The 2017 Winter Meeting was held at Corner Pub and Grill on December 26th at 11:00 AM. 6 or 9 teams were represented, not including the defending Champion Rockies, because their captain slept until 11:30...
Here is a rundown of the meeting and what to look forward to in 2018:
-We started with a quick recap of SWBL Season 15 and the 2017 NWLA season as well.
Season 16 Goals/Info:
-We will be bringing back "Games of the Day" which will feature full length live audio broadcasting with commentators. A sign up sheet will be available.
-We are looking to gain more sponsorships from local businesses. Cardinal Blinds, Center Ice Brewing Company, and Academy Sports are the main targets.
-With the bathroom catastrophe of 2017, we will now be renting a Port a Potty. The bathroom inside will no longer be given access to the public.
-If budget allows, we will be purchasing Team Banners and Past Championship Flags (Franchise Era Only)
-We will be working with SpencerGear to add new merchandise including gym shorts and ladies gear.
-Brought up by Peter Leicht (League CFO) the team registration fee will now be 125 dollars per team.
-There are no new teams this year, so we are keeping with the same format with 3 Divisions/5 playoff teams
-All Star Game – Gus and Blake are captains, Blake is Home Team
-HOF Nominees for 2018: Jeff Bertram, Spencer Bogad, Paul Castellano, and Kevin Wiethuchter
Season 16 Rule Changes:
-There will now be no mercy rule in any game of the playoffs. (unanimous vote)
-The Championship will now be lengthened to a 7-inning game. (unanimous vote)
-The league will also be purchasing a new radar gun to control the rising pitching speeds. Here is the protocol already decided upon (unanimous vote):
-Hitting Team will be responsible for holding the gun. If they want a pitcher to be monitored they have to hold it.
-Pitchers will get two warnings, then on the third violation will be removed from the
pitching position.
-All warnings will be an automatic ball, but hitter has the right to swing at the pitch and like
a defensive offsides in football, is like a free play for the offense and can choose the outcome.
-There will have to be some sense of gentlemanly behavior with this new rule.
-The actual pitching speed will be determined by the front office in February at the Division Draw when all teams have had a chance to let their aces throw and the captains to give feedback. We are looking at a range of 45-55 MPH.
-January 15th Restricted Free Agency turns into Unrestricted Free Agency so get those players signed if you don't want other teams talking to them. Check the Hot Stove on the website for up to date contracts.
-2018 First Round Draft Order: Athletics, Astros, Expos, D Bax, Twins, Brewers, Yankees, Royals, Rockies
-Save the Date for the 2018 NWLA Tournament - July 13-15
-Dates to remember:
-Registration Period: January 1st – March 15th
-Division Draw/Possible Media Day: February 2017
-Rookie Draft: March 2017
-Captains Meeting: Mid May
-League Fees due BEFORE first game on May 25th.
-Season 16 Dates: May 25th-May 28th