ajcsportstalk

By jabster

January 14, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

I’m there!

Any idea on where the ballpark’s going? Or should we look at where Kevin Kenerly owns land?

By GwinnettBravesFan

January 14, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

This is great news! I personally quit caring about baseball after the strikes. I am very excited to see quality baseball coming to Georgia. AAA ball is more fun to watch because you don’t have to deal with a bunch of selfish millionaires and a beer probably won’t cost $10 like it does at Turner Field. Bring on the Gwinnett Braves!!

By Bob

January 14, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Isn’t this going to be oversaturation? Seems to me it will hurt attendance for both teams.

By Matt the Brave

January 14, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

I live in Cartersville, so I’m only about 30 minutes from seeing a Rome Braves game. I love the fact that I’ll be able to jump on GA 20 and go see a Gwinnett Braves game as well. This will help the Braves quite a bit by having all of their minor league teams within a decent driving distance. I hope they name them the Atlanta Crackers. That would be great!

By ohforfour

January 14, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Not surprised Richmond is losing their team after jaking around for so long over issue of whether to build a new park and, if so, where… only surprised the team is moving so close to Atlanta. I would generally applaude the move, but I for one will NOT be fighting to get across Atlanta’s weekday rush hour traffic to go to many games. I’ll stick with the Rome Braves…

Terry S.

By I remember Parker Field

January 14, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

I grew up in Richmond and I saw everyone from Dale Murphy to Brett Butler to Steve Bedrosian play ball there, I think this is very sad news for Richmond. I also think it is a mistake to have the minor league playing team so close the the major league team.

By 59bulldawg

January 14, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

It’s great for Braves fans in Atlanta but it stinks for those of us who live in the Richmond area. As a fan who has supported the AAA affiliate in Richmond over the years I’m more than a little perplexed. The games always seem to be well attended and I think the Diamond is well-maintained. While it’s not Turner Field by any stretch of the imagination, it’s certainly not in “deteriorating condition”. It’s a great place to take in a ball game with the family and IMHO a much better experience than many big league games. And because you don’t have to spend a small fortune to attend a AAA game in Richmond, it’s very affordable to attend 10 or more games each season. I just don’t understand … unless like a lot of other things … there’s more money to be made somewhere else. But it’s an awful way to treat your supportive fans in Virginia. I guess a big part of my summer fun will be no more after 2009.

By savannah falcon

January 14, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

There will be more opportunity to move to the big league.

By Robert Vaughan

January 14, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

This is interesting given the fact that Mayor Wilder in Richmond requested proposals for new stadiums TODAY. The Richmond Times Dispatch today reports that the city currently has 60 acres on which they plan to build a new ballpark. They plan to place a 8,000 seat park on the current site next to I-95. However, if there is no team, there will be no stadium…Stay Tuned

By Braves Fan

January 14, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Gwinnett County alone is large enough to support a baseball team. Look at what the less popular Gwinnett Gladiators team has done (it ranks among the highest attendance of any ECHL team). Where is the stadium going to be built? Maybe somewhere off I-85 north of the Mall of GA. Needs easy interstate access and away from already congested areas (not many of these left). Putting it near the Gwinnett Arena sounds attractive but could create nightly headaches in the area. These games could draw 5,000-12,000 people nightly. Should be family fun at a reasonable price!

By Daybed Wagmoe

January 14, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Gwinnett? I’ve been hoping that they’d relocate the AAA team to Rome. Gwinnett is only a little more than a half-hour drive from Turner Field, and it’s within what is considered “Metro Atlanta.” I can understand how disappointing it must be for those of you in Richmond. I think Gwinnett is a little too close to Atlanta — Atlantans already have a baseball team to cheer for.

On the other hand, it will serve as a cheaper, more accessible alternative for company outings and youth groups in the North Atlanta area, so that’s a definite plus. Also, it would give those in the area a chance to see great prospects play before coming to Atlanta.

By Scott

January 14, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Can someone tell me what is wrong with the Diamond in Richmond. I was under the impression that it was one of the best minor leauge stadiums in the country. (I may be 15 years late in saying that though)/

By Noahway

January 14, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

I’m p**. And sad. I’m p** that the Richmond’s political leaders are so incompetent and short-sighted that they can’t figure out how to keep a AAA team in town. And I’m sad that I won’t be seeing guys like Chipper, Klesko, Smoltz, Giles and KJ playing here in Richmond. This just became a bad day for this Braves fan in Richmond.

By NoogaBrave

January 14, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Will be awesome to see the future Braves in action more often!

By Tom

January 14, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

I doubt that will actually happen. I suspect it’s a ploy to get Richmond off its duff and build the long-awaited stadium there. The Braves have been demanding a better stadium in Richmond for years. The Diamond is among the crummiest fields in Triple A.

By Scott

January 14, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Oh No!!! This would have been a good idea 20 years ago when “Gwinnett Was Great.” Not now though. All of the gang members and illegals will screw it all up I am sure. So sad how nice metro Atlanta used to be and how bad it is messed up now thanks to the thugs and illegals.

By Cobb County- Metro's Best

January 14, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

I always thought of Gwinnett as a minor league place.

Lets see they have Arena Jr., minor league hockey, and now minor league baseball.

Whats next for them? A restaurant with real menus?

By Laura

January 14, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Gwinnett has everything: Gwinnett Gladiators for hockey, Georgia Force for football, Atlanta Vision for basketball and NOW the Braves. How lucky can you get?

