01/12 Minute: Pro Field, Tucker’s Turn and Malcom’s Return

Hello, all.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer made the Jacobs Field/Progressive Field the front page piece today, which is not very surprising. Also not surprising was the mixed reactions, with most being negative. A lot of Cleveland fans are more of the traditional variety, and similar to a church-and-state discussion, they feel that corporations and sports teams shouldn’t mix.

While it will always be “The Jake” to me, being in the business world, I can understand both sides. The Indians can always use more money, and if it’s not coming in a 20 percent boost in ticket prices, I’m alright with that. Progressive is a Cleveland-based company that employs thousands. If they can flourish through advertising, it’s better for the city whether it is realized or not. It is especially better than the company packing its bags and heading to a more lucrative city.

Cleveland desperately needs funding, and where better to produce this funding than the companies based within? The banking industry has been turmoiled as of late with several of the regional banks dropping considerably in market value as well as the number of employees. So, as long as this is a sign of things to come in terms of corporate funding into the city, I’m alright with it.

01/11 Afternoon Minute: G’Bye Grantham

While many fans like the firey personality of Todd Grantham, the Associated Press is reporting that his services as Defensive Coordinator will “not be retained” for the 2008 season.

This isn’t a surprise given the fact that the Browns were one of the worst defensive units in the league this past season, finishing 30th overall – mostly thanks to cold weather near the end.