Edmonton Capitals Guest
Baseball at its purest level
July 12, 2009
Following today's game between the Victoria Seals and Edmonton Capitals, a group of very excited young baseball players took to TELUS Field after spending the afternoon watching their heroes compete. This group of twenty-or-so kids of various ages play in what is called the Edmonton Challenger Baseball League - a part of the Edmonton Little League program for children with physical and mental disabilities.
For four innings the kids had a chance to show off their skills for a handful of family members on the pro field. The fun and excitement exhibited by each of the participants was second to none. These kids played the game full out and completely for the fun of it. Laughing and cheering on each other - including the other team - were obvious fundamentals of the program and nothing but words of support and encouragement were offered from the stands.
For myself, after having been involved in coaching and playing baseball at various levels of competition, this group of athletes was as refreshing as they were entertaining to watch play. To witness the healthy family interactions - parents and siblings actually participate within the games - and demonstrations of good sportsmanship were an inspiration to be around. I wish this program and its athletes nothing but success.
The goal of the Challenger Baseball Program is to enable boys and girls with physical and mental disabilities to play the game of baseball. This group meets each Sunday throughout the summer at the Confed Ball Diamonds near Whitemud Drive and 111th Street for 1:30pm 4-inning games.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Caps streaking toward a first-half title
July 2, 2009
The Capitals appear to be coming together as a team at just the right time as they have now pulled into a virtual tie for first place with the Calgary Vipers. With the season reaching its unbalanced half-way point on July 6th, the Caps are just .011 percentage points back of Calgary with four games to play.
Calgary has lost three consecutive games against the South Division leaders from St. George while the Capitals have beat Chico in three straight and have won four in a row overall. The Vipers and Capitals will each face teams bringing up the rear in both divisions after completing the final game of their current series. Calgary will play in Yuma while Edmonton will be in Victoria beginning Saturday.
Login to CapsBaseball.ca to follow each game Pitch by Pitch as one Alberta-based team will receive an automatic entry into the post-season based on this weekend's results.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Capitals experience of a 5-year-old
June 28, 2009
I recently had the chance to take in a Capitals game as a fan. With my job duties, it’s very rare for me to be able to sit back and enjoy the game as a spectator. This game was extra special for me because with my 5-year-old daughter Kayla visiting from Spokane, WA, we were able to experience the game together.
The only problem was that Kayla was not initially thrilled to find out that she would have to wait through three hours of baseball before seeing the Pre-Canada Day fireworks. It’s not that she’s anti-sports, but she’s grown up with a dad that’s worked in sports since she was two and played or coached for as long as she can remember. To her, going to a game usually means a lot of self-entertainment which turns quickly into boredom.
As we walked up to the Main Entrance at TELUS Field, Kayla said, "Wow, I didn’t think going to a Capitals game would be like this. There’s lots of people and stuff." That comment, coming from my daughter that had to be bribed just to attend the game, sparked the Q & A listed below that followed her experience:
What did you like most about going to the Capitals game?
I liked the fireworks and my foam Capitals glove.
What was your favourite part of the fireworks?
I liked the sparkly ones because they’re sparkly and pretty and go straight up in the air. I liked the big red and white ones that went really close to us at the end. They were just so close to us.
What did you like the most about the watching the game?
I liked it when I saw them batting. It was because they put the weight on the bat when they warmed up. I liked it also because the Capitals won. I also liked the player from Australia for the Capitals (Mitch Graham). Australia is a long word.
What is the first thing that you remember when we first got to the game?
There were lots of people and the bouncing castle. It was the same one from the Oil Kings…haha.
Did you like the food? What was your favourite?
Yes, I liked the hot dogs and the slushy drinks. The drinks were really cold.
What did you think about the field?
I liked it because it has fake grass and real grass. I like the fake grass the best because it tickles when you have bare feet on it. And I liked when the kids went on the field (Honour Guard) and when the kids picked up the bats (Bat Boys and Bat Girls).
Did you like baseball before we went to the Capitals game?
No, (to the great disappointment of her father) because I thought it was boring. Some of the games in Spokane would take forever, but I did like Spokane (Indians) fireworks too. I know that's not what you want me to say because you like baseball, but that's the truth.
