K-Tribe Strikes Out Looking

Every sports fan understands the unfortunate possibility of their team  possibly being moved to a distant city, or even being disbanded forever. Often times the mental and emotional trauma never reaches the front line, but other times it is an unavoidable blinding light in your face.

This past September, reality set in for the Kinston Indians, formerly of the Carolina League of Minor League Baseball. As they fell to the Frederick Keys in the Mills Cup Championship Series on a somber Friday night. The season was now over, along with the teams tenure in the South-East North Carolina city.

The Indians had been a part of the Kinston community since the 1987 season. The 25 seasons of baseball that were played in the area undoubtedly provided endless hours of entertainment, family fun, and ninth inning rallies.  In that quarter century of bloopers and bombs there were championship seasons and notable alumni worth acknowledging along the way.

In the K-Tribes time in the Carolina League, the club had recorded 10 division titles and 5 league titles. Throughout those championship seasons, a few players that have buttoned up the Indians jersey have hit pay dirt in "The Show". Some of those men are: Jim Thome, of Cleveland Indian and Philadelphia Phillies fame, Ron Guidry of the New York Yankees, and Manny Ramirez of The Cleveland Indian and The Boston Red Sox. Throughout their entire history, the club has been the High-A affiliate of (you guessed it) The Cleveland Indians.

The club played all of their home games at  historic Grainger Stadium, which holds 4,100 fans. Grainger Stadium has been a part of Kinston baseball for over 62 years. Despite the departing of the Indians, the community has hope that the park will play host to a club in the future that will play in the Coastal Plain League; a wood bat college level summer league.

However, with death comes life to some extent in this scenario. As the last out has been recorded in Kinston Indians history, the resurrection of another historic club becomes official for the 2012 season. The Carolina Mudcats are making a return to professional baseball, after a brief hiatus during this past off-season. The new Mudcats will replace the spot voided by the Indians in the High-A level of the Carolina League.

The fitted above is a fashion-adapted version of the Indians on-field cap, which was worn over the last few seasons of their existence. It has a dark blue brim, and a black crown. The alternate logo is located front and center with white and dark blue feathers.

Minor league baseball is quirky in the field of franchises dying and then rising from the dead to play again, somewhere down the road. Don't be surprised of they make a return in the future.

Fitteds with the teams logos, either on field models or merely replicas, can be found HERE

I hope you enjoyed today's post, and even learned a thing or two.

Collectors Corner with John Beare

                                       

A few weeks back, we featured Angel Villegas Del Rosario in what would be our first edition of "Collectors Corner". In that feature, we displayed Angels' incredible collection of fitted caps, broke down a few that were his favorite, and learned the story of his journey to enlightenment by way of 7 3/8.


Today on TFD, we take a look at another collector from California, who has amassed a respectable collection of his own. As you see above, he too has seen it fit to build a shelving system to provide space for his addiction. Take the time now to meet John Beare, of Victorville, California. 


John was asked a few question pertaining to his collection, and the process of attaining all which are part of it. Here are the questions from the Q and A: 


TFD: When did you first start your collection of fitted caps?
JB: I started collecting select caps in the early 90s. The first caps I bought were exclusively of teams I liked. I grew up a California Angels fan, so I had one of those. I've had a fitted Colorado Rockies cap since their inception in 1992. My first minor league caps were a Lake Elsinore Storm cap and a New Haven Ravens cap, who were affiliated with the Angels and Rockies, respectively. I also had an obsession with the Ottawa Senators NHL team, so I collected any cap of theirs I could find, fitted or otherwise. I was content with a couple dozen caps through the end of the 90s until I was at a local minor league baseball game (High Desert Mavericks) and there was this one fan who was always at the games wearing a different minor league jersey. Las Vegas Stars, Phoenix Firebirds, other PCL teams, and I thought I need to do that. Not only get the jerseys, but the matching caps as well. So the "Collection" proper didn't get serious until around 2000. That's also when I went exclusively New Era. It was about five or six years later I stopped buying jerseys and just focused on caps. I still have well over 100 minor league baseball jerseys. 


TFD: Are all of your caps New Era Brand Caps?
JB: About 99% of them.


TFD: Do you remember your first fitted?
JB: My father bought me a California Angels 5950 cap at Anaheim Stadium
on my birthday in 1989. I still have it. It's in great shape, but
sadly a size too small.

TFD: What size fitted do you wear?

JB: Typically 7 1/4, but depending on when the cap was manufactured it

can go up or down a size.

TFD: Approximately how many caps would you say you buy a year?

JB: 15-20. My wife would say more. With New Era finally gaining the rights to produce NFL caps, that number will increase this year. 

TFD: What is your favorite sport to watch as a spectator?

JB:   I love to watch hockey in person, but minor league baseball games are the best if you want to relax for a few hours. 

TFD: What is your favorite cap in your collection?

