Minor League baseball plans stall in Salinas

Monday, developers announced that negotiations have stopped between Hayward Lumber and the Bakersfield Blaze Baseball franchise who wanted to move the minor league team to the Front Street site.

After 8 months of negotiations, Bakersfield Blaze ownership said they were unable to finalize an agreement with Hayward Lumber.

“Obviously, this is a very disappointing conclusion”, said Blaze owner D.G. Elmore.

The family owns six other minor league baseball teams and went on to say, “We have spent considerable time, resources and capital analyzing the site, and designing a Stadium. We would like to thank the City of Salinas, and all of those in the local community who have supported our effort.”

The owners said franchise staff is working on finding other potential locations.

The Bakersfield Blaze announced its intention to explore a possible move to Salinas in September.

The Blaze are part of The California League which is made up of 10 teams throughout the State and is a Class A Advanced League, the third highest ranking within Minor League Baseball.