Do you like baseball now?
Yes, I like baseball now.
So was it a fun time at the Capitals game? Do you want to go again sometime?
Yes, I’m a Capitals fan now. And, yes, I want to go with you again Daddy.
And that’s all that matters.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Opening Weekend review
May 25, 2009
Capitals Opening Weekend against the Victoria Seals was a big hit that featured spirited crowds, great weather and some entertaining baseball.
Opening Night began with pre-game festivities that included face-painting, a bouncy castle, mascots and a marching band that led the Capitals onto the field for the first time in the 2009 season. Various dignitaries were on hand to welcome the newly named team into existence and to the Oilers family of sports brands. Duane Quily, daughter of legendary Edmonton baseball man, John Ducey, was in attendance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. The Caps did not disappoint on the field, as they took their first ever home opener 10-6 in front of 6,216 ecstatic fans.
Friday night's game wrapped up with the first of five Friday Night Fireworks. The outstanding display lasted for approximately three minutes and was a great way to cap off a second straight Capitals victory, this time 12-10 over the Seals. Many of the 1,748 fans endured the four hour contest to witness the fireworks that will make their next appearance following the June 5th game against the St. George RoadRunners.
Saturday evening, fans took in a classic baseball bottom of the ninth comeback led by a clutch pinch hit triple from Canadian walk-on Aaron Hornostaj. The Caps beat Victoria for the third straight night, this time 8-7 in front of 1,712 thrilled fans. Hundreds of those fans then stuck around to witness what has to rank highly as a memorable sporting event spectacle when the movie Field of Dreams was played on a giant screen set up in center field. The next opportunity to take in a Saturday Night Movie following a Capitals game will be on June 6th, also against the RoadRunners. Opening ceremonies for that game will feature a special on-field honor guard as part of Minor Baseball Night and the movie A League of Their Own will follow the game.
The Capitals were still very popular with fans following their first loss of the season on Sunday. This game went the way of the Seals 3-1, but the 1,323 Capitals fans in attendance had the chance to meet their entire team up close and personal during the season's first Signature Sunday. Autograph seekers will have six more Signature Sundays to meet their favourite players, beginning with the afternoon of June 7th.
Next on the schedule are $2 Tuesday, in which Kids Meal Combos usually priced at just $3 will be reduced by a dollar, and Wiener Wednesday, where Capital Dogs are just $2 all night long. Tuesday evening against Long Beach will also be 'Lima Time' as the Capitals will face former Major League all-star pitcher, Jose Lima, in his first season back in North America following single season stints in the Mexican and Korean Leagues the past two seasons. Lima is probably best remembered by fans for his enthusiastic celebrations and antics on the mound throughout his 13-year Major League career that included stops with the Tigers, Astros, Tigers again, Royals, Dodgers, Royals again and Mets.
Following Wednesday's game against Long Beach, the Capitals will hit the road for the first time this season. A three-game series in both St. George and Tucson will test the team's road game before returning to TELUS field for another home stand beginning on June 5th. Be sure to follow all Capitals road games via the Pitch By Pitch feature located on the home page of CapsBaseball.ca.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Experience Opening Night
May 19, 2009
As I walk up to the gates at Telus Field and present my Capitals game ticket to the usher, I am immediately taken in by the buzz of activity surrounding Opening Night. Live music is playing, people are excitedly hurrying to their seats and the smells of baseball are in the air with hotdogs, freshly cut grass and popcorn all becoming one.
On my way to the concessions to pick up a Capital dog and Pepsi, I am passed by a few of the Oilers-family mascots and notice a number of local political figures making their way to on-field ceremonies. I even catch a glimpse of Edmonton Oilers Zack Stortini and Kyle Brodziak signing autographs for fans.
As I reach my seat the players from both teams, the Edmonton Capitals and Victoria Seals, are making their final preparations before the pre-game ceremonies and first pitch. I can’t help but think that they must be sharing the same nervous anticipation on the field as each of the fans are in the stands.
