Blaze to stay in Bakersfield for 2009 season
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The Bakersfield Blaze announced today they will remain in Bakersfield at Sam Lynn Ballpark for the 2009 season. The Blaze are the California League affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This announcement comes after news broke throughout the season about the organization possibly relocating to the Carolina League before next season. Ballpark conditions were cited as the main proponent of a possible relocation, but Sam Lynn Ballpark will continue to be the Blaze home next year.
The 2009 campaign will mark the fifth consecutive season of the Blaze partnership with the Rangers, and the third season of a four-year player development contract signed before the 2007 season.
"I am pleased to have the team remain in Bakersfield for the 2009 season," said Blaze Owner D.G. Elmore. "Relocating was never something that was our first choice as an organization, and I am relieved that it is settled and we will be back next year."
The Blaze will close the 2008 regular season at home against the Modesto Nuts in a three-game series, starting Saturday and concluding on Monday. The Saturday and Sunday games will begin at 7:15 p.m., and the season finale will start at 1:15 p.m. on Labor Day.
Following Saturday's game will be a fireworks show dedicated to the celebration of Patrick Allen's life. Prior to the game, Patrick's parents will throw out the ceremonial first pitch and his jersey number will be retired. All Bakersfield Christian High School students who bring their student ID to the game will receive admission for half price. The fireworks show is made possible by Mike Mashburn of Mashburn Trucking.
For more information, call the Blaze front office at (661) 716-HITS (4487).
This announcement comes after news broke throughout the season about the organization possibly relocating to the Carolina League before next season. Ballpark conditions were cited as the main proponent of a possible relocation, but Sam Lynn Ballpark will continue to be the Blaze home next year.
The 2009 campaign will mark the fifth consecutive season of the Blaze partnership with the Rangers, and the third season of a four-year player development contract signed before the 2007 season.
"I am pleased to have the team remain in Bakersfield for the 2009 season," said Blaze Owner D.G. Elmore. "Relocating was never something that was our first choice as an organization, and I am relieved that it is settled and we will be back next year."
The Blaze will close the 2008 regular season at home against the Modesto Nuts in a three-game series, starting Saturday and concluding on Monday. The Saturday and Sunday games will begin at 7:15 p.m., and the season finale will start at 1:15 p.m. on Labor Day.
Following Saturday's game will be a fireworks show dedicated to the celebration of Patrick Allen's life. Prior to the game, Patrick's parents will throw out the ceremonial first pitch and his jersey number will be retired. All Bakersfield Christian High School students who bring their student ID to the game will receive admission for half price. The fireworks show is made possible by Mike Mashburn of Mashburn Trucking.
For more information, call the Blaze front office at (661) 716-HITS (4487).