JB:  No way I could narrow it down to just one, but these are in the conversation for various reasons: California Angels, Colorado Rockies MLB, Colorado Rockies NHL, Albuquerque Dukes, Lake Elsinore Storm, St. Paul Saints, Fort Wayne Wizards, my gold Kansas City Athletics cap, New Haven Ravens, Manchester United, and of course my Coca-Cola New Era fitted, since I'm obsessed with that drink as well. I also love my Riverside Pilots cap, but it's a New Era adjustable.

TFD: How many caps do you currently own?

JB:  What I call my "Permanent Collection," meaning the caps that are always displayed on the wall, is well over 300. The older caps and non-New Era caps, I'd say around 500.

TFD: Which was the most difficult cap in your collection to find?

JB: I recently acquired a custom fitted 5950 Kelly Green Colorado

Rockies cap. I'd hoped to find one of those for years! I finally got it thanks to NewEraByYou.com, which lets you design and purchase your own MLB cap. Pretty cool.

TFD: How much would you say you've spent on caps?

JB:  If I really thought about that, I'd probably stop buying them. Haha.

TFD: What was the most you’ve spent on a single cap? 

JB: $160. It was an eBay auction, which included a fake jersey that I didn't want. But the cap was rare. 

TFD: Would you consider your collection of caps the biggest you’ve seen around?

JB: No, I've seen much larger cap collections.

TFD: What would you say makes a fitted collection a great one?

JB: Organization. When a collector can show off a collection like it's a museum, that is impressive. People see my collection and say it looks like they're in a store. Cleanliness is also important. Gotta keep 'em looking good. Mine get dusty from time to time, so I always make sure to have my cleaning kit handy.

TFD: Is there any cap you still haven’t added to your collection in which you have had trouble finding?

JB: My Holy Grail is a fitted Riverside Pilots minor league cap. I have an adjustable (Snap-back) one, but I'd

kill for a fitted one. I remember being at a Pro Image store in 1996 and they had several. I noted it because Riverside had just relocated to Lancaster, CA so these were closeouts. I passed on it. I reflect on that moment to this day when I'm trying to decide between wanting a cap and needing a cap. Will I regret not purchasing this cap? That usually wins the argument.

TFD: Will you ever feel as though your collection is “complete”? 

JB: Never! It will always be a work in progress. 

That concludes the Q&A with John Beare. If you'd like to see more pictures of John's collection, get in touch with John, or simply drool over his extensive minor league cap collection visit his Interstate-19 facebook fan page HERE. 

Thank's to John and everyone who reads our articles. this was our 100th post, and we're still going strong. 20,000 views is just around the corner.

Facebook Fan Page

Don't forget to check out and like our official Facebook fan page HERE

Collectors Corner with Angel Villegas Del Rosario

For those of you who have been readers from the beginning, pop your head in occasionally, or are just stopping by for the first time today,  it should be apparent at this point that I am an avid fitted cap collector; some may even call my little hobby an addiction. Fortunately, I'm not the only one. Today on TFD, we start a new periodic feature called "Collectors Corner." In "Collectors Corner" posts we will take a closer look at some of our readers impressive collections, which are sure to drop your jaws to the floor.


Today, we feature Angel Villegas Del Rosario of Las Vegas, Nevada. Angel reached out to me on Facebook, after reading the blog. Immediately, it had become apparent that he was the owner of one of the most epic fitted collection I have ever seen. After viewing panned out shots of his display, fittingly dubbed "The Great Wall", it had become apparent that the fitted cap community had to become familiarized with him. Angel mentioned to me that the demand for shelving was so great for "The Great Wall", that the local Home Depot actually ran out of wood  during the process of his first pick up; truly remarkable.


The following is a Q&A formatted interview with Angel, himself. Enjoy.


TFD: When did you first start your collection of fitted caps? 
AVDS: 1989 in NYC. I bought one cap a day for a whole year.


TFD: Are all of your caps New Era Brand Caps?
AVDS: No, I’ll say 80% are made by New Era


TFD: Do you remember your first fitted? 
AVDR: Yes, I bought two fitteds that day. One was a Texas A&M cap. (For some reason I like the T with the A and M on each side; it’s by De Long.)  The other was a Greensboro Hornets (who were a New York Yankees affiliated at the time) fitted by New Era. I still have them both.

                                                             

1.      TFD: What size fitted do you wear? 

      AVDR: Normally I wear 7 3/8, but like jeans, no 2 caps ever fit identically. I have a 7 ¼ that fits me like a glove and sometimes I have to buy the 7 ½.

      TFD: Approximately how many caps would you say you buy a year? 

      AVDR: I stopped buying for a while and I left most of my old and original collection in New Jersey in 2003. I brought 247 of those with me when I moved to Las Vegas. My collection grew quickly when I got back into it in 2005. I’ve probably bought 140 a year the last seven years.

      TFD:What is your favorite sport to watch as a spectator? 

