In a quiet press release Thursday evening, Bats management stated that they had “reached an impasse” concerning the lease of Louisville Slugger field to Louisville City FC for the 2017 season and beyond. The statement is short on details, but it looks like it’s because City was unwilling to give up concession proceeds, as well as part of the sales from the team store. Rumors have also surfaced about disputes over using the old Buddy Bat mascot costume at games as well as guest appearances by Jake the Diamond Dog during corner kicks. At any rate, it doesn’t look like we are going to be playing ball in Louisville Slugger field beyond this season. We all know this relationship has been a bit tense before (see plaquegate and Gary Ulmer memes) but this has really come out of left field. There may be a temporary stop-gap at a high school or University of Louisville’s Lynn Stadium until we can get a more permanent home, but right now we should focus on patching up relations with the Bats.
The Bats press release:
