Durham lands 2014 Triple-A ASG
The Triple-A All-Star Game, featuring the premier players and most promising prospects from each of Major League Baseball's top affiliates in the International and Pacific Coast Leagues, headlines a multiday extravaganza that will include an All-Star Fan Fest, luncheon and Home Run Derby featuring Minor League's Baseball's most iconic home run target -- the DBAP's famous Snorting Bull.
"Hosting the Triple-A All-Star Game is a tremendous honor, and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase not only the Bulls organization, but Durham and the entire Triangle community," said Durham Bulls general manager, Mike Birling. "We look forward to putting on an unforgettable show during each event of this monumental celebration of America's greatest game."
During the announcement made at a press conference this morning, the Bulls also unveiled the logo for the 2014 Triple-A All-Star Game. The logo features depictions of some of the iconic buildings of the Durham skyline, including the Lucky Strike water tower and smoke stack, all set on a blue star representing the great players who have participated in the game -- 77 of whom have gone on to play in the Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Derek Jeter, Chipper Jones, Pedro Martinez, Mike Piazza and Joey Votto are among the game's most notable alumni.
While the Triple-A All-Star Game makes its first-ever trip to Durham, it is the second time in three years that the Bull City will host a premier Triple-A event, as the DBAP was home to the Gildan Triple-A National Championship Game in 2012. All-Star festivities will bring an estimated $3.3 million in visitor spending to the area, as fans, media and baseball executives from around the country converge in Durham for Minor League Baseball's signature event.
"When baseball executives from around the country gathered in the Triangle last September for the Triple-A National Championship Game, players, fans and officials were treated to a first-class experience, which made the decision to award the 2014 Triple-A All-Star Game to the Bulls and the City of Durham a very easy one," said International League president, Randy Mobley. "The Bulls represent all that is right about Minor League Baseball, and with an MLB Network broadcast, this will be yet another opportunity for Durham to shine in all its glory on a national stage."
Rotating annually between International League and Pacific Coast League host cities, the 2013 Triple-A All-Star Game will take place at Aces Ballpark in Reno, Nev. Under current rules, the winning league of the Triple-A All-Star Game earns home field advantage for its eventual champion in the Triple-A National Championship Game.
Durham Bulls 2013 ticket package holders will have priority in purchasing tickets for the 2014 Triple-A All-Star Game and Home Run Derby. After 2013 ticket package holders are given the opportunity to secure their seats for the All-Star action, any remaining tickets will be opened up for sale to individuals who have signed up on the All-Star Game Waiting List, which is available here. Detailed event plans and schedules will be announced leading up to the 2014 Triple-A All-Star Game.
The Durham Bulls begin the 2013 International League season on the road before returning to Durham Bulls Athletic Park on April 8 for their home opener against the Gwinnett Braves. Season tickets, 9-Game Mini Plans, and group outings are on sale now at durhambulls.com, the DBAP ticket office, or by phone at 919.956.BULL (2855).