      AVDR: Football or Baseball; Though I’m a sports nut, I’ll watch cricket if it’s on TV. Hahahaha.

      TFD: What is your favorite cap in your collection? 

      AVDR: Tough One! They’re like my babies, so I would say each has its own story to tell. If I have to choose one? My Yankees Spike Lee Joint 27 World Series Fitted.

TFD: How many caps do you currently own? 

AVDR: On hand, not counting my caps in my storage unit, close to 1,100.

1.      TFD: Which was the most difficult cap to find in your collection? 

      AVDR: Right now, it’s The Latin Baseball Leagues (Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Cuba) and Israeli Baseball. Before it was the KBO, but since New Era started making their hats I’ve been able to find them. I also have the earlier ones made by their prior manufacturers, like my Nippon Baseball League collection.

      TFD: How much would you say you’ve spent of caps? 

      AVDR: A lot, since I have been buying hats for a long time! Hahaha. Easily over $30,000. I have a little more self discipline now, so to speak. I also look for hidden gems on the net, ask people around for good deal, etc. It has gotten expensive now, too. I remember when a fitted was like $20, but now on average they're $35-$40. 

      TFD: What was the most you have spent on a single cap?

      AVDR: $80-$100 on one cap.

      TFD: Would you consider your collection of caps the biggest you have seen around?

      AVDR: Maybe. I heard there’s a guy who has 36,000 hats. I just don’t know if it’s the caps like we like to buy (fitteds).  I would say my baseball caps collection (only teams from professional leagues) must be up there.

      TFD: What would you say makes a fitted collection a great one? 

      AVDR: I guess it’s not quantity as much as quality. Also, Identity and/or concept are great focal points. Like any collection, it has to have some kind of organization. For instance, my big wall. It’s all baseball. Then I have all NFL on a second wall, all NBA on a third wall, and all NHL on a fourth. I guess it’s like an archive of hats. You can just collect from one team, collect one cap from each era of play, which will end up being a great collection of whatever team that represents. Or, for example, you can collect based on just one color, and have a great collection of let’s say red caps or blue caps. I’m fascinated by history, that’s why I went with baseball. Every time I look at one cap, I like to think how it was in that specific era represented. I don’t see my collection as something to show off, it’s something I love, and it’s my passion. It gives me peace.

       TFD: Is there any cap you still haven’t added to your collection, in which you have had trouble finding? 

      AVDR: There are a few. I’m still 3 away from completing my Dominican Winter League, and 3 from the Venezuelan.

      TFD: Will you ever feel as though your collection is “complete”? 

      AVDR: This is a Great Question! Collecting caps is an addiction. Honestly, every time I see a young person starting to collect caps I’m happy, but at the same time sad; the reason being that I see myself in the ones they wear that I don’t have. Some nights, I will wake up because I’ve thought of a cap I don't have. I’ll then go online and start searching. There are times when you don’t have the money, and really should resist. Unfortunately, I’m so impatient, I strive terribly to get them all, resulting in me caving in. Once I complete the “cap history” of a club, I almost immediately begin collecting another set for another club. That all being said, I suppose the answer is a resounding NO! The collection will never be complete. Hahaha.

      I hope you enjoyed my interview with Angel Villegas Del Rosario as much as I did. He certainly has bragging rights in the cap game due to his unique collection. Until next time, keep collecting caps and wear them proudly! 

      If you'd like to see more of Angel's collection, or reach out to him check out his Facebook page HERE

      

       

      

Wolverine Country

Where does one start when discussing the feats and accomplishments of University of Michigan's athletic department? Possibly the successful football program, which owns records in total D1 victories and winning percentage. Perhaps the men's basketball program, which has produced one NCAA Tournament Title, 2 NIT Titles, and the "Fab 5" 1991 team. How about the hockey and baseball programs which have claimed 9 and 2 championships respectively. The only fair way to do this is to highlight each of the "big four" briefly, in all of their glory.

Football:

The Wolverines football program first took to the gridiron in the 1879 season. The team plays their home games at Michigan Stadium, affectionately known as "The Big House". The accurately dubbed structure has a seating capacity of 109,901 fans, which is officially the largest capacity for a stadium in the United States. The official record for most fans at a college football game was set at "The Big House" on September 10th of 2011, when 114,804 saw the Wolverines play Notre Dame in the first night game ever at the stadium. The team has an all-time record of 895-310-36, which is good for the highest winning percentage of all time at .736. Additionally, they have been national champions 11 times, and have had 3 Heisman Trophy winners call the Ann Arbor campus home.

Basketball:

The 1908-1909 academic year was the first in which the Wolverines took to the hard court. Success was hard to find throughout the early years of the program, resulting in the absence of a team from 1912-1917. Now, the program is used to finding itself in the win column. The team has competed in the big dance 22 times, been the runner up for the title 5 times, and even brought home the gold once following a remarkable 1989 campaign. One cannot mention the program without bringing up the "Fab 5" recruiting class of '91. The combination of Chris Webber, Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King, and Ray Jackson resulted in perhaps the greatest recruiting class in NCAA Basketball history. Although eventually marred by controversy, they will go down as head turners and jaw droppers on the court during their tenure.