By Legs Kotsay

January 14, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Are they going to change their name to the Gwinnett Gridlockers?

By jrh

January 14, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Thanks to our wonderful Mayor Wilder in Richmond it is no surprise that the Braves are leaving. Like everything else he does, he has made a mess out of AAA Baseball in Richmond. He probably thinks he can attract another team and he will get some personal gain from bringing them in. I knew when he kept jerking the Braves around that Georgia boys don’t put up with that junk and the Braves are gonna play in a first class arena somewhere. We will take in some games this summer and then watch Richmond hand their stadium over to VCU for some good old college ball.

By Noahway

January 14, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Scott, the Diamond is no longer a diamond. It’s plain vanilla when the newer stadiums are all much more interesting flavors. It’s also had problems with concrete fallling into the seating areas, and drainage so bad that games had to be cancelled several days after a rain (although that’s now been fixed.) The facilities in general are substandard, from concessions to restrooms to seating.

By wamufsr

January 14, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Bad move all the way around. Minor league ball is supposed to be in cities that don’t have the population base to support a pro team. And The Diamond (aka Fulton Cty jr.) isn’t that bad of a park. Good sight lines all the way around. Now Columbia’s ballpark, yeah that’s a dump. Chatty, Columbus, Savannah are all excellent examples of what a minor league ball is all about. I hate it for Rome because I really love driving up from Marietta to see quality games and if I’m lucky see a current pro-Brave doing a rehab assignment there. Now with Gwinnett, chances of rehabing in Rome could be done. Its sad this whole “gotta have a new ballpark or else” syndrome has made its way into AAA ball. (Well come to think of it, that’s why the Braves relocated from Macon to Rome.) There is a positive here though. Now with the Braves possibly moving the AAA team to Gwinnett, that means less folks crowding up the interstate trying to get to the Ted on game days. Tomorrow’s headline in the AJC “Gwinnett secedes from the State of Georgia to form the 51st state.”

By Jim

January 14, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Bringing the Braves to Gwinnett is a great idea. We are already loving the Gladiators and look forward to the return of the Force. I knew the Force would return. Gwinnett is the BEST location for sports. Sports are celebrated in Gwinnett.

By George

January 14, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

COBB COUNTY POSTER:

You forgot to mention Cobb’s Energy Center as a Minor. Do you really think that overrated venue will be considered Major?

By Bob Horner

January 14, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

This is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.There are major cities without a major league or a minor league team. So let’s move a triple A team 20 minutes from a major league team.

By 59bulldawg

January 14, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Robert … this does seem more than a bit fishy! Just placed phone calls to Richmond Braves and Mayor Wilder’s office. Both seem to have been surprised by this news also! Those of us who want to keep them in Richmond need to say a prayer and work together to prevent this from happening. I’m hoping the mayor will speak to this later today or tomorrow and provide more insight. Richmond is a great place for our AAA Braves team and we should fight to keep them in Virginia. When my kids were small they tremendously enjoyed the experience and still enjoy going today as adults. I was hoping to one day take my future grandkids to see games in Richmond as well. This is really a blow to the gut!!!

By dont bite me bro

January 14, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Mary J fights dogs.

By Jaclyn

January 14, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Welcome to Gwinnett! This team will succeed just like the Gladiators and Georgia Force. Looks like some have already drunk their Gwinnett Haterade.

By Bobby Cox

January 14, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Some people are so immature.

Richmond, you had your chance. You should have done something about that Stadium years ago.

Scott, get real. There are gangs in Richmond. I go to Gladiator’s games and Georgia Force games and do not see any gangs or illegals there.

Tom, it’s going to happen. Gwinnett announced plans for a new state-of-the-art minor league stadium over a year ago and has been aggressively pursuing the Braves.

Makes no sense to put a AAA team in a rinky-dink town like Rome. They have a team which is right for that size town.

This is a really smart move. You can call someone up and have them at the Stadium in 1 hour. You can send injured players down for rehab very easily. Having the stadium will increase security and a police presence in Gwinnett and actually make it safer. This is one of the best moves the Braves have made in a long time.

By wirelessg

January 14, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s get real. Locate a AAA baseball franchise in a suburb of the parent major league team? My money is on this not happening. I am not saying it will stay in Richmond or maybe the team will temporarily play somewhere, but a permanent location in Gwinnett? Never.

By ircaptbob

January 14, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Awesome! I love it, Now I can afford to attend more than a few games with my family. I live in south Hall, a new ballpark in the Mall of GA area will be very well supported.

By Scott

January 14, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Thanks Noahway,

I used to follow the Minor Leauges back in the 80’s being from Birmingham, seems like I have some catching up to do. Also, For anyone ever visting B’ham, take a trip to Rickwood Field, you will be in for a treat.

By Scott

January 14, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

Thanks Noahway,

Being from Birmingham, I used to follow minor leauge basball, seems like I have some catching up to do. Also, for anyone ever visting B’ham, be sure to check out Rickwood field, you will be in for a treat.

By Yippee

January 14, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Will definitely attend the games if they move to Gwinnett. I’ve never regretted moving to Gwinnett 20 years ago. It really is a great place to live and my family and I have affordable entertainment at our fingertips. Thanks Gwinnett and welcome Braves!!

By bethie

January 14, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Having been to minor league games in Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky, and enjoyed the overall atmosphere of the games there, I’m very excited about the possibility of the AAA team moving here.

We quit going to Braves games several years ago because of the expense and hassle of going downtown. I know many other people who feel the same way. I’m positive that there are enough folks around Atlanta to fill both stadiums.

