Pac Bell Park could be renamed SBC Park

Wednesday December 11, 2002

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) Pac Bell Park or SBC Park?

SBC Communications has decided to use its name on everything it owns. And since it owns Pacific Bell, that means the San Francisco Giants' stadium could have a new name.

``Clearly, we want to see the stadium reflect our new brand, and we'll work with the Giants on it,'' said John Britton, an SBC spokesman. ``The name on the outside won't impact what's inside at all.''

In 1996, Pacific Bell paid $53 million to put its name in big red letters over the ball park's entrance. That contract was supposed to last through 2019, but since SBC owns Pacific Bell, it can legally change the name.

The Giants have printed 2.4 million tickets for 2003 with Pac Bell Park printed on them. They say no changes will be made on a whim.

``There will be no immediate impact,'' said Giants executive vice president Larry Baer. ``Pacific Bell Park is Pacific Bell Park. It didn't change today, and it won't change in the next week. We want to do the right thing. We want to do what's right for the fans.''

Memories are still fresh of how poorly the name change went over in 1996 when Candlestick Park was changed to 3Com Park for $3.9 million. It's now called The Stadium at Candlestick Point.

SBC contacted the Giants last week. Both sides will meet in January to discuss any changes to the name.

(Copyright 2002 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)