Hockey:

Michigan's first hockey program initially toe dragged across the ice in the 1920 academic year. The team went 6-0 in their first season, and seemed destined for greatness from the get-go. To this point, the team has made 34 NCAA Tournament appearances, 24 NCAA "Frozen Four" appearances, and has captured the National championship 9 times. In December of 2010 the Wolverines played in "The Big Chill", what is now officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest attendance for a hockey game. The crowd of 104,173 witnessed the Wolverines defeat rival Michigan State by a final of 5-0, at the universities outdoor football stadium.

Baseball:

The origins of baseball at Michigan trace all the way back to 1866. Although only competing in three contest that first season, the passion for base hits grew in Ann Arbor at quite a frequent pace. This interest quickly lead to tremendous accomplishments. The program has claimed 35 conference championships, made 21 NCAA Tournament appearances, has appeared in the College World Series 7 times, and has been crowned national champions 2 times. There have been four former Wolverines elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame: George Sisler, Charlie Gehringer, Branch Rickey, and most recently Barry Larkin; the Mount Rushmore of Wolverine baseball I suppose.

The cap featured above has a navy blue crown and brim, with the signature University of Michigan "M" front and center in yellow, a yellow New Era logo on the left side, and "MICHIGAN" spelled out in yellow in the back. A clean cap, which I found at the New Era Flagship Store in New York City. With all of the history mentioned in this post, how could one not be temped to buy it? If you hadn't known prior, hopefully now you recognize the greatness of the program.

Before and After

After making a few stops in West New York, New Jersey, Nanuet, New York, and Orlando, Florida, I have finally found all three; the authentic on field caps of the Marlins from the past and present. I never realized how difficult finding the dead stock Florida Marlins cap would be, but none the less I managed to track one down in 7 3/8. Let's hope, for the sake of the franchise, that the roster stays more consistent over the following seasons. No fan likes constantly questioning who's on the field for his favorite team.

West Coast Pop

For the last post of the 2011 calendar year, The Fitted Diaries is featuring a San Diego State University Aztecs inspired New Era 59/50. SDSU was founded in 1897, and is the oldest higher-education facility in the San Diego, California area. The Aztecs field 17 varsity teams in NCAA Division 1 athletics. The schools' more prominent programs are their football, baseball, softball, and men's and women's basketball teams. 

To most, the team with the most national familiarity is likely the schools baseball program. Over the years, the baseball program has helped nurture many future professional ball players. One of which, Tony Gwynn, has the distinction of being perhaps the greatest Aztec of all time. Gwynn, or "Mr. Padre" as many refer to him, was perhaps the first to put the program on the map. Gwynn played for San Diego State from 1979 to 1982, where he announced his presence as a true baseball talent claiming many team records. He even performed well enough to be recognized as an NCAA All-American in his final two seasons. Another interesting facet of Gwynn's athletic career, which many aren't aware of, is that he was also a point guard on the schools basketball team throughout his 4 year Aztec career. To this day, he remains as the only athlete in the history of the Western Athletic Conference to be recognized as an All-Conference performer in multiple sports. Gwynn, who is currently the baseball coach for the Aztecs, is in his eighth season at the helm of the program. He has coached many talented athletes, the most prominent of which is starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg. 

Strasburg, a flame throwing right hander with un-godly breaking pitches, played under Gwynn for a three season span from 2007-2009. Strasburg began opening eyes his sophomore year, pitching to a record of 8-3. That season, Strasburg pitched to a minuscule ERA of 1.58 while striking out 134 batters in a mere 98 1/3 innings. In his third, and final season as an Aztec, Strasburg did the impossible; he improved: 13-1, 1.32 ERA, 195 K, 109 IP. He was the first overall pick in the 2009 MLB draft, selected by the Washington Nationals. In 2010, Strasburg struck out 14 Pittsburgh Pirate batters in his first major league start.. He suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his pitching elbow later that year, and is currently on his way back to the majors following surgery. 

Other notable Aztecs to play in the schools baseball program are former major leaguers: Tony Clark, Travis Lee, Bud Black, Royce Ring, Bobby Meacham, Greg Nettles, Mark Grace, Aaron Harang and Tony Gwynn Jr. 

The Aztecs play their home games at (you guessed it) Tony Gwynn Stadium. The 3,000 seat ballpark has been home to the schools baseball games since the 1997 athletic season. 

The cap featured above has a black brim and scarlet crown. On the front of the cap there is an illustration of an Aztec warrior, wearing a yellow and red head-dress. On the back the cap features the word "Aztecs" in a black, cursive font. Unfortunately for all of those interested out there, the cap is indeed sold out. My best suggestion would be to check on Ebay or perhaps the schools' athletics website HERE. 

