The magic of stadium travel often lies in how a sporting space is utilized, especially when a venue steps entirely outside of its traditional role. This October, Salt Lake City's Smith's Ballpark will trade baseballs for chalk and crash pads. From October 16 to 18, 2026, USA Climbing is bringing the World Climbing Series to the diamond, completely transforming the former home of the Salt Lake Bees into an international climbing arena. Staging a world-class bouldering event on a former minor league infield is an ambitious move that promises an incredible visual for fans in the stands. Spectators at Smith's Ballpark will have the unique opportunity to watch elite athletes scale towering artificial walls set directly on the grass, all perfectly framed by the majestic Wasatch Range in the background. It marks the first time USA Climbing has hosted an event at this venue, marrying the traditional ballpark atmosphere with the adrenaline of modern competitive climbing. The blending of these two distinct sporting cultures is a deliberate effort to create an entirely new kind of spectator experience for the Salt Lake City community. John Muse, Chief of Sport for USA Climbing, noted the significance of the location, stating to Gripped Magazine: “This venue represents more than just a new setting; it's a chance to connect sport, history, and community in a meaningful way.” Muse added, “As a lifelong baseball fan, bringing our Boulder event to the former home of the Salt Lake Bees is especially exciting, and we believe it will offer a truly distinctive experience for both athletes and spectators.” The event will draw top-tier talent from across the globe, bringing Olympic-caliber competition right to the grandstands. Fans attending the World Climbing Series Salt Lake City 2026 can expect to see standout athletes from Team USA, including Paris 2024 Olympians Brooke Raboutou (the first American woman to win an Olympic medal in sport climbing) and Colin Duffy, who finished fourth in Paris. They will also be joined by Annie Sanders, who has been one of the most dominant climbers on this season's World Climbing Series circuit. For venue enthusiasts and sports fans looking to add this unique stadium crossover to their travel itinerary, tickets start at just $15, with general public sales opening the week of August 3, 2026 (presale for USA Climbing members begins on July 31). The Salt Lake Bees moved to a new home, The Ballpark at America First Square, in 2025. The exact future of Smith's Ballpark is yet to be totally defined with the Utah Utes also moving to their own facility. Our own 2024 AAA rankings said the following about Smith's Ballpark: "The view in the outfield rivals the best in the majors, with beautiful mountains adorning the view for every fan at Smith’s Ballpark". This climbing event is a rare chance to check off a baseball stadium on your list while experiencing a fast-paced international sport right on the infield dirt.

Photos by Richard Smith and Clarence Yoder, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 3125 Don Mincher Dr SW Huntsville, AL 35801 Huntsville City FC website Wicks Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium website Year Opened: 2023 Capacity: 6,000 Home Of City Huntsville City FC is a professional soccer team based in Huntsville, Alabama. It is the reserve team of Nashville SC and plays in MLS Next Pro, the third tier of American soccer. The team plays its games at Joe Davis Stadium, a former minor league baseball stadium. Joe Davis Stadium hosted the Huntsville Stars of the Double A Southern League from 1985 until 2014, and also the Star’s successor Biloxi Shuckers (before they moved) in 2015. At one point the stadium was referred to as "The Crown Jewel of the Southern League", but near the end of its baseball run was in pretty bad shape. In 2019 the city planned to renovate the stadium into a soccer-first, multi-use stadium. The stadium's capacity was changed from over 10,000 to 6,000. On May 19, 2023, the stadium hosted its first soccer match, in which Huntsville City FC beat Crown Legacy FC by a score of 2-1. Joe Davis Stadium is named after a former mayor of Huntsville. There is a rumor that Joe Davis himself did not like the sport of soccer, so we will just leave that tidbit right there. Food & Beverage 4 HCFC Smash Burgers and Pulled Pork Sandwiches are two of the most well known food options at Joe Davis Stadium. There are, of course, many of the normal food options one would expect at such a venue. Getting food should not be a problem at the various stands around the venue. Local favorite Yellowhammer Brewing offers many cool options such as the ABV Pineapple Punch, while there is a nice set of rotating craft cocktails also available. This is the kind of stadium where you can certainly make a meal with the options if you so choose. Atmosphere 4 The former baseball field has been transformed to a stadium with seats all around the pitch. The traditional grandstand seats from baseball are in one corner but a variety of stands, as well as a lawn area, have been added all around the pitch. There is a small corner section which has bleachers, but the rest of the stadium tends to have individual seats with backs. There is a fun mascot named Marshall, who is a “cosmic” goat and is named after the nearby NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Screens and other scoreboards can be found to keep track of the action. The whole place has a very open/airy feel, with lots of cool places to sit. Being a "soccer specific" venue, it feels like you'd be right on top of the action from most anywhere. The field is artificial so it can be used for many purposes, so some soccer fans may not really like that detail very much. Neighborhood 4 Huntsville is now the largest city in Alabama with a population of over 215,000 people. The area is home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, the United States Army Aviation and Missile Command nearby at the Redstone Arsenal, The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), and the state-owned US Space & Rocket Center. The replica Saturn V at the center can be seen quite aways away, especially on the nearby UAH campus. The Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment complex is an old factory and mill that houses numerous small artist studios as well as food and drink from options like the Piper & Leaf Artisan Tea Company. Right down the street from the stadium is the large Back Forty brew hall, which is a great pre-match meet-up spot. For beer lovers, there is also the close by Straight to Ale brewing, Yellowhammer Brewing, and Old 5th Bar at The Stovehouse. The area is a beer paradise of sorts. Fans 3 This still feels much like a minor league stadium, but a soccer one instead of a baseball one. What that means is that many of the fans come in groups or are families who may not be as invested as hardcore fans may be. There is still an active supporters section and more serious fans around the stadium who liven the place up. Access 4 Huntsville is served by several U.S. highways, including 72, 231, 431, and an Interstate highway spur, I-565, that links the two cities of Huntsville and Decatur to I-65. There is a very large parking lot at the stadium so you should not have to worry about finding a spot. Leaving post-match seemed to be of no real concern. The team does have a clear bag policy so check the team’s website before attending a match. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at a reasonable price around $10 up to over $60. Parking must be prepaid by a link from the team’s website using the Clutch app. It is not the most intuitive app around so please plan ahead. The price is $11.95. One could park at the far end of John Hunt Park for free and make a trek over but it would depend if the hot summer heat would make it worth your effort. Food and drink prices are a bit high, but that seems to be expected nowadays. Overall the value is pretty good because of the reasonable ticket prices alone. Extras 4 There is a J-2X NASA Rocket Engine which is a focal point in the north plaza / beer garden area of the stadium. Before the start of matches and when the home squad scores a goal it will appear to emit smoke and “celebrate” in its own unique way. There will be a group of fans at each match who are chosen to start that engine. The team tends to lean into the “Rocket City” aspect of the local area. The night we attended was even Space Night. An extra on its own is seeing how this former baseball stadium was renovated into a very nice soccer stadium. It no longer seems like a baseball field. There is a very good team store that also offers online purchases ahead of time with free pickup at matches. Final Thoughts Joe Davis Stadium may be known to many as a former baseball stadium, but it now is known as a very fine soccer facility.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 FNB Field 245 Champion Way Harrisburg, PA 17101 Harrisburg Senators website FNB Field website Year Opened: 1987 Capacity: 6,187 Harrisburg Senators Island Vibes FNB Field is home to the Harrisburg Senators, the Washington Nationals' Double-A affiliate in the Eastern League. It is one of the more unusual minor-league stadiums in the country, having undergone two major renovations between 2008 and 2010 that transformed it from a standard steel-and-aluminum venue into a modern, state-of-the-art facility. ​ The stadium opened in 1987 as Riverside Stadium and was a generic venue. The $45 million renovation project added a public plaza and entrance, new left-field seating, an outfield bar with drink rails, a whole new seating bowl, new suites, a press box, and a midway design with activities for younger fans. Renovations before the 2026 season included a larger video board, a two-story clubhouse, and an expanded boardwalk. ​ FNB Park is on City Island, a scenic 63-acre park that is home to various trails, athletic fields, a beach area, and an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that offers public cruises. The island has a vibe all to itself before and after a Senators game. ​ The stadium was known as Commerce Bank Park (2005-2009), Metro Bank Park (2009-2016), and today as FNB Park after its merger with Metro Bank in February 2016. What hasn't changed is the ball club's affiliation with its major league franchise, which has been in place for almost 40 seasons under the Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals. Food & Beverage 4 There are a lot of items to choose from at FNB Field; just like with many other stadiums, it's wise to take a look around before making your final decision. You might be surprised at what you can get during a game. ​ The Spot is a grill located right near the main entrance to the ballpark. They are known for their Spot Dogs (served with a homemade meat sauce, onions, and mustard), which have been served in town since 1939 and at its original downtown location. However, today the restaurant's Legacy lives on at all Senators games. It is still family-owned, and they operate the grill and cash register during the game. The Midway area underneath the left field bleachers features Backstop BBQ that offers barbecue nachos, pulled pork, and brisket, and Mooga’s Wings serves up wings, boneless wings, tenders, and mozzarella sticks. The Mac Shack is a new feature and offers a weekly mac and cheese dish depending on who the Senators are playing. If you are looking for the basics, there are plenty behind the seating bowl behind the backstop. Fans can choose from footlong hot dogs, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, pizza slices, burgers, fries, dog bowl nachos, and flatbread pizzas. The Rascal burger is a unique combination of a cheeseburger, jelly, and bacon on a hot dog roll. ​ There are plenty of options for alcoholic drinks at the Scoreboard Bar, Third Base Bar, and the Dugout Bar at the Plaza Level. Fans can choose from domestic and premium craft beers, along with mixed and canned cocktails, wine, frozen cocktails, and Pepsi products if you do not drink. Atmosphere 4 Since FNB Field was designed in various stages, it does not look like your typical minor league stadium. Its house is a boardwalk, a midway, a collection of life-size bobbleheads, and a bar underneath the video board. There are also multiple vantage points from multiple sections, including the Harrisburg skyline and Susquehanna River. ​ The left field boardwalk area has quite a few food options along with table top seating and leads visitors towards the main grandstand and Concession area. Right behind the Ollie's cheap seats in left field is the team's official pro shop offering quite a range of merchandise. Just downstairs behind the right field bleachers is the Midway that offers carnival-like games for younger fans and families. There are also a few great concession stands to choose from in this spot as well. Beach ball toss during the game, photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The main entrance is in the left-field corner of the stadium and opens up to a boardwalk down the third base line. There is bleacher seating and tabletop seating along the line. The area is wide open and leads fans to multiple parts of the stadium, including the concession area behind the main grandstand and the Senators All-Time team in the form of life-size bobbleheads that include Bryce Harper, Cliff Floyd, and Stephen Strasburg. ​ The Scoreboard Bar is in right field and underneath the video board. The area offers bar stools and chairs, along with standing room areas to enjoy the game. The bar offers craft and domestic beers, along with local wine and cocktail drinks. Neighborhood 4 FNB Field is on City Island and inside City Island Park, a 63-acre area that offers quite a bit to enjoy before, or even after, the game. Some trails wrap around portions of the island and offer stunning views of the city buildings and bridges. The island includes an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that offers public cruises, ​ The Harrisburg Beach Club is a great way to end your night. The restaurant offers a food and drink menu that features specialty cocktails, draft beers, smashburgers, nachos, and other shareables. The drafts are $4 and can be enjoyed while watching the sunset on the outdoor patio where customers toss cornhole bags. ​ There are dining options off the island, easily accessible off the Market Square Bridge that include Tequila Willies, Dockside Willies, and Duke’s Riverside Bar & Grill. On the opposite side and accessible from the pedestrian Walnut Street Bridge in downtown, options include McGrath’s Pub, The Brickhaus, and JB Lovedraft’s Micropub. Outside patio of the Harrisburg Beach Club, photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Fans 3 ​The Harrisburg Senators have a nice fanbase that supports them annually at FNB Field. The crowds are festive for a midweek game, and there is a lot to keep them busy during their visit. The diehard fans sit in the main grandstand and focus on the game on the diamond, while many others enjoy a night out with friends and family. It is a nice combination to see at a minor league baseball game. Access 3 ​Since FNB Field is on an island, getting to it can be a challenge. The parking is on the south end of the island, and the traffic can be somewhat slow and cumbersome when looking for a spot right before a game. Parking on City Island is limited and is not guaranteed. The parking rate is $5 cash or $5.50 by card. ​ There is also VIP parking behind the stadium’s outfield wall that warns people of possible tickets or a tow if illegally parked. Several spots in front of the Harrisburg Beach Club are free but require a 15-minute walk. ​ Another option is to park in downtown Harrisburg and walk across the Walnut Street Bridge. Free meter parking is available, and there are also paid lots. There is also public transit to the game from the train station at Market and Aberdeen. Inside the ballpark, fans walk up a set of stairs through the main entrance, and more stairs lead fans to the Midway section behind third base. However, the stadium features a wraparound concourse with multiple seating areas, eateries, and restrooms. Return on Investment 4 The cheapest tickets start at $11 for the Ollie’s Cheap Seats behind left field and close to the main entrance. Box Seats and Scoreboard Bar Seats are $13; Field Box and Dugout Box seats are between $15 and $17. Club Seats start at $45 and include access to the Victory Club and complimentary dinner, soda, and water. ​ Parking for the game ranges from free to $5.50, plus other options off the island with access from the Market Street Bridge. If parking on the island for the game, arrive a little early to avoid traffic. After the game, enjoy the Harrisburg Beach Club for a drink or to soak up the scenery. Extras 4​ FNB Field earns a point for its location on City Island. Fans can enjoy the sunset at the marina restaurant, play outdoor games, walk trails, or take in a few innings of adult kickball or volleyball matches. Plus, there is the view of Harrisburg from across the river. ​ The second point is for The Spot, an iconic restaurant serving hot dogs and burgers since 1939. The original brick-and-mortar location closed in 2007, but fans can grab a Spot dog during every Senators game at FNB Field. ​ The stadium earns a third point for its giant photo of Market Square from game 1 of the 1940 World Series between Cincinnati and Detroit. Folks can sit down at a table and enjoy their meal while they also have a clear view of the Susquehanna River. ​ The midway is a festive area behind the right-field bleachers that serves barbecue, wings, and beverages. There are also inflatable outdoor games for children and families. Final Thoughts FNB Field is a fun ballpark to visit with its own distinct vibe and design. It is not like your other minor league ballparks, and attending a game can be an adventure that won’t hurt your wallet. ---- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Ruoff Mortgage Stadium 6411 Bass Rd. Fort Wayne, IN 46818 Fort Wayne FC website Ruoff Mortgage Stadium website Year Opened: 2026 Capacity: 9,200 Fort Wayne's Epic Soccer Stadium Ruoff Mortgage Stadium is a soccer-specific stadium in Indiana and the home of Fort Wayne FC. The 9,200-capacity stadium is part of a planned mixed-use development that was privately funded and hosted its first game on May 2, 2026. The stadium includes 14 pitch-level suites, multiple group areas, a VIP Club Room, premium loge seats, tabletop seating, a beer garden, and a Fan Zone park area. The venue also houses a 120 x 35 LED video board, the second-largest in the state, and an outdoor bar underneath it. Fort Wayne FC was founded as members of the National Professional Soccer League in 2020. However, due to COVID-19, it would not debut until the following season, as a USL League Two team with 2,700 fans at Shields Field. The club played at Bishop D’Arcy Stadium from 2023 to 2025 and would continue in League Two until joining USL League One for the 2025 season, with plans for a soccer-specific venue. Plans for the stadium were announced on November 4, 2024, by owner Mark Music, and ground was broken on April 16, 2025. Fort Wayne Design Collaborative provided the architectural services, in collaboration with developer BND Commercial. Ruoff Mortgage Stadium is the largest soccer stadium in Indiana and shares a similar design to Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville, Kentucky. The stadium will be able to host concerts, festivals, weddings, graduation commencements, and other sporting events. Food & Beverage 3 Numerous options at the stadium feature concession stands on the east, west, and north sides of the concourse. Be aware that this is a cashless venue, and all items must be purchased by credit or debit card, and tap to pay. The concession items include burgers, hot dogs, pizza slices, nachos, fries, and chicken tenders. Fans can combine burgers, dogs, and tenders with a side of fries, and wash it down with a variety of Coca-Cola products. A few kiosks on the north side and east side offer churro bites and Dip ‘n Dots. The stadium offers a solid selection of canned beers, including Miller Lite, Coors Light, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Corona, and Modelo. Alcoholic beverages are available at several standalone bars strategically positioned to provide unobstructed views of the pitch. Once construction is complete, an additional outdoor bar beneath the south-end scoreboard will further expand the stadium's beverage options. Atmosphere 3 There is a lot to take into consideration at a Fort Wayne FC match. Fans trek through the parking lot with team gear to the main entry of the stadium. The festive mood begins at the southwest corner where the official team store, Fan Plaza, and open bar are located. The stadium has three covered seating sides, separated into upper and lower bowls. The main concourse wraps around the structure, offering open views of the pitch and access to concession stands. The south end of the stadium has a double-sided LED video board and an outdoor bar. The pitch is set seven feet below grade to create an amphitheater-style atmosphere, and the covered canopy roof is designed to amplify noise during games. Add drink rails, vantage points to watch the match, and table-top seating to enhance the matchday vibe. Just behind the video board is the Fan Zone, which features a bouncy house area and a low-pile turf space home to a mini soccer field and outdoor lawn seating. It is an area that keeps the younger fans busy before the game, or for some, the entire match. The double-sided screen will provide opportunities to broadcast movies or live events on non-match days. The Three Rivers Regiment take residence on the north end in an area designed for standing-room-only. They are decked out in team colors, wave flags, feature drummers, and plenty of chanting. After each goal, they release black and orange smoke into the air. Neighborhood 3 Ruoff Mortgage Stadium is adjacent to I-69 and less than 6 miles from downtown Fort Wayne. The area around the stadium is in an industrial park neighborhood, but the plan is to develop into a general commercial zone. Electric Works is a vibrant collection of offices, restaurants, markets, and business innovation centers, just a few blocks from downtown. The Farmers Market is open on Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings. The Union Street Market houses a collection of eateries featuring Johnny Ox Pizzeria, ACO Sushi, Crane Bar, and Savor Burgers. The Broadway Arts District is nearby and is known for its historic buildings, cozy cafes, artistic spaces, and colorful murals. ​ The city is known for a few historic spots that are recommended. Powers Hamburgers shares a parking lot with Parkview Field and has been serving sliders since 1940. The small shop once sold over 5,000 sliders in one day and is known as “The Slider Capital of the World”. They also have a very good coney. ​ The second restaurant is Fort Wayne Coney Island, the oldest of its kind in the country, in operation since 1914. Customers can enter through the kitchen, grab a couple coney dogs, and wash it down with a small bottle of Coca-Cola. The countertops, stools, and decor have not changed much in the past century in business. ​ Fort Wayne is home to one of the better minor league hockey and baseball experiences in the country. Parkview Field is about 6 miles from the soccer stadium and is home to the Fort Wayne TinCaps. About 7 miles northeast is the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, which has been home to the Fort Wayne Komets hockey club since 1952. Fans 4 The fanbase arrives early to the match; a few tailgate in the parking lot, while many others partake in the FanZone behind the south end of the stadium. The match was not sold out, but there were enough chants and cheers from the fans inside the venue. The gift shop was packed with fans picking up team merchandise, and The Three Rivers Regiment provided enough sound effects from their feet stomping. Access 5 The stadium is on Bass Road, west of I-69. Vehicles enter the parking lot and move efficiently through the prepaid parking pass scanning stations, creating a smooth arrival experience. ​There are two main gate entry areas: Gate 1 on the northwest side and Gate 2 on the southwest side. Inside the stadium, the wraparound concourse provides access to both sections of the seating bowl, restrooms, concession stands, the gift shop, and other areas. Return on Investment 4 There is a large parking lot next to the stadium that costs $9 per car, prepaid only. Single-game tickets begin at $15, with $18 for standing-room only and in the supporters' section. Seat prices start at $25 and climb to $150 for VIP club seats. Merchandise prices are reasonable and align with those of other league members; however, Ruoff Mortgage Stadium is quite the venue for soccer at this level. Extras 4 Ruoff Mortgage Stadium earns additional recognition for its joyful pre-match atmosphere in the Fan Zone, a unique field set seven feet below ground level to create an intimate amphitheater effect, and covered grandstand seating along three sides of the venue. The stadium also stands out as a fully privately funded project that was completed in just over a year from the start of construction. Final Thoughts Ruoff Mortgage Stadium is not only a great addition to the soccer world in the United States, but to the state of Indiana. This is what a soccer stadium should look like, and it should bring a lot of joy to fans in the Fort Wayne area for the foreseeable future. Visitors should expect a state-of-the-art venue for all of their soccer needs. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photo by Steve Ohnsman, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Trinity Health Arena 955 Fourth St Muskegon, MI 49440 Muskegon Risers website Trinity Health Arena website Year Opened: 1960 Capacity: 3,500 Rising Up to the Occasion in Muskegon The L. C. Walker Arena was dedicated to the City of Muskegon on October 27, 1960. Louis C. Walker, the founder of Shaw-Walker Office Equipment, wanted to provide for the recreational needs of his employees and residents and donated a generous $1 million for its construction. The city then spent an additional $1.5 million on the land, utilities, parking, and some furnishings. Walker would help create at least 14 other recreational fields and parks in Muskegon during his lifetime. The arena has been home to a variety of events that have included concerts, trade shows, and sporting events. The arena also houses the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the United States Hockey League and the West Michigan Ironmen of the American Arena League; its newest tenant is the Muskegon Risers of Major Arena Soccer League 2 who call the building home for six games during the winter months. The Risers were founded in 2014 and its nickname was inspired by the ‘Muskegon, Together Rising’ sculpture that stands in the heart of downtown. The club also operates in the United Premier Soccer League Midwest conference during the summer at Kehren Stadium. According to its website, the colors of blue and gold reflect the city’s natural beauty as a lakeside community during the spring, summer, and fall seasons but change to black and white during the winter indoor season when Lake Michigan freezes and lake effect snow blankets the community. The Risers also function as the primary player development partner of the Milwaukee Wave of MASL and the unique partnership includes cross-promotions, player development, tactical mentoring, game-day operations, and MASL call-ups. The Wave will also provide players who need additional playing time to the Risers when needed. It was the first and only such agreement in the two leagues of arena soccer. The arena has a capacity of 3,500 for indoor soccer games and features a playing surface that is gray with white lining. There is also an artistic flair to the inner concourse from colorful chairs and tables, local artist paintings, and social hang-out spots. With the arena turning 60 years old at the beginning of the next decade, it is still a hip place to enjoy a soccer game. In 2018 $1.7 million of renovations improved the fan experience and created a broader entertainment hub for patrons attending events in the building. These renovations included Rad Dad’s Taco & Tequilla Bar, a pavilion/beer garden, an enlarged concourse near the Western Ave. entrance, new suites and club-seating areas, a Kids Zone, and party decks on the northwest and southwest corners of the arena. The renovations decreased seating by 400 but fans are now able to enjoy events in the building in a myriad of options allowing for an open environment seen at much larger buildings across the nation. in January 2020 the building will change its name to Mercy Health Arena at the tune of $1.5 million over 15 years. The sponsorship will begin with a sports-theme restaurant called Carlisle’s, Walker’s middle name, and include patio seating with local sports memorabilia on its walls. Food & Beverage 3 The traditional concession stands offer $2 hot dogs, $6 cheddar brats, $10 brisket sandwiches, mac-n-cheese for $5, pizza by the slice or whole pie, and Pepsi products with unlimited refills for $4. Two bars offer domestic and craft beers for $4-$7 along with $7 mixed drinks and wine. That’s nice enough but in the summer of 2018, interior space was used to create a new restaurant called Rad Dads, a high-end taco restaurant featuring a wide selection of tequilas. They serve food and drink in two plastic outdoor heated igloos and an indoor space. There are also skateboards, classic pinball, and video games along with a wall of cassette tapes that creates a lively and unique décor. Along the stadium perimeter walls, small portable stands offer items such as classic Hawaiian shave ice (highly recommended) and ice cream. Atmosphere 2 The renovations have created a building that stands out not only in the M2 but could also hold its own in the MASL. Spectators who enjoy watching soccer from their seats still have that option while others who want to mingle or be seen by others can find a spot at the bar or numerous party decks on the concourse. The changes have indeed created a “hub” for entertainment in town during the winter season. There are some exterior and interior decor that show their age from when the building debuted in 1960. However, there is a colorful array of art inside the building that injects much-needed life into the old place. The most eye-popping aspect is the gray field turf that Risers play on during games that is not your typical green-colored surface. It was installed in April of 2017 and is also utilized by the indoor football team that occupies the building during the spring and summer, so you will see a few grid marks on its surface. Approximately ten rows of reasonably comfortable red/purple padded seats surround the oval playing surface. There are not any cup holders available. The sight lines are good and seats are close to the action. A few special seating areas are available for groups and a kids' play area will keep the little ones busy. These two areas were part of recent renovations to the arena that also include a beer garden with 8 flat-screen TVs and a social area. A scoreboard is over the center of the playing field that provides an average-quality sound system and good music during timeouts and between periods. The Risers do not have an official mascot. There is a small area offering team shirts and other merchandise. Neighborhood 3 The area around the arena is mixed residential/commercial with several choices for food, drink, and entertainment. Rad Dads is a part of the building and fans can have dinner there and have great views of the action on the turf. Nearby dining choices include Rebel Pies for pizza, 18th Amendment Spirits Company for a wide-ranging menu including wood-fired pizzas, and an old-school burger joint named Hamburger Mikey. Two well-rated breweries are Pigeon Hill Brewing Company and Unruly Brewing Company. Three state parks on Lake Michigan are great to visit in the summer. Other attractions include the Muskegon Heritage Museum, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, and the Monet Garden. Fans 2 The Risers are working to create a fan interest in indoor soccer. Given the 3,500 seats, the fan support is limited right now. They have many families who attend along with several groups. The noise level is pretty low, but don’t blame The Port City Supporters, a group of four guys doing their best to get fans involved. An interesting twist that goes along with the vibe of the building, in one corner, multiple bed sheets have been painted as flags of the players’ nationalities. A total of 25 out of the squad’s 31 players are from the area or have attended a West Michigan college or university. Access 3 Located on Business US 31 downtown and about two miles west of US 31, driving to the arena is pretty easy. Parking is a bit of a challenge as there are a few lots nearby so consider street parking. Handicap parking is at Fourth Street and Western Avenue and they have a handicap entrance with an elevator at the small back parking lot. There are two entrances; Western Avenue is handicap accessible and there are three handicap seating sections. Gates open one hour before the game starts. A concourse surrounds the seating area which allows fans to follow the action everywhere. They are updating and adding new restrooms. Return on Investment 3 Loge seats are $15; section seating is $11 and $9 tickets are offered to seniors, children under 17, and military members. Food and beverage prices are very reasonable and parking is free. The club does not offer a program but does offer free roster sheets showcasing the players’ names and uniform numbers. Extras 3 Any arena that has a taco joint named Rad Dads is certainly worth a point, as well as real Hawaiian shave ice for another. Outdoor igloos in winter are fun for a small group, especially in the frigid temperatures of Michigan. The local art, grey turf, colorful displays around the concourse, and local eateries add to an interesting vibe to the arena that sets it a party for your typical M2 venue. This might be the crown jewel of the league. Final Thoughts Muskegon’s citizens are working hard to use L. C. Walker Arena as a local entertainment opportunity at a reasonable price. It is a nice spot for families and groups to enjoy a night out. As for the game of indoor soccer, the arena is the ideal size for the sport and the Risers hope to hang their hat along with minor league hockey and indoor football as a sports and entertainment option in the city. The local art, grey turf, colorful displays around the concourse, and local eateries add to an interesting vibe to the arena that sets it apart for your typical M2 venue. This might be the crown jewel of the league.

