Let's hope they make it a habit.