The MLB is taking a look at a new agreement that would help them pay their minor league players better and maintain their MiLB facilities. The problem is, the solution would leave 42 minor league teams on the chopping block, including the Tri-City Dust Devils. While members of Congress have banded together to inform the MLB of their disapproval, the league will be discussing the proposal next month. Changes would take effect in 2021, with the MiLB system being grounded down into four leagues.

Congressman Dan Newhouse said the disbandment of the Dust Devils would be a "big loss for the players and the Tri-Cities community."

I agree. Gesa Stadium is one of my favorite places to be in the summer. I've been to countless games and made memories at most of them. It's where I met my wife. She worked at the Information Booth. I remember coordinating my schedule with her when I threw out one of the various first pitches over the years.

Tri-City Dust Devils
Tri-City Dust Devils
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I couldn't wait to get my baby out for her first Dust Devils game when she was only a couple of months old.

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It was always great cheering for the beer batter to strike out with friends and co-workers.

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One of the things I'd miss most about Dust Devils games is my friendship with play-by-play announcer Chris King. We forged a good partnership over the last several years. When you listen to a Dust Devils game on the radio, anything can happen. Like Hall of Famer George Brett crashing the booth to gush over his team.

Chris King
Chris King
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One of my favorite memories at a Dust Devils game was when I took my daughter to their final playoff game of this season. My wife was out of town, and I took my little one to see the Dust Devils take a shot at winning it all. It's the latest she's ever stayed up, but it was worth it. The Dust Devils didn't win, but we had a great time together.

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So please, Major League Baseball, think about how many communities and families will be affected if you take away their baseball teams. Please don't take away our Dust Devils.

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