Photos by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Crypto.com Arena 1111 South Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA 90015 Los Angeles Sparks website Crypto.com Arena website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 13,141 A Spark of Life The Los Angeles Sparks, one of the original eight WNBA teams founded in 1997, have entertained basketball fans from Inglewood to the center of Los Angeles for close to two decades. Though not as popular as the NBA brand, the fact that the WNBA has been able to maintain their product for close to 20 years is a true testament that basketball fans will come out to their venue to watch the lady ballers. Being in the L.A. market, the Sparks have always been one of the focal points of the WNBA. The Sparks have had a solid history of excellence during their WNBA tenure, qualifying for the post season 11 times, reaching the WNBA finals three times and winning the big prize twice in 2001 and 2002, while losing to Detroit in 2003. Prior to playing at the Staples Center, the Sparks played their home games at The Forum until the 2001 season. Note: The Staples Center name changed to Crypto.com Arena in 2021. Food & Beverage 3 During a Sparks game, the selections are not as varied as they would be for the other major teams. If the game should have a big enough crowd that the upper concourse is open, the majority of the stands open would still be in the lower level. If you’re hankering for a hot dog, the Skyscraper Dog at $7 is a good sized 12-inch beef dog that should more than satisfy your appetite. If you should bring your sweet tooth to the game, Popcornopolis has some large bags of sweet specialty popcorn from caramel corn to kettle corn at $6. Candy apples are also available for $6.25, as well as bottomless popcorn for $6.75. If it’s pizza you want, California Pizza Kitchen also has stands open that sell personal sized pizzas at a reasonable $10. The selections range from BBQ chicken pizza to your standard pepperoni pizza. For adult fans, the Harbor and Figueroa Bars are located by each of the main entrances. Not surprisingly, for a Sparks game, there are not too many patrons at either location. Atmosphere 4 Upon arriving to the Staples Center you should enter through the 11th Street plaza (the grand plaza to many who attend events here) where you will be greeted of statues honoring Lakers greats and Wayne Gretzky. However, the Sparks do what they can to let you know that they are the main attraction of the day by displaying a huge banner adorned in its purple and gold glory. The opening player introductions are nothing out of the ordinary with the lights being dimmed along with loud hip-hop music being played to pump the crowd up. A tradition here among the Sparks fans is for everyone to remain standing while making loud noise until the Sparks score their first bucket. Also of note, the P.A. announcer is also the in-game emcee, so don’t expect him to be like your typical P.A. announcer as he goes above his duties of just announcing in game information by revving up the crowd to get behind their team. The crowd here is anything but a typical NBA type crowd. Though crowds here rarely , if ever, fill up to the Staples Center rafters, the enthusiasm level here is at a fevered pitch, with the majority of the crowd consisting of young women and kids from various youth groups, as well as various church groups, which could be typical for a Sunday afternoon game. Nonetheless, the atmosphere is still impressive and the excitement with the crowd is something you may never experience among the elite crowds during Lakers games. Neighborhood 5 With the L.A. Live entertainment and dining complex across the street, there is no shortage of pre and post game dining and entertainment options such as the Grammy Museum or Lucky Strike Lanes and Lounge for you upscale bowlers. Dining options at L.A. Live include Yard House, Wolfgang Puck, Rock N’fish, and Smash Burger. If you should opt to stay away from the L.A. Live Complex, a Hooters is located across the street from the Figueroa Street entrance. There are plenty of other entertainment and dining options in the Downtown L.A. area should none of the above mentioned be to your particular craving. Fans 4 The type of fans who come here to an L.A. Sparks game are a different breed as opposed to those who come out for Lakers games. The fans are a lot younger, especially female fans, and they are certainly in force. Plus you get that feeling that the fans are here for the entertainment aspect of watching a basketball game, unlike those of their NBA counterparts in purple and gold, whose fan base tend to be celebrities and those on a who’s who list, and have the reputation of going there to be seen. This is a refreshing change for the everyday fan who wants to simply enjoy a basketball game. Access 4 One of the nice things about attending a Sparks game is ticket availability. Tickets can pretty much be bought on a last minute, walk up basis for that casual fan who wants to see an entertaining basketball game at an affordable price. During most games, the upper bowl is closed off so all fans are close to the action. For those who opt to drive to the game, the Staples Center is really close to the major freeways, the 110, 10, and 101, with the 405 being about 20 minutes away pending traffic. Notice I said, pending traffic. This is L.A. after all. There are about 3,300 parking spaces within the Staples Center area including L.A. Live, as well as some various private spots scattered throughout the area ranging from a five to twenty minute walk. The spots can range from $3 to $15. If you should choose to be frugal, the walk to the Staples Center isn’t far from even the most distant spots. If you should opt to use public transit, the Metro Blue and Expo lines drop fans off across the street. For transit assistance to Staples Center and other transportation options, you can click on this Staples Center transit link or use the Metro Trip Planner. Return on Investment 4 L.A. Sparks basketball is the type of entertainment that is perfect for that type of fan who wants to see some great basketball action live without leaving a huge hole on the wallet. Tickets typically run from $15 to $65 as you venture closer to the floor. Third party sites are also a great option as you can generally get tickets far below face value. This is one of the few times the average fan can attend a professional basketball game and be as close to the action without breaking the bank. Extras 4 One aspect I really enjoy about attending a Sparks game is the energy felt not only among the fans but the in-game entertainment as well. The Sparks must be well aware of what fan base they are catering to for them to have a local dj/emcee act as the P.A. announcer as well. As for other in-game entertainment, the Sparks also provide two dance teams. The Sparks Kids and The Old Skool Crew, made up of a group of women dancers 30 and over who got some moves that even the younger kids would enjoy. Of course, let’s not forget that the Staples Center is the home to four professional franchises with a lot of history behind them. If you should enter the Staples Center through the 11th Street entrance you will pass through statues of Lakers greats Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, as well as former L.A. Kings legend Wayne Gretzky. Championship banners from both organizations, as well as the Sparks banners, are on display on the upper south walls and the rafters. Final Thoughts Though the Sparks may not get the type of attention the other 3 tenants would get, they still provide quite an entertaining professional basketball experience. What often gets lost when observing a women’s basketball game is that the ladies play the game in its purest fundamental way. You won’t see many flashy plays, and you would be hard pressed to see any slam dunks. That is not to say that the ladies lack any excitement, as the Sparks have had such notable players from Lisa Leslie to Candace Parker. Hopefully, the Sparks and the WNBA will continue to expand their fan base and they will be around for many years to come.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Dell Diamond 3400 East Palm Valley Blvd Round Rock, TX 78665 Texas Volts website Dell Diamond website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 11,631 Texas Volts – Dell Diamond In June 2024, professional women’s sports in the United States took a massive leap forward with the formation of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL). Founded with the promise of making a long-term investment in professional women’s softball, the AUSL began its four-team league in 2025, before expanding to six teams in time for the 2026 campaign. The league always had the idea of planting a flag in the softball hotbed that is Central Texas; with that in mind, the Texas Volts took the field at Dell Diamond for their inaugural campaign. This venerable park in Round Rock, Texas – a sprawling suburb north of the state capital of Austin – is also home to Triple-A baseball’s Round Rock Express. At Dell Diamond, the Volts have built a strong fan base, setting a Texas softball attendance record last season with over 6,500 fans in attendance. The AUSL and the Volts now have a historic partnership with Major League Baseball, as well as a television deal with ESPN, to give the league and its teams even more prominence. The future looks bright for professional softball in Round Rock. Read on to learn more about it. Food & Beverage 4 The food and beverage scene at Dell Diamond has always been exceptional; this doesn’t change much for Volts games. While not every stand is open, the majority of them on the main concourse are, and that’s a great thing. You’ve got a stand for gourmet hot dogs and milkshakes, a stand for chicken fingers, one for ice cream, one for pizza, and one for tacos and nachos. There is also a barbecue stand supplied by the legendary Southside Market & Barbecue, as well as a specialty iced tea stand from HTeaO. There is even a walk-up full-service bar along the third-base line. Most stands also serve up your traditional game day fare, such as popcorn, soft pretzels, soda, and candy. Atmosphere 3 Since Dell Diamond is the home of the Round Rock Express, the vast majority of the signage around the park is geared toward them. There is still a ton at the game for softball fans, however, including the Bullpen Bar beyond the outfield walls, offering fans a respite from the summertime Central Texas heat. The bar is adjacent to a play area for kids, which also features a climbing wall. A Texas Volts team store is located on the main concourse behind the first baseline; I was honestly shocked by the breadth and scope of merchandise that is available. It really speaks to how much support is backing the team and the league. Lastly, I was witness to one of the most unique in-game experiences I have ever seen. In what is clearly a nod to the league’s targeted audience, beauty and personal care company Sephora has two braid bars – one each behind the first and third baselines – for patrons to have their hair styled in a number of unique ways. It’s honestly one of the best in-game tie-ins I have ever seen. Neighborhood 3 Round Rock is roughly a 30-minute drive north on Interstate 35 from downtown Austin. Home to countless fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, the seat of power in the state, one of the largest public universities in the country, and multiple world-class museums, the city has a vibe unmatched anywhere else in the country. Long story short, if by chance you don’t find enough to do on your visit to Dell Diamond to check out the Texas Volts, Austin is just a relatively short car ride away. Meanwhile, there is quite a bit going on in Round Rock. In terms of dining, you can’t beat either the proximity or the food offered by Salt Lick BBQ. Recognized as one of the top barbecue spots in the state, the Round Rock outpost is within walking distance of the ballpark’s parking lot. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. Also, if you find yourself in town early in the morning before a game, you HAVE TO visit Round Rock Donuts; it is a beloved Texas institution and has gained worldwide fame thanks to its tasty treats. In terms of attractions, the main draw in Round Rock is arguably Kalahari Resorts right down the road from Dell Diamond. Home to an indoor and outdoor waterpark, shows, shops, restaurants, and first-class accommodations, this resort is probably your best bet for entertainment and lodging if you’re heading to a Texas Volts game. Fans 4 As mentioned in the intro, Volts fans have been showing up for games at Dell Diamond since day one. During the most recent game I attended, the parking lot was virtually full, and the lower grandstand was packed. The fans were loud and engaged, and a vast majority were sporting Volts gear, which was very impressive. What was also refreshing was that the crowd was very much a majority of women and young girls. To me, this signifies that the AUSL is on to something, and I hope it bodes well for professional softball going forward. Access 3 Dell Diamond is located right off US 79, which itself is a spur of I-35. It’s just under a two-hour drive from San Antonio and just over two and a half hours from the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. It’s also a half-hour from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport if you’re flying in. If you choose not to drive, Round Rock has multiple public transportation options available that have routes to the ballpark. However, if you do drive, parking is ample in the lots available nearby. Return on Investment 3 Single-game tickets for Texas Volts games start at $25 per person and reach as high as $75, while parking in the lots on site will set you back $15. While this is higher than the cost you would pay for Round Rock Express games, this hammers home the point that the AUSL is a major league organization, and it’s worth the cost to get in on the ground floor. On the plus side, concessions are still at minor league prices, so you’re getting a bargain there. Extras 1 The AUSL as a whole doesn’t have many of the bells and whistles that other major professional sports leagues have – for now, the selling point is the action on the diamond. The Volts do have an in-stadium hype man and multiple giveaways and themed days, however, and they also make players available after games for autographs. Final Thoughts I wasn’t sure what to expect on my visit, but I was more than pleasantly surprised by what I saw here. The crowd was energetic throughout the game, and they were rewarded with a last-at-bat victory by the Vols. The concessions are good, it is easy to get in and get out, and the ballpark still looks great. All in all, it was a great experience and one I definitely would do again. I encourage fans of ball to do the same. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Crutcher Scott Field at Bullock Brothers Park 555 Walnut St Abilene, TX 79601 Abilene Flying Bison website Crutcher Scott Field at Bullock Brothers Park website Year Opened: 1991 Capacity: 1,540 Abilene Flying Bison Summer baseball has become an important part of the baseball landscape across the country, giving collegiate players an opportunity to develop their skills while providing affordable family entertainment. The Abilene Flying Bison compete in the Texas Collegiate League, a summer wood-bat circuit featuring players from NCAA, NAIA, and junior college programs throughout the region. The Flying Bison’s inaugural season was the summer of 2024 as a charter member of the Mid America League. After two successful seasons of leading this upstart league in attendance and fan engagement, the Bison accepted an invitation to join the more established and higher regarded TCL prior to the 2026 summer campaign. In addition to competing in the new league, the team chose to relocate across town to a new ballpark – having played their first two seasons at NCAA Division III McMurry’s Walt Driggers Field, the Flying Bison decided to migrate 10 miles north to play their home games at Crutcher Scott Field at Bullock Brothers Park on the campus of Abilene Christian University. As an up-and-coming mid-major NCAA Division I university, ACU offers one of the premier college baseball facilities in West Texas, featuring premium chairback seating behind home plate, folding theater seating along the first baseline, and aluminum bleachers along the third baseline. The layout of the stadium provides excellent sightlines from nearly every location. Despite the youth of the Flying Bison franchise, the City of Abilene is no stranger to summer baseball. Dating back to the 1920s, minor league or semi-pro teams such as the Eagles and Aces played in the West Texas League, and in 1939, the Apaches joined the West Texas-New Mexico League for a single season. Later in the 1940s and 50s, the Blue Sox most famously played as a Brooklyn Dodgers and Kansas City Athletics affiliate. In fact, the 1946 Blue Sox team was named a top 100 team in minor league baseball history; the Blue Sox legend and legacy grew deep roots in the Abilene baseball community. More recent efforts for minor league baseball included the Abilene Prairie Dogs, who became members of the independent Texas-Louisiana League in 1995, playing through 1999. The Prairie Dog moniker also had a brief revival in 2012 with another independent minor league team, which only lasted a partial season. Despite these two short stints, the Prairie Dogs were beloved. The Flying Bison honor Abilene’s baseball past by completely rebranding on social media and playing as the Prairie Dogs every Thursday. Food & Beverage 3 Concessions at Crutcher Scott Field are straightforward and emphasize traditional ballpark fare. A single concession stand inside the gates serves fans but is bolstered by food trucks outside the front gate. The food trucks, while being a bit more expensive than the ballpark concession options, are a welcome addition for many fans and prove to be popular options. Efficiency at the concession stands is hit and miss, as many times only one line is open despite fans in the double digits lined up to be served. The concession stand will also close before the 7th inning during each game, so make plans to get your final drinks or snacks no later than the bottom of the 5th inning to be safe. The concessions menu typically includes hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, nachos, popcorn, pretzels, candy, and assorted snacks. While the selection is somewhat limited compared to larger professional venues, the food is reasonably priced and relatively fresh. Bottled drinks include Coca-Cola products, bottled water, Powerade, and tea. Periodically, you may also get a collectible cup and ice with the purchase of a bottled drink at no extra charge. Drinks cost $3-4, snack items are generally $3-5, and hearty foods are $6-10. Credit cards and cash are both accepted, making purchases convenient. Due to the ballpark being on the campus of Abilene Christian University, alcohol is not available during Flying Bison games. In my opinion, the grilled chicken sandwich offers great value, while the classic hot dog and soft drink combination remains a dependable choice. There are a few food trucks just outside the front gate that offer additional options. Food trucks available at each game include Sherrod’s BBQ, Bahama Bucks, and Crazee Treats lemonade. All the options from these trucks are excellent, even if the cost is a little more than the concession stand prices. BBQ options usually cost between $13 and $18, but the serving sizes are extra large. Lemonade and shaved ice treats cost between $6 and $10 and are approximately 20-30 ounces each. Atmosphere 4 Crutcher Scott Field is an excellent location to watch baseball. First base general admission seating is behind the home team dugout, while reserved seats are directly behind home plate. Both these sections are completely shaded and are set to feel the prevalent south breeze, which is greatly appreciated during summer games in Texas. The Flying Bison offer a baseball experience that emphasizes family entertainment and elaborate game presentation, similar to many affiliated minor league ballparks. Nearly every break between innings includes either upbeat music or entertaining contests led by two engaging emcees. Fan engagement begins with an entertaining animated pregame video on the large scoreboard, continues once the game begins with the introduction of the mascot Bomber (or Grounder on Throwback Thursday when the Flying Bison play as the Abilene Prairie Dogs), and proceeds throughout the game with competitive games such as the concession stand race and a dance contest, the 7th inning stretch with Take Me Out to the Ballgame and Cotton-Eyed Joe, as well as Sweet Caroline in the 8th inning. During each break in action, the involvement of the crowd is very much the focus. The fans of the Flying Bison have created their own personality and traditions: come ready to join in yelling “Foul ball!” or “Ball four!” multiple times per inning, or to high-five Bomber, one of the most engaging mascots you’ll find in any sports venue in the country. Flying Bison fans are also fortunate to have a live organ, something few other summer college teams offer. As mentioned above, there is a pregame video on the large scoreboard in right field. This is a must-watch event that is animated and highly engaging; the video involves the mascot Bomber. Other than the pregame video, the team is missing some opportunities to utilize the scoreboard to its full potential; however, many fans expect certain elements to be included when teams have access to video scoreboards. While there are player names and basic information and the periodic pre-recorded video, there are no live statistics updated during the game, no live league scores, nor are there any Jumbotron games such as Simba Cam, Dance Cam, or Guess the Cup. The Flying Bison offer numerous free giveaways for fans, creating a culture where fans lining up before gates open is the norm, oftentimes resulting in hundreds of people waiting for their chance to enter. Luckily for fans, seats are in the shade, and there are usually community groups with tables set up with games and extra giveaways to peruse before game time. One consistent group, which is unique among summer collegiate teams, is the Abilene Flying Bison Booster Club. The Booster Club offers some unique items to sell as well as a 50/50 raffle, where the winning ticket gets half the money in the pot for the night. The club retains the rest, with donations going to support players and their needs. You may want to try your luck while supporting the players. There is also a team store set up on the concourse level selling a wide variety of merchandise and souvenirs. Every game offers a unique t-shirt of the game, which is deeply discounted just for that particular game. The store also offers more caps, shirts, and other items than most teams playing at the collegiate summer level. As an avid cap collector, the author had difficulty deciding on which caps to purchase. You’ll want to make your final selections before the 7th inning, however, as the store closes down before the 8th inning each night. Neighborhood 4 Abilene Christian University is located along Judge Ely Boulevard on the northeast side of Abilene, only a few minutes from Interstate 20. Numerous restaurants, hotels, and shopping areas are located nearby. Popular dining options include Jay’s Bar-B-Que, Twisted Root Burgers, Beehive Restaurant, Blue Agave Mexican Cafe, and Galveston Seafood Company. Visitors looking for a classic Abilene experience should consider stopping at the iconic Frontier Texas Museum, visiting the Abilene Zoo, or taking in the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, Grace Museum, or Heritage Square before a game. All these are fun for children and families alike. Hotel accommodations are plentiful near Interstate 20 and throughout north Abilene, including Hampton Inn, Home2 Suites, Holiday Inn Express, and Courtyard by Marriott. However, due to construction in the area, short-term rooms can be difficult to find at reasonable rates. Expect to pay higher than normal prices for lodging when visiting the Big Country until at least 2028. Fans 4 The Flying Faithful are a loyal following of fans of all ages. Young baseball fans, retired couples, and families with children make up the consistent crowd that attends Bison games. Attendance varies depending on many factors, but the crowd is usually engaged and active. They support their team and attempt to lead them to victory every night. Armed with cowbells (an early-season giveaway) and whistle cups, fans are typically loud. They generally root for the Bison but will give the umpires an earful of disdain if they disagree with a call. The author suggests bringing a pair of earplugs if