To all, have a safe and happy new year. I appreciate the readers, so please, if you drink tonight DO NOT DRIVE. Until next time, over and out from TFD.

A Ray of Hope for a Former Champion

The official countdown for pitchers and catchers to report to spring training is down to a mere 51 days. What does this mean? Well, for starters it means BASEBALL IS ALMOST HERE. Additionally, it means a new era of South Beach Baseball is about to dawn for the Miami Marlins.

The cap above is the new primary on-field cap for the re-branded Miami Marlins of the National League. Yes, what you see above is most certainly a payment of homage to the glory days of Miami Vice and the era that was the 80's. Other than that, it speaks volumes to the new image of what the club is attempting to project; a groundbreaking, exciting, and eye catching product. With the bright blues, oranges, and yellows which seemingly pop off of this new logo. The ball club of the future has arrived, and the one of the past is gone for good.

The Marlins franchise will be beginning its' twentieth season in South Florida, but will compete in its' first with a place to truly call home. For the first 19 seasons of their existence, they played in what is currently known as Sun Life Stadium. Sun Life Stadium is more or less a football stadium, which the Miami Dolphins have called home since 1987. The place is cavernous, cold, and was usually 80% empty for Marlins games, which proved to be a hard field to play for any team with power alleys the size of Texas.

Now officially in Miami, the Marlins will christen there new home tentatively dubbed "Miami Ballpark" on Sunday, April 1st in the first of two scrimmages vs. the New York Yankees. With the overhaul of the organization, it seems as though ownership is trying to remove the tags placed on them by the public in the past. Accordingly, they have made efforts to put the "fire-sale" days behind them. With the additions of short-stop Jose Reyes, closer Heath Bell, and starter Mark Buehrle it appears as though they want to win early and often. This has to be a welcomed change in the eyes of the fans, knowing that they will have a team to root for which should be intact for quite some time.

When the club captured World Series titles in both the 1997 and 2003 seasons, the Miami community rallied around the team with more support than anyone could imagine. A new stadium, new image, and new roster can only lead to a greater fan base. Possibly the most important aspect of the new park is the retractable roof, which will definitely help out on those hot summer days. From my personal experience of attending a day game in the middle of July, some shade will be much appreciated.

The cap above features a black crown and brim, and has a capital "M" accented with orange, blue and yellow. Above is an orange and blue silhouette of a marlin, seemingly leaping off the logo. It represents more than a new beginning; it represents a new tradition of Miami Baseball.

I picked up this new release at Cap City, in West New York, New Jersey. You can find this fitted and the clubs alternate orange cap here, on the stores website: http://www.ecapcity.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=miami+marlins+authentic&x=0&y=0

Happy New Year, and happy shopping.

A Footballers Renaissance

It goes without saying that soccer is by far the worlds most popular sport. The pastime of many nations has more than its fair share of stars, living and past, to call it's own. To name a few: Argentina has Maradona, France has Zidane, England has Beckham, and Brazil has Pele. All of these living legends have changed the face of their sport and country to an extent which they may never live to realize. One of these men however, has significantly effected yet another country over 4,500 miles from his home.

As most sports fans know, football caught on early in Europe and Africa. It then trickled into Asia and Australia, where it further deepened its foundation as an athletic power house. All was good and well in the land of the 90 minute game, until North America decided it was time to take a legitimate crack at establishing its own professional league in the late 1960's. This league, the North American Soccer League (NASL), opened it's offices in 1968. The NASL was founded as a merger of two previously unsuccessful and non-prosperous leagues established earlier in the decade. Arguably, the eventual face of the new NASL was the New York franchise which would shortly arrive one the scene. 

Following the first three seasons of play in the NASL, the New York Cosmos had arrived. The Cosmos, shortened from the Cosmopolitans, were named after the multicultural environment in which the clubs fan base thrived. Accordingly, the club drew many fans of all creeds, finding itself as one of the most successful franchises in the league, financially and performance wise. Before the club garnered the affection of the locals, upper management realized they needed a star to ascend the ranks of the league. Accordingly, they pursued the notable yet aging star of the Brazilian league, Pele. This acquisition in 1975 meant one thing, New York was now on the map as a soccer town. 

Although only appearing in barely over 60 games for the Cosmos, Pele had created a passion and more importantly a culture for American Soccer. With the additions of other stars such as Italian Giorgio Chinaglia and German Franz Beckenbauer, the Cosmos completed their time in the NASL winning league championships in 5 of the 14 seasons in which they competed. Soccer was certainly thriving in New York, however nationally it seemed as though things has taken a turn for the worst. The NASL seized operations following the 1984 season due to lack of financial support. 