By Kristi Dosh

January 14, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

As a lifelong resident of Gwinnett, I’m thrilled by this news! I think given the success of the minor league hockey team here, this is a great move by the Braves. Sure, some nights it’ll be an alternative to fighting traffic to get to and from Turner Field, but it’s really a different experience altogether. I think it’ll be great for metro-area kids (and adults) to get to see the Braves up-and-coming stars before they make it to the Big Show. Rome is even further away than Turner Field for those of us in Gwinnett, so I think this will be well received in Gwinnett.

I do agree that this is unfair to the Richmond Braves faithful. Perhaps the talks of a new stadium up there involve a new team coming to Richmond.

By Rob

January 14, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

AAA ball ‘right down the street’ from the home office at The Ted would probably hurt the Major League Product. Put in Macon or Savannah, but why right down the street? Bad move in my opinion.

By Rob

January 14, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

AAA ball ‘right down the street’ from the home office at The Ted would probably hurt the Major League Product. Put it in Macon or Savannah, but why right down the street? Bad move in my opinion.

By Steve

January 14, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Call your bluff?

This simply the Braves way of lighting a fire under Mayor Wilder and his band of nincompoops in Richmond to get a new stadium built for the AAA team.

The Braves have no serious intention of coming to Gwinnett.

By Bobby Cox

January 14, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

By wirelessg

January 14, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

My money is on this not happening. I am not saying it will stay in Richmond or maybe the team will temporarily play somewhere, but a permanent location in Gwinnett? Never.<<<

Hey Clueless. It’s happening. I will gladly take your money.

By Jeff

January 14, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

I say move them to Orlando and play at the Disney Complex!

By Noahway

January 14, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

I hear what some of you are saying about this being a bluff to get Richmond moving on the new stadium, but I doubt it. Would they really run the risk of making all the Gwinnett Braves fans mad? Also, it’s not like Richmond hasn’t already gotten plenty of notice regarding the Brave’s wishes regarding a new facility. This has been going on for years. About 90% of the blame rests with Mayor Wilder. His 4 years can’t be over soon enough.

By Bill

January 14, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

How does this make any sense? they will be in direct competition with the Braves.Also, minor league ball should be in towns that that are far removed from major league cities. As a gwinnett County resident i doubt i would ever go to a game versus seeing the major league club. good luck!

By Antonio Jimenez Martinez Perez

January 14, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

They should name them Chivas USA.

By Lloyd

January 14, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Welcome Gwinnett Braves!!! You’ll get the respect and fans that you deserve!

By Ballpark Fan

January 14, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

This sounds like a negotiating tactic on the part of the Braves to get a new stadium built in Richmond.

A new 10,000 seat stadium would need to be built in Gwinnett, and would undoubtedly impact attendence at Turner Field. However, since the Braves own the AAA team as well, they would still pocket the money.

There have been rumors for some time about Gwinnett building a baseball stadium to host an unafiliated, independent league team. Since the Braves control the territorial rights witin 70 miles of Atlanta, they would not permit another team’s minor-league affiliate play in Gwinnett.

By CBI

January 14, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Richmond’s leaders have wasted five years in doing anything to keep this from happening. Proposal after proposal after proposal have been ignored by the blind (Mayor Wilder) leading the blind (City Council and others who felt the R-Braves would never leave). Do not let anyone tell you The “Diamond” is not falling apart: rat infestations, falling concrete that closed an entire section and a swamp that canceled games on sunny days all have contributed to a miserable day at the ballpark. The place, once a gem, is an outdated dump. The city (and others) pushed for renovation (a Band-aid) when it should have looked to build. And on the day when it finally realized the old park should go, Richmonders appear to have lost our team. Congratulations. Welcome Single-A or Double-A basebll.

By Cobb Man

January 14, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Gwinett. Now you can live, work and PLAY all within a few miles of your comfortable, little over priced houses.

Just remember, when you are outside of the Metro Area and someone asks where you are from, dont you dare say ATLANTA.

By Noahway

January 14, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

The Braves are one of the few organizations that owns its AAA team, so I’m not sure the issue of the AAA team being so close to Turner Field is as much an issue as it would be for other franchises. It will compliment rather than compete with Turner Field. Minor league baseball is a lot of fun. I’ll miss my R-Braves here in Richmond.

By Bonedaddy

January 14, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Cobb Man, my house isn’t little, or overpriced. I am also sitting on 20 acres of land, right here in Gwinnett. Stick it.

By Leonard

January 14, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Cobb Man:

As a former Cobb resident, I’m glad I left Cobb for Gwinnett. Cobb homes are actually overpriced thanks to John Weiland’s attempt to fool Cobb newcomers into believing they are in Vinings when they are actually in Mableton. I’m loving my new life in Gwinnett and I must say, Cobb has nothing compared to Gwinnett. P.S. There were just as many illegals in Cobb as Gwinnett. Don’t let the media fool you.

By David Beall

January 14, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

I beg your pardon, but Rome is far from rinky-dink. We have played host to the Tour de Georgia on numerous occasions. We have two public and two private colleges, both of which receive national renound, and we have professional sports. We also will be hosting the NAIA Collegiate Football Championship for the next 2 years.

We also have a large enough population to be considered to be an MSA (metropolitan statistical area). In other words, we’re not small in anybody’s book.

I don’t think Rome would ever get AAA bsll, but we could certainly support it.