With opening ceremonies about to begin and the first pitch of the 2009 season only a few minutes away, I look around the stadium to take it all in. A great crowd is surrounded by the friendly confines of Telus Field, nestled in the beautiful Edmonton river valley with the Alberta Legislature within site past the right field fence, and I realize one thing…this is going to be something special.
- - -
The Edmonton Capitals’ Opening Night is quickly approaching. The team is fine-tuning for a season opening match-up with the Victoria Seals and the organization is planning an exciting kick-off to the season.
A carnival-like atmosphere featuring pre-game festivities and various celebrity appearances will take over Telus Field on Thursday evening. Make sure to grab your Capital dog and Pepsi for only $5. First pitch is scheduled for 7pm and gates will open at 6pm.
Great seats are still available by calling the Capitals ticket office at 780-414-GOAL (4625), online at ticketmaster.ca or by visiting the Telus Field Box Office or any TicketMaster outlet. Seats start at as little as just $9.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Caps visit Valley Zoo
May 17, 2009
Over 350 varieties of animals weren't the only thing on display today as five Caps pitchers visited the Valley Zoo between noon and 1:00pm to sign some autographs. Various families had the opportunity to meet Justin Jordan, Jason Pearson, Lou Pote, Joel Schmal and Kris Honel who were more than happy to meet their fans, have a burger in the sun and hand out some Capitals t-shirts and ball caps to kids.
Following the autograph session, each of the players wanted to tour the zoo. High on the list was the monkey house as well as the Siberian tiger that actually had Kris Honel running from viewing point to viewing point for the best possible angle. Probably the best moments came when the group walked by some of the families that had just received autographs a short time earlier and the kids had a chance to rub shoulders with other zoo-goers, who just happened to be in Caps jerseys.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Caps Fort McMurray experience a success
May 17, 2009
The Capitals began their trek to Fort McMurray by catching the team charter bus at 7:30am on Friday. Many of the players were at Telus Field at least 30 minutes early, looking eager to get on their way to a couple of games against someone not wearing a Capitals logo, even if that meant a four-hour trip to play the arch rival Vipers from that C-word city three hours south of Edmonton.
On the bus, the seating arrangement took its usual form with coaches and team staff in the front, veteran players in the back and newcomers and rookies sandwiched in the middle. One thing very noticeable throughout the ride was how unusually quiet the group stayed, mostly choosing to sleep to pass the trip. At least it was quiet until pitcher Aaron Easton navigated up the aisle using his 6’10" frame for three points of contact (feet and head) at all times to balance himself while turning on a movie for the final couple of hours on the bus ride.
Upon arriving in Fort McMurray, we checked into the hotel – which is no small feat when traveling with a group of about 40, including players, coaches and front office staff. Players were paired up as roommates and most of the team were then on their own for lunch and the first part of the afternoon – bus to the field was to leave at 3:45pm.
Fort McMurray Boys and Girls Club Visit
A handful of Capitals including bench coach Chris Avery, pitcher Matt Gibbs, infielders Mitch Graham, Jared Schweitzer and Devery Van De Keere as well as outfielder Kevin House took part in a Boys and Girls Club visit prior to heading over to the field. The appearance was a complete surprise to the kids who were ecstatic to meet some real professional athletes. Just over an hour was spent speaking with the kids, answering questions, signing autographs and playing a quick game of tag.
The kids had various questions and comments ranging from "why do you play baseball" to "my dad’s the sheriff" to keep the players on their toes with creative answers and reactions. During the game of tag, Gibbs became the primary target and was mobbed by the kids, while Van De Keere defended himself with a bottle of water.
Following the visit there was an hour to relax before catching the bus to Ron Morgan Baseball Field for game one of the First Ever Battle of Alberta in Fort McMurray. Most players hung out in their rooms. The hour passed quickly enough and it was time to head to the field for what would be the Capitals first live game action of 2009.
