Once the season starts, we’ll use this space to highlight top performers and notable events of the previous week but for now we’ll catch up on some off-season news from around the league.

Flying Squirrels Tournament

The Richmond Flying Squirrels and the Metropolitan Junior Baseball League are teaming up to showcase a new 12-and-under regional tournament this summer featuring players from the city and surrounding counties. Flying Squirrels’ VP/COO Todd Parnell commented on the initiative, “When we moved (to Richmond) four years ago, one of the things we talked about a lot was the impact we wanted to make in the community, and the work that we would do away from the ballpark.”

Reading Gives Away Their Stadium

Andrew Benvenuto won the keys to FirstEnergy Stadium for a Day when his name was drawn from all fans that purchased RBC tickets last Wednesday. As part of the prize, Benvenuto and 50 guests will be treated to an AYCE buffet and will have access to everything at the ballpark including the clubhouse, playing field, swimming pool, video board, and mascots. “I know that I’m going to get my friends and family together for the night,” said Benvenuto, “Whatever we do, we’re going to have a good time.”

Best of Business Yet Again

For the sixth year in a row, the Fisher Cats were named the “Best Sporting Event to Take Clients To” by the New Hampshire Business Review Best of Business Awards. The organization will be recognized at a celebratory event on March 7th at the Grappone Center in Concord.

Cutch Bobblehead

Andrew McCutchen topped Neil Walker in the Altoona Curve’s latest round of bobblehead voting and his likeness (dreadlocks and all) will be given away on Friday, July 5th.

B-Mets New Booster Club

A group of local volunteers have started a Binghamton Mets Booster Club to strengthen community support, encourage the players, and increase attendance. Denis Wickham, a season ticket holder since the club’s first season in 1992, will lead the organization as it works hand in hand with the team.