By David Beall

January 14, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

I beg your pardon, but Rome is far from rinky-dink. We have played host to the Tour de Georgia on numerous occasions. We have two public and two private colleges, both of which receive national renound, and we have professional sports. We also will be hosting the NAIA Collegiate Football Championship for the next 2 years.

We also have a large enough population to be considered to be an MSA (metropolitan statistical area). In other words, we’re not small in anybody’s book.

I don’t think Rome would ever get AAA bsll, but we could certainly support it.

By jabster

January 14, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Cobb Man, meet Pa Kettle. Cobb isn’t any more ATL than Gwinnett.

I bet Cobb Man lives up in NE Cobb but likes to fancy he lives ITP. Or maybe in one of those “Vinings” subdivisions halfway to Powder Springs.

Also, it’s not Gwinnett which has miles of $700-$800K subdivisions right off of major arterials. Drive down Shallowford Road (notice how all the roads in Cobb have the same name as a road in Fulton or DeKalb?) and tell me what you see.

If you want minor league ball, go to Rome already.

By Johnny Nam

January 14, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

EXCELLENT !! No more driving into Atlanta. I would rather drive to Gwinnett from Marietta any day to see a AAA team play. And as the blogger above said, maybe I wii be able to buy to beers for $10 rather than 1. I’m excited !!!

By Insider

January 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

A well-placed industry source has confirmed that this is true, and the Braves will be leaving Gwinnett for Richmond in 2008. No kidding.

By wirelessg

January 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Hello, I can not believe how gullible AJC readers are. This does not make any sense whatsoever. This is only a bargaining stance to push Richmond over the decision that they have been stuck on. On Gwinnett, there are no advanced plans or specific locations, no money for a AAA worthy facility and the 2009-2010 timeframe is laughable, regardless of the intentions. If Gwinnett has been negotiating with the Braves on a facility, they potentially could be in violation of open meetings laws.

By Cobb Man

January 14, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

Maybe one day I can drive way up I-85 to come visit one of your many strip malls. Or perhaps Midevil Times!

You guys are just so SUCCESSFUL up there. Success truly lives in Gwinnett!

By Chico Esquela

January 14, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

El Beisbol gonna be berry berry good to Gwinnett! Gracias!

By Button

January 14, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

If a team in Gwinnett means less traffic on I-85 for those of us who really are Atlantans then I’m all for it. I look forward to the day when Captain Herb is saying “there is about a 40 minute wait to get into the Gwinnett Gridlockers game tonight”. “Traffic is backed up all the way back to Jimmy Carter”. “The South connector to the Ted is looking good though”.

By O-Gee

January 14, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

maybe richmond would like the hawks or the falcons. they’re welcome to either.

By chief of smoke

January 14, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

The Braves do not draw that well. it looks like Market Saturation to me.

By Rich McKay

January 14, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

Yeah, send Michael Vick back to his home state, once he gets out of the pokey!

By DB

January 14, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

COBB MAN - Cobb is cool - just different than Gwinnett and in th long-run will suffer more decline because of it’s resistence to diversity. In Cobb, the only “good” schools have very little diversity. In Gwinnett there are large populations of many ethnic backgrounds. This gives choice and stablity over time. And better sports

By Kathi in Lilburn

January 14, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

I love it! I’ll go to a lot of games. We need a transportation plan that will let us park near our homes and take a bus to the stadium.

By Kathi in Lilburn

January 14, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

I love it! They need a transportation plan where we can park near our homes and take a bus to the stadium.

By Daisey

January 14, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Watch out Gwinnett taxpayers! You are going to be asked to pay for a ballpark. Sports teams in an area DO NOT add to a community’s economy. Those that say so are the owners, politicians, and others that may gain by having the taxpayers pay for a ballpark. Non-biased economist consistently research and show that taxpayer built ballparks do not create enough additional economic activity to justify their construction nor any tax breaks given to a team to move.

By Trackboy1

January 14, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

I’ve been to a whole lot of athletic facilities in my life, and the Gwinnett Arena is one of the best, plus there’s free parking!!!

If any county or city can do a minor league ballfield the right way, it’s Gwinnett.

Now Gwinnett still really needs MARTA trains…

By Ross

January 14, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Can you drink beer in Gwinnett County?

-drl

By PROUD COBBITE

January 14, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

GWINNETT = THE POOR MAN’S COBB COUNTY

Only you foolish Gwinnettians would be proud to have something as harmful as a stadium in your county.

Cobb County gets Atlanta’s opera house, Gwinnett gets another minor league sports team. How fitting.

By Sam

January 14, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Other teams have their AAA affiliates nearby. Seattle’s AAA team is in Tacoma, Boston’s AAA team is in Pawtucket, Rhode Island (only about 45 minutes from Boston), Colorado Rockies’ team is in Colorado Springs. Several of the Orioles’ teams are within an hour drive from Baltimore (Bowie, Frederick, Aberdeen). Having a minor league team close to the major league team’s city can work. Also, Richmond’s stadium is terrible, and should have been replaced 10 years ago, but the government in Richmond refuses to build a new one, so I say get the Braves out of Richmond.

By Bobby Cox

January 14, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Cobb County is a dump with Strip Clubs and racist citizens.

