WASHINGTON DC (February 27, 2020) — Prepared floor remarks by Senator Charles "Chuck" Grassley:
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As Iowa farmers count down the days to get in the fields, baseball fans are counting down the days for that first pitch to cross the plate.
As a farmer and a baseball fan, hope springs eternal.
However, we’ve gotten wind that Major League Baseball is throwing local clubs a curve ball.
One that would hurt baseball, local economies, and fields of dream in my home state.
That’s three strikes right there. But I’ve got news. Don’t count us out.
These local communities and this US Senator aren’t sitting on the sidelines.
Major League Baseball said it may cut ties with as many as 42 minor league clubs, including three historic affiliates in Iowa: The Burlington Bees, The Clinton LumberKings, and The Quad City River Bandits.
I have been in communication with the Deputy Commissioner of Major League Baseball Dan Halem, both in letters and on the phone, about the importance of these teams to Iowa.
I have also joined with a bipartisan group of my colleagues in introducing a resolution today supporting all Minor League Baseball teams across the country.
For generations of Iowans, these ball clubs are a vibrant source of civic pride, entertainment and economic development.
While I have never been to a Major League Baseball game, I have fond memories of going to Minor League Baseball games in Waterloo, Iowa, and seeing Luis Aparicio play before he made it big in the majors as a shortstop for the Chicago White Sox. I want Iowans to be able to continue to have the same experience.
For the record, I am and will always go to bat for Iowa.
As Iowa’s senior US Senator, I will do what it takes to “root, root, root” for the home team.
