Arkansas Sports 360 - ArkansasSports360.com

7/19/2010 at 3:29pm

Remember the so-called "rivalry" that was supposed to be created with the Arkansas Travelers when the Wichita Texas League franchised moved to Springdale to become the Northwest Arkansas Naturals?

It was a tussle in 2008, but it seems like the past two years it's been as one-sided as the Texas vs. Arkansas Southwest Conference football "rivalry" -- it's gone mostly NWA's way. The KC Royals have been gracing Arvest Park in Springdale with some serious prospects (though they recently moved great third base talent Mike Moustakas to AAA Omaha), while the best Angels farm hands apparently already raced through here and on to the big leagues, leaving the Double A-level cupboard a bit bare of late.

But, as for the competition in 2010, in which NWA holds a 15-5 record against the Travs, it's a whole new half-season now. Travs can still aim ever-so-hopefully for the TL North second-half pennant, in which if they managed to win it they would oppose the Naturals, the first-half winner, in the post-season. (OK, so we're not holding our collective breath here for any Travs post-season). The teams meet in the the first of four games at North Little Rock's Dickey-Stephens Park on Monday night starting at 7:10 p.m.

Where is that America's Cart-Mart "Diamond Trophy" anyway?

Monday's opening game of the series will also be a chance for the Travs to honor longtime club president Bert Parke, who retired after 30 years in the position. Parke will throw out the first pitch Monday night.

Each night features some kind of discount ticket available, such as "$3 off" coupons available at all area Shell and Exxon gas stations on Tuesday. On Thursday, the first 1,000 paid children receive a free set of 2010 Travs team cards. Call 664-1555 for more information.

While this home stand only lasts the four games with NWA, the Travs are back for seven at home starting July 27. Hank Conger Bobblehead Doll night is July 31. Conger is the most recent top Angels prospect to come through here, toiling behind the plate last season. The last Jim Elder Good Sport Fund Kids Clinic of the season is Sunday, Aug. 1.