By gwinnett sport

January 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Let me see, can anyonw from Cobb tell me any major or minor leage sports teams in their county. I am waiting…

By gwinnett sport

January 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Let me see, can anyone from Cobb tell me any major or minor leage sports teams in their county. I am waiting…

By gwinnett sport

January 14, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Let me see, can anyone from Cobb tell me any major or minor leage sports teams in their county. I am waiting…

By Dave

January 14, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Let’s see, Cobb has two public four-year universities (incuding KSU, the third-largest school in the state) and Gwinnett has an auxilary campus of DeKalb College or something. I’ll take education over minor league teams anyday!

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

January 14, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Gee, now instead of not going to any games at Turner Field, now I can not go to any games in Gwinnett.

By Geraldo

January 14, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

I know I’ll be much more likely to go to a suburban venue, than to drive into the middle of the f-uped city of Atlanta.

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

January 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

you only gotta post once gwinnett sport.

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

January 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

you only gotta post once gwinnett sport.

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

January 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

you only gotta post once gwinnett sport.

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

January 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

you only gotta post once gwinnett sport.

By Disgruntled Atlanta Sports Fan

January 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

you only gotta post once gwinnett sport.

By 59bulldawg

January 14, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

O-Gee, thanks but no thanks … Atlanta can keep both … just leave the R-Braves in Richmond.

By ITP

January 14, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

AAA Braves in the burbs is cool, as long as it’s reasonably priced.

And hey, all you Cobb and Gwinnett Co. guys, it’s ok if you say you’re from Atlanta when you go out of town. No one knows Cobb or Gwinnett counties outside Ga. Do you know the main suburbs of Dallas or Chicago or Denver? Not unless you have a connection there.

By Thrash

January 14, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Good deal Gwinnett! No more slogging down to hot, miserable, poorly located Turner Field with overpriced everything.

By Stephen

January 14, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

I understand Richmond has thrown the Braves under the bus for years with our horrible stadium and pathetic mayor, but in the long run this is a mistake for the Braves. I grew up an A-Braves fan for only one reason: The Richmond Braves. And I think that can be said for tens of thousands of Braves fans. I also understand the desire to have the AAA club close to home, but at the same time, spreading your territory broadens your fan base. Granted, my main gripe here is it takes good professional baseball, and my team’s AAA team, out of my city, but I also think this is a mistake by the A-Braves in terms of long-term fan development. We’re voting mayer Wilder out of office anyway (you ATL folk ever had a mayor try to throw out the school board?!) and we’ll get a mayor who will give the Braves the respect - and facility they deserve.

By Bubba

January 14, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

FANTASTIC !!! It’s a great plan and would not be the only MLB team to have a minor league team located in their suburbs. Old people like me probably remember going down to Ponce de Leon to see the Crackers at both AA and AAA levels. Minor league ball is fun.

By Kris Alyx Devereux

January 14, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

this is really is rotten way to do for the fans in the richmond VA area, it’s almost like how the colts left baltimore, if this happens & it’s confirmed As being true, What little support the braves had left in va is going to maybe go to oh i don’t know maybe the red sox, because i’m just a casual baseball fan.

By Dadgum

January 14, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Living in Richmond I go to a few Braves games each year. It is easy to get to and leave from and is at best an adequate facility. It needs to be replaced and I am sure will be very soon.

The entire problem lies with the esteemed mayoral office. Our mayor is arrogant and has been playing hardball with Mike Plant and the Braves for over two years. This, given that attendance has been dwindling to among the lowest in AAA, is hardly appropriate behavior for an incumbent trying to keep the team.

I frankly don’t think that Richmond deserves the Braves. Moving to Gwinnett makes total sense to me as far as logistics and turnstile counts. Richmond has only drawn about 6,000 fans the last few years and is going south of that many many nights.

Richmond, contrary to popular belief, is not an Atlanta Braves town. Too far from Atlanta and with the Braves playing fewer games on cable it seems even farther.

Wisdom says that the Nationals will locate a team here or the Orioles. Perhaps a AA team. Regardless it is time for the Braves to pull out for greener outfields that drain and it is only hoped that Mayor Wilder follows soon after.

By meeee

January 14, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

ahha yes finally. glads games for fall through spring and minor league braves for summer.

By Gwinnett is Great

January 14, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

I live in Cobb and KNOW that Cobb has just as many strip malls as Gwinnett. I’m also not so proud of the new Energy Center. I travel to Gwinnett’s Arena on a regular basis. Went to the Energy Center for the grand opening and will not be returning.

By Julie

January 14, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Speaking of education, Gwinnett has Georgia Gwinnett College, Georgia Technical College, and campuses for UGA and Georgia Perimeter. Stop hating Cobb folks!

By Kristie

January 14, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

Gwinnett is getting another sports team? Yet another reason for me to leave Cobb County. I live in Cobb and it’s full of strip malls and illegals. I can’t believe Cobb people are coming on here and acting like we are elite. We’re FAR from that.

By Jake

January 14, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

That’s great! I would most certainly go see the Gwinnett team. I just hope the attendance for the Atlanta Braves doesn’t drop due to this team being much closer. Go Braves!

By Kevin

January 14, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

That is great news. I live in Northeast GA and it was painful for us around here when the Braves pulled out of Greenville. I like knowing who I am pulling for at the minor league games. The Greenville Drive have an awesome stadium but they are not the Braves. Great job Braves and Gwinnett County.

By meeee

January 14, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

yea ill take education over sports teams gwinnet county public schools some are crap but most are better than cobbs

and oh man i wish we had an opera house (yawn)

By Roswell

January 14, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Great. You can now see a pro baseball game without having your car broken into.