you are sensitive to loud noise. Access 5 Located on the corner of Judge Ely Boulevard and Ambler Avenue, getting to The Crutch is simple. Interstate 20 provides easy access within minutes of campus, and ample free parking is available adjacent to the baseball stadium. Abilene Regional Airport sits approximately fifteen minutes away for visitors arriving by air, while those driving from Dallas-Fort Worth can reach the stadium in about three hours. The baseball field is easily visible and well marked, sitting on the corner of ACU’s campus. Entrance to the stadium is through one main gate on ground level. Seats can be accessed by going either left or right around the concession stand, with a long wheelchair-accessible ramp leading to the third base bleacher stands, as well as a stairway leading up to the concourse above the first base seating area. There is also an elevator available for mobility-limited fans to utilize to access the concourse. Restroom facilities are conveniently located near the main seating areas on both the ground and concourse levels. Exiting the parking lot is possible going either north or south, though most fans exit toward the north (Ambler Avenue). My suggestion, especially if time is an issue, is to take the southern option that eventually will exit onto Judge Ely Boulevard. Return on Investment 4 The Flying Bison provide excellent value for the money spent. Tickets are relatively inexpensive, with general admission costing $11 and reserved tickets $15. Parking is free, and concession prices remain affordable for most families, meaning a night at the ballpark is comparable to a night at the movies. When you figure in the amount of crowd engagement as well as the intimate interaction with Bomber, you don’t necessarily have to be a baseball fan to have fun at Crutcher Scott Field. Considering the quality of collegiate talent on the field, the intimate setting, and the overall affordability of the experience, few baseball venues offer comparable value. Extras 5 The vast amount of merchandise available for sale at the team store, especially the number of caps, is worth special recognition. Add in the “shirt of the game” deal for every game, and the team begins each night with a home run before a single pitch has been thrown on the field. The intimate ballpark also allows easy interaction between players and fans, particularly following games when many players remain available for autographs and conversation. Comfortable, theater seating in the shade is a welcome benefit. As temperatures soar in Texas summers, the ability to find relief from the sun’s wrath is a positive. Crowd engagement through entertaining between-inning games and activities is well worth extra recognition. Both emcees and their support team do an excellent job of entertaining fans. Bomber is also worth an extra point by himself, as he is one of the best mascots you will likely encounter. There are also two additional occasional mascots: Beao, Bomber’s sister who makes an appearance on most Sundays, and Grounder, who is present on Prairie Dog Thursdays. Final Thoughts Crutcher Scott Field at Bullock Brothers Park is an excellent place to spend a summer evening watching talented players continue their development, while enjoying one of baseball's most relaxed settings. For baseball fans traveling through Texas, a Flying Bison game is a worthwhile stop that delivers an authentic and enjoyable experience. Making the trip west of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex on Interstate 20 to include Abilene and the Abilene Flying Bison into any baseball vacation tour should become standard operating procedure for all baseball travelers. Compared to other collegiate summer games, you are sure to find an experience that compares favorably to what other affiliated minor league teams offer.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 TD Ballpark 373 Douglas Ave Dunedin, FL 34698 Toronto Blue Jays Spring Training website TD Ballpark website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 5,509 TD Park Renovations are a Home Run for the Jays The Toronto Blue Jays have held Spring Training in Dunedin, FL since 1977. However, the 2021 preseason marked the first time the team had played in a stadium built to their specifications and desires. The stadium also entered this new era with a new name… TD Ballpark. The stadium now holds 8,500 fans and provides several enhancements to improve the fan experience. Fans who have not been to a Blue Jays preseason game in a while are in for a very pleasant surprise. Food & Beverage 4 The food and beverage programs received a great deal of attention in the relaunch of the stadium. The number of point-of-sale locations and beer/soda service locations both increased. A new concession area was built behind the batter’s eye in deep center field. The boardwalk in the outfield also allowed a Tiki Bar and the WestJet Flight Deck to be added to the food and beverage service locations. Drink rails were added so fans could socialize without worrying about their beverages spilling on their friends. The concessions menu for the most part your standard American (and Canadian) stadium fare. This menu includes jumbo hot dogs ($8.75), pulled pork sandwiches ($10) pizza ($5.75), chicken tenders ($11), nachos ($.7.75), fries ($6.50), peanuts/Crackerjacks ($6), popcorn ($6) candy/chips ($5.50) and pretzels ($6.25). Drinks include sodas ($4.75), bottled water ($4.50), craft beers ($13), and Labatt’s ($10). Some of the non-standard food items available at TD Ballpark are poutine ($8.25), peameal sandwiches ($17.50), gator bites ($17.50), and grouper tacos ($17.50). Atmosphere 4 There is a different vibe in the newly remodeled park. Both locals and the Canadians who have traveled down for the games are stunned and pleasantly surprised by all the changes in the park. The process of just getting around the stadium is greatly enhanced by the addition of a boardwalk in the outfield, allowing fans to travel 360 degrees around the playing field for the first time. Fans are also enjoying the new 23’ X 40’ videoboard in center field. The park now offers new opportunities for adults and children. The adults can enjoy a cold beverage while watching the game from a vantage point that did not exist a season ago. The kids enjoy the new play park, with plenty of new games to choose from. The players also seem to enjoy the new facility as well. It offers many new support facilities for the players that are not evident to the fans. They take pride in playing in the new facility. One on-field thing that did not change is the dimensions of the playing field. They are 328’ in left field, 400’ to deep center field, and 327’ in right field… the exact same measurements for the playing surface at Rogers Center. Neighborhood 5 Thankfully one thing that has not changed is the wonderful neighborhood that surrounds the park. Dunedin is still a pleasant town along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. Its tree-lined streets still offer some shade from the heat. The people of Dunedin are still the welcoming bunch that welcomes you to park in their front yard, rather than complaining about the baseball traffic. You can still enjoy a cold brew at one of the eight breweries spread around the town, including the Dunedin Brewery just down the street from the park. It is the same town that offers plenty of places to eat brunch before the game or enjoy a nice dinner after a game. In other words, if it is not broke… don’t fix it. Fans 4 As you would expect, the fans from the Great White North are more than happy to escape the harsh winters and enjoy sunny Florida. Many have winter homes in the Dunedin area. They are a proud bunch, as they are easy to spot in their Blue Jay gear or some manner of the maple leaf on their clothing. They are also easy to pick out as they know the words O Canada when the National Anthem is played before the game. Blue Jay games also draw the locals, many of whom are retired, who long ago adopted the Blue Jays as their own. Another set of fans who help fill the stands is the ballpark chasers. These baseball fanatics are determined to visit every stadium in the Grapefruit League in just one season. Access 4 Accessibility was a critical consideration in the stadium rebuild. The new capacity of the stadium was going to be much higher, so making sure fans could get in and out of the park with no problems was a major concern. Stadium designers also want to make sure the new stadium allowed a smooth flow inside the stadium during a game. The flow in and out of the stadium is now improved, as the number of entrances and exits has increased. Some entrances/exits will be for the use of season ticket holders, while others will be specified for the general audience attending the game. This will reduce the number of people trying to use a specific entrance and exit door. The concession stands were redesigned so that they did not take critical space up in the concourses. The new boardwalk is also being used to spread out the additional fans over a larger footprint in the stadium. Unfortunately, the roads leading to and from the park have not been part of the renovations. Dunedin is still more than 20 miles from any interstate. The streets surrounding the park are more residential than commercial in nature, and the construction of wider roads might be harmful to the values of the homes surrounding the ballpark. Return on Investment 3 Ticket Prices at TD Park remain lower than average in price compared to other Grapefruit League stadiums. Price points for tickets are $29 for upper-level seats in the infield, $21 for seats along the baselines in the outfield, or $16 for SRO/ General Admission for the boardwalk in the outfield. One area that has not changed when you arrive at TD Park is the lack of parking at the stadium. This means that fans will still need to appreciate the goodwill of the businesses and townspeople to use their parking lots and front yards while they are at the game. The going rate for parking in these areas is $5-$10, depending on how close you are to the stadium. Concession prices have gone up in price since last season. These prices are detailed in the Food and Beverage section. Extras 3 During the closure of the U.S.A /Canada border during the pandemic, the Blue Jays spent the first two months of the season playing at TD Ballpark. Chad the Beer Guy is still around to lead fans in Take Me Out to the Ballgame during the 7th Inning Stretch. Day games at TD Ballpark start at 1:07 pm. The two extra minutes in start time are to allow for both the Canadian and U.S. national anthems to be played during pregame ceremonies. Final Thoughts TD Park should earn the Comeback Award for the most improved stadium in the Grapefruit League. It has addressed nearly every deficiency that haunted the many incarnations of the stadium in earlier years.

Photos by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches 5444 Haverhill Road West Palm Beach, FL 33407 Houston Astros Spring Training website The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 7,858 Astros’ Launching Pad The Houston Astros moved into the FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in 2017. They share the stadium and the training complex with the Washington Nationals. The ballpark was built by the city of West Palm Beach to attract a major league team (or two) back for the first time since the Atlanta Braves left for a new stadium in the Disney complex. Both the Nationals and the Astros were looking to relocate as their former training sites were distant from other MLB team’s sites and this was resulting in a great deal of time traveling by bus to away games. Moving to the West Palm Beach area meant the Astros and Nationals could play each other at home, while also playing the Cardinals and the Marlins, who are a short distance away in Jupiter. The site of the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches was a former dump for debris from past hurricanes, and there was a tax incentive for reclaiming this area for the public’s use. The location of the stadium is between I-95 and the Florida Turnpike, making it very easy to reach via these main thoroughfares. The design of the stadium is very similar to many others in Florida in that it must be elevated as digging down into the ground would result in hitting the high water table. The stadium is in the center of the complex, with the Astros and Nationals training facilities surrounding it. The stadium entry is via a set of steps on the west side of the stadium. The exterior of the stadium is virtually hidden, as there is greenery growing all around the stadium. Once you reach the top of the stairs you will be at the concourse level of the stadium. The concourse travels 360 degrees around the field. All of the seating bowls are located below the concourse level, with only the suites and press box on the second level. The Astro's dugout is on the third-base side of the field. The seating capacity consists of 6,200 seats, and room for 1,400 more fans on the outfield grass berms. Food & Beverage 3 For the most part, the concession offerings at The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches are your typical baseball fare. Items include hamburgers w/fries ($11), grilled chicken w/fries ($10), BBQ sandwiches w/fries ($10), and chicken tenders w/fries ($10.50). Other items include ¼ lb. brats ($7.50), hot dogs ($5.50), nachos ($5.50), pretzels ($6), candy ($4.50), and chips ($2.50) Pepsi brand products are sold for $5-$7 depending on the size. Water is $5.00 Beers cost Adult beverages include domestic drafts ($10), premium drafts ($12), canned domestic beers are $9.00 and canned premium beers are $10. Cocktails and wine are both $9.00.The H-Town Grille is designed to bring a bit of Texas flavor to the park. It sells 2 tacos for $8 and a Super Nacho for $12. It also carries Shiner Bock beer, a Texas favorite for $7.50. Two other stands in the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches sell more specialized fare. The West Palm Pizza Grille sells a variety of pizzas by the slice for $6.50. If you are feeling chill, head over to the Beaches Ice Cream stand. They offer an ice cream helmet for $7.50, soft serve in either a waffle cone or a cup for $6 and root beer floats are $7. Atmosphere 3 It has taken a while for Astro fans to adjust from their former home in Kissimmee. They were the only team playing at that stadium. Sharing the stadium with another club has taken a while for both the players and the fans to feel at home in their new surroundings. The stadium does not do much branding of either team in the stadium, apart from the two team’s logos in a sculpture form outside of the stadium. In 2021 the stadium is catching on with both the locals and the Astro fans, as they are reporting more sellout games this season. Neighborhood 3 The area around the stadium itself is surrounded by the two teams’ practice fields and training facilities. The complex is so large that shuttle vans take you back to the distant parking lots. Once you exit onto Haverhill Road you will need a car as there are no hotels or nice restaurants within walking distance of the park. Most of the hotels are located along the I-95 corridor and the only restaurants nearby are of the fast-food variety. Since you will have a car, it is well worth your time to head across the causeway from West Palm Beach to Palm Beach. Once in Palm Beach, you will feel like you are in an episode of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.” First check out the boutiques along Worth Avenue, Palm Beach’s shopping district, then visit the Flagler Museum next to The Breakers to learn about this enclave. Before you leave take a short driving tour of homes owned by the Kennedys, the Pulitzers, and many other celebrities. Fans 3 Astros fans are gradually adjusting to the move from their longtime home in Kissimmee. Their numbers are increasing and many locals from the Palm Beaches area have adopted the team. The team has created a great rivalry with their training complex neighbors, the Nationals, as both teams have won a World Series in recent years. The teams play each other frequently, as the MLB is trying to keep travel to a minimum due to COVID protocols. Fans from both teams can stock up on team memorabilia at the Team Store located by the main gate. Access 3 Getting to a game at the ballpark is going to require a car. Parking is available as you enter the complex from Haverhill and costs $10 (credit cards only). Make sure you take one of the free trams that will drop you off at the park. Once at the stadium, you will have a series of steps to navigate up to the concourse level. All fans must enter through the West Gate, and during the security check, this area can become quite congested. Once inside, the stadium is very well laid out. The stadium has wide concourses, and great signage and it will be easy to locate your seat. BTW, the seats are a generous 20 inches wide, making it much more comfortable for you as you enjoy the game. Return on Investment 3 The FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches uses a variable pricing system depending on the popularity of the visiting teams. Prices for the different sections can be compared with the slide with the stadium schematic. Field Box seats ($37-$56), Dugout Boxes ($31-$47), Infield seats ($28-$42), Outfield Reserve ($23-$32), and the Banana Boat Berm ($15-$25). Pre-purchasing your ticket before game day brings the price down by $5. Parking is $10 and payment must be made by credit card. Extras 4 The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches has canopies atop the stadium to provide as much shade and sun protection as possible. Parts of the concourse allow fans to see directly down into the bullpens. Beach chairs atop the berm are available on a first-come/first-serve basis and provide a great view of the field while providing you with a wonderfully comfortable chair. A craft beer corner is in the left-field corner of the concourse. It has more than 32 tap handles to choose from. Final Thoughts The FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches is a very functional facility, but it lacks the bells and whistles found in other spring training facilities. There was no drinking rail along the concourse and the video board never showed replays during the game… features that are found in nearly every ballpark. We found the concessions to be reasonable, and our view of the field was excellent. The lack of branding for the two resident teams was disappointing.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 CHO Airport Field 1400 Melbourne Road Charlottesville, VA 22901 Charlottesville Tom Sox website Year Opened: 2015 Capacity: 3.256 Tom’s Sox in Charlottesville The Valley Baseball League is a collegiate summer baseball league with 12 teams up and down Virginia’s scenic Shenandoah Valley. The league is one of the oldest in the country and dates back to at least 1923. Baseball had been played in the Valley for decades before then, but at that point in history it is fuzzy what constitutes a distinct league and several different dates of founding are claimed by different sources. One Valley League team is the Charlottesville Tom Sox, who play at CHO Airport Field, located on the campus of Charlottesville High School. The Tom Sox began playing here in 2015, and financed some improvements to the field, in exchange for being allowed to use it over the summer when high school is not in session. The “Tom” in the team name is taken from Thomas Jefferson, who lived in the Charlottesville area and built the University of Virginia, which is located here. Despite playing in the Valley League, Charlottesville is not actually in the Shenandoah Valley, as it is on the other side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Food & Beverage 3 There is one concession stand located behind home plate, which sells a basic menu. Hot dogs are $2.50, which is a good deal, but burgers will cost $5.50 for a single or $8 for a double, plus an additional dollar for bacon, which is a bit pricey for this level. Nachos cost $3.50, as do fries, which is not super expensive, but you would not expect a basket of fries to cost more than a hot dog. Even the Gatorade and soda, at $3 and $3.50 respectively, cost more than the hot dog. Peanuts are $2.50, water is $1.50, and candy is $1.75. Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is also available, for $6 for a two scoop cup. Sprinkles in Tom Sox colors can be added to ice cream for free. Both credit cards and cash are accepted. Atmosphere 4 CHO Airport Field has a pretty basic layout, with a few sets of bleachers located behind home plate and to either side. A scoreboard in left-centerfield shows the linescore, count, and runs, but no other information, not even the hits and errors for each team. Despite this, the team manages to put on a good show here at Tom Sox games. There are plenty of between-innings contests where kids get to go onto the field, including the shoe race, where kids have to race to retrieve their own shoes, put them on, and run back. In addition to the bleachers, there are plenty of grassy areas surrounding the field where fans like to set up chairs and watch the game. Pretty much the entire third baseline beyond the bleachers is open grass, and there is plenty of space to watch from the top of a hill beyond the outfield fence as well. Some fans even set up chairs in the giant grass patch in the middle of the traffic circle in the parking lot and watch from there. There is less space available on the first base side, which abuts some train tracks, but fans sitting down the third-base line can watch freight and Amtrak trains pass throughout the game through a gap in the trees. The Tom Sox have a mascot, a prairie dog named Prairiewether Lewis, who can be seen roaming the stands and interacting with fans throughout the game. Prairiewether Lewis, Photo by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 4 Charlottesville is a beautiful college town known mostly for the University of Virginia. Once you head into town, you will find many options to choose from. Boylan Heights is a popular bar just off the UVA campus and serves up good food as well. It is just one of many places to eat, drink, or have fun along University Avenue ranging from bagel bakeries to bars to sushi restaurants. History buffs may also want to check out Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. Keep in mind that many of the places near the University may offer limited hours during the summer when the Tom Sox play, as the UVA students are not on campus. Fans 5 The Tom Sox draw large crowds to every game, consistently finishing towards the top of the Valley League in attendance. Fans pack all three sets of bleachers in addition to lining the other areas surrounding the field in their own chairs. The fan base here skews younger than at most other Valley League venues, with small children showing up in droves with their parents to cheer on the Tom Sox. Fans are passionate, loud, and proud of their team. Although the Valley League in general is known for its loyal fans, the fan base here is larger than what you'd see at most other places. Access 4 CHO Airport Field and Charlottesville High School are located right off US 250 and are easily accessible via US 29 from the north and south. There are clear signs from 250 directing you to Charlottesville High School, and once you get there the stadium will be clearly visible. There is plenty of parking available for free in the lot near the stadium, and further down on the other side of the high school if that lot fills up. Keep in mind the spaces closest to the field are within foul ball territory, so park at your own risk if you choose to park there. Return on Investment 5 Admission to Tom Sox games is $5 for one individual or $10 for a carload, no matter how many people are in your vehicle. Concessions range from decently priced to very affordable depending on what you are getting. As such, a Tom Sox game is a great deal regardless, and can be an even better deal if going in a large group and all traveling in one car. Plan accordingly. Extras 3 There is a merchandise tent down the third baseline where fans can buy Tom Sox t-shirts and caps. Free roster sheets are also available. A third and final star for all the unique vantage points where fans can watch the game from. Final Thoughts The Valley Baseball League is a hidden gem for summer baseball in Virginia. Although fans in the Valley are certainly in on it, many fans from other parts of the state have never heard of the league and are missing out. While a college town like Charlottesville is not the most attractive destination in the summer, except for people checking out nearby Monticello, for those who find themselves in town, a Tom Sox game can be a great way to spend a beautiful summer evening taking in a baseball game.

