TOP OF THE MORNIN’

Royals' ticket-price increase has nothing to do with Kauffman renovations

First, they graciously approved a three-eighths-cent sales tax in April 2006 to pay for almost all of the $250 million Kauffman Stadium facelift. Now, the Royals once again have their hands out, asking for more money with the news of a nearly 15-percent average ticket price increase.

Are the Royals simply pushing their luck?

“We are doing what we can to improve this franchise and make it a competitive one,” said Kevin Uhlich, the Royals’ senior vice president of business operations. “It’s not something we took lightly in deciding to do.

“But the sales tax and renovation money is a separate issue from the ticket-price increase. The renovation money is simply for a much-needed upgrade of the facilities. That renovation money is not going to the franchise. But we also have to upgrade the franchise itself and try to be more on par with what other teams are charging (for tickets).

“Dayton Moore’s mission is to make this into a contending team again. We haven’t been to the playoffs in 22 years. To get back there, we needed to improve our international presence, our scouting, add minor-league teams. This requires money, and frankly, we couldn’t do that with our present budget.”

Of course, the cynical fans would argue that upgrading the franchise itself is the responsibility of ownership.

“I personally don’t believe someone who buys a team should have to lose money every year,” Uhlich said. “There have been reports by the players’ association that we’re getting $70 million in revenue sharing. I can tell you that when all is said and done, that won’t be accurate. Plus, it also doesn’t take into effect our operating costs.

“The bottom line is, and the goal of ownership is, to basically break even. Some years you lose money, some years you make a little money. But in the end, you just want to break even. This year, we’ll about break even. And if we make money, it will be a small amount.

“But I don’t think it makes sense for ownership to lose money every year.”

Reesing and Heisman

A panel of “experts” from CSTV (College Sports Television) recently listed Kansas quarterback Todd Reesing in ninth place on its weekly Heisman Trophy watch. Reesing was tied with Ohio State running back Chris Weills.

Florida’s Tim Tebow was listed at the top, followed by Kentucky’s Andre’ Woodson.

Gilbert a coach

Former Kansas Jayhawk and Green Bay Packer Gilbert Brown is the new head coach of the Milwaukee Bonecrushers, the city’s Continental Indoor Football League team. The expansion team will make its debut in the 12-team league in March 2008.

To reach Jeffrey Flanagan call 816-234-4492 and leave a message or send e-mail to jflanagan@kcstar.com