By Mike

January 14, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

Cobb is more connected to Atlanta - I can see the new skyscrapers being built in Buckhead from the South Marietta Loop @ I-75. Gwinnett is further out and therefore less connected to Atlanta. Since I live in Cobb, I will not be driving further to see a minor league team in Gwinnett. But to those of you in Gwinnett, enjoy.

By David

January 15, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this

Gwinnett is going to be a “Gwhetto” in about 10 years. With all of that CHEAP development out there, Gwinnett is going to decay quicker than roadkill in July.

By John

January 15, 2008 7:49 AM | Link to this

DAVID:

All of the talk about Gwinnett turning into a ghetto is a myth. The AJC has been trying to put Gwinnett down too, but why would so many sports teams, large corporations and fine dining establishments move to Gwinnett if it’s potential is to be a ghetto. Give me a break! Gwinnett is Great!

By Lois

January 15, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

I live in COBB COUNTY. There are also a large abundance of strip malls and illegal immigrants right here in COBB COUNTY. To all of the jealous Cobb residents that are trying to put Gwinnett down, you are only making yourselves look bad. I travel to Gwinnett for shows at their Arena and have to say that Gwinnett is NOT a poor man’s Cobb County. It’s a very nice county and at least Gwinnett residents don’t have to travel like I do for REAL entertainment. Cobb’s Energy Center sucks!!

By armesjr

January 15, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

I grew up in Atlanta (and i am a diehard braves fan) and now live in Richmond, and i am sad to see the Braves leaving town. It was nice to actually get to see a baseball game, and see guys that were getting called up. I am not really suprised that they are leaving though. Attendance was pretty weak, and the ball park was the pitts. The scoreboard always seemed to missing several lights. They have been arguing about a new stadium for years, and could never decide on anything. Most college parks are much nicer than the Richmond Diamond. While I like Richmond, the people that run the city are idiots. They are constantly talking about how the want the city to grow, and are trying to attract new businesses, and then they loose what could have been a major attraction. Cant wait till the braves dominate the nationals on opening day. i will making the trek to DC

By HZ818

January 15, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

Gwinnett sure is defensive about being called a poor man’s Cobb. So there must be some truth to it…

By russ

January 15, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

This could be very cool. I live in N Alabama and can envision a weekend road trip to catch the AA, AAA, and ML teams all in one swing! Very nice twist!

By russ

January 15, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

This could be very cool. I live in N Alabama and can envision a weekend road trip to catch the A, AAA, and ML teams all in one swing! Very nice twist!

By Talkin' Sense

January 15, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

It’s funny to hear Cobb and Gwinnett residents argue over who is more pathetic. One of the reasons I moved downtown was to be near my beloved Atlanta Braves. Atlanta is a major league city and the Braves are a major league team. I could walk to the games, but it’s a long hike, so I cough up the $10 to park. But that’s what I’d spend on gas to get there if I lived in Cobb or Gwinnett. And a beer at The Ted is only $7 (not $10). I usually have one. I go there to watch baseball, not to drink. So I spend seven dollars - big deal. If I want to get drunk I’ll go to a pub - or I’ll go home. Face it, minor league baseball is just that - it’s a minor event, held in minor league towns. So stop trying to make like it’s better than the majors already. Do me a favor, stay outside the perimeter. Go see Boyer, Hodges, Lillibridge and Blanco play. I’ll go see Smoltz, Glavine, Chipper, McCann, Frenchy and Tex. Go Braves!

By Talkin' Sense

January 15, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Another thing - I read some posts above in which Cobb and Gwinnett residents were arguing over who had the most “illegals and thugs” in their county. Hey - isn’t that why you live outside the perimeter in the first place? To get away from the illegals and thugs? I’ve lived downtown five years now, and have yet to feel physically threatened by anyone (knock on wood). The last time that happened, I was in Gwinnett County. A white guy in a pickup (I’m white too) thought I’d deliberately cut him off in traffic, and he went ballistic. He road raged at me for the next five miles. I think he wanted to kill me. Listen, take my advice - move downtown where it’s safe. Nothing is more dangerous than a member of the NRA in an oversized truck who has to commute three hours a day and is ready to explode. Good luck dealing with him at your minor league baseball game in Gwinnett County, after he’s downed five or six of those “cheap” beers they’re going to be selling.

By TBrave

January 15, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

I think it will help the Braves fan base for sure…. so many people that far north will not make the trip down to the TED - but if they start following the kids and get excited for them when they are called up it becomes more ‘personal’ for them to follow them up to the majors. And when someone from up here needs to get in some rehab work-then they won’t be too far away!
I am jazzed about it… I’m a season ticket holder (and will remain one) but it will be fun to see the kids coming up!! And where I live - I’ll be sandwhiched in between Braves! What could be better???

By IdeaMan

January 15, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

If they decide to call them the “Gwinnett Braves”, maybe they can use the cool “GB” logo on their hats, which was used by the AA Greenville Braves before they moved to Mississippi.

By Richard S.

January 15, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Who is going to pay for the stadium and the infrastructure to support it? Thats right, the Taxpayers! Shouldn’t the Taxpayer’s of Gwinnett County be allowed to vote ‘for or against’ this?

By Brian K.

January 15, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

That small piece of land just before the I85-I20 interchange? By 2009? Are you kidding me?

This is a great move for the Braves. A great move for Gwinnett county. However I’m not so sure the people who live around the Mall of GA will think that way when an already congested roadway system gets even more so with this.

By jabster

January 15, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Mike: You can see downtown AND Buckhead from atop Peachtree Ridge, too.