Exhibition game one: Caps vs. Vipers (Vipers 17-13, 7 innings)
The game was an amazing experience. Fort McMurray Minor Baseball did an excellent job of hosting the event and had many local sponsors, elected officials and singing talent (National Anthem and Take Me Out to the Ballgame). Although the score of the game wasn’t the result the Capitals were looking for, it was great to see the team in action, looking sharp in the road greys – multiple homeruns from both teams and some defensive gems added to the experience. Jared Schweitzer hit a mammoth shot that appeared to clear the school building beyond the left field fence. Bench coach Chris Avery made his professional baseball coaching debut.
Following the game, the team stuck around the clubhouse to sign numerous autographs for kids of all ages while feasting on sub sandwiches. Activities like this as well as the numerous t-shirt and jersey giveaways helped to convert many locals from Calgary Vipers fans to Capitals fans that still cheered for local Fort McMurray Viper Reggie Rivard, who started the Friday evening game on the mound for Calgary.
Breakfast Banquet and Caps Baseball Clinic
Saturday morning began with a special breakfast banquet for the teams and sponsors of the event. Speeches of appreciation for the players were given as the buffet was available throughout the early morning. And the team would need its energy with another game to play at noon as well as a free pre-game clinic for youth baseball players from Fort McMurray.
When I arrived at the ballpark about an hour-and-a-half prior to the clinic, and well before the team, there were already a handful of kids ready to meet the Capitals. Registrations were completed and kids were organized into age groups. I ran a quick warm-up while waiting for the team to arrive. When the bus pulled up, Capitals players and coaches hopped off in uniform and began handing out Capitals t-shirts to each of the youth players. Clinic activities took over from there with many of the players scheduled to start the noon game helping out initially before trading out with the Saturday game reserves, so they could begin their preparations.
Exhibition game two: Vipers vs. Caps (Vipers 19-10) and the road home
Again, the game didn’t turn out with a winning score, but much like the first game, this one was also high-lighted by some monster homeruns. The game was delayed briefly in the top of the eighth inning when second baseman Jared Schweitzer dislocated his non-throwing arm shoulder diving for a ground ball up the middle. Schweitzer managed to leave the field under his own power. Lou Pote’s performance on the mound topped all pitchers for the weekend by allowing no runs in his two innings of work and four Capitals homered.
Immediately following the game, the team loaded up on the bus to stop briefly at the hotel to shower and eat. Following the quick stop, the Capitals were on the road back to Edmonton. Movies and sleep were on the agenda for the four hour trip home. Upon arriving at Telus Field, the team was briefed about the morning: most of the team would be back on the bus, this time to Calgary for their next pre-season action...travel and everyday action has begun!
The two days in Fort McMurray were a huge success. The coaching staff had a chance to evaluate players in game situations, Fort McMurray Minor Baseball put on a great event that helped to raise funds for their program and the Capitals were very well-received by the locals.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Open Tryouts
May 11, 2009
Edmonton, AB - Edmonton Capitals hosted Open Tryouts on Saturday and I was as nervous to compete on the field as any of the other players taking part. It was the first time I was back on a baseball field in a tryout situation since my final year of college baseball at Lewis-Clark State College in the fall of 2001.
The morning tryout activities began with an introduction from Capitals manager Brent Bowers and his coaching staff. Bowers provided a brief inspirational message that included a very realistic and honest approach to how players would be evaluated by saying that if he didn’t see something better than what he had in the clubhouse, he would waste no one’s time.
Hitting coach Gordon Gerlach then took over as the director for the various tryout events and explained the format of the tryout. Baseball players are graded on five tools (running, fielding, arm strength, hitting and hitting for power). In order to be given the opportunity to show hitting ability, Capitals coaching required that players could run, throw and field a position – hitting would be a privilege, not a right.
First up was twice through the timed 60 yard sprint. Players ran in pairs to speed things up and add to the competitive feel of the tryout. It was immediately noticeable that there were a handful of great athletes taking part. Pitchers were given the option to sit-out the running. I had decided to tryout in the outfield as well as for pitching, so paired up to run. My only goal was to beat whoever my partner ended up being and did on both attempts.
Next all of the outfielders took turns making three throws from right field to third base and home plate. I was up first and felt good with a few one-hops to third base and home plate – throws easily able to be cut-off by a middle infielder if necessary. I was even rewarded with a high five from manager Bowers.