Photos by James Hilchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 NelsonCorp Field 537 Ballpark Drive Clinton, IA 52732 Clinton LumberKings website NelsonCorp Field website Year Opened: 1937 Capacity: 5,000 An Old-Fashioned Baseball Experience Sitting a mere few hundred feet away from the Mississippi River, FieldCorp Field opened in 1937 as Riverview Stadium and was home to the Clinton Owls, a farm team of the Brooklyn Dodgers. The stadium has been renovated to include new lighting, bigger dugouts, and better locker rooms and batting cages. The home of the Clinton Lumber Kings is the only charter member of the Midwest League from its maiden season of 1956. A quick scan of the list of players who have played in Clinton includes greats such as Denny McClain, Mike Scioscia, Dave Stewart, Orel Hershiser, Jason Bay, and Ian Kinsler. The LumberKings are the last remaining member of the original Midwest League, which began in 1956. For fans of stadiums with an old-time feel, NelsonCorp Field is right up your alley. Additionally, Clinton is a mere 90-minute drive from Dyersville, Iowa, home of the iconic Field of the Dreams movie site. Food & Beverage 3 Much like the ballpark, the concessions offer the basics, with one exception. The featured food item at this ballpark is simply called…the garbage pail. For $8.50, you get a load of mini tacos, chicken strips, fries, onion rings, poppers, cheese balls, corn nuggets, and corn dogs. It’s not the healthiest thing around, but who cares, everyone that was eating them seemed quite happy with their choice. The prices are quite good and for $3-$5 you can have burgers, brats, hot dogs, nachos, grilled cheese, onion rings, cheese balls, ice cream, popcorn, and many other traditional ballpark items. Can and bottles of soda, including RC Cola, Diet Rite, Sun Drop, 7 Up, A&W Root Beer, lemonade, and Snapple along with water are the beverage choices. For the adults, there is a decent choice of beer and malt-type beverages available throughout the concourse and out by left field. Atmosphere 5 Entering the gates gets you to the concourse with concessions, restrooms, and the LumberKings team shop. Walking up the entrance ramps to the seating bowl is like going back in time. The stadium was built in 1937 and not much has been done with its appearance since, which isn’t a bad thing. The seating bowl is very uncomplicated with three rows of stadium box seats that sit in front of the walkway, guaranteeing fans will rarely have their view of the game blocked by someone walking by. Behind the walkway, bleachers encompass the rest of the seating bowl. The bleachers behind home plate have backs to them and are a bit more comfortable than those without. Netting surrounds most of the infield from mid-dugout on the third base side to mid-dugout on the first base side. An overhang covers the entire seating bowl so the likelihood of being in the shade most, if not all of the game is quite good. Over the right field wall is the Leinenkugel’s Lumber Lounge, which hosts groups of 25-200 people. The Coors Light Picnic Pavilion hosts groups of similar size and sits down the left field line along with the Bullpen Patio, which hosts smaller groups and gives the unique experience of sitting directly over the wall from the home bullpen. A kid’s area is also in the left field corner where kids can play on various equipment for $5, good for the entire game. Once the game starts, it’s all about baseball with your typical between-innings promotions. A primitive scoreboard sits over the left-center field wall. You won’t get replays on ancillary stats on the scoreboard, simply the line score and ball and strike count, which only adds to the old-time charm of this stadium. Neighborhood 3 The best part about the location of the ballpark is that you are a couple minutes’ walk from the Mississippi River. A quick walk up 6th Avenue will get you to the Candlelight Inn Restaurant. The Candlelight is a great family restaurant, having a large menu with something for everyone. Chicken George with Jan sauce is the specialty of the house and quite popular. If Mexican food is your thing, just down South 2nd Avenue is the El Toro Restaurant. The locals say El Toro doesn’t serve a bad meal and is well worth a visit. The majority of the hotels are in the same area, about 10 minutes away from the ballpark. It’s a quick and easy drive and there is a wide choice of lodging including a nice Hampton Inn. Fans 3 For those involved in the party areas, many seem more interested in socializing than paying attention to the game. Fans sitting in the seating bowl largely have their focus on the goings on on the field and cheer when the situation dictates. Numerous fans can be seen keeping score of the game, a tradition that seems to be disappearing from baseball stadiums across the country. Fans in Clinton are pleasant to talk with and seem proud of their ballpark. Access 4 The majority of the ballpark is very easy to get around. The concessions are under the seating bowl with another food area down the left field line. The seating bowl is easily maneuverable and you can get to the restrooms and concessions without much difficulty. The left field corner encompasses a kid’s area, concessions, and a party area and can become quite congested on busy nights. The parking areas are close and easy to get in and out of. The concession lines move relatively quickly and are sufficiently staffed. Return on Investment 5 For the price you pay, this might be one of the best experiences in all of minor-league baseball. Parking is free and there are two lots (on the first base and third base sides of the stadium) that make the walk to the stadium minimal. Tickets are $8 for box seats and $7 for general admission. Seniors, students, and the military will pay $6 for GA, and children 5 and under are free. Combine this with very reasonable concession prices and it equals a great time for a minimal amount of money. Extras 4 An extra point simply for having a fun stadium that is 80 years old. The left field wall has a unique semi-circle “inlet” that would allow for some very strange bounces should the ball hit it. Any sports fan will appreciate the cup holders in the restrooms. This should be a requirement everywhere. The LumberKings staff makes the game experience very family-friendly. Families can attend a game without worrying that their kids will hear a lot of things they probably shouldn’t. Final Thoughts FieldCorp Field doesn’t offer the most modern feel in the Midwest League, it offers quite the opposite. It takes fans back in time to when baseball was about taking in the experience of what was happening on the field, rooting for your players and against the opposing team. For a true baseball fan, this is a fabulous venue. Come to the ballpark, turn off the cell phone, and simply enjoy baseball at its purest. If enjoying a ballgame is your goal, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Turtle Creek Stadium 333 Stadium Drive Traverse City, MI 49684 Traverse City Pit Spitters website Turtle Creek Stadium website Year Opened: 2006 Capacity: 4,660 Pit Spitters The Traverse City Pit Spitters are a summer collegiate wooden bat baseball team, a member of the Northwoods League. The unique name gives a nod to a quirky contest held at the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, MI – cherry pit spitting. The team entered the Northwoods League in 2019 and made an immediate impact, capturing the championship that same year and again in 2021. Their home games are held at the visually-striking Turtle Creek Stadium, located in Chums Corner, MI—a suburb of Traverse City. Originally opened in 2006 as Wuerfel Park, the venue was home to the Traverse City Beach Bums of the independent Frontier League. Food & Beverage 4 The Pit Spitters have an above-average selection of food and excellent beer choices. The concession stands sell hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, etc. ($5.50 - $9). Pizza, chicken tenders, and bratwurst run $6 - $10. Plenty of snacks are offered including fries, corn dogs, nachos, candy, pretzels, peanuts, cookies, and even yummy fried pickles on a stickle. Carts include Dippin’ Dots, regular ice cream, pretzels, tacos, elephant ears, and more. Stands grilling burgers and encased meats on the spot are at either end of the concourse, and we recommend getting a meal there as it’s fresher and tastier. Concessions serve Pepsi brand sodas, water, coffee, hot chocolate, and Gatorade. The concourse boasts several portable beer stands and three bar areas. The Traverse City Whiskey Co sells a solid variety of cocktails and draft brews (craft beers are $10.50/pint). The Shorts Brewing Company, on the third base concourse, offers an excellent selection of beers. You can purchase a variety of fruit-flavored vodka drinks, slushies, and cocktails at Gypsy Spirits. Turtle Creek Stadium - Traverse City Whiskey Co., Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Atmosphere 4 Turtle Creek Stadium boasts a distinctive yet inviting architectural style, reminiscent of beachside cottages. The inner concourse’s ceiling is adorned with string lighting creating a coastal boardwalk ambiance, while tables paired with beach chairs and umbrellas line the upper seating area. Sea-blue and white premium suites and offices - some with balconies - grace the second level. Below the concourse, the main seating structure features comfortably wide (21”) blue fold-down stadium chairs with plenty of leg room. Traverse City Pit Spitters National Anthem, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey It’s all quite pleasing to the eye. The noise, however, is another story. The music operator plays at a volume that makes normal conversation difficult. Short sound clips are triggered after every single pitch, making it hard to focus on the game and diminishing the overall enjoyment. Even noise-canceling headsets struggle to block out the constant barrage of sound. Fans can walk the entire concourse and can watch net-free baseball in sections beyond both the first and third bases. The far end of the first baseline houses a kids play area with bounce houses. Fans participate in the traditional between-inning contests with a very excited emcee, and other fun activities like a beer batter are often played. The team celebrates numerous promotional nights throughout the season, such as Star Wars Night, Pickle Night, Christmas in July, Super Heroes Night, and many more. The merchandise shop sells a good choice of shirts, mementos, and trinkets. The shop representative told me that sweatshirts are the best-selling item. Check the weather before attending an evening game, as that extra layer may be needed. Neighborhood 3 While Traverse City is a charming, vacation-destination lakeshore community and town, the ballpark was built seven miles south of town in Chums Corner, MI, with little to nothing surrounding the stadium for pre or post-game activities, except fast food places. That said, the Traverse City area is an absolutely, fantastic summer vacation destination. There is an assortment of food restaurants, from Blue Tractor BBQ, The Flying Noodle (Italian Pasta House), The Red Spire Brunch House, Sleder’s Family Tavern, and so much more. Traverse City has a host of spots for beer, wine, or spirits. Right Brain Brewery (plenty of pinball machines), North Peak Brewing Co, 7 Monks Taproom (Gastropub), and Traverse City Whiskey Co, are just some samples. Wineries abound just five miles north on the peninsula off Traverse City (Old Mission Peninsula), for tastings and water views. Visitors can also enjoy a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the bay (Clinch Park), kayak, rent a boat, ride a bike, or take a stroll along the scenic waterways. Kids might enjoy the Great Lakes Children’s Museum or Pirates Cove Adventure Park (amusement park). When in the area, be sure to visit the World’s Largest Cherry Pie Pan and Moomers (ice cream farm). The most exciting time to visit is early July when the National Cherry Festival is celebrated in Traverse City. A few hotels (Baymont by Wyndham Traverse City, Courtyard Traverse City, Spark by Hilton) are between the ballpark and downtown, and an Econo Lodge is a mile south of the stadium. While all this is marvelous, most of the activities are more than five miles from the ballpark. Fans 3 The Pit Spitters draw many families, vacationers, and those wanting a social night out. The fans cheer standout plays and player and team-branded apparel is common amount the fanbase. With an average attendance nearing 2,500 per game, the team consistently ranks among the top two or three in Northwoods League fan turnout. Access 3 While Traverse City has bus service, it does not go to the stadium. Fans can get within 1.3 miles with multiple transfers, but reaching the venue still requires a lengthy walk. Evening service also ends before the final pitch, making personal vehicles the most reliable option. Paved parking is available for $6. Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) is located approximately 7 to 8 miles northeast of the stadium, making it a convenient arrival point for out-of-town visitors. The stadium’s exterior has a few benches in front of the entrance. Security checks bags. Clear bags do not appear to be mandatory. One notable drawback for visitors unsteady on their feet is the absence of handrails along the seating area steps, which can make navigation challenging. Return on Investment 4 Attending a Pit Spitters game is an affordable afternoon/evening out. Take advantage of some of the team’s weekly promotions, many offering some kind of discount. Sunday: First 250 kids 12 and under eat free and family day Monday: Deal Days (a new offer every Monday) Tuesday: Bring your pup and half off craft brews Wednesday: Half price box tickets to veterans, first responders, health care workers, teachers, and snowplow drivers Thursday: $2 hot dogs and Pepsi, $3 beers, and $1 Great Lakes chips Friday: Fireworks Saturday: Half price box seats for Silver Sluggers (fans over age 50) Single game day tickets cost $16/box, $10/lawn. The patio tables run $120 (up to four fans), and hospitality areas offer deals for large groups. Parking is $6. Extras 2 Be sure to pick up a roster at guest services and note the starting lineups posted on the wall nearby. The stadium’s design is refreshingly unique, offering a pleasant backdrop adding charm to the facility. Final Thoughts Traverse City is a fantastic vacation destination, offering scenic charm and a vibrant downtown energy. Removed from the city’s downtown, Turtle Creek Stadium features a visually striking architectural style and offers a steady lineup of game-day promotions. While the venue delivers a pleasant experience overall, dialing down the music volume and reducing the between-pitch noise would make it even more enjoyable for fans.

Photos by Bart Wilhelm and Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 ISG Field 601 Reed St Mankato, MN 56001 Mankato MoonDogs website ISG Field website Year Opened: 1961 (renovated 2018) Capacity: 1,500 Everyone’s Gone to the MoonDogs Playing their home games in the city of Mankato in south-central Minnesota, the Mankato MoonDogs are a summer collegiate baseball team in the Northwoods League. The MoonDogs play their home games at ISG Field, which has been home to several different teams since opening in 1961, ranging from minor league to high school to its current summer collegiate tenant. It was originally known as Key City Park, was renamed after local sportswriter Franklin Rogers in 1977, and was renamed again in 2021 thanks to a naming rights deal with local business ISG. In addition to the MoonDogs, it hosts numerous high school games as well as Bethany Lutheran College, a Division III school. Food & Beverage 4 There are several different concession stands at ISG Field. The main one is located right in front of the entrance and offers a wide range of options. Main meals include hot dogs ($3), brats ($4), hamburgers ($6, extra 50 cents for cheese plus another dollar for bacon), veggie burgers ($6), and veggie cheeseburgers ($6.50), and grilled chicken sandwiches for $6. French fries are $3, chicken strips are $5, mini donuts are $5, and local favorite fried cheese curds are $7. Chips are $1.50, while soda, water, Gatorade, and energy drinks are available for between $2.50 and $3.50. There are several additional stands further up the right field line or on the berm in right field which sell snacks, nachos, tacos in a bag, and more. Beer is available at a table behind home plate for those of age. Just be sure to pick up a wristband first to prove you’re 21. Atmosphere 5 Although the players are in college and the league is only active for about two months a year, don’t let that fool you into thinking this isn’t a great stadium. It is divided into several different sections – reserved chairbacks behind home plate, bleachers further up the lines, berm seating in right field, suites beyond the right field fence, and The Dog Pound near third base, which comes with all-you-can-eat food and soft drinks. Every seat offers a great view of the game. There are scoreboards, a large one in right field which shows player stats and occasionally video, and a smaller one in left field which just shows the linescore and other basic information. The MoonDogs put on a great show here. The PA announcer does a great job of engaging the crowd without being too over the top, there are between-innings contests during many breaks in the action, and a 50-50 raffle gives fans the chance to win a cash prize. The Moondogs have a dog mascot named Muttnik who can be seen on the field and roving the stands interacting with fans throughout the game. From the moment you walk into the stadium until the moment you leave, you will find a great atmosphere here in Mankato. Neighborhood 3 Mankato is a typical mid-sized Minnesota city. The Madison East Center shopping mall is a short drive or even a walk away from the stadium and offers many options for visitors to the area. Tav on the Ave is a nearby pub and local favorite as well as a sponsor of the team. There are plenty of other options nearby ranging from Mexican restaurants to taphouses to pizza and gyros. Ultimately what you’ll find here in Mankato is typical of other cities in the area. While it’s not the most exciting place to visit, you certainly won’t be bored here either, and it’s not like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Fans 5 The MoonDogs draw very well to their home games, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. In a stadium that officially seats 1,500, the crowd will often exceed that number and sometimes goes over 2,000. Fans will pack the grandstand, the bleachers, and the berm and cheer on their MoonDogs. You will occasionally get fans from visiting teams as well, particularly if it is a relatively close team like Rochester, but most of the fans are here to cheer on their beloved MoonDogs. If you are a fan of the visiting team, you can expect nothing worse than some good-natured joking, so that is not a problem, fortunately. That being said, in addition to being large in numbers, MoonDogs fans are passionate, knowledgeable, and supportive of their team. You’ll hear them cheering throughout the game if the action on the field merits it. You will find a great crowd here at ISG Field and that’s one of the reasons the MoonDogs have been so successful over the years. Access 2 There are several roads into Mankato depending on where you are coming from, including State Route 60, US Route 14, and US Route 169. Although none of these are expressways, at least not for their whole length, you can usually make good time on them. Once you get to the stadium, parking is available at a lot right outside it, but it fills up quickly, forcing fans to park on the street or the nearby shopping mall if they do not arrive early enough. The outer concourse behind the seating area is more than wide enough, but getting around the inner concourse between the 100 and 200 levels of the grandstand to get to your seat can be cramped and difficult, especially if kids are running around, which there usually are. If you are seated in the front rows of the 200 level, your view will often be blocked by fans walking by. There are restrooms located down the first baseline, and there can occasionally be a bit of a line for them but nothing too outrageous. Getting from one seating area to another can also be complicated to those unfamiliar with the stadium, although it’s well-signed what is where. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at $8 for general admission bleachers seating, while seating in the grandstand is $10 for reserved seats. Dog Pound seating is $30 for adults and $15 for kids and comes with unlimited food and soft drinks plus three beer vouchers for those of age. If you don’t get the all-you-can-eat package, concessions are still somewhat affordable, although some items seem to be priced more affordably than others. All in all, a visit to a MoonDogs game won’t break the bank and is an affordable way to spend a warm summer night taking in a ballgame. Extras 4 There is a team store at a table on the concourse which sells a wide selection of MoonDogs gear. Visitors should check out the banners on the concourse behind home plate with images of each year in MoonDogs history. There are programs for sale for $1 near the entrance. A fourth and final star for all the unique vantage points to watch a game from. Final Thoughts Like many Northwoods League stadiums, ISG Field is old, but it still has its charm. The MoonDogs promote a trip here as a “nine-inning vacation” and it certainly lives up to that billing. While other parts of the country cheer on their local minor league team, a trip to Mankato and ISG Field proves a summer collegiate game can be just as good an experience as a professional one, if not even better. Baseball fans visiting Minnesota in the summer should be sure to check out a MoonDogs game while they are in the area.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 Fitch High School Field 101 Groton Long Point Road Groton, CT 06340 Mystic Schooners website Fitch High School website Year Opened: 1954 Capacity: 1,000 Into The Mystic The Mystic Schooners are one of the two oldest franchises in the New England Collegiate Baseball League. The franchise has played in Willimantic, CT, Pittsfield, MA, and Bristol, MA before settling in southeast Connecticut in 2011. While playing in Mystic, the team has won one NECBL championship, in 2016. The Schooners have played their home games at the baseball field at Fitch High School in neighboring Groton since moving to southeastern Connecticut, with the exception of two seasons. For the 2022 and 2023 seasons, the Schooners played at Dodd Stadium in Norwich, which proved to be unsuccessful due to competition for dates with the Norwich Sea Unicorns of the Futures League and distance from their home fans. The team moved back to Groton for the 2024 season. Ed Harvey graduated from Fitch High School in 1969 and became the school’s baseball coach in 1979. He was the team’s coach for 27 years, winning 440 games. Ed’s son, Matt, was drafted by the Mets and pitched in the Major Leagues for nine seasons. The field was dedicated in Harvey’s honor on May 8, 2025. The original Fitch High School was built in 1928 next to Groton’s Town Hall and was funded by the will of a local merchant, Charles Fitch, with the stipulation that it be named after his son, Robert E. Fitch. By the 1950s enrollment became too large for the facility to handle, so the school district built a new school in its current location. The schools were named Robert E. Fitch Junior and Senior High School. Food & Beverage 2 There is a table set up in deep right field by the entrance to Ed Harvey Field which serves up snacks for visiting Schooner fans. There isn’t much to the menu here, but if you need a drink or a snack while you’re here, you’ll find something to tide you over. There are hot dogs, assorted candy treats, and cold drinks sold at the concession table here. Unfortunately, you won’t find any of the excellent Schooner Beverages sold here (more on them in the extras section). The Schooners also sell team merchandise here. Your basic hats, t-shirts and sweatshirts are available, as well as the new “City Connect” shirsey, which debuted in 2026. This was a big seller at the game Stadium Journey attended. This author may have even picked one up himself. Atmosphere 2 The game day atmosphere at Ed Harvey Field is a pretty bare bones one. This basic ballpark just does not possess the infrastructure to create an intricate experience. Still, the Schooners staff does the best they can with the tools at hand. Music plays between innings over an excellent sound system. The PA announcer keeps things moving with a professional delivery, and the Schooners staff make the rounds of the stands selling 50/50 raffle tickets. There’s a simple scoreboard in right field that displays basic game information. Harvey Field is one of those small-town ballparks where you can feel comfortable talking to your neighbors in the bleachers, even if you just met them, and where you can feel safe even when sporting the opposing colors. There is plenty of room for younger fans to play catch and chase foul balls around the grounds. Delivering a Pitch at Harvey Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 3 There is nothing in the immediate area of Robert E. Fitch High School to attract visiting baseball fans, but given the school’s location just off Route One and Interstate 95, the many summer attractions of Mystic and Groton are within a 15-minute drive of the ball field. Mystic is a popular summer destination which offers a mix of maritime history, scenic waterfronts and family attractions. Among the most popular destinations here are the Mystic Aquarium, the Mystic Seaport Museum and Olde Mistick Village. For more information on attractions, lodging options and dining choices in the area, check out the This Is Mystic website. Groton is known for its Naval Base and submarine making history. Some attractions here are the USS Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum and Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park. Fans looking for the closest options to Ed Harvey Field may want to look up the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa or the Hampton Inn Groton for lodging, or if looking for some local flavor, Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough and Costello’s Clam Shack are located nearby. Fans 2 Mystic draws what we at Stadium Journey like to call “friends and family” crowds to Ed Harvey Field. What we mean by that is it seems that virtually every person in the stands has a personal connection with the players on the field. As a result, the fans are very knowledgeable, supportive, and invested in the success of the home nine. Stadium Journey’s most recent visit to Mystic took place on the Fourth of July with some serious storm clouds on the horizon. Still, there were about 100 fans in attendance. This appears to be a smallish crowd for the Schooners, especially for a Saturday night. With the Schooners’ schedule loaded with games from nearby teams, it’s not unusual to see a good turnout from visiting fans as well. If you’re visiting Mystic from out of town, you’ll be welcomed by the home fans and staff. The bleachers at Harvey Field are a place where you can feel comfortable, have a great conversation with your neighbors, and enjoy the shared experience of some quality, affordable baseball. Driving in a run at Harvey Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Access 3 Robert E. Fitch Senior High School is located in the Poquonnock Bridge neighborhood of the town of Groton. Located close to downtown and the waterfront, this residential area enjoys easy access to I-95, the major highway through the south coast of Connecticut. Route One, the major business thoroughfare in the area that runs the entire south coast of the state, runs directly to the north of the Junior/Senior high school complex. The ball field is located behind the high school. Ample parking is located just beyond the centerfield fence, as well as a little farther from the field adjacent to the school’s other athletic facilities. Seating consists of a large set of metal bleachers that runs along the third base side of the field. Many fans will set up their own chairs atop the hill beyond centerfield and take in the action from there. Despite the fact that there is no fan access to the first base or right field areas of the field, there is plenty of room for fans to roam and take in the action from different spots. There are no permanent restroom facilities at Harvey Field. There are a few port-a-johns set up for fans to use. Lines are not an issue here, or at the concession stand. Return on Investment 5 There is no charge for admission to a Schooners game. Parking is also free of charge in the lot located beyond centerfield. If you plan to stay in your car, be aware that your headlights may distract the players, and you may be admonished over the PA to turn off your lights. Even worse, you may find yourself the subject of angry stares from every person and player at the game. Very embarrassing… Concessions are inexpensive, making a trip to see the Schooners play a very inexpensive entertainment option for southeastern Connecticut sports fans. Schooners Players and Interns Sell 50/50 Tickets at Harvey Field. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 The Schooners have their own beverage company, Schooners Beverages, proceeds from which go to funding operations of the team. Unfortunately, the beverages were not available at the game attended by Stadium Journey, but they have been in the past. Check out the Schooners Beverages website for more information. Final Thoughts Ed Harvey Field is one of those small-town ball fields that make Stadium Journeys so worthwhile. Placing a team in the summer tourist destination of Mystic was a masterstroke by the NECBL. It’s unfortunate that there isn’t a better facility closer to the town’s many attractions for the Schooners. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Muncy Bank Ballpark at Bowman Field 1700 W 4th St Williamsport, PA 17701 Williamsport Crosscutters website Muncy Bank Ballpark website Year Opened: 1926 Capacity: 2,366 Cutting it in Williamsport Historic Bowman Field, home to the Williamsport Crosscutters, opened in 1926 and is one of the oldest stadiums in baseball. Prior to the Williamsport Crosscutters losing their affiliated minor league status in 2020, it was the second oldest stadium in minor league baseball, and still claims to be, although of course that depends on how you define "minor league". Baseball has a rich history here at Bowman Field, with numerous teams calling it home over the years in the Eastern League and New York-Penn League. Beginning in 2021, the Crosscutters joined the MLB Draft League along with five other contracted minor league teams. The Draft League consists of draft eligible prospects looking to improve their stock. The most famous incident ever to take place at Bowman Field is the Great Potato Caper. In 1987, backup catcher Dave Bresnahan of the Williamsport Bills attempted to trick a Reading Phillies player by throwing a peeled and rounded potato over the head of the third baseman to entice the baserunner to run home. Bresnahan then tagged him with the ball that was still in his glove but the umpire was having none of it and ruled the runner safe due to the chicanery. Bresnahan was removed from the game and never played again, but became a hero in Williamsport and has received numerous honors and tributes over the years, many of which can be seen right here at Bowman Field. Beginning in 2017, Major League Baseball has played one regular season game here a year, the Little League Classic. Played every August while the Little League World Series is in town, the game is open exclusively to participating players, their families, and a small number of locals selected by lottery to attend. Food & Beverage 4 Walking into the entrance plaza at Bowman Field will put you directly in front of several concession stands. Unless you have a ticket to a picnic or party area, this is where you will get your food. The stadium has all of the usual offerings, including hot dogs, burgers, pizza, chicken tenders, and fries. More unique offerings include pulled pork and brisket sandwiches and turkey and ham subs. The snack menu is pretty typical as well, with popcorn, cotton candy, chips, Kettle corn, ice cream, and more. beer is available at a separate stand for those of age, and fans have the option of getting it in a souvenir team mug. Prices vary significantly here. A basic hot dog is $3, although fans can get one with chili and onions for $7. A burger ranges from $11-$13 depending on whether fans want cheese or bacon on it, although it is fairly sizeable for a ballpark burger. Ultimately you get what you pay for - the more unique or fancier food will cost more, and that is to be expected. Atmosphere 4 Williamsport does a great job of combining the historic and modern here at Bowman Field. Walking in will put you in an entrance plaza surrounded by food options. You will then walk up a ramp to the inner concourse ring surrounding the stadium, and up or down to your seat. Other than the picnic and party areas, all seats are chairbacks in a grandstand that runs from dugout to dugout. Thanks to recent renovations, all seats are now chairbacks, although they do not fold up. No matter where you sit, you will be up close to the action. All seats are behind a net, and the ones between the inner edge of the dugout and home plate also have netting above, making it impossible to catch a foul ball. The seats above the inner concourse are under an overhang reminiscent of many other old time ballparks. The team often plays sound effects and music over the PA system to keep fans engaged. After key outs or big defensive plays, they will often play a jingle that goes "Oh, down goes another/By the hands of a man called a Crosscutter". Fans seem to enjoy this song. There are also between inning contests and events, enough to keep fans interested but not so many that it becomes a distraction from the game. The most interesting one occurs at the end of the sixth inning. In honor of the Great Potato Caper, three costumed potatoes wearing hats of various colors will enter in right field and race around the warning track to home plate. They will then enter the crowd and mingle with the fans. In addition to the Racing Potatoes, the Crosscutters have a mascot named Boomer who is a blue creature of some sort. He is a fan favorite as well, and will ride his cart out on the field before the game to fire up the crowd in a similar manner to the Phillie Phanatic. Neighborhood 3 Bowman Field is located in a residential area and not much is located in the immediate vicinity other than some houses. Downtown Williamsport is a few miles away and offers the standard options you'd expect from a small town in Central Pennsylvania. New Trail Brewing Company is popular locally, and there are a few other options as well. What brings this score up significantly is what is across the Susquehanna River in South Williamsport - the world home of Little League Baseball. Although the Crosscutters typically go on the road while the Little League World Series is in town to avoid the massive traffic and crowds that accompany it, the World of Little League Museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM daily. It is located in the Little League Complex, adjacent to the fields the World Series is played on. Fans 5 Although Bowman Field only seats a couple thousand fans, Crosscutters fill it to near capacity. They are knowledgeable, loyal, passionate, and boisterous, and the roof over most of the stands helps trap in the sound and make it even louder. Many of them have been coming to Cutters games here for years, but there are also families with small children taking in their first game, in awe of it all. Chants of "Let's Go Cutters" and "Timber" can be heard throughout the game, as can thunderous applause after big plays. Many fans come decked out in Crosscutters gear, but this being the home of Little League Baseball, it is not uncommon to see fans in gear from the Little League World Series as well. Access 3 Bowman Field is located just off US Route 15, the main north-south road through Williamsport. Fans coming from the east or west can also take US Route 220 and connect to other roads as needed. Parking is available in a lot next to the stadium, with overflow parking nearby as well. The closest spaces cost $3 to park in (cash only) while all other spaces are free. There is a clear bag policy in effect at the stadium, which is disappointing to see at this level and does bring the score down a bit. Once inside, there is ample room to move around. The ramps down from the seating bowl can get a bit cramped as everyone leaves at once, but they clear out quickly. Restrooms are available on the entrance plaza and are of a sufficient size for the crowd. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start at just $8 and go up to $10 as you get closer to the field. However, any of these seats will offer a great view of the action. Group seating in the party and picnic area is more expensive than that but includes all you can eat food, so if you are bringing a large group, this is still a good deal. Members of the Senior Loggers Club (open to fans 60 and up) get free tickets and a hot dog at every Sunday home game. Joining this club is $35 and can offer added value if you are going to multiple games. Parking is free if you are willing to walk a bit, and affordable even if you want to park close by. Concessions will vary in price depending on what you buy, but you will get what you pay for. All in all, this makes a Crosscutters game in Williamsport a great value for all baseball fans. Extras 4 Look for the historical marker outside the stadium explaining the history of baseball here. The Potato Race is worthy of another extra star as a unique between inning tradition. Be sure to check out the Bowman Field Hall of Fame on the ramp to the stands on the first base side. This honors baseball legends who have played here or otherwise been involved in Williamsport baseball and their contributions to the history of Bowman Field. One notable inductee is Dave Bresnahan, the mastermind of the Great Potato Caper, who was inducted in 2012 for this "achievement". Finally, be sure to check out the team store by the entrance, which sells Crosscutters gear, as well as gear from the team's alternate identity, the Potato Capers, which they rebrand as every Friday home game. Final Thoughts Baseball has been played at Bowman Field for almost 100 years and you can feel a part of the history when stepping in here. However, this very much feels like a modern ballpark as well, not an old decrepit one that is falling apart. By combining history with everything you'd expect of a ballpark in the modern age, the Williamsport Crosscutters have made Historic Bowman Field one of the best places in the country to watch a game.

