07 Apr 2014

COUGARS LEAVE BANDITS IN THE COLD IN OPENER

By Marco LaNave
Four players have multi-hit games for Quad Cities, but Kane County spoils home opener, 8-4

DAVENPORT, Iowa (April 3, 2014) - After scoring twice in the top of the first inning, the Kane County Cougars never lost the lead, as their pitchers combined to shut out the Quad Cities River Bandits over the last six innings in an 8-4 final in front of 1,821 at Modern Woodmen Park Thursday night.

Cougars center fielder Jake Hannemann lined the first pitch of the season from right-hander Andrew Thurman (0-1) back to the mound, and it deflected off Thurman for a leadoff infield single. After a one-out walk by designated hitter Ben Carhart, Cougars right fielder Yasiel Balaguert began his four-hit Midwest League debut with an RBI double to right field. An infield groundout by first baseman Jacob Rogers brought home Carhart for a 2-0 lead.

Quad Cities (0-1) started quickly in the bottom of the first against right-hander Paul Blackburn. Center fielder James Ramsay and right fielder Brett Phillips had back-to-back singles, but only Ramsay scored in an inning stifled by three groundouts.

With a 2-1 lead, Kane County (1-0) rallied again in the second inning against Thurman. Left fielder Trey Martin drew a leadoff walk, stole second base and advanced to third on the first of three throwing errors by River Bandits catcher Jobduan Morales. Cougars shortstop Carlos Penalver knocked in Martin with a single and Hannemann followed with another single. Second baseman Daniel Lockhart's sacrifice fly and Carhart's single brought home two runs for a 5-1 lead.

On a night when the River Bandits left a runner on base in every inning - and one in scoring position each of the first eight - their best rally came in the bottom of the third inning. Phillips hit a leadoff single and stole second base. With two outs, designated hitter Chase McDonald drove an RBI double to the right-center field gap. After left fielder Jon Kemmer singled, Austin "Catfish" Elkins laced a sharp ground ball down the first-base line to score McDonald and Kemmer to cut the lead to 5-4.

After Elkins' triple however, the Cougars pitching staff evaded trouble the rest of the night. Blackburn lasted four innings, allowing nine hits and four earned runs. Left-hander Nathan Dorris (1-0) and right-hander James Pugliese each tossed two scoreless innings, and right-hander Jose Arias worked around a walk in the ninth inning to finish the Cougars' second Opening Day win the last three seasons at Modern Woodmen Park. The road team has won the two teams' Opening Day meetings three straight years.

The Cougars gained breathing room with single runs in the fourth, seventh and ninth innings against the River Bandits. Thurman allowed six runs - five earned - on seven hits and two walks with three strikeouts in a four-inning start. Right-hander Zach Morton worked a scoreless fifth inning, before left-hander Chris Lee and right-hander Tyler Brunnemann each had two-inning, one-run appearances.

Each team had 11 hits Thursday, but Quad Cities went 4-for-18 with runners in scoring position.

03 Apr 2014

ASTROS SET MINOR LEAGUE ROSTERS

By Marco LaNave

Top four affiliates begin regular season play this Thursday

HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros have set their preliminary 2014 minor league rosters for four of their affiliates, Triple A Oklahoma City, Double A Corpus Christi, Class A Advanced Lancaster and Class A Quad Cities. The announcement was made by Astros Director of Player Development Quinton McCracken.

 

These rosters are subject to change and will not be officially finalized until the minor league Opening Day. Rosters do not include Disabled List players.

 

Oklahoma City:

 

PITCHERS

Jake Buchanan

Jose Cisnero

Paul Clemens

Bobby Doran

Darin Downs*

Mike Foltynewicz

Chia-Jen Lo

David Martinez

Collin McHugh

Rudy Owens*

Jason Stoffel

Nick Tropeano

Pat Urckfitz*

Josh Zeid

CATCHERS

Ryan McCurdy

Carlos Perez

Max Stassi

INFIELDERS

Japhet Amador

Erik Castro*

Jonathan Meyer

Gregorio Petit

Jon Singleton*

Ruben Sosa#

Ronald Torreyes

 

OUTFIELDERS

Adron Chambers

Domingo Santana

George Springer

Austin Wates

 

* - denotes left-hander

# - denotes switch-hitter

 

Corpus Christi:

PITCHERS

Travis Ballew

Colton Cain*

Luis Cruz*

Jorge De Leon

T.J. Geith*

Matt Heidenreich

Jordan Jankowski

Andrew Robinson

Brady Rodgers

David Rollins*

Ross Seaton

Tommy Shirley*

Alex Sogard*

Aaron West

CATCHERS

Rene Garcia

Tyler Heineman#

INFIELDERS

M.P. Cokinos

Matt Duffy

Nolan Fontana*

Enrique Hernandez

Jio Mier

Joe Sclafani#

 

