Edmonton welcomes the Riverhawks: A New Era for Baseball
Steve Hogle, a seasoned sports executive with a background in hockey, is spearheading a thrilling venture: bringing professional baseball back to Edmonton. Hogle,formerly president of the Saskatoon Blades (WHL) and vice-president of communications for the Edmonton Oilers,brings a wealth of experience to his new role as president of the Edmonton Riverhawks.
Prior to joining the Riverhawks, Hogle served as General Manager for hockey Edmonton, demonstrating his deep understanding of the local sports landscape. Now, he’s focused on creating an unforgettable and affordable baseball experience for Edmonton families.
The Riverhawks will call the spacious RE/MAX stadium home, with their inaugural game slated for June 6th. Boasting a capacity of 9,200, RE/MAX stadium dwarfs the WCL’s second largest venue in Bend, Oregon, which accommodates 3,500 fans. This remarkable capacity underscores the Riverhawks’ ambition to become a major force in the league.
A Growing League with a rich History
The Riverhawks join the West Coast League (WCL), a collegiate summer baseball league established in 2005. The league has steadily expanded, now encompassing 15 teams across Washington (7), oregon (3), and British Columbia (5).
The arrival of the Riverhawks, along with the Kamloops NorthPaws and Nanaimo NightOwls, marks a notable milestone for the WCL.
Originally scheduled to debut in 2021, the Riverhawks faced a setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced Canadian division teams to cancel their season.However, the team persevered and is now poised to make a splash in the league.
The WCL boasts a strong track record of developing future Major League Baseball (MLB) talent. Adley Rutschman, the first overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, honed his skills with the Corvallis Knights, a WCL team. In 2021 alone, 42 current or former WCL players were drafted by MLB teams, highlighting the league’s reputation as a breeding ground for future stars.
Bringing the Heat: An Interview with Baseball Veteran Dale Murphy on Edmonton’s New Team
Edmonton is buzzing with excitement as the Riverhawks, the city’s first professional baseball team in decades, prepare to take the field. Joining us today to discuss this momentous occasion is none other than two-time National League MVP and baseball legend, Dale Murphy.Welcome, Dale!
Dale Murphy: Thanks for having me! I’m always excited to talk baseball, especially when it involves expanding the game to new communities.
Moderator: Dale, what are your first impressions of the Riverhawks joining the West Coast League?
Dale Murphy: Well, it’s fantastic to see professional baseball back in Edmonton. There’s a real passion for the sport in Canada, and I think the WCL provides a great platform for young players to develop while giving fans a chance to see some exciting ball.
Moderator: The article mentions the Riverhawks will play in RE/MAX Field,a stadium with a capacity of over 9,200. That’s significantly larger than most WCL venues. How do you think that will impact the team and the league?
Dale Murphy: That’s a great point. A larger stadium can create a more energetic atmosphere, especially for a brand new team looking to build a strong fanbase. It also speaks volumes about the commitment Edmonton has to this venture.
Moderator: The WCL has a strong reputation for developing MLB talent.You yourself played in the minor leagues before your major league career. What advice would you give these young players entering the WCL this summer?
Dale Murphy: This league is a golden opportunity. Focus on improvement every single day, work hard, listen to your coaches, and don’t be afraid to have fun out there. The WCL is a proving ground, and scouts are always watching.
Moderator: Now, some may argue that Edmonton’s focus should be on reviving hockey, given it’s history with the Oilers. Do you think there’s room for both sports to thrive in the city?
Dale Murphy: Absolutely! Edmonton has a strong sports culture, and there’s no reason why baseball can’t be a major part of that. Folks love their Oilers, but I believe there’s plenty of passion to go around for a dynamic baseball team like the Riverhawks.
Moderator: With the inaugural game happening on June 6th, what are your predictions for the Riverhawks this season?
Dale Murphy: It’s a new team, so they’ll likely face some challenges, but I expect them to be competitive and bring a lot of energy to the field. Ultimately, success will depend on the players coming together as a team and playing with heart. I’m rooting for them!
Moderator: Dale, thank you so much for sharing your insights. Do you have any final thoughts for the fans in Edmonton?
Dale Murphy: Embrace this team! Get out to the ballpark, cheer them on, and enjoy the experiance.
Moderator: Well said, Dale! We couldn’t agree more.
What are your thoughts on the Riverhawks joining the West Coast League? Do you think Edmonton is ready for professional baseball? Share your opinions in the comments below!