Photos by Steven Kee, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Trenton Thunder Ballpark One Thunder Rd Trenton, NJ 08611 Trenton Thunder website Trenton Thunder Ballpark website Year Opened: 1994 Capacity: 6,440 Thunderous Applause In Trenton The Trenton Thunder of the MLB Draft League continue their fan-focused event in Central Jersey at the Trenton Thunder Ballpark (don’t be fooled by the name on the outside, ARM & HAMMER Park—that’s not its name.) With many entertaining mascots, a Philly-Jersey fusion of food, and themed activities for the fans, you can truly feel at home at the ballpark on the Delaware River. Just a home run hit ball across the River away from Pennsylvania. Trenton’s famous slogan, “Trenton Makes and the World Takes,” continues in entertainment. The Thunder have proven and been recognized for over three decades for fan and family-style entertainment. They are expanding their reach while continuing with traditions. The stadium opened as Mercer County Waterfront Park in 1994. The Thunder became a Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers in the Eastern League. The Thunder then became affiliated with the Boston Red Sox the following season, before switching to the New York Yankees in 2003. When the Yanks switched their affiliation to nearby Somerset Patriots, the Thunder became inaugural members of the MLB Draft League in 2021. Food & Beverage 4 This ballpark offers a sampling of foods infused not just with Jersey staples but with Philly ones as well. Whether it’s a traditional hoagie (a sub to many), Case’s Classic Pork Roll (Taylor Ham to some), a Philly cheesesteak or funnel cake — there are many regional delights to be had. Some of the team's alternate team names, like “Pork Rolls” & "Tomato Pies” for themed nights, focus on these regional classics. At Horizon Healthy Play on the third base side, you can get all your dietary needs met, whether it be gluten-free, nut-free, vegan, vegetarian, or if you’re simply looking for your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. Then you can wash it down with a sugar-free, no-additive wine located to the right of the Thunder Company Store. Looking for meat and dairy? Look no further; head to Case’s Pork Roll Paradise on the first base side. Let your inner foodie out with Case’s “Oink, Cluck, & Moo” better known as a classic pork roll, egg, and cheese. Not into a sandwich, then maybe try their “Barnyard Bowl,” a delicious blend of macaroni and cheese, scrumptious pork roll, and crispy bacon- yum! Not enough meat for you? Then head on over to the third base side by the picnic table area and enjoy one of these three platters: brisket, ribs, or BBQ chicken, each served with mac & cheese and cornbread at Boomer’s BBQ. If you’re looking for an adult evening out, rest assured that the Thunder have you covered with adult beverages. With Breweries represented like Racoon Salon and Brew Haus. In the middle of all your food and drink options, you will find water filtration combination fill stations and water fountains. No more overpriced bottles of water; just remember to bring empty plastic sports bottles — which are permitted. Atmosphere 4 On this particular evening, it was a cross between a family barbecue and an evening out with friends that made the stadium hum with fun. A playful experience of joyous strangers acting as if they were at a family cookout. Baseball on the field and fun everywhere else. Baseball conversations, laughing, playful joking, and children tossing balls & respectfully playing all huddled about throughout the stadium. It was one big party where everyone was approachable and friendly, but rest assured, there was always at least one eye on the game. There is not a bad seat in the house. The seating bowl is divided by an inner concourse. The action can be seen from the open upper concourse as well. There is also seating and views to be had in the picnic area where there are metal picnic table-style seats—some with umbrellas and some without. The press box area does block views behind home base from the upper concourse. Neighborhood 2 Unfortunately, there isn’t really a neighborhood. The stadium is nestled between a small highway and the historic Delaware River. You’ll see this as you ride along the River, go through the “Historic Trenton” mini-tunnel, and WHAM, the stadium jumps out at you, so be prepared to stop. The stadium backs up to the historical Delaware River and is within Mercer County Waterfront Park. The New Jersey State Museum & Planetarium are just a short car ride away. A fun mix of history, science, and art. Some evenings at the Planetarium offer rock-infused laser light shows as well. Trenton is tricky; one street has a beautiful historic feel, and around the corner could be another world. However, it is the Capital of New Jersey and a drive around to see the New Jersey State House (the nation's second oldest state capitol building), the War Memorial, the Old Barracks Museum (site of the Battle of Trenton on Dec. 26, 1776), and buildings is worth a view…from the car. It isn’t recommended to walk too much in Trenton itself; the capital buildings are recommended to be visited during daylight hours before 3 PM Monday-Friday. Fans 4 It’s a mix of all — the diehard fans, the fans from 1994, motorcycle enthusiasts, first responders, teachers, young adults, date night couples and families with children of all ages. Thunderous applause, pleasantries, and all-around good manners are what the Thunder fans are all about. Whether you are in line, at the picnic tables, or walking the concourse, the fans and staff couldn’t be more pleasant and hospitable. Thunder fans love their mascots and traditions, one of which is their beloved legacy of dogs trained to be the “batdog” for the first inning. Fans know these pups have been so well trained that you may miss them if your eyes aren’t fixed on the field. The fans are into the fanfare, as well as the play on the field. Fan participation is encouraged through timed speed activities between breaks in gameplay. Through racing Boomer, one of the handful of mascots, to opponents competing in who can place as many items in a waste receptacle on the field as possible. The fan participation activities do not interrupt or distract from the game at hand. Fans follow the plays and know their team, which is to be expected. Although there are fans who are just there for a good time with everything this stadium has to offer besides baseball. Fear not, the two do not collide. The Thunder create an excellent atmosphere for both types of fans to thrive. With 50/50 raffles and many types of alcoholic beverages, think of the park as a family-friendly place where there is a little bit of everything for everyone. Access 3 It is not recommended to drive through the city, but instead drive along the Delaware River, preferably from the interstates and state highways/routes like Interstate 95, Routes 1, 195 & 295 to Rt. 129. There is no mass transit, and plan to park your car in one of the lots or the parking garage right next to the stadium. Return on Investment 4 For the price of admission, the amenities, the cheap parking, and what it costs to get there it is a great return on investment. Tickets start at $15 and parking is a bargain at $5 in the two lots next to the stadium. This is an affordable evening out for one, date night, or the whole family. The food is reasonably priced for what you receive. Children are treated very well, with free autographs, programs, and other giveaways. For the adults, the pricing and atmosphere is above a night out at a restaurant or local pub. Everyone can leave the game feeling good about the money that was spent and what they got in return. Extras 3 The Thunder offers a lot of games with attractions and events. With theme nights and specials, you can enjoy yourself without ‘breaking the bank.’ A few examples are free Fireworks at select games, Kids Eat Free Tuesdays, $1 Dog Day Wednesdays, Thirsty Thursdays, and Sangria Sundays. Plus the entertaining characters like Boomer (the Original Thunderbird Mascot), Cloudman (the Hometown Heroes Mascot), Batdogs Derby (the rookie) & Rookie (who is retiring this year), and of course the latest Pork Roll Mascot - Slice! You can read about these and many more with your free program “Thunder RD” as you enter Trenton Thunder Ballpark. Let’s not forget—the honorary P.O.W. seat and placard provided by Rolling Thunder, a motorcycle organization that was also in attendance on this evening. Final Thoughts Having been there for the Thunder’s second game in 1994, I can tell you that the things you loved from back then still stand up. What has changed is only for the betterment of the game and the fan experience.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark 900 Holly Ln Elizabethton, TN 37643 Elizabethton River Riders website Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark website Year Opened: 1974 Capacity: 1,650 Down the Lazy River in Elizabethton The Elizabethton River Riders of the Appalachian League debuted in 2021, replacing the Elizabethton Twins, who captured 12 league championships and 16 division titles since coming to town in 1974. The Riders were part of the new Appy League that would not be affiliated with a major league club but as a summer collegiate league. The home ballpark would also get a new name after signing a naming agreement and being rechristened as Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark. The new name of the 47-year ballpark did not change much of the appearance or atmosphere of the quirky ballpark. The city spent $12,000 on what was known as Riverside Park to renovate the playing field between 1973 and 1974, purchasing portable seats and lockers for the stadium. The E-Twins were the first professional club in town in 23 years. The last ballpark had its grandstand demolished during a storm on Independence Day in 1951. When the local rayon industry, which owned the ballpark, could not make available funds for a new grandstand, the team ceased operations. The E-Twins brought a level of excellence, not having a season below .500 from 1989-2019. Will the River Riders provide continued excellence on the riverside park? It is too soon to see, but based on merchandise sales, fans appeared to have adapted to the new colors of sky blue and yellow. It should be an interesting next few years in E-Town. Food & Beverage 4 There is ample variety of food at the main concession stand, but that is fine since it is served fast and hot to customers throughout the game. Several beer stands first made their appearance during the 2019 season, up until that point, liquor was not allowed at the stadium. Fans can choose from hot dogs, brats, footlongs, burgers, chicken tender baskets, bbq sandwiches, pizza slices, and bbq nachos. There are also sweet items of deep-fried Oreos and funnel cake fries for purchase. The beer choices are also plentiful, with varieties from maco to microbrews available on draft or in 12-ounce cans. Atmosphere 3 Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark is a hodgepodge of pieces to make a ballpark that in 1974 might have been fine but is obsolete. It is a curious formation of a long, steep grandstand down the third baseline that would be better for watching a football game, along with a collection of plastic theater-style seats behind home plate, and an aluminum set of bleachers seating down the third-base side. Fans enter the stadium through the right-field corner of the stadium and encounter a small kid zone play area, the main concession stand, and the official team shop. Club merchandise has been selling well this year, and fans can also scoop up old E-Twins caps and shirts for under $5. Rookie, a fuzzy green guy who has been at the ballpark for a few years, can be found giving out hugs and high-fives. Two wooden structures are hovering in between the home plate seats–one serves as a suite and the other as the press box. The area underneath the two structures is for handicapped seating but also creates ample room for some shade during hot summer games. The outfield wall includes a giant sign that houses all of the championships won by the E-Twins (they also could sneak in the five won by the Elizabethton Red Sox from 1937-1941 to increase it to 17 banners) and the current standings in the Appy League. Players also exit through a door in centerfield near the sign at the end of the game. The ballpark is laid-back Appy League style. The majority of fans take a seat in the third base seating structure that also features carpeted stairways–a unique feature for an outdoor stadium. This is where you will find the best views of the surrounding area of the stadium; you can also chat with the visitor’s dugout that is on field level. A young kid was given a cracked bat by one of the players from the Burlington Sock Puppets. Neighborhood 3 Elizabethton is about 15 minutes west of Johnson City and TVA Credit Union Ballpark, allowing for witnessing a game easily in one day if the schedule permits. The ballpark is surrounded by mountains beyond the right-field wall and the Watauga River is located behind home plate and the third baseline (hence the name River Riders). Locals and visitors enjoy kayaking or tubing down the river during the summer months. The town is home to 14,000 and is rather small, but also the natural wonders of Cherokee National Forest and Blue Hole Falls. There is a bit of history around the area that includes The Carter Mansion, Elizabethon Covered Bridge, and the Sycamore Shoals Historic Park. Restaurant options include The Southern Restaurant, Mayflower Seafood Restaurant, Big Dan’s BBQ, J’s Corner, and Nanny’s Country Cafe. Fans 3 A core group of fans stayed until the end of the game, cheering for the team to a come-from-behind victory in the 9th inning. However, many in the stands were quiet throughout most of the game. The die-hards are behind the backstop in the blue seats. Access 3 There is one entrance in the left-field corner, and most of the concessions, restrooms, and merchandise store is behind the third-base grandstand. The narrow concourse in front of the third-base grandstand allows access to the rest of the stadium. Return on Investment 3 A general admission ticket is $6, a daily reserve is $8, and a military/child is $5. The prices are the way they used to be, affordable, and probably the lowest in the league. There are no parking fees, concessions are in line with other clubs, and team merchandise ranges from shirts for $18 to game day caps for $30. . Extras 2 The ballpark earns a point for the large championship wall in the right-center field. The team store also offers multiple pieces of merchandise in various styles, plus deep discounts on E-Twins shirts and caps. Final Thoughts Many might not like Northeast Community Credit Union Ballpark for its design and aesthetics. I would not argue with the fact that perhaps a renovation is in order in the future. It rates lower on the list of other ballparks in the Appy League, and with new energy throughout the league, could it be left behind? ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunterand his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 The Bank of the James Stadium 3180 Fort Ave. Lynchburg, VA 24501 Hill City Howlers website The Bank of the James Stadium website Year Opened: 1940 Capacity: 4,000 Hill City Howlers - Lynchburg, Virginia The team might have a new name, a new moniker, a new logo and a new identity, but minor league baseball in Lynchburg, Virginia, has roots that go all the way back to 1894. In 1995, the team adopted the name “Lynchburg Hillcats”, which was just changed in 2026 to the "Hill City Howlers." So, who are the Howlers? Their city stadium, corporately named Bank of the James Stadium (more on that later), shares a boundary with the historic Spring Hill Cemetery. Ancient lore suggests that there are abandoned tunnels running between the cemetery and the stadium, and the story has it that when a Babe Ruth home run ball landed on cemetery grounds, it awakened spirits who then became attracted to baseball. The Howlers are the ghosts. It makes for a good story. Approaching The Bank of the James Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Food & Beverage 5 Given the small size of the stadium, and seemingly the older infrastructure of an established ballpark, the colorful display of concessions and the multitude of items available is quite surprising. Pepsi products run $5, bottled water $3.50, Coffee $3 and Arnold Palmer iced tea $6. Beer prices are also pretty reasonable, $7 for domestic and $9 for craft. Hot dogs go for $3.50 the jumbo dogs for $6, Fries $3.50, Popcorn $6/ Hamburgers with chips will run $10 and cheeseburgers with chips $11. There is full bar service available with mixed drinks at $10. In a testament to new technology, Victor’s Grab and Go offers contactless purchase of beverages and snacks. Help yourself, scan and out the door. Atmosphere 3 Being a 1940 built stadium, the best way one could refer to this venue is “classic”. Mostly chair back seats, and the ones on the infield are weather protected thanks to an overhead canopy and a mezzanine level for suites. Mascots entertain, there is not much in the way of contemporary video board technology, and the pure baseball experience is what works here. Welcome to Lynchburg Mural. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Neighborhood 1 “Neighborhood”? Not so much. The immediate area surrounding the stadium is pretty much isolated from everything this region has to offer. Besides parking, there is the aforementioned cemetery next door. The community of Lynchburg has plenty to offer in terms of tourist destinations, starting with a very walkable downtown historic district. Civll War attractions include the Appomatox Court House and the Fort Early battlefield. And of course the huge economic driver and employer in this city is the faith based Liberty University (of Jerry Falwell fame), the sheer size and presence of the sprawling campus leaves an indelible footprint. Fans 2 The Howlers' fan support is amongst the lowest tier in the Carolina League, and for the most part is a sleepy fan experience. We’re guessing that the college basketball and college football experiences at Liberty University are the main sports attractions in these parts. Game Action at The Bank of the James Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Access 4 Driving to “City Stadium” is a piece of cake, much of which takes you through city streets and back roads. There is no public transportation option directly to the stadium. Once on the grounds, parking is ample, and free. The lots are sorted on several levels, meaning bit of a walk and an uphill climb depending on time of arrival. Return on Investment 5 The parking is free. Concessions are all reasonably priced. Ticket prices run from $10 to $17, with a daily four pack bringing that cost down to roughly $8 a ticket. They even offer free admission to kids under 14 on Sundays and seniors 60+ on Tuesdays. This is clearly an entertainment bargain Outfield View at The Bank of the James Stadium. Photo by Andrew Kulyk, Stadium Journey. Extras 1 The “Bank of the James” is the corporate name on the venue. Good luck finding that name on any marquee, signage or anyplace else within the stadium for that matter. The bank pays $50,000 a year for the privilege of having their brand on a stadium which offers little back in return. Final Thoughts The best way to describe a game day here at City Stadium with the Howlers is “ordinary”. Given the way Minor League Baseball has modernized and adapted their ballparks and game day experiences, a visit here for the casual one-time fan is more like a box to check than a memory to last a lifetime.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Virginia Credit Union Stadium 42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Fredericksburg Nationals website Virginia Credit Union Stadium website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 5,000 NATional Pastime After years of playing in the decrepit Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, VA, the Potomac Nationals were set to move 30 miles south to Fredericksburg and become the Fredericksburg Nationals in 2020. Since the 2020 season was canceled due to COVID-19, the move to the new ballpark was delayed by a year. The sparkling new Fredericksburg Nationals Ballpark officially opened for minor league baseball on May 11, 2021, with a 7-5 loss to the Delmarva Shorebirds in front of a crowd of 2,065, since Virginia was still under COVID capacity restrictions. The FredNats began their inaugural season in Fredericksburg with 15 straight losses, and the first win at the new ballpark did not come until a 2-1 win over the Salem Red Sox on May 21, 2021. The ballpark has since been renamed Virginia Credit Union Stadium. The FredNats have only been in Fredericksburg four years, but are already a staple in the community. The team draws well and the ballpark hosts many events throughout the year. Food & Beverage 4 Virginia Credit Union Stadium offers a wide variety of food options. While the food quality at many ballparks seems to have waned in recent years, Fredericksburg is an exception to this. Caroline Street Grill has two locations in the ballpark and serves up traditional ballpark favorites such as Chicken Tenders, Cheeseburger, Hot Dogs, Chili Cheese Nachos, Ballpark Nachos, Jumbo Pretzels, Cracker Jacks, Popcorn, etc. They even offer a plant-based Veggie Burger. Burg’s Bazaar offers taco options including street tacos, Helmet Nachos (in a FredNats Helmet), and a taco bowl. On Tuesdays, the ballpark offers $2 tacos. Other stands scattered around the ballpark include Chick-fil-A and Freddie’s Frozen Custard. There is also a large area in right field that has a liquor bar, popcorn, and Dippin’ Dots. There are two grab-n-go areas through the park, where fans can purchase bottled drinks and snacks self-serve, and use self-checkout to pay. The ballpark serves Pepsi products. There are several local brew options including the team’s own Sluggin’ Gus named for George Washington’s father and the team mascot. Prices tend to be a little high but are on par with what you would expect at most ballparks. Also, we noticed on our visit and also heard from fans that concession lines are extremely long and slow. Therefore, we suggest the grab-n-go areas. Atmosphere 5 Virginia Credit Union Stadium is designed similarly to many minor league ballparks these days, with the concourse above the single-seating bowl. Except for the areas behind home plate, there is a 360-degree concourse all around the ballpark. This is because the club level is directly on the concourse level, not above as in most ballparks. Therefore, to get from the first base to the third base side (or vice-versa), you have to walk completely around the backside of the club. There is no view of the action and it feels like you are completely leaving the ballpark. Other than that, the concourse gives you a great view of the action all around the ballpark. All seats in the ballpark are chairback and run just beyond the dugout on each side. In both the right and left field corners are terrace boxes with tables and bar stools. There are several group areas in the outfield including a scoreboard suite with a manual scoreboard operated by the fans, a field suite next to the home bullpen in left field, and several bullpen party decks adjacent to the visiting bullpen in right field. On the backside of the batter’s eye in center field is a large mural showing the “History of Baseball in Fredericksburg”. There is a large kid’s play area on artificial turf beyond the right-field foul pole. There are two ribbon boards – one above the bullpen in left field and one on the suite level overhang – and one large video board in right field. The playing surface at Virginia Credit Union Stadium is a state-of-the-art synthetic grass from Shaw Sports Turf similar to what is used by the Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers. It is the first minor league ball to use such a surface. This allows the FredNats to host several events such as concerts and youth sports without the extra cost of maintaining a natural grass surface. The team store is just adjacent to the main gate on the first base concourse. Neighborhood 4 Virginia Credit Union Stadium is located just off of I-95 in an area known as Celebrate Virginia. It consists of several stores and restaurants Target, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Cracker Barrell, Chick-fil-A, Carrabba’s, Outback Steakhouse, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, etc. Immediately surrounding the ballpark is a Wegmans Grocery Store, a Hilton Garden Inn, and the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center. The Ballpark is located at the end of Carl D. Silver Parkway, which can create a few traffic issues as there is only one way in and out. While the address is 42 Jackie Robinson Way, this is a new road so it may not show up on your GPS. Instead, point your GPS to the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center. Parking is available here or at the lots surrounding the ballpark for $6. While there are many restaurants and shops within a couple of miles, there is not much within walking distance, except for the Wegmans. Fans 5 In the first three years at their new ballpark, the fans have shown up in full force. One can expect a nearly full crowd for most games, especially on the weekends. Crowds average around 3,000+ during the week and 4,000-5,000 on the weekend. The fans are involved, cheer frequently, and are into the game. Being so close to their parent team in DC, there are many fans in Washington Nationals gear at Virginia Credit Union Stadium. Access 3 With only one way to and from the ballpark, plan a little extra time when going to a game. Interstate 95 is generally a parking lot from Fredericksburg to Washington, D.C., so if you are traveling via I-95, plan accordingly. Gate entry and security are pretty relaxed. Of course, you can save time by purchasing tickets ahead of time. With the size of the crowds, this is not a bad idea anyway to ensure yourself a seat. Once inside the ballpark access is a breeze on the 360-degree concourse, except the hiccup behind the club level. Return on Investment 3 This is one of the few areas where Virginia Credit Union Stadium received low marks. Ticket prices range from $15 to $22 in the seats, and are $10 for standing room only. While this is a new state-of-the-art ballpark, this is a little steep for Low-A ball. Prices like this may wear off as the newness of the ballpark fades, especially if the team stays Low-A. As previously mentioned parking is $6 in the lots surrounding the ballpark. If you are looking to cut costs, be sure to attend on Tuesdays when most tickets are $2 tickets. There are also $2 tacos on Tuesdays. Extras 4 The new ballpark receives several extra points for the following: - 360-degree concourse - Several group areas including the scoreboard suite, bullpen party decks, terrace boxes, etc. - The large kids' play area in right field - Several standing areas along the concourse with food and drink rails Final Thoughts After enduring several years of playing in a “dump” in Woodbridge, the FredNats organization now has a beautiful, brand-new ballpark it can call its own and be proud of. A night out at the new Virginia Credit Union Ballpark will be a great experience for many years to come.

