Photos from Wisconsin

If you are wondering why the Timber Rattlers postponed tomorrow's game already (see my previous post), I have photographic evidence for you thanks to their broadcaster Chris Mehring.

View the snowy mess at his blog located here:  http://rattlerradio.mlblogs.com/

As for here in Midland?  It's currently alternating between rain, snow, and sleet.  In other words, it's not good.  If were using NFL injury report terms, I'd say tonight's game has been dowgraded from questionable to doubtful.  Nothing is official to this point though.

Former Cubs Pitcher on Peoria's Staff

The Peoria Chiefs finally joined the party in announcing their 2011 field staff, and it includes a name that is going to be familiar to a lot of Cubs fans. The new pitching coach is Illinois native and former Cubs reliever Jeff Fassero.

Unfortunately, because of the new Midwest League schedule setup, Peoria will not be coming to Coveleski Stadium in 2011. The Silver Hawks host Cedar Rapids, Quad Cities, Clinton, and Kane County from the Western Division, while traveling to Peoria, Burlington, Wisconsin, and Beloit.

Peoria Chiefs
Manager - Casey Kopitzke
Pitching Coach - Jeff Fassero
Hitting Coach - Ricardo Medina

That leaves only the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers without a named field staff to this point. Please go bug Chris Mehring on his blog until he finally announces it.

The Broadcaster Fraternity Takes a Hit

Some disappointing news out of Cedar Rapids late yesterday afternoon, where legendary Kernels broadcaster John Rodgers has stepped down after 15 years behind the mic.

John was the "dean" of Midwest League broadcasters in that he had the most service time out of all of us. Chris Mehring of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers now holds the title of longest tenured voice throughout the league.

I know these sentiments come pouring out when someone retires, but John was truly one of the nicest guys I've ever met. Many of us lovingly referred to him as Johnny Ballgame, and never has a nickname been more appropriate. He loved the game of baseball, and that was clearly reflected in his broadcasts and interactions with other broadcasters.

The best part of going to Iowa was always the chance to sit and talk to John in the afternoons before broadcasting that night. I certainly wish him the best.

Today's Lineups - July 26th

Game One
Keon Broxton - CF
David Nick - 2B
Bobby Borchering - 3B
Matt Davidson - DH
Ramon Castillo - 1B
Errol Hollinger - C
Matt Helm - LF
David Narodowski- SS
Ender Inciarte - RF

Mike Belfiore - SP

Game Two
Keon Broxton - CF
David Nick - 2B
Bobby Borchering - DH
Matt Davidson - 3B
Ramon Castillo - 1B
Andrew Fie - RF
Matt Helm - LF
Tyson Van Winkle - C
Victor Estevez - SS

Diogenes Rosario - SP

In the pregame show, we'll have an interview with Wisconsin broadcaster Chris Mehring.

Pregame show begins at 4:40 PM. First pitch is at 5:00 PM.

Brewers Top 10

Baseball America has the Brewers Top 10 Prospects available here. Again, you'll see some names you recognize since Milwaukee has the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers as their single-A affiliate.

If you're so inclined, and want to read more about the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, I encourage you to check out the blog of their broadcaster, Chris Mehring.

Seriously? An Experience?

I keep getting questions asking whether I'm ready for the Chris Mehring experience.

I mean, I know Chris is a heck of a broadcaster for the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, but when he comes to town, is it really an experience? I guess we'll find out.

By the way, Chris is also a blogger, so you can catch his thoughts on the Timber Rattlers and the series at http://rattler-radio.blogspot.com/. And if you think his blog is better than mine (and it probably is), just keep your comments to yourself. Thanks.