Expedition League Leases Hyde Stadium
PIERRE, S.D. – The Expedition League, a summer collegiate baseball league, is one step closer to establishing a franchise team in Pierre.
Tonight, the Pierre City Commission approved a Hyde Stadium lease agreement with the Expedition League and a yet-to-be-named Pierre team. As part of the five-year lease agreement, the Expedition League will pay the City $14,500 annually for utilities and use of the stadium.
“This is very exciting,” said Mayor Steve Harding. “The League will bring a new level of entertainment to central South Dakota while helping enrich our already active baseball community.”
The team roster will be comprised of collegiate baseball players who hope to make it to professional baseball. The League is working closely with both Post 8 and the Rattlers, the local amateur team, to avoid scheduling conflicts.
“Summer collegiate baseball leagues, like the Expedition League, have a history of strengthening local baseball programs and providing a fun, fan-first entertainment experience,” said Steve Wagner, Expedition League President. “I am very excited to add Pierre to the Expedition League and to become part of such an outstanding community.”
As part of the lease agreement, the League will pick up custodial duties at the stadium and gain exclusive concession rights to Hyde Stadium. Post 8 will benefit from the concession activity; the lease agreement requires the League to reimburse Post 8 for a portion of concession sales.
“We really worked hard with Post 8, the Rattlers, and the League to find an arrangement that would benefit all the stakeholders,” said Tom Farnsworth, City Parks and Recreation Director. “With this agreement, I think everyone’s needs are being met.”
For its part, the City will maintain the Hyde Stadium field and maintain some oversight of the League’s local team operations.
The Expedition League will begin its first 64-game season in Pierre in 2018. There are nine additional teams established in the League, including three others in South Dakota, as well as teams in Nebraska, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Canada.
Introduction of the team ownership group and other details about the League and team will be provided during a noon news conference at Hyde Stadium on Friday, Sept. 8, 2017.
-30-