OUTFIELDERS 

Andrew Aplin*

Delino DeShields

Chris Epps*

Leo Heras*

Preston Tucker*

 

Lancaster:

PITCHERS

Mark Appel

Jamaine Cotton

Chris Devenski

Michael Dimock

Josh Hader*

Mike Hauschild

Mitchell Lambson*

Lance McCullers

Juan Minaya

Daniel Minor

J.D. Osborne*

Tyson Perez

Kyle Smith

Vincent Velasquez

Kyle Westwood

CATCHERS

Roberto Pena

Jake Rodriguez

INFIELDERS

Carlos Correa

Tony Kemp*

Brandon Meredith

Carlos Perdomo

Rio Ruiz*

 

OUTFIELDERS

Justin Gominsky

Dan Gulbransen*

Teoscar Hernandez

Jordan Scott*

Danry Vasquez*

 

Quad Cities:

PITCHERS

Tyler Brunnemann

Patrick Christensen

Chris Cotton*

Kent Emanuel*

Michael Feliz

Evan Grills*

Jandel Gustave

Adrian Houser

Chris Lee*

Albert Minnis*

Zach Morton

Gonzalo Sanudo

Andrew Thurman

Andrew Walter

 

CATCHERS

Brett Booth

Brian Holberton*

Jobduan Morales#

 

INFIELDERS

Austin Elkins#

Conrad Gregor*

Jack Mayfield

Chase McDonald

Chan Moon*

Tyler White

 

OUTFIELDERS

Jon Kemmer*

Tanner Mathis*

Brett Phillips*

James Ramsay*

 

Climbing the Charts:

Over the past two seasons, the combined record of the Astros minor league system has been the best in baseball (915-754, .548)...Houston set a franchise record when their top six minor league affiliates all qualified for the playoffs in 2013, and two clubs ended up winning championships (Class A Quad Cities, Class A Short Season Tri-City)...the Astros became the first organization to have six domestic affiliates qualify for the postseason since the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2003...along with the Royals and Mariners, the Astros were one of three organizations to have multiple championship teams in 2013.

The RANKINGS:

This Spring, the Astros minor league system was rated as the best in baseball by both ESPN.com and The Sporting News...Baseball America, who ranked the Astros system as the worst in baseball in both 2009 and 2010, tabbed Houston's system as the fifth-best in the Majors...seven Houston prospects made the 2014 MLB.com Top 100 Prospects list, which ranked tied for second among all 30 clubs...of the top 100 prospect lists put out by ESPN.com, Baseball Prospectus, Baseball America and MLB.com, the following Astros prospects made at least one of those lists: SS Carlos Correa, RHP Mark Appel, CF George Springer, 1B Jon Singleton, RHP Mike Foltynewicz, RHP Lance McCullers, OF Delino DeShields, RHP Vincent Velasquez.

 

The accolades:

There were 25 Astros prospects who were named All-Stars in their respective leagues across all eight levels of the minors in 2013...CF George Springer hit 37 home runs and stole 45 bases, becoming the first minor leaguer to reach the 30-30 plateau since Oakland's Grant Desme in 2009...Springer was named Minor League Baseball's 2013 Offensive Player of the Year and was named the Double A Texas League Player of the Year...at 18 years old, SS Carlos Correa was the second-youngest player in the Class A Midwest League but still led the league in OPS (.872) while finishing second in OBP (.405) and third in batting average (.320)...Correa led all Midwest League shortstops in fielding percentage.

the TALENT INFUSION:

Since Jeff Luhnow was appointed Astros General Manager in November of 2011, the Astros have acquired talent through the draft, trades and international signings...when looking at Baseball America's top 30 Astros prospects, 17 were acquired during Luhnow's current tenure with the club:

Through the Draft: SS Carlos Correa (#1), RHP Mark Appel (#3), RHP Lance McCullers (#5), 3B Rio Ruiz (#11), RHP Andrew Thurman (#15), OF Andrew Aplin (#19), SS Nolan Fontana (#20), LHP Kent Emanuel (#23), OF Brett Phillips (#30)

Via Trade: RHP Asher Wojciechowski (#10), C Max Stassi (#12), LHP Josh Hader (#14), LHP Kevin Chapman (#17), RHP Kyle Smith (#22), RHP Gonzalo Sanudo (#26), OF Danry Vasquez (#29)

International Signings: OF Leo Heras (#25)

 

The SYSTEM BY THE NUMBERS:

Last year, the Astros minor league system led all 30 organizations in OPS (.731) and on-base percentage (.342) while finishing second in walks (3208), homers (611) and runs (4101)...on the pitching side, Houston's minor league system ranked second among all 30 organizations in walks per 9.0 innings (3.1) and strikeout to walk ratio (2.53)...led by Domingo Santana (25 HR), George Springer (19 HR) and Max Stassi (17 HR), Double A Corpus Christi finished third in the minors with 158 homers...Class A Advanced Lancaster led all of the minors in runs, walks, OBP and OPS in 2013.