Photos by Brian Helberg , Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Rogers Field at Nat Bailey Stadium 4601 Ontario St Vancouver, BC V5V 3H4 Canada Vancouver Canadians website Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium website Year Opened: 1951 Capacity: 5,132 Baseball Done Right North of the Border at The Nat Referred to locally as The Nat, Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium has been home to baseball fans in Vancouver, British Columbia since 1951. Originally named Capilano Stadium, the historic facility was rebranded following the death of Vancouver icon, Nat Bailey, in 1978. Bailey was a part owner of the former Vancouver Mounties baseball team, and was beloved in British Columbia for founding the White Spot restaurant chain. Scotiabank Field was added to the lengthy name in 2007. The Vancouver Canadians are the Short Season Single-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays. They play in the Northwest League, and the C’s won the league for three consecutive seasons from 2011 to 2013. Vancouver was awarded with the prestigious John H. Johnson’s President’s Trophy in 2013. The award is handed out annually to the top Minor League franchise in baseball. The C’s were busy expanding Nat Bailey Stadium in the offseason prior to the 2015 season. They added nearly 1,000 seats to raise their capacity to 6,013. The Hey Y’all Porch in left field is brand new, as are the seats lining the left field baseline. You will not find a 64 year-old stadium in better shape than The Nat. Food & Beverage 5 Nat Bailey Stadium has a solid collection of food choices, sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The main eating area is located in the concourse behind home plate. Food stands line both sides of the wide walkway. The Canadians do a great job on the classic baseball cuisine. Hot dogs and hamburgers are aplenty, and they are tasty too. The C’s also have a wider array of food available, including sushi and pizza. The ‘Nooner’ burger is perfect for day games, as it is topped with egg, bacon, cheese and the patty. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure you stop by the mini donut stand. It is the last hut on the back wall as you head towards the first baseline on your way back to the grandstand. The tiny treats are topped with cinnamon and brown sugar. They may not be the fanciest donuts you will ever see, but they are undeniably delicious. The donuts are a favorite among Vancouverites, and are doled out generously by the friendly vendors. It’s hard to miss the Hey Y’all Porch in left field, and that’s lucky, because you are going to want to try their famous fried chicken and iced tea. The whole area is a new addition to the stadium, and is a hub of activity for fans looking to mingle during the game. If you are attending the game in a group of 30 or more, the Hard Rock Casino Barbeque Picnic in the Park is the perfect place to take in Canadians baseball. Fans get a seat at a table under an umbrella down the right field line, plus all you can eat barbeque for just $40 a person. The Vancouver area is home to many delectable craft beers, and naturally The Nat offers the best of the best. Named after the famed ski resort, the Whistler Brewing Company highlights the assortment of adult beverages. If the more traditional brews are more to your liking, you can find all the typical beers throughout the ballpark as well. Atmosphere 5 The atmosphere at The Nat is truly special. Fun is the goal, and the C’s have succeeded in this department. It is a beautiful stadium, highlighted by a view of the regal Queen Elizabeth Park. There is a wide range of ages working at the stadium, and everyone is extremely helpful and nice. It is very family friendly at the park. There are special sections designated as alcohol free that might be good for families with small children. There are always kids baseball teams in attendance, and thus the stands are filled with young people. A pair of kids sang the National anthems (and rather well I might add) the most recent night I was there. Also, the club let a few youngsters throw out the ceremonial first pitches. There are a few different kinds of seats. The grandstand area features wooden bleachers. The seats in the lower section behind home plate and the seats down the left field line are both made with a combination of plastic and metal. The C’s have a number of special events in between innings designed to entertain fans of all ages. At the end of the 4th inning is the sushi race. Every game, four sushi mascots race down the right field line, competing for pride and for mini donuts. The grounds crew is famous for their work on the diamond, and for their dance moves. At the end of the 5th inning, the crew trots out onto the field and dances along to a (usually embarrassing) song. The night I was there, the grounds crew left it all on the field dancing along to the New Kids on the Block hit, “Step by Step.” At the end of the 6th, the fans get a little exercise by doing the chicken dance. The Canadians’ DJ puts the chicken dance song on blast, and the whole crowd dances along in unison. Neighborhood 4 Nat Bailey Stadium is located in central Vancouver, essentially sandwiched in between Cambie St. and Main St. It is largely residential in the immediate proximity to the park. However, Cambie and Main are just a few blocks away, and both streets boast impressive lineups of restaurants and bars. While the walkability of the neighborhood may not be on the Major League level, it is more than adequate for a Single-A stadium. Queen Elizabeth Park is considered by many to be one of the most picturesque green spaces in the city. There is a lush floral conservatory, and plenty of walking trails. Seasons in the Park is a first class restaurant featuring breathtaking views and Northwest cuisine. Fans 5 The Canadians have dominated the Northwest League in recent seasons, and their fans have grown accustomed to winning. They are very knowledgeable and take great pride in their team. Even if the C’s go down big early, the crowd never loses their enthusiasm. There is a very balanced cross section of fans at Nat Bailey Stadium. There are equal numbers of families, young people, retirees and hardcore fans. There is a laid back feel for the most part, and rowdy spectators are not a concern. Fun is the reason most of these fans show up, and winning is just a bonus. Access 3 If you are a native Vancouverite, you will likely have little trouble getting yourself to Nat Bailey Stadium. If you are a visiting fan from out of town, you may find the area more difficult to navigate. If you are coming by car, prepare for plenty of traffic. Vancouver is famous for its congestion, and driving through the heart of the city during rush hour can lead to some white-knuckle moments. However, signs leading you to the stadium are easily spotted on Cambie and Main Street. Parking is reasonably priced at $7, and there are ample spots. The main lots are located behind home plate and in the outfield behind the right field fence. The stadium is just one level, and there is a chance your vehicle could take a direct hit if you park behind home plate. There are no stands in right field, and a home run ball could find your windshield if you choose to park in the outfield. Being that Nat Bailey Stadium is located in a residential neighborhood, street parking is extremely limited, so choose one of the lots, but don’t go too close to the stadium when choosing your spot. SkyTrain presents an intriguing option for fans. The SkyTrain is essentially a monorail system that runs through Vancouver. It may not be the most attractive transportation system, but it is a very efficient way to get around. The nearest SkyTrain station (King Edward) is located just over a kilometer away from the stadium. Another public transportation option is the bus. You can get to within 3 blocks if you take the buses that run along Main St. Taking the SkyTrain or bus will cost you between $2.75 and $5.50 depending on the time of day and distance you are traveling. Return on Investment 5 The C’s do an amazing job providing fans with bang for their buck. Tickets are very economical, ranging between $14 and $25. You can find great seats in the grandstand behind home plate for $14, or you can sit in box seats closer to the action for $18. Sitting in the WestJet Diamond Club will run you $25, but they are considered the best seats in the house. Seniors (55+) can sit in the grandstand area for $11, and disabled seating can be found along the left field line for $11. Food is a good deal for fans as well. You can pick up a hot dog for $5, and a foot long for $7. Burger’s cost $6.25, and pizza is reasonable at $6 for a large slice. Pretzels won’t break the bank at $5. Sugary treats are affordable, with mini donuts listed at $5 and ice cream at $4.50. Sushi is priced between $8 and $10 depending on the kind you want. Craft beer is currently $7.50 a glass. All told, you can take in a Canadians’ game for a fraction of the cost of attending one of the other major sports games in Vancouver. In fact, you can watch a professional baseball game in a very enjoyable setting for roughly the same price as going to the movies. It is hard to beat the C’s return on investment. Extras 5 The Canadians offer many promotions throughout the regular season. Every Sunday is an A&W Family Fun Sunday. Kids can take home anything from a batting helmet to a jersey on Sundays. There are also bobblehead giveaways featuring some of the more prominent players who have recently donned a Canadians uniform. The C’s occasionally provide fans with opportunities to meet some of their favorite ballplayers from the past. The 2015 season will feature appearances from Tommy John, Devon White, Pat Hentgen and Tony Fernandez. The highlight of the promotion schedule has to be the fireworks extravaganzas. The Canadians entertain fans with special post game fireworks after most Saturday night home games. In 2015 there are nine dates, and you don’t want to miss them. There are multiple places to buy C’s gear at Nat Bailey Stadium. The first hut is located outside the stadium by the main entrance, where you can purchase hats and tees. Inside you will find a larger team store area near the end of the concourse on the third baseline. You can buy the same merchandise as outside, but there are a few additional items (jerseys, memorabilia, etc.) up for sale too. There is a manually operated scoreboard in left-center field, and a giant video screen in center field shows replays. There is a storied history with the C’s in Vancouver, and the organization does a fantastic job educating the public inside the ballpark. Murals and showcases discussing the history of the club and the famous names that have made stops in Vancouver line the main concourse. You get a great sense of how the franchise got its start, and how they have evolved into the one of the top Minor League organizations today. There is a large kids play area in the left field corner that features an inflatable slide. The C’s offer fans the opportunity to sit in non-alcoholic sections. Most teams have these types of sections, but these particular seats are in prime locations behind home plate. Inebriated fans are not much of an issue at The Nat, but these seats would be perfect for families with young children. Perhaps my favorite extra is the special Canadians car that delivers pitchers into the game from the bullpen in left field. The car itself is a golf cart type of vehicle wearing a C’s hat for a roof. It drives the incoming hurler to the edge of the infield before heading back to the ‘pen. Final Thoughts While the actual baseball being played on the field may not be Major League quality, Nat Bailey Stadium offers a first class experience for fans of all ages. It is an enjoyable and affordable way to spend an evening in Vancouver. The people who work at the stadium are very polite and helpful. The fun factor cannot be beaten, and wandering around the stadium gives spectators a sense of childlike joy. I highly recommend you take in a game at The Nat if you are ever lucky enough to be in Vancouver, BC.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Equity Bank Park 275 S McLean Blvd Wichita, KS 67213 Wichita Wind Surge website Equity Bank Park website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 10,000 Wichita Wind Surge “Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore” were the words uttered by Dorothy as she discovered the enchanting land she was swept into via tornado in The Wizard of Oz. This simple movie quote, which has become a part of modern lexicon, creates an image that Kansas is nowhere as fantastical and engaging as the magical land of Oz. When planning dream vacations, Wichita, Kansas is more than likely not at the top of many travelers’ lists. I would venture to guess that Kansas is one of the last places most people would consider as they plan their sojourns. Wichita, however, should become a not so hidden gem. Located on the western banks of the Arkansas River (Pronounced ar-KAN-zus in the state of Kansas), in the center of the historic Delano neighborhood, Equity Bank Park provides a beautiful, modern home for the Wichita Wind Surge. Constructed on the site of former Lawrence-Dumont Stadium in 2019 as a Triple-A complex, the stadium officially opened in 2021 after COVID and the MLB minor league realignment as host of the Minnesota Twins Double-A affiliate, Wichita Wind Surge. It immediately became one of the best facilities in the Texas League. Food & Beverage 4 Concession options at Equity Bank Park are better than expected. Food options range from basics like hot dogs, burgers, and nachos to specialty items such as Cuban sandwiches, Freddy’s Frozen custard, quesadillas, meatball subs, and buffalo fries. Beverage options are plentiful whether you desire alcoholic or non-alcoholic choices. Coke products are the soft drinks offered, including multiple flavors of Powerade, Coca-Cola, and Dr Pepper, among others in both 20 ounce bottles and in souvenir cups. Most domestic beers are available in cans and on tap, with Kona Big Wave and Mango Cart also being offered on tap. If stronger drinks are desired, mixed drinks can be purchased as well. For fans desiring to upgrade their visit, the Vault offers single game tickets for a premium experience. Tickets to the Vault include an all-you-can-eat buffet offering specific game themed menu items as well as regular ballgame fare. Chef Paul Valenzuela creates a menu that is both restaurant quality and thematically inspired by the current opponent. The buffet is available through the first few innings of the game, after which hot dogs, popcorn, and soft drinks remain available until the end of the game. A fully stocked bar is also located just inside the door of the Vault, with drinks available for cashless purchase. All food and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the price of your Vault ticket. Atmosphere 4 Fans of the Wind Surge are loud and loyal. Thanks to consistent and interactive between-inning entertainment options, there is very little downtime during a game. Some of the fan involvement games include scoreboard-based games and quizzes, full crowd dances, knocker ball battles, or an ice cream toss from the top of the dugouts, to name a few. There is not a single between-inning break where fans are left with nothing to focus on, either on the field or on the scoreboard, creating a consistent and efficient flow to the game. The stadium architecture gives a nod to the vibrant art community of Wichita in many respects, most notably with the murals outside the first base gate and in each restroom, the Wichita-themed bike racks, and multiple sculptures around the park. Other less obvious art installations have thoughtfully been added to Equity Bank Park to tie in multiple cultures, as well as Wichita’s history. A model of the Arkansas River snakes its way along the walls of the concourse, unbeknownst to many fans. Other hidden gems include the use of Islamic Muqarnas as inspiration for the screen wall, lenticular artwork infused into the third base parking lot fence, and in this writer’s opinion, the masterpiece, a stainless mirror image sculpture of the skyline that is attached to the back side of the press box, where fans can see the actual Wichita skyline and it’s model lined up together, with the summer sky and playing field in the background. This view is worth the price of admission alone, and can go unseen unless brought to one's attention. Neighborhood 3 Located in the historic Delano neighborhood across the Arkansas River from downtown Wichita, Equity Bank Park is part of a resurgent neighborhood. There are numerous new hotels, restaurants, and businesses that appear to have been built within the past few years. Some of the hotels within walking distance of the stadium include WaterWalk Extended Stay by Windham, Home2Suites, Hyatt Regency, and Drury Inn, among others. No matter the desired price range, rest assured you can find accommodations that fall within your comfort zone. For fans wanting meals or an adult beverage outside the stadium, there are multiple quality options near Equity Bank Park, most notably longtime Wichita staple Doo Dah Diner. Fans 4 The Wind Surge have a loyal fan base, averaging nearly 4,500 fans per game. This number places them near the top 10 in Double-A average, and this number swells on Firework Fridays and during special promotion nights. The crowd is not only engaged during the game but also during the between-inning fan involvement activities, such as video board camera shots (Simba Cam, Dance Cam, etc.) or cheering for the on-field games. But the most active time for fans may be during the ice cream toss, as everyone would love a frozen treat to enjoy on a Kansas summer night. Access 5 Located on McLean Boulevard, just off US Route 400, Equity Bank Park is easily accessible. There is plenty of parking with three large, paved lots, as well as limited street parking within minutes of the stadium. There are numerous hotels in the neighborhood surrounding the venue, so walking or riding the Q-Line Trolley are acceptable options as well. Once inside Equity Bank Park the concourse is wide, so all concessions, seating, and restroom facilities are able to be accessed without traffic flow issues, no matter the size of the crowd. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices begin at less than $10, and individual game tickets behind home plate are less than $30, making the cost to attend a game very affordable. Parking in the closest stadium lots is free, except for Vault ticket holders and Lexus drivers, who have free parking options. Most concessions are reasonably priced as well, ensuring that Wing Surge game attendees get their money's worth at each appearance. This season, in order to increase ROI for fans, Wichita even introduced the Dugout Menu with a small popcorn, hot dog, pretzel bites, or small soda available for $4 or less each; this menu also includes $5 12-ounce beer options. Extras 4 Artwork in and around the stadium is second to none and worthy of extra recognition. The backdrop over the outfield wall and the view of downtown Wichita is beautiful, especially as the Midwest sunset commences; this is also worthy of special acknowledgement. The skyline sculpture located behind the suite level of the stadium (mirroring Wichita’s downtown) is also a sight to behold – it may be one of the most unique yet unheralded ballpark features in minor league baseball. The friendliness of Wichitans should also be given special recognition. Having visited the venue on two different occasions during separate seasons, employees and fans alike have all been extremely warm and welcoming to their ballpark and city. The Wind Surge team store is large and has a great selection of items. Their cap selection is comprehensive and includes caps of other Twins affiliates. Final Thoughts Equity Bank Park is well worth the time and effort it takes to get to Wichita, Kansas. Whether you are a ballpark collector or a casual baseball fan, Wind Surge games and their stadium are well equipped to create a pleasant experience. There are many other reasons to visit Wichita, the state’s most populous city, as well. The National Baseball Congress World Series, a historic amateur baseball tournament with some of the most talented collegiate summer teams in the nation, is hosted at Wichita State University in late July. Other attractions for visitors include the Keeper of the Plains, Sedgwick County Zoo, Exploration Place, multiple museums, and the original Pizza Hut location in the US (now a museum on the Wichita State campus). Whether you plan to make Equity Bank Park one of many ballparks you visit on a road trip, or plan to stay for several days, the Wichita Wind Surge will provide an enjoyable experience.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Route 66 Stadium 955 East Trafficway Springfield, MO 65802 Map It Springfield Cardinals website Route 66 Stadium website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 10,486 Baby Cardinals Editor's Note: The venue name changed from Hammond's Field to Route 66 Stadium in May, 2026 to honor Springfield’s history as the birthplace of the Mother Road and to celebrate the centennial of U.S. Route 66. Attending a baseball game at Hammons Field is a baseball purist’s dream and an altogether fantastic day or evening out. Hammons Field, in Springfield MO, is the home of the Springfield Cardinals, an AA affiliate of MLB’s St Louis Cardinals. Hammons Field opened on April 2, 2004, and cost $32 million. John Q Hammons, a wealthy hotel developer and builder from Springfield MO, financed the stadium construction. The first year saw only the local college play ball at the park as no pro ball club had committed to playing there when it was built. The Springfield Cardinals of the Texas League began playing there the very next season. Prior to 2005, the team was the El Paso Diablos. The owners of the Diablos sold the franchise to the Cardinals who relocated them to Springfield. The Springfield Cardinals won the Texas League Championship in 2012 and are looking to repeat that in future seasons. The Missouri State University Bears baseball team uses the field in the spring. Hammons Field hosts other events for the Southwestern Missouri community, such as Trick or Treat on Halloween. It is an intimate, comfortable venue that exudes Cardinals baseball and is one well worth visiting. Food & Beverage 4 The ballpark sells plenty of drinks, food, and snacks at higher prices than expected for an AA ballpark in Missouri. However, plenty of food promotions are offered throughout the season. Keep those in mind when visiting. First, adult beverages are $3 off for the first 30 minutes after the gates open. That said, even with the discount, a 16 oz specialty craft beer is still $7. Tuesdays are $2 brats and hot dogs. Thursday home games are ‘Thirsty Thursdays’ with $3 off drink specials for fans 21 and older all game long. Kids get a free ice cream before Sunday home games. Burgers and chicken tenders are sold at the Home Plate Concessions while there’s a Domino’s Pizza and a Chick-fil-A down the third base concourse. Cardinals Cantina sells Mexican fare with gourmet nachos and burrito bowls (with fajita chicken, pulled pork, and white queso options) and a variety of toppings. They cost between $11.65 – $15.49. Other traditional snacks like popcorn, soft pretzels, chips, and peanuts are available for purchase. Cardinals Creamery has nine different flavors of ice cream (a souvenir helmet is $6.49). Other snacks at that stand are funnel cakes ($7) and cotton candy ($5.25). Bottled water is $4.99 and soda (Coca-Cola brands) are $6.25 and $7.49. KPub and the 1st Base Bar offer adult beverages such as wine, mixed drinks, and craft brews. Adults can purchase bottled and canned beer at most concession stands as well as Grab and Go Stations. Atmosphere 5 The venue emanates baseball and all staff members make you feel welcome and glad you are visiting their stadium. The concourse runs on top of the seating area; fans walk down to their seats. Twenty-two rows of green stadium seats with cupholders and handrails make up the seating area. Plenty of handicapped and wheelchair seating runs along the top of the concourse. Suites line the second level of the stadium behind home and on the first base side. The Redbird Roost (second level third base side) features premium seats and all-you-can-eat food and soda. The outer first base side has the Champions Club seats with an upgraded all-you-can-eat menu and four adult beverages included in the price. The ballpark has an immaculately, green field. When the big Cardinals go to the playoffs, the grounds crew from Springfield goes to St. Louis to assist with the maintenance of Busch Stadium. Something a bit different, the batter’s eye is a set of trees sponsored by Coca-Cola. Hammons Field Batters Eye, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Thankfully, the game day operation does not include music and noise between each and every pitch; instead, just between batters and innings. Contests and other forms of non-baseball entertainment include activities like wacky races and t-shirt tosses. A grassy berm (general admission) is down the third baseline and kids can run around in that area (depending on attendance). The scoreboard is in left-center field and clearly shows the batter’s stats, the line-up, the line score, the pitcher’s name, and some unobtrusive advertisements The team has plenty of promotions and giveaways throughout the season: t-shirts, jerseys, replica rings, Friday night fireworks, bobbleheads, and more. Check their schedule or follow them on social media to see the current season’s exciting offerings. Neighborhood 4 Hammons Field is in Springfield, MO, the southwestern part of the state. Several bars, restaurants, and hotels are within ½ to one mile of the stadium with more a little further away. It’s a safe neighborhood to visit and the town has plenty to offer a visiting baseball fan or tourist. For starters, visit the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame (though it is 10 miles from the ballpark), an interactive museum of teams and individuals influential to sports in Missouri. The Bass Pro Shop in town (three miles from the ballpark) is the largest and has enough to be considered a museum with aquariums, waterfalls, a firing range, outdoor gear showrooms, and the archery hall of fame. Route 66 museums, artifacts, and shops dot the area for those who enjoy nostalgia from the 40s and 50s. For places to eat, visit Ebbets Field Sports Bar (three blocks away) or Rama Thai Café. Dugout Bar & Grill is a block away (a small neighborhood bar). Downtown Springfield is a mile away. There you’ll find Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes, Big Whiskey’s, or Civil Kitchen. Local breweries include Springfield Brewing Company (which serves food) and Mother’s Brewing Company. If spending the night, the University Plaza Hotel is 1/3 mile from the ballpark. A Best Western Inn is a mile away and a Tru by Hilton borders downtown. Plenty of other chain hotels are three to four miles away off the Interstate 44 exit. Fans 5 The baseball spirit, passion, knowledge, and courtesy always shown by St Louis Cardinals fans are displayed just as equally by its AA team fans and staff. Fans wear lots of red… red caps shirts and jerseys honoring both the Springfield and St Louis Cardinals. You’ll hear many discussing the players and which ones will make it up to the bigs. The team has averaged 4,800 – 5,000 or so fans per game the last five-plus years. Access 4 Getting to Hammons Field is not too difficult. It is three miles south of Interstate 44. The closest airport is Springfield-Branson National Airport about eight miles from the park. Springfield has a bus service that looks like it has a stop .2 miles from the park. Check CU Transit to see if that option works for your visit. Parking lots surround the park and range from $5 – $20. Twenty dollars is way too high for AA baseball. The team does not own the parking around the stadium and does not have control of the prices. Fans can park for free a few blocks away (.3 miles) at OTC (Ozarks Technical Community College) and Price Cutter. Free street parking is available a few blocks south on Walnut St. The main entranceway is striking. It’s a large plaza with plenty of room for fans to meet. The brickwork and towers are picturesque. The interior has a covered, wide concourse lined with concessions and kiosks. It is open and fans can watch the play of game while walking on the concourse. Clean, serviceable restrooms are down both baseline concourses. The Cardinals have a clear bag policy where bags must be standard stadium-sized (12” x 6” x 12”) clear bags. Return on Investment 4 Attending a game at Hammons Field is well worth your sports dollar budget. Tickets run $9 (General Admission) to $18 (Diamond Boxes – sections behind home plate). The Redbird Roost tickets are $30 (includes all-you-can-eat). Parking can be expensive; use the free lots a few blocks away. Food and drink prices are a tad high for the Texas League. Attend on a $2 Tuesday or Thirsty Thursday to save a few bucks. Take advantage of the different promotions offered throughout the season. Extras 4 A nice team store along the concourse sells all kinds of Springfield and St. Louis Cardinals gear. Be sure to pick up a lineup and game notes in the team store. It also comes with a pre-printed scoresheet. It’s the little things that are noticeable. For example, the bar stands on both the first base and third base concourse leave beer cans unopened, and wrap hot dogs and brats in foil so fans can easily carry them in their bags without spilling. And, the staff striking up conversations and providing information on the park makes one feel welcome. Final Thoughts When transferring my notes for this review, I ran across this sentence I had written while at the game in Springfield, “This is the most wonderful place on earth right now. I feel like I’m in heaven.” It radiates baseball here. It’s about the game; a baseball purist dream. At close to twenty years old, Hammons Field and the Springfield Cardinals continue to be a perfect place for baseball enthusiasts and other fans to spend their evenings.

