Toros to Forgo 2011 Regular Season, Will Host Spring Training and More
October 25, 2010 - Golden Baseball League (GBL)
Tucson Toros News Release
Tucson, AZ - The Tucson Toros announced on Monday that the team will go on hiatus for the duration of the 2011 Golden Baseball League regular season. The difficult decision was made in anticipation of Triple-A baseball temporarily returning to Tucson. The Toros plan to stay active in baseball throughout 2011, hosting Minor League Spring Training, a Player Showcase, and are also looking into the possibility of an Independent All-Star Game at Hi Corbett for the second consecutive year after last year's successful contest between the Golden Baseball League and the Northern League.
"The Toros organization worked actively to help bring the Portland Beavers franchise, a Triple-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, back to Tucson if only on a temporary basis," said Toros owner Jay Zucker. "However, the Padres decided to locate the team at Tucson Electric Park. Therefore, your Tucson Toros will respectfully not play next season during the Portland Beavers stay in Tucson, but we will continue to pursue affordable family friendly entertainment through both community and baseball related events."
Tucson has already received commitments of participation from the Calgary Vipers and the Edmonton Capitals for Minor League Spring Training, which will begin in mid May. The games, taking place at Hi Corbett, will be a great chance for fans to enjoy affordable entertainment with tickets costing just $5 and $1 hot dogs every game. The schedule will also feature Fireworks Fridays and the team's signature Thirsty Thursday events.
In addition to continued involvement in baseball, the Toros plan to host several community events throughout the year, including a Fitness & Wellness Festival, Toros Fantasy Baseball Camp, Cinco de Mayo Festival, Star Spangled Spectacular and Thirsty Thursday's showcasing local musicians throughout the summer.
"I am proud of the championship caliber team we developed in Tucson," stated Sean Smock, General Manager of the Toros. "When the Portland Beavers leave in a year, we look forward to continuing the Toros tradition at Hi Corbett Field."
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