Stone Crabs reveal logo, designs
Members of the Charlotte County Boys and Girls Club helped model t-shirts and hats as the Florida State League's newest team displayed their images to an audience of over 350 fans. Limited quantities of merchandise were available at the event and sold out immediately.
"We continue to have big milestones every week, and this is certainly our biggest," said Joe Hart, general manager of the Stone Crabs. "After seeing the success of the unveiling event and the tremendous response from the Charlotte County community, this just adds to the excitement and momentum heading into 2009."
The team's primary logo features the local stone crab's signature crusher claw and the familiar sunburst that was part of the Tampa Bay Rays' new logo at the start of the 2008 season. The Stone Crabs' home and road jerseys and home team hats also resemble their Major League counterparts' in design and color scheme.
Since Ripken Baseball announced the Stone Crabs to be their third Minor League team in late August, the team has sold more than 800 full season seats and recently opened up group ticket options in addition to their full-, half-season and 10-game plans.
They will open their inaugural season at the Charlotte Sports Park against the Fort Myers Miracle on April 9.
"Unveiling our logo was another big step for our organization, and we know it will be a big help in promoting our family fun atmosphere at the Charlotte Sports Park next year," said Cal Ripken Jr., founder of Ripken Baseball.