Talkin’ Sense: I live in Gwinnett and my commute is about 15 minutes. :-P

IdeaMan: Love it!

Brian K: Good point. Gwinnett and the GDOT need to move on the McGinnis Ferry Road extension (from Satellite to Old Ptree), the I85-Ga. 324 interchange (which would provide backdoor access to the MOG and the ballpark from I-85), and probably the Sugarloaf extension (Gwinco portion of the northern arc, so the folks in the southern part of the county can get up to the ballpark) stat!

Another smart move would be to put some of the parking on the other side of Ga. 20, connected by a ped bridge or tunnel, so people coming from the 324/Hamilton Mill area can sneak in the back.

By Thomas M.

January 15, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

It’s sad to hear the R-Braves are leaving Richmond. I grew up in Richmond and enjoyed going to games with my dad. I remember when the “Diamond” was built and was state of the art. I guess that was a long time ago now. I always liked “Parker Field” better personally. It was a more “cozy” place to watch a game. Less concrete.

From what I’ve read I can’t blame the A-Braves from moving from a financial stand point. The City of Richmond officials have screwed this up. Hopefully Richmond can attract a minor league team to fill the void. Richmond can support a team.

Richmonders will support whatever team wears the “R” on their cap.

By JimD

January 15, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Well, since I live just outside of Gwinnett, I love the idea!!!

By No Name

January 15, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

I think its a great idea however the Mall of Georgia area is not the best place to put it. That area already has traffic that is terrible to get through. Why not find some land in Lawrenceville that is not so congested. There are plenty of places to build that field.

By Frank

January 15, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

I’m very excited at the news. I used to be a rabid baseball fan, but the strikes, greed, and price-gouging that goes on at the major league level has turned me off. I’ve been to 3 Braves games in the last 10 years. Minor league ball though is a different story. I can’t wait to spend some summer evenings at the ballpark and enjoy the games again!

By Cobb Man

January 15, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Hey Talkin’ Sense, enjoy your 450k shoebox, I mean CONDO downtown. I will think of you when I am grilling out on my back porch in the peace and quite of my own backyard. Have fun carrying all those grocey bags from the car to your pantry. Oh, that’s right, you dont have a pantry.

As for you gwinnett sport, the Atlanta Xplosion (http://www.atlantaxplosion.com/) play in Cobb County. I would rather watch women play football than crappy hockey or baseball any day.

By Atlanta City Planning

January 15, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

It would have been great if they had decided to locate Turner Field on the site of the present-day Atlantic Station. Imagine grabbing dinner and a drink in Midtown before walking over the bridge for a night at the ballpark. Talk about atmosphere!

However, the decision to put the Olympic Stadium (which became Turner Field) at its current location was purely political and profit-driven. It was intended to “rejuvenate” the southside of downtown. That has not and will not happened. The Braves continue to maintain their “captive audience” at Turner Field, with no other options for pre-or post game dining or entertainment in the area.

By Louis

January 15, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Xplosion. You’ve got to be kidding me. Grow up COBB MAN and accept your choice of a place to live…even though John Weiland has fooled all of you into believing Cobb is an elite area and not the same Mableton, Austell and West Cobb it’s always been. P.S. Vinings is not in Cobb.

By KT

January 15, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Let’s see…the Braves can’t sell out most home games, and now Gwinnett County is going to cannibalize more potential attendees ??? Who is going to see the minors when for the same price or a little more, Braves tickets are readily available ? Lose lose situation here for both teams.

By Rob

January 15, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

I don’t like it. We taxpayers in Gwinnett will pay $38 million for a stadium and we only charge the Braves $250k a year in rent for $12 million in tax revenues over a 30 year period. Looks like bad math by our wonderful county board. Some of the board members probably own the land the county will purchase.

By Talkin' Sense

January 15, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

Hey Cobb Man - aren’t you the guy who road raged after me for five miles - oh wait, that was in Gwinnett County. Hey, my “shoebox” only cost me $190,000 in 2002, and I just had it appraised at $240,000. I’ll let you know when it’s worth $450,000. You’ll probably be interested in buying it then.

By lJ

January 16, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

KT—

You have obviously never been to a minor league game - the prices are not the same. I for one am excited for this. I would love to take my family to Turner Field but buying 5 tickets, parking, concessions is all to expensive for us. But we can definitely afford to take our family to the minor league games. So, you are talking about people going to the minor league game who probably don’t go to Turner Field anyway. This is a great move. And I can’t wait to take my kids to the games!

By Katie

January 16, 2008 5:54 AM | Link to this

Gwinnett has 45 million to build a stadium but has no money to fix our streets and gang problems? WTF??? Screw the baseball park, fix the other problems first.

By SOS

January 16, 2008 7:20 AM | Link to this

Unbelievable!! Just when Gwinnett had a nice area growing, in the Mall of Georgia, for families…they go and muck it up with plans for a freaking stadium. Take a look at the depressed property around stadiums boneheads!! Why don’t you guys widden Highway 324, or 124, or Old Peachtree Road…spend 45 million on bettering the commute and getting rail in the county. What a LOAD OF CRAP!

By Joshua Barlowe

January 16, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

This is a correction from a mistake made when the Ted was built (as Olympic Stadium). The Braves are having a hard time selling out Turner Field because of its location. They never should’ve built in south Atlanta. The northern burbs, or at least up around Buckhead, would’ve filled the stadium much more every night.