After a decade of silence on the Western front, a new league would take form. The MLS began operations in 1993. Fans and franchises came and went year in and year out, as did the visiting stars of the world. Although making a serious effort, the new league faced adversity sticking as a popular aspect of North American culture. Fifteen-plus years into their existence, things have recently taken a promising turn for the league, as they now have a consistent ESPN game of the week contract, and have grown to nearly 20 clubs. The more notable news is that New York has been awarded a second franchise, in addition to the Red Bull who play in New Jersey. The newly resurrected Cosmos brand has thrown it's name into the proverbial hat of contention to be that second club, but no word has been given on the
leagues decision.

As you can see by the fitteds above, the area is clearly ambitious about the whispers we've all been hearing. I found these gems at Cap City, a hat store in West New York, New Jersey. It certainly has many of us amateur sports historians giddy, so to say. To this writer, the return of a legendary franchise such as the Cosmos would be an amazing feat to behold. It would be the most anticipated return of a professional sports club to the area, short of the hallucinated voyage back East of the Dodgers or Giants. 

Whether it materializes or doesn't, one thing is for certain. The city would certainly appreciate the fraternization of culture and creed once more. For an are where people are being killed over Nike Air Jordans, it would certainly be eye opening to see some unity.  

Caps can be found here: http://www.ecapcity.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=cosmos&x=0&y=0

A Majestic Field for a Royal Club

A couple weeks ago, I was able to visit the recently renovated Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. "The K", as the locals call it, has been home to the Kansas City Royals since April of 1973. This was not my first trip to the Royals ballpark, but it was however my first since the organization essentially re-built it. In 2005, when I was first introduced to Kauffman Stadium, the impression I received was not one of shall we say, acclaim. It was old, dirty, unkempt, mentally stuck in the 90's, and seemingly on it's last legs. It's presentation was similar to an elder under hospice care, waiting for the end. 6 years later, "The K" has undergone a face lift, reconstructive surgery, and been awarded the 2012 MLB All Star Game. It really is amazing what $250 million in renovations can do (sarcasm). The sixth oldest ballpark in the league, now looks like the sixth newest. The Royals have added a kids center, behind the center field wall and fountains, to entertain children who seemingly can't withstand a 3 plus hour ballgame. Additionally, the club added a Royals Organization Hall of Fame in the left field stands. Inside, fans can tour for free, and observe multiple artifacts from players such as George Brett and Bo Jackson. The team really constructed this aspect exceptionally well, to which they deserve praise. The club has also added multiple restaurants, food courts, team shops, and even re-designed concourses. Visiting fans are sure to be impressed with the stadium next July 12th, for the mid-summer classic. The team decided to reduce the capacity of the park to just around 39,000, which in my opinion was an incredibly wise choice, due to the following: The ballpark is literally in the middle of nowhere, far away from downtown K.C.,  the team has been less than entertaining in past years, having not made the playoffs since 1985, and the fan base has dwindled due to these notable occurances. While at the game between the Yankees and Royals at "The K", a certain minor league vibe came across me. Fun family atmosphere, affordable tickets, and mediocre athleticism displayed on the field. Hopefully with the coming of Eric Hosmer, and Mike Moustakis, the Royals can stop looking like a AAA team, and start playing like the A+ organization which they are. The All-Star Game will no doubt be an opportunity to showcase the opulence of Kauffman Stadium, the only question is will it be enough to draw more fans on a per game basis, and additionally lure stars to don the Royal blue and white. The cap shown above is the primary cap for the Kansas City Royals. It has a Royal blue brim, and crown, with the flowing "K" and "C" front and center. A very simple, yet beautiful cap, that should be a staple in anyone's collection. If you get a chance to check out "The New K", do it. It's truly an opportunity to enjoy a baseball game in its rawest form. There isn't a sushi stand, a steak restaurant, or a Hard Rock Cafe, but if you are a real baseball fan, those absences shouldn't make or break your experience. Until next time, enjoy.      

It's all in the Cards...

From Dizzy Dean to Lou Brock, and Stan The Man Musial to Bob Gibson, the St. Louis Cardinals organization is nothing short of remarkable. These are some names, that all baseball fans should be familiar with, and marvel at while viewing the stats on the back of their baseball cards. These are some of the players that are brought to awareness while standing at the front gate, outside of Busch Stadium. Outside of the 2006, 46,000 plus seat stadium, stand 10 statues of the more notable retired Cardinals of all time. They served as a great welcome committee, for my 32nd career ballpark in America. On my third stop of my three city tour, which will all be reverse chronologically noted on the blog, I was able to watch the Cards play the Dodgers for two straight nights. The first night, I was able to find the Sunday edition, home alternate cap for St. Louis which is seen above. The cap, which is one of my favorites in the league, has a red brim, navy crown, and the always familiar red-bird logo dead center. Outside of the gorgeous ballpark, this fan was treated with a more than sufficient education on the great Jack Buck. Jack Buck, who is one of the greatest  baseball announcers of all time, called Busch Stadium I home beginning in 1954, all the way to the later years of Busch Stadium II in 2001. Buck saw his Cards win three World Series titles during his career, in 1964, 1967, and 1982. Today, you can hear his son Joe Buck nationally every Sunday on the Fox game of the week, alongside former Cardinal Tim McCarver. Jack Buck is a legitimate legend of the sports announcing world, and will only grow in legend as the years past. In conclusion, the Cardinals have won 10 World Championships, 17 N. L. Pennants, 8 Central Division Championships, and one Wild Card Berth in 2001. With current great Albert Pujols, and established stars Matt Holliday and Lance Berkman, the ball club is sure to see post season play, for many years to come. Seemingly, the question is not if the Cardinals will win another World Series, but when. With a stadium named after a beer company, seasons like this where Milwaukee will likely beat out the red birds for a playoff spot, shouldn't be that hard to deal with. Until tomorrow, keep reading. Another post is just around the corner. Enjoy!