 

2014 breakdown - MLB.com astros top 20 prospects by team:

- Triple A Oklahoma City (6): Jon Singleton (#2), George Springer (#3), Mike Foltynewicz (#6), Domingo Santana (#9), Nick Tropeano (#17), Max Stassi (#18)

- Double A Corpus Christi (2): Delino DeShields (#7), Nolan Fontana (#18)

 

- Class A Advanced Lancaster (9): Carlos Correa (#1), Mark Appel (#2), Lance McCullers (#5), Vincent Velasquez (#9), Rio Ruiz (#11), Teoscar Hernandez (#13), Josh Hader (#15), Kyle Smith (#19), Danry Vasquez (#20)

-Class A Quad Cities (2): Michael Feliz (#10), Andrew Thurman (#16)

 

-ASTROS-
02 Apr 2014

MORE TOP PROSPECTS TO PLAY FOR 2014 BANDITS

By Marco LaNave
Preliminary roster has seven of Houston's top 30 prospects, six returnees from 2013 Midwest League Champions
DAVENPORT, Iowa (April 2, 2014) - More of the top prospects from baseball's No. 1-ranked minor league system will play at Modern Woodmen Park this season. The defending Midwest League Champion Quad Cities River Bandits and their major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, announced the club's preliminary roster for the 2014 season on Wednesday. Included are seven of the top 30 Houston Astros prospects, according to Baseball America, and six players who played for the River Bandits during their championship season.
Quad Cities alumni account for five of the top seven and nine of the top 30 prospects in the Astros organization. Adding the seven others set to play for the 2014 squad, more than half of the Astros' top prospects (16 of 30) will have played at Modern Woodmen Park since last year's season opener that began Quad Cities' new affiliation with the Houston Astros, whom ESPN.com ranked this year as having the best minor league system in baseball.
"This great roster is a perfect example of why we are so proud to be affiliated with the Houston Astros," said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. "The Astros are not merely sending us future major leaguers, they are sending the Quad Cities future stars. Like last season's roster featuring Carlos Correa and Mark Appel (among many others), this season's roster is loaded with future stars. For young people in our area, they will have many chances to see, meet and get autographs from many of the best up and coming players in major league baseball. We're not just breeding major leaguers, we're grooming future major league stars!"
The 2014 River Bandits' pitching staff includes six top prospects. The youngest on the staff, 20-year-old right-hander Michael Feliz, is the No. 9 prospect in the Astros' minor league system, according to Baseball America. Also ranked among the top prospects are right-hander Andrew Thurman (15), left-handers Kent Emanuel (23) and Chris Lee (24), and right-handers Gonzalo Sanudo (26) and Jandel Gustave (27). Outfielder Brett Phillips (30), who played 12 games with Quad Cities in 2013, is the only ranked position player on the roster.
In addition to Phillips, five other River Bandits played for Quad Cities last season. Catcher Jobduan Morales, infielder Austin "Catfish" Elkins, and right-handed pitchers Patrick Christensen, Zach Morton and Andrew Walter were all on the championship squad last September. Walter finished five playoff wins, including the championship clincher at Modern Woodmen Park.
Of the 27 players on the preliminary roster, 18 played last season for the Astros' Short-Season Class-A affiliate, the Tri-City ValleyCats, who won the 2013 New York-Penn League title. In all, 21 players on the River Bandits' 2014 preliminary roster played for a championship-winning club in 2013. Five others were on the rookie-level Greeneville club that reached the Appalachian League Championship Series.
In 2013, the Houston Astros had a franchise-record six minor league playoff clubs, becoming the first organization to have six domestic affiliates qualify for the playoffs in the same season since Pittsburgh in 2003. Each of the highest six affiliates - Triple-A Oklahoma City (Pacific Coast League), Double-A Corpus Christi (Texas League), Class-A Advanced Lancaster (California League), Quad Cities, Tri-City, and Greeneville made the postseason. The combined regular season winning percentage of all affiliates (.569, 476-360) ranked second out of 30 MLB organizations.
The roster is subject to change before the opening game at 7:00 p.m. Thursday at Modern Woodmen Park.
UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! Single-game tickets are available online at www.riverbandits.com. To order any of the ticket plans - with new lower prices - call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.
ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.
*****
28 Mar 2014

BUDWEISER SIGNS NAMING RIGHTS DEAL FOR SKY DECK AT MODERN WOODMEN PARK

By Marco LaNave

Newly-named Budweiser Champions Club has unique view with year-round versatility

DAVENPORT, Iowa (March 27, 2014) - An award-winning room in America's Best Minor League Ballpark has a new name. The Budweiser Champions Club gained its latest moniker when Budweiser and the River Bandits announced a naming rights partnership at a press conference Thursday in the Budweiser Champions Club, already one of the most popular areas for both baseball fans and year-round event patrons of Modern Woodmen Park.

