Spring in Vero?

There's been talk about the Reds shifting their spring operation to Vero Beach. It could happen -- if the Nov. 16 referendum in Sarasota is defeated.

That vote would approve $16 million in public funding to build a new stadium and keep the Reds in Sarasota for the next 30 years.

“We remain focused on Sarasota,” Reds COO John Allen said “But be know we face an uphill battle with the tax reform there.”

The Reds’ contract with Sarasota expires in October of 2008. Allen said the club has had discussions about extending it on a year-to-year basis.

“We don’t want to have to up and leave if the referendum should not pass in November,” Allen said.

Selfishly, I hope the measure passes. Sarasota is a great place to cover spring training. I think it works best for the Reds. Unfortunately for the Reds, the city has enough going on that it doesn't need spring training as badly as other places.

Alllen said the Reds haven't talked to any other cities. Vero comes up because the Dodgers are moving to Arizona in 2009.

Orlando is also talking about adding a team. Arizona is another possibility.