The Bums From Brooklyn Are Back In Action (sort of)

You have got to love Turn Back The Clock nights at your local ballpark. It gives younger and newer fans the opportunity to see team jersey's of the past, but more importantly it also brings back memories of championship seasons, and hall of fame players. This year, Major League Baseball has involved several franchises in this favored tradition, which has been appreciated by fans for the past several seasons. Those teams are the Angels, the Rays, the Mariners, the Pirates, the Nationals, the Cardinals, the Phillies, the Padres, the Orioles, the Royals, and of course the Dodgers. If you happen to be a baseball fan, who lives under a rock, the cap you see above is that of the Brooklyn Dodgers. The story of baseball in Brooklyn begins in 1883, when the Brooklyn Atlantics stormed the fields of Park Slope. Throughout the 50 years that followed, the clubs name would change on the average every 9 seasons. Nothing substantial seemed to materialize, until 1932 when a culture was born. In the midst of the Great Depression, the Brooklyn Dodgers were born. In an incredibly difficult economic, and social time period for America, The Bums From Brooklyn became a beacon of hope and unity. The Brooklyn Franchise, which became the Dodgers, played in Ebbets Field from 1913, up until their departure to the West in 1957. Ebbets Field was roughly a 32,000 seat ballpark, located at what used to be 55 Sullivan Place, Brooklyn, New York. While in Brooklyn, the Dodgers Franchise captured 12 National League Pennants, and one World Series Title in 1955. Despite only winning a World Championship once,  the ball club seemingly possesses an aura of sorts. Outside of the games being played on the field, they were truly an innovative franchise in the front office. As all of you know, they were the first Major League Baseball franchise to sign an African American to play on a teams roster. This little player, turned out to be one of the true Dodger greats of all time, Jackie Robinson. Outside of J-Rob, the Brooklyn Dodgers also saw  Pee Wee Reese, Duke Snider, Sandy Koufax, and Roy Campanella put on the blue and white, while playing in New York; all of which have their numbers retired by the franchise today. When the Giants and Dodgers both left New York in 1957, a void was created in the hears of 2/3rd's of New Yokers. Five years later, which probably seemed like an eternity to widowed baseball fans, MLB brought another franchise to New York in the form of the Mets. The Mets, who wear Blue, Orange, White, and Black, get their colors from the two New York franchises of yesteryear; The Brooklyn Dodgers, and the New York Giants. A subtle payment of homage to the classic history and tradition of baseball in the big apple. The cap above, features a Dodger Blue crown and brim, with the Brooklyn Dodgers B (not to be confused with the Red Sox B) front and center. Honestly, I could talk about the rich history and tradition of the Brooklyn Dodgers all day, but that's what Wikipedia  is for. I hope I was able to impart a little big of knowledge, on one of the biggest franchises in New York Sports history. Until tomorrow, enjoy folks!

A Golden Start, During A Golden Anniversary

For the 11th time since 1919, a no hitter has been pitched by a player...with the team on the losing end having scored a run. It's the first time it has happened since the 1993 season, when Houston's Darryl Kile fell victim to the harmless occurrence against the New York Mets. Regardless, it still counts for an official "no no", and will be in the record books forever. Today's pitcher of fate, was the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim's Ervin Santana. Not only was it a great start for the Angels' right hander, but it was his first win against the Indians in 7 career starts against "The Tribe". He is the third American League player, and all around Major Leaguer to pitch a no-hitter this season; The other two, Justin Verlander of the Detroit Tigers, and Francisco Liriano of the Minnesota Twins. His no hitter, was the ninth in the history of the Angels franchise, and first since 1990 when Mark Langston and Mike Witt combined for the rare feat. The cap he wore during today's game, was identical to the one you see above. This season, for the Angels 50th anniversary, the club is wearing multiple fitted caps spanning 162 games, honoring all the eras of Halo's baseball. The cap above, represents the current era spanning 2002 to now. The fitted hat features the typical Angels red color on brim and crown, and the Angels "A" front and center. The differences are the gold halo encircling the "A", and the 50th anniversary patch located on the side. This cap can be found at any of the normal cap outlets, such as Lids, New Era, MLB, etc. To me, this was a must buy cap, due to the classic look it exhibits. Santana, despite having a sub 4 ERA, now only has 6 wins on the season. Maybe this start can serve as a jump-start to the proverbial heart of the Angels organization. With only 57 games left and a record of 57-48, the Angels are only 2.5 games back of the division leading Rangers. Keep an eye on the Angels come Sunday, to see if they make some moves at the trade deadline. A hitter wouldn't be an awful idea, considering their high RBI man is Torii Hunter with a mere 49.  Until tomorrow, it's been real folks. Enjoy.