The biggest highlight of a series of suite-level renovations that earned recognition last fall from Ballpark Digest as the Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the new Budweiser Champions Club is located at the far end of the suite level down the left-field line.

"On behalf of 7G and all of its employees, it is our honor and pleasure to work with the Quad Cities River Bandits this season. The addition of the new Budweiser Champions Club is exciting and provides an experience for watching ball games that is second to none," said 7G Distributing Sales Support Manager Tim Hayes. "We invite everyone to come out and help us cheer on the River Bandits and watch for our promotions throughout the summer and have fun at the ballpark all summer long!"

In addition to the Budweiser Champions Club naming rights, 7G Distributing will sponsor a Mega Mini Fridge Giveaway on Sunday, June 15, at the River Bandits 1:15 p.m. Father's Day home game. Nine mini fridges will go to nine lucky fans - one for every inning.

"We are thrilled to partner with Budweiser to re-introduce the Budweiser Champions Club and share our vision of turning Modern Woodmen Park into a year-round, multi-purpose venue that is much bigger than baseball," said River Bandits co-owner Dave Heller. "The Budweiser Champions Club will be a year-round entertainment venue that will host a wide range of events, from weddings to corporate board meetings to family reunions to receptions to charitable events, and our new partnership with Budweiser and the great folks at 7G Distributors helps ensure that this room will always be one of the premier venue destinations in the Quad Cities."

Replacing what had been an open-air, concrete patio, the Budweiser Champions Club boasts three sides of gorgeous glass windows, bringing the feel of being outdoors while still being completely enclosed. Four glass garage doors overlook the picturesque scene of Modern Woodmen Park and the Centennial Bridge stretching across the Mississippi River. On the other side is a spectacular view of downtown Davenport. The Budweiser Champions Club also has a center partition that can create two separate areas for breakout sessions or smaller meeting spaces. The space can accommodate up to 250 guests for a game and is used year-round for dozens of special events, including wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, corporate meetings and luncheons.

UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! Single-game tickets are available online atwww.riverbandits.com. To order any of the ticket plans - with new lower prices - call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

