Life begins on opening day. Last night was my 12th straight opening night with the Norfolk Tides. It wasn't the best night for it, with 40-40 weather. That's both temperature AND wind in the 40's! But the Tides beat the Indianapolis Indians 11-1, and baseball season finally started at MY ballpark.
Before the game, the Tides honored Dave Rosenfield, who was celebrating his 50th opening night in the front office, 44 of them as the Tides General Manager. He has been honored as minor league executive of the year a few times, has been vice president of the international league for a number of years, and is almost single-handedly responsible for the current state of baseball in the Tidewater area. That's good, by the way. He was also named "King of Baseball" by his peers at the last winter meetings.
Former Tides, such as Bobby Valentine, Clint Hurdle, Matt Franco and Marty Brennaman sent their video wishes. Brennaman, the hall of fame broadcaster for the Cincinnatti Reds, got his big break with the Tides, and was recommended by "Rosie" to the Reds a year later. Fellow GM's appeared in person to pay tribute to their mentor and friend.
One of the biggest tributes to Dave Rosenfield is Harbor Park itself. One of the first, and still one of the finest "new" minor league ballpark has his stamp all over it. Innovations in Harbor Park were copied all over baseball. Thanks to Rosie, the Tides are one of the most successful franchises in Minor League Baseball, both in fan support, and in the bottom line.
50 years and still going! Rosenfield has no intentions of retiring anytime soon. His legend will only grow, and the fans of Norfolk will continue to reap the benefits.
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