Scrappers notebook | From Eastwood Field

Fan frenzy: The Scrappers had a near-sellout for Tuesday’s opener, with 5,507 fans at 6,000-seat capacity Eastwood Field. They had 3,422 Wednesday night. The Scrappers averaged 3,703 per game last season. Mahoning Valley GM Dave Smith isn’t sure how the gas prices will affect ticket sales this season. “It’s something we’ll keep an eye on,” he said. “I think it’s something that might work to our advantage. People are going to look for more affordable options.” One incentive for ticket buyers is the absence this season of the annoying novelty horns, which were loved by kids and hated by most everyone else. “I gave in,” Smith said, laughing. The Scrappers drew 129,601 fans last season, eighth in the 14-team New York-Penn League. Brooklyn was first with 294,972 fans, while Jamestown was last with 48,305.

On the mound: Starting pitcher Kaimi Mead made his professional debut on Thursday night. The Honolulu native was an 18th round pick of the Tribe in the draft. He was the Pac West Conference’s player of the year after going 7-1 and a 2.25 ERA.

Yo, Paisan: The Scrappers held “Italian Heritage Night” with a salute to Rocky Balboa. The Scrappers played clips from “The Sopranos” and the “Rocky” movies along with Dean Martin songs, an operatic duo and a pasta-eating contest.

Notable: Scrappers outfielder Juan Valdes is third in the NYPL after two games with a .571 average. The Scrappers lead the league in team batting average and hits. Lonnie Chisenhall, the Indians’ first round pick, has scored four runs in the first two games.

Up next: The Scrappers will travel to Batavia, N.Y., to begin a six-game road trip tonight. They will play three games against the Muckdogs and three games against the Auburn Doubledays.

Vindicator staff report