Bakersfield Blaze
California League team that ended after the 2016 season.
via Wikipedia: Bakersfield Blaze · see source
The Bakersfield Blaze were a Class A-Advanced minor league baseball team based in Bakersfield, California, playing in the California League. Their home games were held at Sam Lynn Ballpark, a stadium opened in 1941 known for its shallow 354 ft center field fence and orientation facing the setting sun. The team played its final game on September 12, 2016, and did not return for the 2017 season.
Quick Facts
- City
- Bakersfield, California
- Past class level
- Class A – Advanced (1990–2016)
- Class A (1964–1989)
- Class C (1941–1942, 1946–1962)
- Past league
- California League
- Mascot
- Torch (2011–2016)
- Heater (2012–2016, 2003–2010)
- Rookie the Dalmatian (1995–2002)
Facts from the source article.
Background
The Bakersfield Blaze were a Class A-Advanced minor league baseball team in the California League, based in Bakersfield, California. Their home field was Sam Lynn Ballpark, which opened in 1941, seats 3,500, and is known for its shallow 354-foot center field fence and orientation facing the setting sun. In late 2008, rumors surfaced that the team might move to the Carolina League after the next season, but Minor League Baseball president Pat O'Conner confirmed in February 2009 that they would stay put.
David Elmore’s Elmore Sports Group sold the Blaze to local businessmen Gene Voiland and Chad Hathaway just before the 2012 season. The new owners renovated Sam Lynn Ballpark for Opening Day and announced plans in November 2012 for a new ballpark by 2014. However, financing for the $30 million project fell through, and former owner David G. Elmore reclaimed the team. The California League then sought a new home for the franchise.
In August 2016, the league announced the Blaze would not return for 2017, and they played their final game on September 12, 2016. The Fayetteville Woodpeckers took over the Advanced-A slot, but are not a continuation of the Blaze. Notable alumni include Hall of Famers Don Drysdale, Pedro Martínez, Mike Piazza, and Don Sutton, plus stars like Josh Hamilton, Elvis Andrus, and Edwin Díaz.
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