News and Notes: June 13, 2012

Acta adjusts accordingly for Reds' ballpark | indians.com: News

Great American Ballpark is one of the best offensive ballparks in the majors, so some strategies will change when playing there:

Acta said the homer-happy ballpark can influence a manager's decisions.

"It's like when you go to Colorado," said Acta, referring to Coors Field. "There was a time there when I brought my closer in when we were up by four runs."

The defining feature of the park is the ease with which home runs are hit. The Reds have hit twice as may home runs at home than they have on the road. So that will make Josh Tomlin's start on Thursday a challenge, especially because Thursday's game will be played in the afternoon.

Hannahan, Pronk both making progress | indians.com: News

Jack Hannahan has gone out on a rehab assignment, DHing in Columbus on Monday, and starting at third base in Lake County last night. So it looks like he's close to being ready. He'll take a day off today, then play another minor-league game on Thursday.

Hafner is obviously is going to be out much longer, with the timetable given as 4-6 weeks after his surgery on May 31. That would mean he could be ready to go around the All-Star Break.

Progressive Field Reviews, Cleveland Indians | Stadium Journey

Dave Cotterie of Stadium Journey recently returned to Progressive Field and posted a 2012 review.He especially like the concessions:

Right behind home plate you definitely need to stop at The APPetizer Stand. Here you will find deep fried Snickers, Twinkies, or cookie dough, funnel cake, or various chicken or fish baskets. My suggestion would be to save room for the chicken and waffle sandwich. Definitely worth your time.

The beer selection also got good marks:

It also must be noted that Progressive Field offers one of the widest varieties of beer in the majors. If you are willing to walk a bit, you can find the suds of your choice. Be sure not to be satisfied with what the beer guy is carrying by your seat, as there is a bigger world out there.

The atmosphere, or fans, category got the lowest mark, which isn't surprising, but overall Dave gave the ballpark a nice score.