El Paso Diablos talking move to Joplin

It won't be long before the Missouri Southern State University baseball team has a new home, but historic Joe Becker Stadium may remain as busy as ever.

KZRG is reporting that the El Paso Diablos of the American Association are talking with Joplin city officials:

Under the plan, Joe Becker would be redeveloped to seat 4200 people and include a plaza that would host offices and restaurants. 

Joplin City Manager Mark Rohr tells News Talk KZRG what it would cost to bring the baseball team here.  "What they've asked is a $6 million investment on the part of the city.  Some of it is nearby parking improvements and some other ancillary uses around the stadium.  But it's a $6 million investment and I think we can do that.  That's one of the things we'll be looking into without creating any hardship or taking away from any services."

If a deal can be worked out, the team, whatever its name would be at that point, would begin play during the 2015 season.