Y-S business players see team as local asset

Jan. 3, 2006 - Local baseball fans said it hasn't always been a home run when it comes to the owners of Marysville's baseball team, but they'd like new Gold Sox owners Tom and Karyn Lininger to keep the team running in its current direction.

Marysville Mayor Bill Harris said that when Bob Bavasi initially became involved with the team in 2000, the collegiate summer team wasn't much of a local asset. But over the years, he and his partners transformed it.

“They really improved the progression of the team over the past two or three years,” Harris said Tuesday. “They've turned it into a real valuable commodity for the community.”

Local business owners who double as Gold Sox fans seem confident that Bob and Peter Bavasi chose a good fit for the team in the Liningers.

“We feel like we're in good hands whatever they decide,” said Kara Davis, owner of Amicus Books in Marysville.

Marysville business owner Lois Chick, who holds season tickets, said the switch in ownership doesn't come as a surprise because the Bavasis have been open about their plans. She just doesn't want the team to change.

“I know people coming in have their own agenda, and I guess that's it,” Chick said. “What is their agenda? What are they planning to do?”

“I suspect they'll be just as involved in the community as Bob and Peter were,” Harris said.

The City of Marysville owns All Seasons RV Stadium, home field of the Gold Sox The mayor said that if the Gold Sox had folded or left, the city would probably continue using the stadium as an entertainment venue and look for another baseball team.

But Harris said he's confident with the direction the team is headed.

The team's ability to draw out-of-town fans is good for the local economy, Harris said. The team also provides employment for young people during the summer, the mayor added.

“It's just a positive thing all around,” he said.

Yuba City business owner and stadium sponsor Ernie Friesen sees the Gold Sox as a way for local residents to support their local economy.

“It affords us to have the local people spend money locally rather than go to the Bay Area or Sacramento for pro sports games,” Friesen said.

It also gives residents something to do as a family.

“The Yuba-Sutter area is somewhat lacking in things to do as a family. I think the semi-pro baseball experience, with the pricing they came up with, is an excellent form of entertainment,” Friesen said.

Lois Chick agreed.

“It's very easy in this day and age for families to grow apart. This is something that brings families together,” she said.

“That's a big benefit for any community.”

Appeal-Democrat reporter Breeana Laughlin can be reached at 749-4724. You may e-mail her at blaughlin@appeal-democrat.com.