Alomar swings big on Edmonton ballpark’s behalf

with local players and coaches to improve their skills.

He said the ballpark — once home to championship-winning Triple A baseball teams — inspires kids throughout Western Canada by showing them they can have a chance to play in front of thousands of fans who respect their skill and accomplishments.

“I can’t emphasize enough the importance of this ballpark for baseball in Alberta and, more importantly, how devastating it would be to the baseball community and the many young players if it were demolished,” he penned.

Iveson said Alomar’s letter isn’t necessary right now, but he plans to keep the former major leaguer in the loop.

“Attendance numbers (for Prospects games) are coming up and that’s very positive. We’re still an awful long way from a sustainable cost model there. The ballpark is aging and it’s going to require a lot of investment,” he said.

Jordan Blundell, the Prospects’ assistant general manager, said any decision on the ballpark is years down the road and the team is planning to play there long term. He also said when Alomar offers to volunteer on your behalf, you don’t say no.

“It kind of falls in line with what he’s doing now as a baseball philanthropist, teacher and builder.”

A statement posted Tuesday to the team’s website from managing partner Pat Cassidy said the Prospects are pleased with Iveson’s comments, but they “want to clarify that our concerns emanate from city administration comments that three or four concept plans may go to council by year’s end and one may not include the ballpark.” Peterson was cut by the Cardinals on Tuesday, and receiver Nelson — Aaron Rodgers’s favourite target — was let go by the Packers.

Brees is 39 and wants to finish his career in New Orleans, where he has played since 2006, won a Super Bowl and led what has been one of the NFL’s most productive offences since he and coach Sean Payton arrived.

“I’ll be here as long as they’ll have me,” Brees said after last season ended.

Keenum, a backup when the season began, guided Minnesota to the NFC North title and into the conference championship game. He’s cashing in with the Broncos.