MEET THE NEW FACE OF THE RIVER BANDITS!

"Rascal," the brand new Quad Cities River Bandits mascot, was unveiled by the team live on the WQAD Newschannel 8 five o'clock news at a press conference at the GCO Flooring Outlet Tuesday. Rascal, whose name was determined after more then 10,000 votes by local fans through a Name the Mascot contest, is fashioned after the playful and mischievous raccoon that is the focal point of the River Bandits' new logo and identity.

"We're proud to say that our fans have played a significant hand in many of the changes surrounding their baseball team this off-season," said team owner Dave Heller. "From the naming of the team to the naming of the mascot, their voices have been heard in the decision-making process."

Rascal, which was created by Scollon Productions in White Rock, South Carolina, is a black and gray raccoon that wears a black fedora with a red hatband as well as the River Bandits' signature red bandana. He also wears a jersey similar to that which will be worn by River Bandits players during home games at Modern Woodmen Park.

"It has been so much fun to be part of such a big event," said Janelle Langan, Director of Corporate Operations for GCO Flooring Outlet. "This is really the 'final piece' to get everybody ready for Opening Day and this exciting new ball club! We truly are in support of the efforts of the Quad Cities River Bandits and the entire team at GCO is ready for Opening Day!"

The name Rascal beat out a slew of worthy competitors, beating out the likes of Rocky, Roscoe, Smokey, and Woody in the final vote. As the voting went on it became clear that Rascal was the popular choice, eventually capturing more then 6,000 votes at 56 percent. Smokey was the next closest option, finishing with just shy of 2,000 votes for 17 percent.

"It was a lot of fun watching all of the names come in and seeing all of the great ideas that our fans had," said Vice President and General Manager Kirk Goodman. "There were a lot of creative nicknames, many of which were well thought-out and even included interesting back stories. But in the end, I think the fans did a great job in picking 'Rascal,' as the name really fits the image that the River Bandits' new mascot represents."

It has been a busy off-season for the Quad Cities River Bandits. From an ownership change to a new team name and colors, a series of upgrades and improvements will culminate on Thursday with Opening Night at Modern Woodmen Park.

"The season is just about here," said Goodman. "The players are in town, Rascal has met his adoring public, the ticket prices have been cut, and we are inviting fans to join us for free for the team's last practice on Wednesday. All that is left for our fans after that is to sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!"

ABOUT THE RIVER BANDITS: After an off-season full of upgrades, the Quad Cities River Bandits will open the 2008 campaign at Modern Woodmen Park on April 3! Merchandise featuring the new team name and logo is currently available by visiting the Modern Woodmen Park team store, and season ticket packages, mini-packages, and the all-new You-Pick-10 Plan are on sale at the park or by calling (563) 3-BANDITS!