*****



21 Mar 2014

BANDITS BRING THE BEST FOR 2014 PROMOTIONS

By Marco LaNave
Schedule bursting with giveaways, charity events, theme nights, and celebrating the Quad Cities
DAVENPORT, Iowa (March 18, 2014) - The combination of playing in the Best Minor League Ballpark in America, being an affiliate of the Houston Astros, who possess the No. 1-rated minor league farm system, and defending the Midwest League Championship is just the beginning for the Quad Cities River Bandits this season. After earning multiple national promotional awards, the club is amplifying its most popular gameday giveaways, events, themes and entertainment while adding more unique shows to fill its 2014 promotional schedule.
Beginning with the bobblehead giveaways and weekly promotions announced earlier this month, the River Bandits released the rest of their full promotional slate at a press conference Tuesday in the Bandits Business Center powered by Bradfield's at Modern Woodmen Park. Highlighting the schedule are more than two dozen free giveaways, including eight "bobble" items, and a dozen fireworks nights.
"For every day and night that we open the gates of Modern Woodmen Park, our goal is to give our guests of all ages a great experience, great value and lasting memories. To do so, we have an incredible lineup of family-friendly fun this season," said team owner Dave Heller. "With more than two dozen giveaways, a dozen fireworks nights, more charitable events, new theme nights and numerous celebrations of what makes the Quad Cities unique and special, no one will want to miss the excitement that every game will offer this season!"
Below are the highlights of the promotions announced on Tuesday:
Return of the Champions: On Opening Day, Thursday, April 3, the River Bandits will take the field for the first time since winning the 2013 Midwest League Championship, which was the team's second in three years and sixth in Quad Cities franchise history. When the Modern Woodmen Park gates open at 5:30 p.m., the first 1,000 fans will receive a championship pennant courtesy of Mediacom. On Opening Day and Friday, April 4, the first 2,500 fans to each game will also receive free 2014 magnet schedules - and one lucky fan will win a brand new refrigerator, because what good is a magnet schedule if you have no place to put it?
Award-Winning Charity Efforts: The River Bandits were the first U.S. professional sports team to auction photo jerseys for local cancer charities in 2012, and the 2013 Autism Awareness Photo Jersey Auction earned a Golden Bobblehead Award for the Best Charity Promotion in all of Minor League Baseball. The third annual photo jersey auction will take place on Autism Awareness Night presented by KWQC, Friday, Aug. 8. Fans can again purchase small squares in the River Bandits players' jersey numbers to feature a photograph of themselves, a family member or friend, or in honor of a loved one affected by autism. After the game, the jerseys will be auctioned off, with all the proceeds benefitting the Quad Cities Autism Center. A limited number of squares are available for purchase at $25 each, with all of the money raised going to the Quad Cities Autism Center. More information is available by calling (563) 324-3000.
The River Bandits will continue another successful charity event with the second annual Bandits Race to Home 5K and Kids Fun Run presented by Palmer Chiropractic Clinics on Saturday, April 12, at 8 a.m. Registration is required by April 10 at riverbandits.com/5K. All proceeds from the race benefit the Bandit Scholars Program, which will award its two annual college scholarships for a full first year of tuition to two Quad Cities-area students at the River Bandits game Sunday, June 15. In the same week, the charity promotional lineup will expand for three new events. A new pink jersey auction will highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Genesis Health Systems and the Quad-City Times on Friday, June 13. Then Pack the Truck Night benefiting the River Bend Food Bank will be Thursday, June 19. Finally, the Quad Cities Area McDonald's will present Ronald McDonald House Charities Awareness Night on Friday, June 20.
Giveaways Galore & Plentiful Prizes: More than two dozen free giveaways are on the promotional schedule for the 2014 season, including eight "bobble" items announced earlier this month. The new giveaways include the Camo Drawstring Backpack Giveaway presented by Western Illinois University (Thursday, May 1), the Sport Bottle Giveaway presented by Total Turf & Landscape (Friday, May 9), the Winter Blanket Giveaway presented by the Clarion Hotel (Saturday, May 10), the Pint Glass Giveaway on Agriculture Night presented by Illinois Farm Bureau (Friday, July 18), and the Team Photo Giveaway presented by Burlington Trailways (Wednesday, July 30). Returning for multiple nights are the Modern Woodmen Hat Giveaways (Thursday, June 19; Thursday, July 17; and Thursday, Aug. 28) and Hy-Vee Tote Bag Giveaways (Sunday, July 6, and Sunday, Aug. 10). The Bandits are also stepping up the big-ticket prize items fans can win at games this season. Led by the fifth annual award-winning Reynolds Ford Used Car Giveaway (Thursday, July 10), the schedule also brings back the McGivern's Mega Jewelry Giveaway (Wednesday, July 9), the Mega Bicycle Giveaway (Sunday, June 8), Cardinals Fantacular Giveaway (Sunday, June 9), and a bigger-than-ever Flat Screen Family Sunday (Aug. 10), as well as the all-new Budweiser Mega Mini Fridge Giveaway (Sunday, June 15).
Celebrating the Community: The people of the Quad Cities region deserve more than just a single night or series for appreciation. So beginning with an absolutely free baseball game for everyone (that's right, no admission price!) on Quad Cities Community Appreciation Night on Tuesday, April 15, the River Bandits are packing the season with recognition and celebration of many unique contributors to the Quad Cities community. There will be two nights to honor service men and women - AUSA Military Appreciation Night (Friday, May 9) and the fourth annual Camo Jersey Auction presented by the Iowa Army National Guard (Friday, May 23). Other tributes and celebrations include College Night presented by Western Illinois University (Thursday, May 1), Faith & Fellowship Night presented by Chick-fil-A and Moody Radio (Sunday, June 22), Agriculture Night presented by the Illinois Farm Bureau (Friday, July 18) and Global Cultural Night presented by Tyson Fresh Meats (Friday, Aug. 15). There will also be Irish Heritage and Go Green Night (Wednesday, May 7), Ladies Night (Thursday, May 29), the Businessman Special with a 1 p.m. Monday game (July 21), and Badges and Ladders Night (Saturday, Aug. 9). It all concludes with a whopping Fan Appreciation Night at the final regular season home game on Friday, Aug. 29.
Cool for the Kids: The River Bandits have big plans for just the kids, too. Those begin with the annual pregame Nintendo Wii-ster Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 19, the night before Easter. That night will also kick off recognition of the 2014 Book Buddies reading program graduates, whom the River Bandits will also host at three 11 a.m. Tuesday home games (April 29, May 6, May 20), as well as Friday, May 9. On back-to-back nights, Gander Mountain will present Boy Scout Night (Friday, June 20) and Girl Scout Night (Saturday, June 21). There is also Little League Day (Sunday, June 8) and Camp Day (Monday, July 21), as well as the award-winning annual Mega Candy Drop following the game on Sunday, July 20. The best way for the kids to "have it all" at the ballpark is with the River Bandits Kids Club. For a $30 package, members get free admission to every regular season home game, a membership card and T-shirt, a 10 percent discount on team store merchandise, and much more, including the chance to participate in Sunday postgame Kids Club events, which are planned for April 6, June 8, and Aug. 17.
Happy Holidays: Modern Woodmen Park is the place to host not only baseball, but so many holidays for families in the Quad Cities as well. This season the River Bandits will put their style on celebrations of Cinco de Mayo presented by the Quad-City Times (Monday, May 5), a car show for the 50th anniversary of the Ford Mustang (Monday, May 19), Mother's Day (Saturday, May 10), Father's Day with catch in the outfield (Sunday, June 15), mascot Rascal the River Bandit's Birthday Bash (Wednesday, July 9), and Halloween (Sunday, July 6) and Christmas in July (Saturday, July 19). And while the team is on the road Thursday, July 3, Modern Woodmen Park will still be open with free admission to give the Quad Cities community the best view of the annual Red, White & Boom Fireworks. Plus, after their game Friday, July 4, the River Bandits will have Fourth of July Fireworks presented by Smart Toyota of the Quad Cities, WLLR and WQAD.
Entertainment & Special Themes: The River Bandits put on a new show for every game, and this season will include the most popular annual theme nights and add a few fresh ones. The annual Pro Wrestling Night (Thursday, July 31) will feature an appearance by WWE Hall of Famer "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. The famous Russian Bar Trio presented by the Dispatch-Argus will perform on Saturday, June 14, when fans will also see the annual Vintage Baseball game before the River Bandits home contest. The River Bandits will again have Guaranteed Win Night (Wednesday, April 16), when fans in attendance will see a River Bandits victory or receive a ticket to the next Wednesday home game on April 30. Ticket prices will correspond to gas prices for the second annual Petrolpalooza Night presented by BP (Friday, May 30). Other themes to set the ambience include Hunger Games Night presented by Epix (Monday, June 9), Legends of Rock (Wednesday, April 16), Superhero (Wednesday, April 30), Survivor (Wednesday, May 21), Date Night Out (Thursday, May 22), Game Show (Wednesday, May 28), Disco Night with '70s pricing on food and beer (Tuesday, July 8), Jimmy Buffett Night (Wednesday, July 9), Star Wars (Wednesday, July 30), Ninja Turtles (Wednesday, Aug. 6) and Pirates & Princesses (Sunday, Aug. 17).
"We are delighted to bring back so many of our most popular promotions - bobbleheads, jersey auctions, great giveaways, daily deals, themes and celebrations - and build upon them with new experiences and opportunities to have fun at the ballpark this season," said River Bandits General Manager Andrew Chesser. "We cannot wait to welcome fans in the Quad Cities back to the Best Minor League Ballpark and give them an amazing show and outstanding hospitality that will create special memories at every game this season."
The complete 2014 promotional schedule is available at www.riverbandits.com. Ticket packages are available by calling (563) 324-3000.
UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! To order any of the ticket plans - with new lower prices - call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.
ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded 300-foot long zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.
14 Mar 2014

