The Denny's PBA Tour will make its first stop in Phoenix, Ariz., in six years when the Motel 6 Phoenix Classic takes place there this week.

Phoenix has not hosted a PBA event since Robert Smith captured his first career major title at the 2000 U.S. Open.

This week, the Tour will return to its standard 14-game qualifying format.

Special guests on hand in Phoenix will include former major league pitcher and current Arizona Diamondbacks broadcaster Tom Candiotti, who will participate in Wednesday's qualifying round.

Diamondbacks players Luis Gonzalez and Russ Ortiz will throw out the ceremonial first balls prior to Sunday's championship round.

PBA Hall of Famer Steve Cook, with 15 Tour titles in his career, will participate in this tournament as the commissioner's exemption. Cook competed in last week's Dick Weber Open and finished 57th.