Infielders were then assessed by taking multiple ground balls from the shortstop position and throwing across the diamond to first base. Fielding ability, accuracy and arm strength were the three primary components being graded for both positions.
Immediately after the infield/outfield assessments, the coaching staff convened briefly to discuss which players had made the grade in running, fielding and arm strength in order to be asked to stick around for hitting. Overall about ten players were invited to hit while the rest of the group was thanked for attending and offered best wishes for future success in following their baseball dreams. Luckily I made the list to hit.
Before stepping in the cage to take some swings, I first had to workout as a pitcher off the bullpen mound – something I haven’t done in a competitive situation since playing in a Senior Men’s League in Spokane, WA in 2005. We were told to throw about 10-12 fastballs concentrating on location. Coach Randall asked me after a few pitches to "spin a couple" (throw a few curveballs). I managed to get to first one about 50ft, the second 55ft and the third short-hopped the catcher. That was enough for the curve and I’m sure my catcher was happy to catch fastballs and not have to chase wild pitches anymore.
After pitching I joined the first group of hitters. We each took about half a dozen swings per round for two rounds. A couple of the guys before me hit some balls out – primarily to right field. When I stepped in, my goal was to make contact with every pitch. I had been a pitcher in college and didn’t want that to be obvious. I bunted the first pitch to get the timing down…so far so good. Second pitch I showed that I had been a pitcher in college – not only did I miss the ball but threw the bat into the on-field hitting cage. Embarrassing enough in front of the other guys but also heard some choice remarks from co-workers in the stands.
Following the hitting and pitching, those still remaining were brought together to hear who was announced as being invited to join the Capitals for Training Camp to begin a couple hours later. In all, three players were selected out of the Open Tryout group and those not selected were congratulated on their efforts during the day.
Manager Bowers also said that with the roster always changing, opportunities may come up during the year, so players should keep working on their skills. He also added that with the addition of the 2007 Baseball America Independent League Player of the Year, Darryl Brinkley, the competition for a roster spot has intensified even for players previously signed to participate in Training Camp.
All-in-all, Open Tryouts were a great success in that over 40 players participated and the Capitals managed to find a few worthy of competing for spots on their roster. The most encouraging part of the day was seeing how many people were around the ballpark to take part in or watch all of the activities going on during the Open House, Open Tryouts, National Anthem Contest and Bat Boy/Girl Tryouts. It was great to experience the buzz around the Capitals and baseball at Telus Field, even if I do still have to keep my day job.
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)
Open Tryouts upcoming
May 8, 2009
Edmonton, AB – The Edmonton Capitals will kick-off their 2009 baseball pre-season with Open Tryouts this Saturday at Telus Field. Registration will take place on site starting at 9:00am.
Capitals manager Brent Bowers has received numerous phone calls from interested players over the weeks since The Edmonton Oilers purchased the club. The coaching staff expects a quality turnout of local and international baseball talent looking for an opportunity to crack a Golden Baseball League roster.
Those trying out will compete to join the 28 players currently listed on the team’s roster that have already been invited to Capitals Training Camp. Camp will get underway on Monday, May 11 at Telus Field and the team will be whittled down to the 22-man active roster allowed in the GBL during the ten days leading up to Opening Night on May 21.
My name is John Sutherland and I work in the front office for the Edmonton Capitals and used to play some ball back in the day. I’ll be giving it my best shot this weekend at Open Tryouts along with 630 CHED’s Dan Tencer, Amit The Intern from 91.7 The Bounce, CTV’s Dave Mitchell and whoever else is brave enough to suit up to relive old glory days on the diamond and provide a unique insider’s view of the event.
“I’ve seen Dave Mitchell play shinny hockey and if that’s any indication of his athletic ability, he’s in for a rough weekend.” stated Capitals Director, Business Operations Jordi Weidman.
Fans are encouraged to follow tryouts via the insider reports or in person as the team will host an Open House event for those interested in Season, Mini-Plan and Group Seating options. The Open House will run from 10:00am until 2:00pm. All ticketing options are available now by calling 780-414-GOAL (4625).
Comments: John Sutherland (jsutherland@edmontonoilers.com)