3 days in the desert heat, never felt this sweet

Welcome back to the blog everyone, sorry for the absence of late. I come bearing great gifts, pictures of a recent acquisition while in Phoenix, Arizona at the MLB All-Star Break. The three pics you see at the beginning of this post, are shots of the 2011 Diamondbacks All-Star edition 59/50 on field New Era Cap. The brick colored gem you see before you, has been "blinged out" to a certain extent. On the cap bearers left side, the 2011 MLB All-Star game primary logo has been added, in honor of this past Tuesday's All-Star Game played at Chase Field, the home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The back of the cap, as seen in the bottom picture, has been adorned with two gold stars in honor of a teams' player being named to an All-Star roster. The cap you see above, is a replica of the ones that Diamondbacks Justin Upton and Miguel Montero wore during the 5-1 N.L. Victory this week. The side patch is nothing new to the All-Star break, as far as New Era caps are concerned, but this does mark the first season in which stars were used. Personally, as a hat connoisseur, I find the gold decorations to be an extremely nice touch to the caps. The stars add a more intimate feel  to the fitted, whereas you can now represent a specific player as opposed to a team as a whole. I felt it was necessary to go with the D-Backs fitted to commemorate the event and my trip, due to the fact that they were the host ball club. The three day period consisted of: The XM Futures Game, which showcases tomorrows stars and perennial Hall-Of-Famers, The Home-Run Derby, which was won by Yankee Robinson Cano, and the A.L. vs. N.L. All-Star Game. All three days were extremely special to me, because I was able to watch some of my favorite athletes compete, and even win certain events. Yankees catching prospect Austin Romine went 2-2 off the bench in the Futures Game, with a RBI. Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano was able to capture the Home-Run Derby title, by defeating Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez in the final round 12-11. David Robertson made his All-Star Game debut, pitching in the second inning of the ballgame, while fellow teammates Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson made appearances as well. Not being used to the 108 degree temperatures was something that required adaptation in order to deal with, but good baseball and good friends always ease struggles such as that. This was truly a 3 day period which I'll never forget; I have this fitted, and memories to last a lifetime. Until tomorrow, adios readers.

50 plus years of grooming tomorrow's stars

Among the shadows of Mount Rainer in Tacoma, Washington, the crack of a baseball bat and the smell of freshly cut grass has been no stranger to the locals. For more 50 years consecutive years, Tacoma has played host to AAA baseball. Presently, The Tacoma Rainers, who get there name from the afore mentioned 14,000 plus foot elevated mountain, call the city home. The Rainers franchise, is currently affiliated with their seventh big league club. Before being linked to the geographically compatible Seattle Mariners, the club was paired with the Athletics, Indians, Yankees, Twins, Cubs, and Giants in reverse chronology. Regardless of the affiliation over the seasons, the club has been a member of the Pacific Coast League, playing in the Norhern Division. Tacoma's history of baseball, however, didn't originate a mere half century ago. Starting way back in 1904, Tacoma had a club known as the Tigers, who played to a first place finish in both halves of their first season. Accordingly, the club won the cities first ever Pacific Coast League title. A mere half season later, affiliated baseball left Washington State until its much anticipated return in 1960. During its current string of teams which have played in the city, the club has called Cheney Stadium home. The park, which was opened in 1960 upon the arrival of the club, has gone through multiple renovations to bring it up to respectable standards based on present day technology. In it's current form, the stadium can seat 9,600 fans at capacity. As if the 50 year history and survival of the club isn't enough to testify for the love the locals have for their club, the original structure was erected in a mere 42 days in order to begin play in time for the inaugural season. That my friends, is commitment and passion. Over the years, some big name players have made stops in Tacoma. Some of which are: Alex Rodriguez, Jason Giambi, Jose Canseco, and Mark McGwire. The cap shown above, and current logo seen, was first used last season in 2010. The fitted, has a navy brim, navy crown, and a capital "T" for Tacoma in front of a snow capped silhouette of Mt. Rainer. This is a great cap, which I hope to acquire on my trip to Washington, later this summer. As if the cap isn't nice enough to just pick up strictly based off looks, the history discussed in today's post hopefully gives you some added incentive to appreciate the team. The cap can be found on Lids.com under "Tacoma Rainers", or on the team website HERE. Until next time, keep exploring the world of baseball. There's always something new to learn.