Frank McCourt Commits to Help Save Dodger Stadium at Tianjin University

03/17/2008, BEIJING, CHINA -- The Los Angeles Dodgers, after completing their historic first-ever Major League Baseball games in China, today announced that they are committing to help save the Dodger Stadium built 22 years ago in Tianjin and now part of Tianjin University.

Dodger Owner Frank McCourt made the announcement in Beijing today.

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"Our games this week have represented a milestone as we have brought two countries closer together through baseball," McCourt said. "Building on these games, we are now proud to help save the stadium that the Dodgers built in 1986. That stadium, bearing the Dodgers' name, is at Tianjin University. We hope it remains a site that helps serve as a catalyst in attracting young people to play the game, and we hope it serves as a venue where more advanced players can demonstrate their particular skills."

The Dodgers made their first foray into China in 1980, and in 1986, built a ballpark, called Dodger Stadium, that stands today.

"With Commissioner Selig's leadership, we are inspired to look for ways to help China's youth appreciate the game," McCourt said, "And we know that Major League Baseball is doing a great job with its 'Play Ball' program here. Given the success of these games and this historic mission, we believe this gesture is a simple sign of gratitude to all who made these games succeed. It is also a demonstration of the Dodgers' long-term commitment and faith in the people of China and in the game of baseball.

The Dodgers and the Padres battled to a 3-3 tie on Saturday in the historic first game. Dodger first baseman John Lindsey registered the first hit and outfielder George Lombard hit the first home run in the history of MLB in China, a shot to right-center.

Source: MLB