It was the equivalent of 2 outs in the bottom of the ninth fighting for that championship trophy. It happened in ’97 for the Marlins, and today’s events may have been just as huge of a win – the County commission approved the Marlins’ stadium deal on a count of 9-4.

This deal, let’s face it, is very controversial. At a time when the economy is really struggling, some cite this as a possible economic stimulus project while others smell pork.

Regardless, this will have an interesting affect on those in Miami who are fans of the Marlins and baseball – in particular the residences of Little Havana. The project is being estimated at about $515M with a $94M project for a parking garage. The shovels will hit the dirt this summer as construction will have to get underway immediately to meet the Marlins’ deadline for playing in a new stadium – their lease at Dolphins Stadium will expire in 2010.

Read more about the stadium details here.

Perspectives:

Michael Mayo waxes about staying home

David Hyde looks at the demands

Greg Cote talks about the Marlins finding home