09:46 AM EDT on Tuesday, July 13, 2004

BY JOE McDONALD
Journal Sports Writer

PAWTUCKET -- If the next two days can surpass Day 1 of the three-day Triple-A All-Star game and festivities then hang on because it's going to be one heck of a ride.

The masses that descended on McCoy Stadium yesterday -- fans, players and celebrities alike -- were treated to an extravaganza of showmanship, sportsmanship and all-around fun.

When the PawSox organization was awarded the midsummer classic three years ago, it never imagined it would arrive so quickly.

"This has been a long time coming," said Pawtucket owner Ben Mondor. "This is a special event and we just want to give back to the community and our fans who have supported us all these years. This is going to be a celebration that Rhode Island will never forget. This will be the best bash we've ever had."

No matter who walked into the clubhouses of McCoy Stadium yesterday, they were thrilled to be participating in this event. From former and current professional athletes, to celebrities and honored guests, each one said they jumped at the chance to be involved in anything the Pawtucket Red Sox were hosting.

"I'm excited to have an opportunity to be a part of it," said PawSox and International League All-Star manager Buddy Bailey. "Especially being here in Pawtucket. I've had an opportunity to participate in other Triple-A All-Star games, but this time being able to manage this one is extra special."

There's a huge contingent of PawSox personnel working the event, including pitching coach Mike Griffin. A former major league pitcher for the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres and Baltimore Orioles, Griffin couldn't believe the turnout and excitement around McCoy last night.

"I feel like I'm in a Major League All-Star game," he said. "It's a pleasure to be around all these guys. It's fun. It's only the first day and I'm having some ungodly fun. This three-day extravaganza is going to be the end-all of all Triple-A All-Star games. With something like this, you're not playing against the other team, you're playing amongst them."

Former PawSox infielder/outfielder and current Scranton Wilkes-Barre player Lou Collier arrived at the park yesterday as an All-Star for the Red Barons and couldn't wait for the festivities to get underway.

"This franchise is first class," he said. "They know how to do things. I enjoyed playing here, and they took care of me. It's exciting to play regular-season games here, so it should be that much more exciting for the All-Star game."