Mahoning Valley Scrappers fight to keep Indians affiliation
Major League Baseball is planning to reorganize its minor league teams and that could mean the elimination of many affiliates.
Major League Baseball is planning to reorganize its minor league teams and that could mean the elimination of many affiliates.
The Scrappers Indians' affiliation is on that shortlist.
A couple of hundred Scrapper fans gathered inside the center court of the Eastwood Mall Wednesday morning to show their support of the team and to find out how they can help make sure it stays here in the Valley.
Congressmen Tim Ryan and Bill Johnson talked about what they are doing.
"We've co-sponsored legislation, a resolution in Congress. We've sent a letter to the commissioner of Major League Baseball. I sent a letter asking for a personal meeting with the commissioner," said Rep. Ryan.
"I've actually met with the assistant commissioner and some of the baseball officials. They tell me this is far from a final decision," said Rep. Johnson.
Guy Coviello of The Regional Chamber says they want all of their business members to use their dollars to send Major League Baseball a message.
"Many of those 2,500 businesses are suite holders and season ticket holders at various major league baseball stadiums and we are encouraging them to exercise that leverage to express their disappointment with this proposal," said Coviello.
Although Scrappers management says Major League Baseball could make their decision within the next few months, they say the best way to show support for the team is to attend games, and the first home game this season is June 24th.