Flannery set for SF concert featuring new songs

SAN FRANCISCO -- Tim Flannery's continuing his efforts to be a positive force, as if he were still clapping his hands in encouragement from the Giants' third-base coach's box.

Flannery has released his 14th album, "Three Ring Circus," with songs influenced by his 33 years in professional baseball. Naturally, the CD is decorated by a photograph of the Giants' trio of recent World Series rings. Backed by his band, The Lunatic Fringe, Flannery will perform much of his new work Thursday night at Slim's, 333 11th St. in San Francisco. Guitarist Jake Peavy, who doubles as a Giants right-hander, will serve as Flannery's opening act.

Flannery intends to donate all proceeds from CD sales to the Love Harder Project, a nonprofit that he founded to promote causes that will strive to halt violence and bullying, particularly in schools. Flannery remains motivated by Bryan Stow, the Giants fan who sustained serious head injuries when he was beaten in the Dodger Stadium parking lot after the 2011 season opener.

Stow spoke at a school near Santa Cruz in May about his experience, and Flannery said Tuesday that he wants to raise enough funds to help send Stow on more speaking engagements "to talk about what happened to him and the ignorance of it all."

Flannery retired from coaching after last season, but has visited AT&T Park frequently while providing commentary for Comcast SportsNet Bay Area. He also recently joined MLB Network as a studio analyst.