The Gwinnett team will indeed hinder attendance at Turner Field; Gwinnett’s nearly 800,000 residents HATE driving down there.

By Bloggin Fool

January 16, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

By wirelessg

January 14, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s get real. Locate a AAA baseball franchise in a suburb of the parent major league team? My money is on this not happening. I am not saying it will stay in Richmond or maybe the team will temporarily play somewhere, but a permanent location in Gwinnett? Never.

By Cobb Man

January 16, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

Talking Sense- $50k in five years… now that’s impressive! Why are you getting it appraised anyway? Has your the interest rate on your 5 year ARM gone up?

Good luck selling it! Now is a great time to sell a condo!

By wirelessg

January 16, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Yep, stupid comment, no doubt, but really don’t like this idea. Gwinnett, my county, has a long history of these back door good ol’ boy deals. Also, as far along as this process is, the Braves weren’t negotiating with Richmond in good faith.

By AM

January 16, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

I wish Bert could get rid of the illegals as easy as he could bring in a baseball team. See what can happen when our govt wants something. Enforce the immigration laws Bert!

By Chris

January 16, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

I hope it works out for Gwinnett. I’m skeptical that you can support a AAA team so close to the major league club without hurting one or both of them. The stadium plans on the new site sound cool though, definitely a big upgrade from The Diamond in Richmond.

By DD

January 16, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Minor league baseball..yuck!

By Fool Steve

January 17, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

By Steve

January 14, 2008 2:57 PM |

This simply the Braves way of lighting a fire under Mayor Wilder and his band of nincompoops in Richmond to get a new stadium built for the AAA team.

The Braves have no serious intention of coming to Gwinnett.

By stewie

January 17, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

To all you whiners about the new Braves deal. Pay attention. It has been talked about for a couple of years. I personally have filled out at least 4 surveys asking opinions about bringing baseball to Gwinette in the last year.

I bet when Starbucks announces it is putting a store in the complex no one will cry.

By George Gipp

January 17, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

I think it’s great and I will go to the games. Minor league baseball is a lot of fun and you get a chance to pick out the future superstars. 2 drawbacks: 1. Unlike the Gwinnett Arena, you’re going to have to pay to park at the new stadium. The Braves have already been promised parking revenue, and, 2. By order of Gwinnett County, I can’t even water my own lawn or open my pool this summer. I’ll bet they let ‘em water the grass at the new stadium. They’ll use thousands of gallons on a daily basis. When it comes to development, only the everyday homeowner/taxpayer must suffer restrictions. We don’t have any water, but just keep building!

By Hank B.

January 17, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

I’ve owned a home and voted in North Gwinnett since 1982 and I haven’t seen a single opinion survey about bringing baseball to Gwinnett. Of course, I am not a Jock Sniffer either. Its my tax dollars too Bert Nasuti. And I don’t like the way you and Kevin ‘sniff’ Kennerly are wasting them. There are more important things than re-enforcing the ‘jock’ mentality in our kids.

By Don

January 17, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Hank B.-you are one of the few snmart ones that realize this is costing you. I do not see business side of theis working out for us. I think it is great to have a AAA team but not on my tax dollars. I can not wait till next years tax bill increase form this.

By KB

January 17, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

This stadium will bring in a ton of income for Gwinnett County.

Widing the roads wont bring in the money, doing something about the illegals won’t bring in money. The Gwinnett Braves will generate income for our great county.

I personally would have voted YES, had I been given the chance. Gwinnett needs more sporting arenas and family friendly places. I am looking forward to going to the games next summer. If season tickets are offered, we will purchase them. Now we have arena football, arena hockey, and a minor league baseball team!!!!!!

By Leah

January 17, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

As a resident of Gwinnett, I was confused about the money we’re able to find for baseball, but not able to find money for some of our schools. With that being said, I am very excited about the minors coming to town. I’ve only been to 3 Braves games, but can hardly wait for this team. Baseball that is close to home is priceless.

Gwinnett does have a lot of problems (as do most large towns) but this is a step in the right direction, and I see bigger things on the horizon.

By Hank B.

January 17, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Don, do the county elected Commissioners not realize our local economy is slowing down while they are spending our Tax Dollars like drunken outfield fans? KB, in case you failed Economics 101, the Taxpayers are forced to pay to road improvements and infrastructure. Lets hope the Gwinnett County Police can generate some County income off the drunken AAA baseball fans.

By Thrasher Fan

January 17, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

I am concerned where the prudence of spending this much money in times of economic uncertainty and in the throes of a drought. The manner this was negotiated (aparently legal) was not necessarily in the benefit of the citizens of the county. The money could have been spent to the bettermeant of more people ie: roads, water conservation etc. Having said all this I will enjoy my share of games, all the while worrying about the already overburdened highway 20!

By Concerned Gwinnett Resident

January 18, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

This is an election year and Bannister needed all the help he could get. This is the type of person he is. Go figure another Gwinnett Government group doing business in secret just like the school system. I wonder what work they are looking at for the roads. The location is already a conjested area. Not long ago I recall there being a news article that we were low on money for projects. Now the puzzle pieces are coming together why all the work on the exit ramps along I85. The fight for hotels in the Buford area and the Hamilton Mill Road area. Again this will be a drain on the infstructure and the water system. I agree with others the money could have been spent on roads, water conservation, and many other county needs.

By Jake

January 22, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Give us our Braves back!!!! The R-Braves are a Richmond trdition, we love the team, our great city is crying over this. 54 years of AAA tradition down the drain because our city leaders dropped the ball.