FERRIS WHEEL INSTALLATION BEGINS AT MODERN WOODMEN PARK

By Marco LaNave
WHO: The following will be available for interviews: A six-person crew from Chance Rides, the Ferris wheel manufacturer based in Wichita, Kan.; River Bandits General Manager Andrew Chesser; and River Bandits' new Assistant General Manager of Amusements Mike Clark.
WHAT: Commencement of the installation process of the Ferris Wheel that will tower 110 feet above the playing field at Modern Woodmen Park upon opening later this spring.
WHERE: Installation will be happening behind the left field berm (east end) Modern Woodmen Park. This area may be more visible from east of the stadium in LeClaire Park. One truck with parts will arrive Monday morning and another Tuesday. Staging of the parts will be on Biederbeck Drive between Ripley Street and the construction site.
WHEN (*Weather permitting*): Monday, March 10 - installation of the base plates for the wheel.
Tuesday, March 11-Thursday, March 13: Installation of the four "legs" of the Ferris Wheel and hanging of the spokes for the wheel. The spokes will be spread at a later date to form the wheel, but vertical construction in excess of 50 feet high will be visible. Cattani Cranes (East Moline, Ill.) will supply a crane.
WHY: The Ferris wheel will highlight an amusement lineup to include a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded 300-foot long zip line, an auto-belay rock climbing wall, and many other new games and attractions planned for Modern Woodmen Park.
--Quad Cities River Bandits--
20 Feb 2014

