Scrappers bring many assets, no fears as Season 13 begins

Scrappers bring many assets, no fears as Season 13 begins

The mighty Mahoning Valley Scrappers open their 13th season tonight at Eastwood Field. As they do, get this straight: We will not stand for any superstitious gibberish from all of you triskaidekaphobes in the house.

Triskaidekaphobia, the irrational fear of the number 13, or any fear has absolutely no place in Scrapperland.

One need only glance at other numbers surrounding the successful Class A Minor League Baseball franchise of the Cleveland Indians to recognize why:

More than 1 million Scrappers’ fans have packed Eastwood Field behind Eastwood Mall in Niles over the first 12 seasons, one of the best attendance records in their league.

More than 400 community groups in our region benefit each year through Scrappy the Dog mascot appearances, donations, and fundraising programs sponsored by the team.

With 465 wins compared to 443 losses over its 12 seasons, the Scrappers boast an overall winning .512 percentage record.

The Scrappers are indeed winners in many ways on and off the field.

Community asset

Clearly, the Scrappers, one of 14 members of the New York Penn League, rank as one of the Valley’s most understated but valuable community assets.

First, the squad drives home a tangible spirit of regionalism and pride in our five-county area, a refreshing change from the parochial and negative attitudes that too often hinder progress on economic, community-development and other playing fields. Scrappers officials report fans from all parts of the Mahoning and Shenango valleys follow the team with zest and pride.

And why not? The team’s got talent. The Scrappers have fielded many savvy players who have ended up on the roster of the Cleveland Indians and other teams. Proud Scrapper alumni include Victor Martinez, C.C. Sabathia, Ryan Church, David Huff and Fausto Carmona.

And while fans support the team, the Scrappers in turn support their home base. The team wields a considerable economic impact on the Mahoning Valley through its full-time staff and scores of game-night workers.

Ripple effects of the 3,500 to 4,000 fans on average who attend each Scrappers game can be felt in nearby restaurants, bars, nightclubs and retail establishments on every game night.

The Scrappers also provide families and individuals with excitement and fun at affordable prices, close to home and in one of the most attractive ballparks in the minor leagues.

Special events

What’s more, the 2011 season is loaded with special events and promotions, including fireworks, buck-admission nights, $2 Tuesdays, Bark at the Park Night and Betty White Night. Upcoming promotions of note include next Wednesday, when thousands of Valley Relay for Life participants will take to the field to try to break the Guinness World Record for forming the largest human ribbon and June 26 when Ted Dibiase, the WWE’s “Million Dollar Man,” appears.

Although the Scrappers are a member of the short-season Class A league, the team is long on fun, entertainment, value and impact on our community.

Here’s hoping for a sellout crowd tonight for new Scrappers Skipper David Wallace as his team battles the Jamestown Jammers. It all begins at 7:05 at Eastwood Field behind Eastwood Mall.

Be there for the start of a smashing 13th season, and leave any Triskaidekaphobic fears at the gate.