W said:
it just seems like one of those things whose time has passed. The novelty has worn off.
it was really cool and hip when MMP opened 20 years ago and Rice's program was among the best in the nation plus the SWC reunion tour and all that
I still think it's a good idea, but they need to expand the footprint and look beyond the SWC, SEC, Big 12, and C-USA. I think it would be a great tourney if they could have...
DAY 1
Texas A&M vs. Miami, Fla.
Texas vs. UCLA
LSU vs. Michigan
DAY 2
Texas A&M vs. UCLA
Texas vs. Michigan
LSU vs. Miami, Fla.
DAY 3
Texas A&M vs. Michigan
Texas vs. Miami, Fla.
LSU vs. UCLA
Quite frankly, having Rice, UH, Texas State, Sam Houston, and even Mizzou in the mix won't do much to move the needle for ticket sales, RPI interest, or national media (D1 Baseball) attention.
I do think neutral site tourneys in MLB parks are a neat idea, but there really aren't all that many places you could play were you won't be rolling the dice with the weather in late February or early March. Maybe Houston, Arizona, San Diego, LA (Dodgers and Angels), Miami, Tampa Bay (barf...), and maybe Atlanta. After the Rangers get their retractable roof stadium in place, you could add them to the list.
The neutral site tourneys in minor league parks are also good, but again...you're rolling the dice with the weather, even in Texas.
But you have to have big names in the college baseball world if you're going to be successful. I don't blame the Astros (or Shriners or whoever) for not going all out on concessions and such when you know Rice, Baylor, Texas State, and Houston won't draw flies, attendance-wise.
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)