RIVER BANDITS NATIONAL ANTHEM TRYOUTS, TALENT SEARCH WILL BE FEB. 22

By Marco LaNave
Team looking for National Anthem singers, pregame performers for 2014 season
DAVENPORT, Iowa (FEB. 19, 2014) - As the Quad Cities River Bandits prepare for a season packed with family entertainment, the team is again seeking to bring talent from all across the Quad Cities to Modern Woodmen Park. The team will hold tryouts on Saturday, Feb. 22, for individuals and groups, including National Anthem singers, to perform and entertain fans prior to home games during the 2014 season.
National Anthem and other pre-game performance tryouts will take place on the Sky Deck at Modern Woodmen Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22. Registration is first come, first served. Talents can range anywhere from singing, dancing, and comedy to miming, juggling or magic.
"The Quad Cities area has a wealth of talented people, and we want them to share their talent with people throughout the region at the Best Minor League Ballpark this season," said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. "At Modern Woodmen Park, we put on a unique and fun show every night and entertain our guests from the moment they enter our gates until they walk out the door. Incorporating the talent of the Quad Cities area is a tremendous part of creating that experience."
Everyone participating in the tryouts will perform their talent for a panel of River Bandits staff and local judges. Those talented enough to entertain crowds at River Bandits games this summer will be included in the show during the 2014 season.
"The River Bandits look forward to building a lineup of outstanding local talent to highlight the family entertainment for this season," said General Manager Andrew Chesser. "Modern Woodmen Park is a special gathering place for people across this region, and we are excited to welcome talented local performers and entertainers to be part of the show."
Modern Woodmen Park will also be open for fans to purchase select merchandise, learn about ticket plans and group outings, and purchase or renew ticket packages for the 2014 season. For children ages 14 and under, the River Bandits will offer another one-day special on 2014 Kids Club memberships. Normally $30 per child 14 and under, a membership will be $25 at Modern Woodmen Park on Saturday, Feb. 22. A Kids Club Membership includes a free bleacher ticket good for all River Bandits 2014 regular season home games, a membership card, a T-shirt, a 10 percent discount off purchases in the team store, an email newsletter with exclusive special offers and much more.
UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! To order any of the ticket plans - with new lower prices - call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.
ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 110 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.
*****
14 Feb 2014

RASCAL THE RIVER BANDIT DELIVERS VALENTINES

By Marco LaNave
WHO: Quad Cities River Bandits mascot Rascal the River Bandit.
WHAT: Rascal the River Bandit is delivering Valentines this week to workplaces, schools and residences. Included are a personalized card, two River Bandits tickets (or a Kids Club membership) and either a box of chocolates, package of candy or logo baseball and pennant as part of a special River Bandits package.
WHERE: Locations throughout the Quad Cities (see Friday schedule below).
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 14, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Approximate Delivery Times & Locations
10-10:30 a.m.
1221 N Myrtle St, Davenport, IA 52804 (Friendly House)
11-11:15 a.m.
3265 E. Ridge Drive, Bettendorf IA 52722 (Red Apple Child Care Center)
11:15-11:45 a.m.
5506 N Pine St, Davenport, IA 52806 (Truman Elementary School)
12-12:30 p.m.
707 E. Kimberly Davenport (Wells Fargo Bank)
1-1:30 p.m.
1122 W Central Park Ave, Davenport, IA 52804 (Trinity Lutheran Elementary)
2-2:30 p.m.
630 W. 4th st Milan IL (Reynolds Manufacturer Co.)
4-4:30 p.m.
1804 15th Ave Moline IL (Residential)
WHY: Rascal is trying to break free from his winter hibernation and bring warm thoughts on Valentine's Day.
*****
14 Feb 2014

RIVER BANDITS WILL HOLD 2014 JOB FAIR FEB. 22

By Marco LaNave
Team seeks outgoing, fun-loving Quad Cities residents for game day staff, food and beverage positions
DAVENPORT, Iowa (FEB. 13, 2014) - With baseball players beginning to hit the fields for Spring Training, the defending Midwest League Champion Quad Cities River Bandits, Main Street Amusements and Professional Sports Catering, the food and beverage provider at Modern Woodmen Park, are preparing for the season by seeking outgoing, hard-working, fun-loving, friendly people to assist fans and be a part of the team that will help make another memorable season for guests at the ballpark.
The Class-A affiliate of the Houston Astros and Professional Sports Catering will host a job fair on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Modern Woodmen Park to fill the River Bandits' game day staff and food and beverage positions. Interested individuals can fill out an application and be interviewed on the suite level during the job fair.
"For people who love to help others, enjoy working in a team environment and want to have a lot of fun on the job, there are great opportunities to be part of another exciting season at Modern Woodmen Park," said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. "We are proud of the hospitality we offer our guests, and we want to find hard-working, fun-loving people who share our vision of keeping Modern Woodmen Park the Best Minor League Ballpark and friendliest ballpark in America!"
Listed below are the positions that the River Bandits and Professional Sports Catering need filled:
Customer Service
  • Ushers
  • Retail Store Employees
  • Ticket Takers
  • Box Office Employees
  • In-Game Entertainer
  • Amusements and kids zone workers (includes work on non-game days)
Concessions
  • Portable Stand Managers
  • Warehouse Employees
  • Hawkers
  • Cash Managers
  • Concession Runners
  • Picnic Servers
  • Pizza Maker
  • Concession Cooks
  • Cashiers
  • Concession Managers
  • Inventory Managers
"With the job fair, the River Bandits will be looking for friendly and outgoing people in the Quad Cities who want to work in the exciting industries of Minor League Baseball and family entertainment," said General Manager Andrew Chesser. "We invite anyone with a desire to be part of a fun-loving team and provide incredible guest service to apply for a position with us this season at Modern Woodmen Park!"
The River Bandits, Main Street Amusements and Professional Sports Catering are equal opportunity employers; women, minorities and U.S. veterans are encouraged to apply.
UP NEXT: Opening Day is April 3, so lock in your seats now to see the defending Midwest League Champions in 2014! To order any of the ticket plans - with new lower prices - call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.
ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 112 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.
*****
30 Jan 2014

MODERN WOODMEN PARK TO HOST 2014 DAVENPORT LITTLE LEAGUE REGISTRATION FEB. 8

By Marco LaNave
River Bandits will also offer exclusive deal on 2014 Kids Club memberships for youth 14 and under

 

DAVENPORT, Iowa (JAN. 30, 2014) - For the sixth consecutive year, the Quad Cities River Bandits will host Davenport Little League baseball and softball registration indoors at Modern Woodmen Park. On Saturday, Feb. 8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Little Leaguers from throughout the Davenport area will visit the ballpark to register for their upcoming season.

By centralizing the registration at Modern Woodmen Park, this event incorporates all the Davenport Little Leagues, regardless of age or level, into one central location and has greatly assisted organizers in streamlining the registration process the last five years.

"We welcome these young athletes and their families to the Modern Woodmen Park experience, which is all about families creating memories that last a lifetime," said River Bandits co-owner Dave Heller. "Kids and parents alike love incorporating Modern Woodmen Park and professional baseball into the Davenport Little Leagues, and we are thrilled to continue our support of the Little League programs and youth sports in the Quad Cities."

All the local leagues - including the North, Northwest, East, Southeast, West Softball, Emeis, East Softball, Pony, Colt and Challenger Leagues - will hold registration on Feb. 8. Registration is required even if the child has previously played. At least one parent or legal guardian must be present with proof of residence and an original or state-certified copy of the child's birth certificate, which will be returned at the registration. Also, the leagues require a completed registration form, medical release form, and the fee for registration.

For children ages 14 and under attending the Little League registration, the River Bandits will also offer an exclusive, one-day special on 2014 Kids Club memberships. Normally $30 per child 14 and under, a Kids Club membership will be $25 at Modern Woodmen Park on Saturday, Feb. 8, only. A Kids Club Membership includes a free bleacher ticket good for all River Bandits 2014 regular season home games, a membership card, a T-shirt, a 10 percent discount off purchases in the team store, an email newsletter with exclusive special offers and much more.

The River Bandits will also have select merchandise available for purchase, as well as information about ticket plans and group outings at the ballpark this season. Families and individuals may also purchase or renew their season ticket packages for the 2014 season.

"As a community-based venue, Modern Woodmen Park is ideal for kicking off the little league year," said Genearal Manager Andrew Chesser. "As added fun, kids will register at a professional ballpark within the same week the pros are reporting for spring training!"

Questions about the Feb. 8 registration can be directed to Brittany Carter in the River Bandits front office at 563-324-3000.

UP NEXT: Call today to reserve a Valentine's Day dinner at Modern Woodmen Park for Friday, Feb. 14, or Saturday, Feb. 15. Couples can enjoy a gourmet four-course dinner in a private luxury suite or take in the spectacular views of the ballpark, Centennial Bridge, Mississippi River and downtown Davenport from a table in the glass-enclosed, climate-controlled Sky Deck. Reservations are due Thursday, Feb. 6, by calling 563-324-3000. To order ticket plans - with new lower prices - for next season, call the River Bandits box office at 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com to download the season ticket order form. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $40. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: Having just been named Ballpark Digest's winner of Best Ballpark Improvement in America under $1 million, the River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 112 feet over the playing field, is opening this spring, along with a carousel, a new ride called a "Drop and Twist," an expanded zip line, and many other new games and attractions. In 2013, the team unveiled a new 220-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, and a number of new bounce houses. The team's major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, just saw all six of its affiliates reach the playoffs - the first time in a decade any MLB team can claim such success. The River Bandits were one of three affiliates to reach the championship round and one of two to win their league championship.

*****

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