Photos by Lance Sutehall and Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Dabos Stadium 200 Coosa St Montgomery, AL 36104 Montgomery Biscuits website Dabos Stadium website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 7,000 It’s Biscuit Ball Y’all! Editors Note: Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium was renamed to DABOS Park on March 18, 2026, following a partnership between the Montgomery Biscuits and the biotech and supply company DABOS. Next to the Alabama River lies Riverwalk Stadium, the home of the Montgomery Biscuits minor league baseball team since 2004. The Biscuits originally played in Orlando, Florida for the first three decades of the team’s existence. In 2003, the then-Orlando Rays announced they were relocating to a new ballpark in Montgomery, Alabama. That ballpark would become Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery’s replacement for Patterson Field which had last hosted Minor League Baseball in 1980. The Montgomery Biscuits are the Tampa Bay Rays AA affiliate and they compete in the Southern League. The Montgomery Biscuits won back-to-back Southern League championships in 2006 and 2007 as well as winning eleven half-season titles, recently winning the first half title in 2024. Food & Beverage 4 There are a variety of concession stands throughout the concourse with the two main ones being “The Railyard” along the first base side and ”The Train Station” by third base. The Train Station offers standard fare such as hot dogs ($5), cheeseburgers ($8.25), chicken sandwiches ($8.25), chicken tenders ($9), pizza ($6), and nachos ($6). The Railyard offers super nachos ($13) with beef, chicken, or pork, Philly cheesesteaks ($12), and wings ($10). The Biscuit Stand, Photo by Lloyd Brown, Stadium Journey Smaller concession stands include a half-pound burger stand ($12.50), a Conecuh sausage stand that sells sausage dogs ($7.50), and fittingly a biscuit stand ($6-$10). Coca-Cola products are sold throughout the venue with options including water ($4), Powerade ($5.50), 24oz sodas ($4.50), and 32oz souvenir cups ($8). Alcohol is sold throughout the stadium in the form of 16oz ($7) or 32oz ($13.50) drafts. The venue is cashless. Atmosphere 4 Riverwalk Stadium was built into the side of an abandoned train shed. The concession stands and other parts of the stadium pay homage to the history of the train depot. There is an active railroad by the third base foul pole and trains passing by often sound their horns. There are specialty nights throughout the season including “Taco & Tallboy Tuesdays” where $4 tacos and $4 beers are sold, Military Wednesdays where military personnel get discounts on admission and concessions, and “Thirsty Thursdays” where beers and souvenir cups are half off. The Biscuits have postgame firework displays after games on Saturday nights. Neighborhood 4 Montgomery is the capital city of Alabama and is therefore home to the Alabama State Capitol building. It is located about a mile away from Riverwalk Stadium but the Rosa Parks, Freedom Rides, and Hank Williams museums are within walking distance. For dining options include Bibb Street Pizza Company, Wintzell’s Oyster House, and Dreamland BBQ. There are several hotel chains nearby Riverwalk Stadium including SpringHill Suites, Embassy Suites, and DoubleTree. Fans 3 The fans that come out to Biscuits games have a great time when they come to games. The Biscuits do a great job with promotions to get fans of all ages invested in the baseball games. Big Mo, the Biscuits mascot also plays a large part in getting the fans energized. When the Birmingham Barons come to town, the fans get particularly excited for state baseball bragging rights. Access 4 From I-65, turn off at exit 172 and onto Herron Street before making a right on Bibb Street. Make a left on Coosa Street and Riverwalk Stadium will be on the right. From I-85, take exit 1 turn right on Union Street, and make a left on Madison Avenue before turning right on Coosa. From Highway 82, turn right on Highway 31. Act like you are driving to Maxwell Air Force Base by driving on Birmingham Highway which becomes Maxwell Boulevard. Drive straight on Tallapoosa Street until Riverwalk Stadium is on the left. Once inside the stadium, the Concourse is wide enough for the crowd, the concession stands do not have long lines, and there are enough restrooms throughout the venue. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Biscuits games start at $9 for general admission lawn seats if purchased in advance. “Box” seats along the first and third baselines cost $11, “Super Box” tickets behind home play run $13, and “Executive Club” seats immediately behind home plate cost $15. If you decide to purchase tickets the day of, there will be a $2 surcharge added. If bringing a family with at least 4 people, the Family Pack offers box seats, combo meals, and admission into the “fun zone”. That costs $80 for 4 people (you can add people for $20/person). Parking costs in public lots near the stadium (on weekends, street parking is free). You are looking at paying about $25 solo if you purchase a general admission ticket, pay $5 for parking, and drop $10 on concessions while a date night runs $45. Extras 4 Riverwalk Stadium has been the host of the Sun Belt Conference baseball tournament since 2021. It was also home to the Alabama high school baseball championship until 2021 when it moved to Jacksonville State’s Jim Case Stadium. The venue hosted the NCAA Division 2 national championship from 2004-2007. During the game one of the giveaways involved tossing biscuits in the stands. Final Thoughts Riverwalk Stadium is a beautiful ballpark to come visit when stopping by Montgomery. It serves the Biscuits baseball team very well and is a fun place to spend a Summer evening or Saturday. Make sure you get a biscuit while you are watching the Biscuits!

Photos by Eric Hasman and Michael Rusignuolo, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 7 17 Credit Union Park 300 S Main St Akron, OH 44308 Akron RubberDucks website 7 17 Credit Union Park website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 9,097 Ducks in the Canal Editor's Note: At the conclusion of the 2025 season the Akron RubberDucks announced they were entering a naming rights agreement with local financial institution 7 17 Credit Union that will run through the end of the 2031 season. The city-owned Canal Park takes its name from the Ohio and Erie Canal that runs beyond the outfield of the ballpark. The ballpark opened in 1997 and was designed by Populous, the same architectural firm that designed the Indians’ Jacobs Field. The ballpark holds 9,097. Currently, the Akron RubberDucks, changed their name in 2013 from the Aeros to reflect the history of Akron’s rubber industry. The RubberDucks have been the AA Eastern League affiliate of the Cleveland Indians since 1989 when they were located in nearby Canton, Ohio at Thurman Munson Field. The ballpark is asymmetrical with the following dimensions: Left Field: 331 feet, Left Center: 376 feet, Center Field: 400 feet, Right Center: 375 feet, Right Field: 337 feet. The hi-definition scoreboard in right center field gives information on the game and a sideboard in left center provides additional information. There are ball-and-strike ribbon boards at the ends of the luxury boxes. Canal Park has a large concourse, which makes it easy to walk around the park when crowded, an area that runs from left field to right field that allows access to all the regular seating areas. In addition, the seats are angled toward home plate. The gift shop is big with a nice selection of jerseys, shirts and hats. It is low on key chains, magnets and other small trinkets. One huge seller is the Duck Bubble Gun which sells for $6. This is a bubble gun in the image of a Rubber Ducks head and blows bubbles. The kids love this. Food & Beverage 5 The ballpark has themed concessions located along the concourse. Godfather’s Kitchen has hot dogs ($2 or $3.75), Italian sausage ($5.50), Papa John’s pizza ($5). Tater’s dishes has your standard ballpark food (hot dogs, chicken for $5, hamburgers for $6 and pulled pork nachos for $9). The Dog Pound specializes in hot dogs, bratwurst ($5.50), kielbasa ($7.50) and Italian sausage ($5.50). The Biergarten sells sausages and dogs. The Sock Hop is all about ice cream which including floats ($5 or $8). The Nice to Meat U Grill has monster hamburgers and some “extreme” items. Big portions of food are not a problem here because there are some “extreme dining” options at the ballpark. Some examples are the “Nice 2 Meat U Burger” (three steakhouse seasoned Certified Angus Beef burgers-1.75 lbs, two beef franks, crispy bacon, grilled onions and American cheese on a toasted Kaiser bun for $15), the “Three Dog Night” (Kielbasa split in half with a bratwurst inside, split in half with a hot dog inside of it topped with sauerkraut and served on a sub bun for $12), “Pineapple TerriyAKRON” (a half pineapple hollowed out and filled with a mixture of white rice, grilled chicken, diced pineapple and Thai chili garlic sauce topped with a teriyaki glaze for $12), “Not Your Routine Poutine” (a 10 oz portion of French fries topped with gravy, cheese curds, pulled pork, green onions and bacon bits for $12) and the “Screamer” (21 scoops of a premium ice cream on top of a brownie base and finished off with chocolate syrup, bananas, whip cream, sprinkles and maraschino cherries served in a souvenir helmet for $25). There are more extreme items too. Besides the usual foods there some unusual items you don’t find at other parks. For example: build your own Steak sandwich ($9.50), pierogies ($6.50), turkey legs ($7.50), veggie burger / bratwurst ($7 / $6.75), corn dogs ($3.75), sauerkraut balls ($5), wedge salad/assorted vegetables/ hummus & pretzels and fruit cup (all $5), cannolis ($2.50), mini donuts ($7) and apple pie ($3.50). Beer prices at the park are $4.50 / $7.75 / $11 for a 12oz / 20oz / 32oz domestic draft (Budwieser). Premium drafts (Yuengling, Shocktop and Leinenkugel’s) are $5 / $8.75 / $12.50 for a 12oz / 20oz / 32oz. Of course, there are local “Craft” beers on tap too from the Canton Brewing Co., Ignite Brewing Co., Lock 15 Brewing Co., Hop Tree Brewing, R. Shea Brewing which are all $8. In addition, there are some other local craft beers in bottles / cans – Mucky Duck and Rhinegeist Brewery for $7. The Tiki Bar in right field in addition to beer serves hard liquor and wine. A bottle of soda / Powerade is $.4.25 and Iced tea is $4.75. Fountain drinks are $2.75 / $4 / $7.50 for a 16oz / 24oz / 32oz. Bottled water is $3.50 and a slushie is $4.50. Coffee/cappuccino/hot chocolate is $2.50. In addition, to the concessions there is the “Game Grill & Bar” located in the right field corner. You can sit out on the patio on the right field walkway to watch batting practice while you eat, but you won’t be allowed into the park before the gates open outside. The “Game” delivers standard bar & grill fare, with most entrees under $12. The restaurant is also home of the extreme item the “Squealer” which is a foot-long Five Star Meats hot dog, stuffed with pulled pork and wrapped in bacon that is deep fried and topped it with shredded cheddar cheese and a drizzle of tangy BBQ sauce. Atmosphere 3 The concourse at Canal Park runs from right-center to left field and the main seating bowl is below street level. Suites are above the seating bowl from about first to third base. There is nowhere in the park besides in the Tiki Bar, in the restaurant or under the suites to get out of the sun. The “kids” zone consists of a blow-up slide near the Tiki Bar in right field and a small concourse section behind home plate that has some minor games like racing cars and “fish for a rubberduck” and win a prize. There are three entrances that open about an hour before game time (for those not in luxury boxes or season ticket holders): Buchtel Avenue, Canal Entrance, and State Street. Lines can get extensive on promotional days. The Diamond Boardwalk is open before game time to take you beyond third base to the actual Canal Park beyond the outfield, but the gate to the boardwalk gets closed before game time. Autograph seekers will want to be by the home first base dugout before and after the game. Between-inning entertainment includes the mascots, regular minor league contests, races, and quizzes, post-game includes toss-a-ball, fireworks (special nights), and kids running the bases (on scheduled days). Neighborhood 3 Canal Park is located in the heart of downtown Akron across the street from the University of Akron. The old canal area is being renovated into parks and performance spaces, but there are closed factories and manufacturing buildings in the area. Right outside of left field is the Ohio & Erie Walkway Trail / Locke 2 Park (one of 19 locks once used to move canal boats) and the Akron Children’s Hospital. In addition, the Richard Howe House (and canal museum) and Locke 3 Park (a small park that hosts bands in the summer) are all around the ballpark. Being downtown there are many restaurants, fast food restaurants and bars in the area too. Within a couple of miles is the Akron Zoo, the Akron Art Museum, the E.J. Thomas Hall of Performing Arts Hall and the National Inventors Hall of Fame. About a half hour from Akron is the Pro Football Hall of Fame located in Canton, Ohio. Fans 3 Like most of the minor leagues, the RubberDucks cater to locals and families. Many fans here seem to be interested and knowledgeable about their players and the Cleveland Indians who are their parent club. Of course, there are people just there to hang out and socialize. Cleveland is about 40 minutes away from Akron and that helps draw some Indians fans to this park. The RubberDucks are averaging over 4,500 per game this season (2019) and for the past five years. The people and workers at the game are very friendly and willing to talk about the park, team and area, if you should choose. Access 4 Access to the ballpark is easy. The ballpark is located in downtown Akron located at the intersection of S. Main and State St and is accessible by car or bus. The park is approximately 10 minutes north of intersection of I-76 & I-77. It is also about 12 miles south of the intersection of I-80 and Route 8. Canal Park is about a 40-minute drive to Cleveland and Canton, two hours to Columbus and Pittsburgh and two hours to Toledo. There are several municipal and private lots within walking distance of the park which costs $5 to $10. In addition, there is limited meter parking which is free on the weekend, if you get there early enough you may get lucky and not have to pay for parking. The Akron METRO buses will get you to the ballpark (routes 1, 4, 9, 10, 14, and 34) for $1.75 per ride or $2.50 for a day pass. In addition, Greyhound buses are available and the Akron station is just down the street from the park If you are flying in to or out of Akron, the Akron-Canton Airport is down I-77 about 30 minutes to the south of the ballpark. Return on Investment 5 Tickets are relatively cheap here. Reserve Seats on game day are $13 for adults ($12 for Juniors & Seniors), with General Admission at $7. The “Duck Row” just beyond third base in left field, delivers swivel seats and in-seat food and drink service for $17 and “Homerville in right field with two rows of 11 swivel-seats with drink rails in front of the Tiki Bar is $25 but you receive either two (2) 16-ounce beers or four (4) 24-ounce sodas. In addition, you can rent out the “Park Fowl Territory” Picnic-style seating starting at one table of eight people, with options for up to 400 (50 tables). Minimum 24 people for a picnic outing and a two-hour, all-you-can-eat buffet-style picnic, beginning one hour before the game. Lastly there is the Tiki Terrace in right field. Groups as small as 24 guests can reserve this area, however if no groups have rented the area anyone can sit here. Included in this area is a two-hour, all-you-can-eat buffet-style picnic, beginning one hour before the game. As with all teams if you get season tickets or group seats in advance you will receive a discount. Extras 5 The RubberDucks receive an extra point each for the following: Giving out a 1st game certificate and button at the Guest Services booth if you say this is your first game. They also have scorecards and programs for free. Lastly, if you feel like participating in the in-between inning contests you sign up there for a chance to do so. The Greater Akron Baseball Hall of Fame (free admission) that honors both the players, teams and umpires from the Akron area is located just north of the Rubber Duck’s Team Shop with an outside entrance at the park. The two main team mascots, “Rubberta” the duck or “Webster” the duck walk the concourse and are available for pictures and autographs. The RubberDucks also have “Orbit” the space cat, “Homer” the inflatable pigeon but apparently they are not there every game. The POW/MIA seat on the first base side and LeBron James number is retired too. The “Duck Mug” which is a 16oz plastic mug (for soda) resembling the logo the sells for $12.50 but refills are only $1. Final Thoughts Canal Park is a comfortable, clean and well-maintained ballpark and is definitely worth the trip based upon the food alone but the people definitely make this park a must see.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 ESL Ballpark One Morrie Silver Way Rochester, NY 14608 Rochester Red Wings website ESL Ballpark website Year Opened: 1996 Capacity: 13,500 The Rochester Miracle Wings Editor's Note: On February 10, 2026, the Rochester Red Wings announced they had entered into a 10-year naming rights deal with Rochester-based ESL Federal Credit Union. The deal is worth $550,000 over the ten year period, with options to extend the deal for up to 30 years. Rochester, New York is the quintessential minor league city. There are few places around the country that offer a full-complement of minor league sports like Rochester does, with little competition from the big leagues or big-time colleges. At the center of Rochester’s sports identity is the Rochester Red Wings of Minor League Baseball’s International League. The Red Wings are currently the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals and have been around since 1899. The Red Wings were saved in 1957 after their affiliation with the St. Louis Cardinals ended and it looked like baseball in Rochester was for naught. Morrie Silver led the 72 Day Miracle, which sold over 8,000 shares to over 200 shareholders to purchase the team and stadium and keep Rochester baseball strong. Members of the Silver family still work for the Red Wings and the street outside Frontier Field is named Morrie Silver Way. Since 1989 the home for the Red Wings has been Frontier Field. Replacing venerable Silver Stadium, Frontier Field has also been home to soccer and lacrosse. The Red Wings experience offers plenty to the baseball fan and is a must-do for baseball fans. Food & Beverage 5 Frontier Field offers some of the best concessions in baseball. There are numerous concession stands and each one has a unique menu. All of the ballpark favourites are present, of course, and there are some local favourites as well. Altobelli’s Deli offers some sub and wrap deli options; Red Osier has the Western New York staple Beef on Weck, and variations of the sandwich; Ice Cream Plus has a host of different ice cream options; Sup Dog offers Zweigle’s hot dogs and sausages. Burgers, pizza and nachos are also available at different stands. For something truly unique to Rochester, fans should head to Home Plate for a Trash Can, the Frontier Field take on the Garbage Plate. The 10th Inning bar area has a whole host of local craft beers and local Genesee beer can be found throughout the park also. Labatt Blue, which is popular in Western New York, is also prevalent in the park. It is hard to fathom that there is anything that a fan would want to eat at the ballpark that can’t be found at Frontier Field. Atmosphere 4 Frontier Field will not awe fans with striking beauty or a bevy of unique features. That being said, Frontier Field is a solid ballpark that has everything that fans would want in a Minor League Baseball experience. The exterior of the stadium is not imposing. A simple design that features a sunken field and to go with the red brick is more functional than beautiful. Frontier Field incorporates what was once an old firehouse on the left field side of the stadium for offices. Fans who enter the front gate, behind home plate, will be welcomed first by Rochester baseball legend, Morrie Silver and a couple kids, in bronze statue form. There are also some original seats from old Silver Stadium that can be used as a meeting place for friends and family. Upon entering the stadium, fans will find more items to catch their attention. A statue of a horse made of baseball gloves, a large red wing bird and a classic bullpen cart all sit right outside of the team store, which is on the left of the main gate. The main concourse has banners for honoured members of the Red Wings including Johnny Oates, Cal Ripken Jr., Luke Easter, Morrie Silver and Mr. Rochester Baseball, Joe Altobelli. The Red Wings Hall of Fame can be found on the right field side and is worth some exploring for members of memories past. Also, a high school baseball hall of fame can be found. Upon exiting, on the left field side, fans can pass the bronze statue of Joe Altobelli. The seating bowl for Frontier Field is a separated, two tier seating area with some of the left and right field side seating covered with some sun protection. Alternative seating including berms, pavilion and picnic areas are also available. The sightlines at Frontier Field are excellent; there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Frontier Field has videoboard beyond both left Center and right Center field. They are probably coming to the end of their lives, but do the job. Often, videoboards try to cram so much information on at a time that the result is text that is too small to easily see. The Red Wings are not guilty of this and feature pitching statistics on one board and hitting statistics on the other. The outfield wall in left Center displays the retired numbers of Jackie Robinson, Luke Easter, Joe Altobelli and Morrie Silver. The number 8,222 represents the original number of shares in Rochester baseball that were sold to keep a Minor League team in the city. The ten Governors’ Cup Championships are on display on the wall in right center. The gameday atmosphere is not over-the-top in Rochester as it is in other Minor League venues. The staple promos are there including the mascot race (featuring Joe Altobelli, Luke Easter and Cal Ripken Jr.), 50/50 draw and other promos. Organ music is still a staple at Red Wings games and organist Fred Costello has been at it for a long time. Neighbourhood 4 Frontier Field is located near Downtown Rochester, just outside of the Inner Loop in the Brown Square neighbourhood. There are a few options that are close to Frontier Field, but the best bet is to hop in the car and take a two or three minute drive to the preferred destination. Some options fans may consider include the Genesee Brew House, 809 Sports Bar and Rocky’s. Over by the Blue Cross Arena, fans will find the old train station that is currently home to the Stadium Journey favourite Dinosaur BBQ. Also, it may be of interest to hit up the founder of the Garbage Plate, Nick Tahou Hots. Other sporting options in Rochester would include the Rochester Americans of the AHL and Rochester Knighthawks of the NLL. Fans could also head to Henrietta to take in some RIT Tigers hockey at the Gene Polisseni Center. The other main attraction that fans must absolutely consider taking in is The Strong National Museum of Play which is fantastic! For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Holiday Inn and Hyatt are among options that are not too far away. Fans 4 The Rochester Red Wings maintain a strong attendance and have the longevity to be envious of. The Red Wings consistently average in the top 20 in all of Minor League Baseball. They usually attract over 6,000 fans per game. Normally the fans are fairly laid back and reserved, but know when to make some noise as the intelligent baseball fans that they are. Access 5 Frontier Field is located in Brown Square in Rochester, at the junction of the Inner Loop highway and I-490. Getting to the ballpark is pretty easy. If you are interested in public transit to the ballpark, the Rochester-Genesee Transit Authority has buses that travel on Broad, Main, Plymouth and State Streets. Check out the RTS website for maps, schedules and fares. There is plenty of parking available for Red Wing games in the lots of the Kodak Tower. Parking goes for only a few dollars and the local police do a great job of making it easy to get in and out of the parking lots. The main ticketing gates are behind homeplate, in the main square by Morrie Silver Way. At times lineups can be a bit of an issue for the late purchasing crowd, so being prepared is always a good idea. Another gate for entry is near the old fire station at Morrie Silver Way and Plymouth Ave, in left field. Getting around the stadium is no problem at all. There is a spacious inner concourse, where all of the concessions can be found and an outer concourse to travel by as well. There are also plenty of washroom facilities. Return on Investment 5 With ticket prices at $13 to $17, discounted for presale, the Rochester Red Wings offer an extremely affordable product that is what every baseball fan is looking for. Parking will go for $6 ot $10 and concession prices are not over the top. The environment and laid back feeling at Red Wings games is excellent. Overall, the return on investment for a Red Wings game is fantastic! Extras 3 An extra mark for organist Fred Costello, who in 2022 set a record for his 46th season as organist of the Red Wings, the longest-reigning sports organist in history. An extra mark for Morrie Silver and the 72 Day Miracle that saved baseball in Rochester and made the Red Wings a truly community team. An extra mark for the view of the iconic Kodak building beyond left field. Although Kodak is no longer, the building is currently used by Monroe Community College. Final Thoughts The Rochester Red Wings are a cornerstone franchise in the International League. They have weathered the ups and downs of Minor League Baseball and come out the other end still strong. Fans looking for a solid baseball experience that will offer tremendous value should absolutely check out the Rochester Red Wings at Frontier Field. Morrie will be glad you came! Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Gwinnett Field 2500 Buford Dr Lawrenceville, GA 30043 Gwinnett Stripers website Gwinnett Field website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 10,427 Editor's note: In early 2026, the Coolray sponsorship ended for the ballpark , and the venue name changed to Gwinnett Field. Keeping’ It Reel When the Braves moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta in 1966, it also marked the birth of a long partnership with the city of Richmond, Virginia, as the Braves AAA affiliate would take root in the commonwealth’s capital city for 43 seasons. After spending four decades in Richmond, the AAA Braves played their final season at "The Diamond", where they had been for 23 years. With an aging stadium and little hope for the upgrades needed for a minor league baseball team, the AAA Braves relocated to Lawrenceville in Gwinnett County, Georgia, a suburb less than an hour from downtown Atlanta, in 2009. The new ballpark in Gwinnett was billed as a mixed-use development, to include apartments, shopping, and dining. However, the development took longer than expected to materialize – Coolray Field stood alone in an open field for its first five years, while plans to build around it were still being finalized. Apartment complexes now surround the stadium, and changed the feel of the ballpark as they were completed; the first apartment building was finished in 2015, with a second completed in 2021. Since their move to suburban Atlanta, Gwinnett has made three postseason appearances, winning two International League-South Division titles and reaching the finals in 2016. Food & Beverage 5 Coolray Field offers fans a wide range of dining options, from traditional concessions to regional specialties, as well as what seems like endless beverage choices. One standout is "All the Fixins" which specializes in Southern cuisine, offering catfish baskets with hush puppies, hot honey pork chop sandwiches, Nashville Hot Chicken, grilled pimento cheese sandwiches, and footlong hot dogs topped with bacon jam. If the offerings at All the Fixins don't pique your interest, The Boathouse restaurant on the first base concourse provides an alternative, also with an impressive menu. It doubles as more of a sit-down restaurant and craft brewhouse, and the menu is more pub fare, with cheese curds and fried pickles, along with sides such as mashed potato bowls and potato wedges. Entrees range from smoked wings and tacos to brisket nachos and specialty sandwiches. The Boathouse also pours up to ten beers from Pontoon Brewing Company and another six from Wild Heaven, both local to the Atlanta area. Additionally, basic domestics are also available. The libations also extend beyond beer, with a selection of wines, hard Italian sodas, and pre-mixed cocktails on tap as well. But wait, there’s more! Throughout the concourse, several carts offer a variety of specialty items. Smokie’s Sausage Shack not only serves Polish and Italian sausage, but also offers brisket and BBQ sandwiches, and just as expected, Steakadelphia has a selection of cheesesteaks, while Cantina Comida Hispana offers a range of Latin American-inspired choices. Lastly, to satisfy a sweet tooth head to Sweet for their sundaes, floats, funnel cake fries, and of course the ever-popular Dippin’ Dots. Atmosphere 3 Originally named after their parent club, the team went by the name Gwinnett Braves for its first twelve seasons, before being rebranded as the Gwinnett Stripers in 2021. While the change faced significant pushback locally, it ultimately made sense to establish Gwinnett as a national brand. Additionally, it allowed for more of a theme to be integrated into the stadium and game presentation. In its first five seasons, Coolray Field sat alone in little more than an open, roadside field. Today, surrounded by two apartment buildings nearly encircling the stadium, the ballpark has a cozier feel. Beyond the stadium confines, local restaurant franchise Three Dollar Cafe overlooks the field from a distant vantage point. Like many minor league baseball teams, the Stripers host numerous promotional nights but primarily focus on appreciating local groups rather than having extravagant themes. Unlike some teams the Stripers don't have quirky promotions like "Mystery Egg Roll Night" or "Tribute to the Brannock Device” – instead they tend to stick to more traditional themes. However, each game still offers some form of promotion or discounted concession to boost weekday attendance, and in-game promotions are the standard scoreboard shuffle, variations of the dance cam, mascot races, and “Double Dare” inspired contests. When looking at seating options, the berm referred to as “The Bank” does offer space to spread out and for kids to run and play. The issue with this area though is the kids are lightly supervised by adults, which can be rather distracting if you are simply looking to enjoy the game from the grassy outfield hill. The best bet here is probably any of the grandstand seats down the first base side of the field since they offer the most shade. Neighborhood 4 The Stripers play in Lawrenceville, a northeastern suburb of Atlanta, approximately 30 miles from downtown ATL. Coolray Field is just off one of Gwinnett County’s busier traffic arteries, Buford Drive – the area has experienced remarkable growth since the opening of Coolray Field. There used to be just a road between Buford and Lawrenceville, but now Buford Drive is lined with several restaurants, stores, and hotels, and the area is anchored by the massive Mall of Georgia. The area around the ballpark is probably not a destination by itself, but for those arriving early or staying late, attractions such as Top Golf and Andretti’s Karting and Gaming, located just off the exit for Coolray Field, might be of interest. Fans 3 Gwinnett has typically seen routinely low attendance figures over the years. After the AAA affiliation was transferred from Richmond to suburban Atlanta, Gwinnett's inaugural season saw an average attendance of just under 6,000 fans, which was in the middle third of AAA teams in attendance. However, since then attendance has steadily declined and now ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 fans per game over the last six seasons. Much of the Stripers fan base consists of families and youth groups from Gwinnett, Hall, and Barrow counties. Some discussions around attendance troubles focus on the Stripers proximity to their parent club, just 34 miles around Atlanta’s north end to Truist Park. Although this may be a contributing factor, other AAA teams like St. Paul and Worcester rank in the top 10 of AAA attendance, despite being within 50 miles of their Major League affiliates. While the accessibility of the Braves might play a role, factors such as a lack of immediate attractions at the stadium, as well as lingering animosity from the public's lack of input in the stadium funding process, seem to contribute to the less-than-stellar attendance numbers. On a positive note, attendance has begun to increase since reaching a franchise low of under 3,000 per game during the 2022 season. Access 3 Navigating the metro Atlanta area can be quite challenging, especially during weekday games. I-85, the primary route through the northeast suburbs, often sees heavy congestion when leaving Atlanta. For the less populous communities north of Lawrenceville, however, southbound traffic on I-85 doesn’t face the same volume of traffic as you see heading toward the city during this time of day. Buford Drive leads to each of Coolray Field’s access points, which can be a bit tricky for first-time or infrequent visitors – the only entrance with any sort of signage is for VIP parking. Instinct would make one think the entrance next to that is the most accessible, and while that entrance does eventually lead to another parking lot, a lack of noticeable directions leaves drivers guessing whether to turn left or right. The actual most direct entry point is the third entrance, but much like the previous one, it is not well labeled and can easily be missed, leaving drivers to have to make a U-turn to try it all over again. With the parking lot running the length of the first base side of the stadium, it doesn’t seem like only two entrances for general seating would be enough, but fans move quickly through the gates. Once in the stadium, the concourse fully encircles the field and is wide enough to keep congestion to a minimum. Buford Drive is a divided highway so after the game, crossing back toward the interstate can be challenging. If you choose the wrong exit, a U-turn is needed to head back toward the freeway. Your best bet is to stay in the left lane of traffic, but exiting via Ballpark Lane, which runs in front of the main gates, tends to be a quick and easy exit point. Return on Investment 3 Seating on the berm starts at just over $11 once Ticketmaster fees are factored in. As ticket prices increase, so do the service charges which are applied to each ticket. On weekends, ticket prices increase, with the same ticket costing $17. Unfortunately, the secondary market does not offer much relief, as prices are comparable to those at the ticket office. Parking runs $10, so even a single visitor is already spending over $20 before entering the ballpark, and due to the lack of facilities in the surrounding area, there are no independent parking lots to offer a lower price. Concession prices are consistent with what you would expect at a sports stadium. Extras 4 The left field wall displays the retired numbers of three Atlanta Braves players: Hank Aaron’s # 44, brother Tommy Aaron’s # 25, and Phil Niekro’s # 35. Jackie Robinson’s # 42, which is retired across baseball, is also displayed. Balconies of the apartments beyond the stadium, stretching from left to left-center field, are marked with distances to home plate. Those along the left field line, just under 400 feet away, are well within play, while the farthest markers measure over 460 feet. The Stripers mascot Chopper is an active participant in mid-inning contests and makes his way around the stadium stopping for endless photo requests. In recent years, a lot has been made of "robo-umps" potentially taking over calling balls and strikes, due to perceived inconsistencies in umpire strike zones. Opponents argue this takes the human element out of the game; proponents advocate for increased consistency and accuracy. In AAA baseball, a balance seems to have been struck with the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) System – this system preserves the traditional role of the umpire while allowing for questionable calls to be reviewed by batters, pitchers, and catchers. The outcome of the challenge is then displayed on the stadium scoreboard and upheld or reversed accordingly. Final Thoughts For the Braves, having their AAA franchise located so close provides some operational advantages when it comes to roster management, but may be a barrier when it comes to attracting fans. The location does seem a bit isolated when considering the dynamics of Atlanta’s northeast suburbs. Attendance woes do not seem to be due to anything specific the staff in Gwinnett could or should be doing differently – the club is more a victim of planning circumstances that weren’t considered or planned for when deciding to build a stadium here. Promotional nights could be a bit more creative, but it takes the right organization and fanbase to pull off “Exploding Whales” or host a successful “Toilet Paper Night”. What Gwinnett does offer, though, is a decent minor-league baseball experience that is entertaining, while keeping the game on the field as the focus of the experience.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 American Family Field One Brewers Way Milwaukee, WI 53214 Milwaukee Brewers website American Family Field website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 41,900 Baseball, Beer, & Brats at the Brewers Game American Family Field is the home field of the Milwaukee Brewers. Originally known as Miller Park when it opened in 2001, the ballpark is known for its tailgating before the game, its ballpark food of Wisconsin treats, and strong fan support. It houses a fan-shaped retractable roof that opens or closes in 10 minutes. The ballpark received $500,000 worth of public funds to renovate the stadium. It resulted in a 12,077 square feet video board in center field, a 2,840 square foot board in right field, LED displays, and the creation of the 3rd Street Market Hall with 4 new restaurants in the right field loge level. Before moving into American Family Field, the Brew Crew called County Stadium home from 1970-2000. The ballpark is gone, but the field is now the site of a Little League baseball park, Helfaer Field. It is located near the AAF and it provides the opportunity for kids to run on the field before a Brewers game. The renovations will guarantee the Brewers will stay in town until 2050 (the club’s 80th anniversary since moving from Seattle) and enhance what many considered a ballpark to visit during the season. Food & Beverage 5 American Family Field was named the second-best MLB stadium for food by USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. This year includes the addition of four new eateries that are located in the 3rd Street Market Hall Annex in the right field loge level and include the following establishments: Kompali Tacos: Steak tacos, Chicken tacos, Vegetarian Tacos, and Chips and Guacamole. Smokin’ Jack’s BBQ: Texan Sandwich, Pork Shoulder Sandwich, The Smokey Bird Sandwich, and Smoked Meat Nachos. KAWA (Asian fusion): Crab Rangoon (3 pieces), Spring Roll (4 pieces), Godzilla Roll, and Chicken Fried Rice. Anytime Arepa (Venezuelan): Brisket and Cheddar Arepa, Chicken and Cheddar Arepa, Black Bean and Cheddar Arepa, Mini Empanadas (3-piece basket – Chicken, Ground Beef, and Cheese) and Tostones and Mild Salsa. The J. Leinenkugel's Barrel Yard (Loge area in right field) is a restaurant and experience overlooking the field. It features a three-barrel brewing system and brewmaster. The restaurant is opened all-year-round and offers a full menu of steak dishes, chicken wings, Wisconsin cheese boards, cheese soup, and a Wurst platter. Fans enjoy a patio view of the game on the concourse with a wait staff. However, more options specialize in Wisconsin favorites of sausages, burgers, brats, hot dogs, and sausages. A few highlights include the peppered brandy burger with melted Swiss cheese, bacon, and caramelized brandy onions; the Tipsy Polish with caramelized brandy onions, fries, pickled peppers, and Bavarian sprinkles; and the Top of the North hot dog with kraut, jalapeno mayonnaise, bacon, brown mustard, and Super Secret Stadium sauce. The options do not end here; the concession stands serve pizza slices, chicken parmesan sandwiches, giant helmet nachos, Vienna beef hot dogs, chicken tender baskets with fries, and fried cheese curds. The highlight of the beer selection includes the Local Brews bar, located on the lower level near section 207. It serves 24 beers from numerous Wisconsin breweries, including Spotted Cow from New Glarus Brewery, Ninja Dust from One Barrel Brewing Company, and GumbSkull Sea Salt & Lime Lager from PetSkull Brewing Company. Atmosphere 5 Everything begins about 3 hours before the game in the ballpark parking lots. The birth of tailgating was born here when the Braves came to town from Boston, and the tradition continues today with multiple tables, tents, and grills serving up some of the best foods in the major leagues. The stadium is separated into four different levels. Fans enter through the field level (100), and the wrap-around concourse houses an abundance of food and merchandise options. There are also island bars allowing fans to enjoy the game from all four sides of the structure. There are also open views from many parts of the concourse, allowing fans not to miss the action on the diamond. The Loge level (200) is where you will find a few interesting sections that enhance the game day experience. As mentioned earlier, the 3rd Street Market Hall Annex was recently added. The Miller Lite Landing offers sweeping views of the field from above the left-field wall. The area also has a wait staff, drink rails, charging stations, and TV sets. When the roof is open, the view is ideal for pictures from this vantage point. The 300 level is where you will find club-level suites with a wait staff. A few more suite and all-inclusive areas include the Vizzy Loft, Johnsonville Party Deck, and the Association Bank Power Alley. X-Golf is located on the Loge level and features seven state-of-the-art indoor golf simulator bays over two floors – with three bays that offer expansive views of the playing field. Reservations are required. The Terrace level (400) offers some of the better views of the entire stadium. The ballpark is known for several unique features: Famous Racing Sausages, Bernie’s Chalet, and the Bob Uecker seats in the last row of the stadium in the 400 level. The sausages race between the 6 inning, and featured five different sausage and mini sausage mascots racing from the left field corner to the first baseline. The team’s mascot, Bernie Brewer, will slide down from his chalet after every Brewer home run. The Aurora Health Care® Kids Zone is a special kids' interactive playground located on the Terrace Level behind home plate. The area offers slides, areas to test kid’s speed, pitching, and face painting. Fans can also look around the walls of the ballpark to see team logos, sayings, and murals honoring the Brewers history in the town. Neighborhood 3 American Family Field is 4.3 miles from downtown Milwaukee. It should not be surprising since it was built next to the team’s former home County Stadium. When County Stadium opened in 1953, it was designed with the motorist in mind and was the first major league ballpark constructed outside the city limits. It is best to drive to the game and visit downtown Milwaukee afterward. The Milwaukee Riverwalk is worth a visit on a warm summer day and is accessible to the Milwaukee Public Market which is located in the Historic Third Ward where cobblestone streets line up next to restaurants, shops, and bars. The city is home to the Harley-Davidson Museum and a few brewery tours that include Miller, Lakefront, and Specher. If craving more baseball, the Milwaukee Milkmen and Lake Country Dockhounds of the American Association play 15 and 30 minutes respectively from the stadium. Still, the Lakeshore Chinooks of the Northwoods League play less than 20 minutes north along the shoreline at Kapco Park. Fans 5 The Brewers are known for having some of the best fans in the major leagues. The club averages well above 15 other major league teams, and fans are decked in team gear from the powder blue shirts of the 1980s to the current navy blue jerseys. They support their ball club regardless of record on the field. Access 4 Being set outside of downtown, the ballpark is easy to access with multiple lots to choose from before the game. There are 8 preferred parking lots and 3 larger general parking lots that are a little further walk. Once inside, the main concourse is the hub of activities with escalators and elevators available to take you to your proper section. The Molitor Lot is the furthest parking lot but provides the quickest access to I-94. Several restaurants offer shuttle service from downtown Milwaukee, including Brewski's Sports Club, Paulie's Pup & Eatery, Jack's American Pub, and Who's on Third. Return on Investment 4 Brewers tickets are among the cheapest tickets in the major leagues. Based on the website TickPick, tickets are as low as $5 during the week and as high as $20 during the weekend or giveaway nights. If the Chicago Cubs are in town, the price will be higher, and it's advised to purchase parking passes in advance for a steep discount. General parking Monday through Friday is $13, compared to $15. A preferred parking ticket for a weekend game will cost $20, compared to $40. The Brewers concession prices are in line with many major league ballparks. They are a tad on the high side; however, “The 414 Menu” offers four items a la carte for just $4 each – a junior hot dog, junior nachos, Cracker Jack, and 16 oz. soda is ideal for folks with little kids or on a budget. Extras 4 First, tailgating is among the best in baseball and is a tradition. Take time to arrive early to check out the scene or bring something to eat or drink. The Famous Sausage Race is a must-see at the game and among the team’s favorite traditions, along with Bernie Brewer sliding down his chalet after every Brewers home run. Another extra is when the roof is open, the best part of the ballpark might be the Miller Lite Landing, offering sweeping views of the field from above the left-field wall. Final Thoughts American Family Field is one of those major league ballparks that might not stand out to most, but after a visit, you might want to reconsider. It is known for its tailgating, loyal fans, great food, and racing sausages. Also, ticket prices are among the least expensive in the league, making it affordable for anyone looking to enjoy a game at a major league ballpark during the season. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Daikin Park 501 Crawford St Houston, TX 77002 Houston Astros website Daikin Park website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 41,168 Houston Astros – Minute Maid Park Editor's Note: On January 1, 2025, the stadium was renamed to Daikin Park after Japanese conglomerate Daikin, the world's largest manufacturer of air conditioners, agreed to acquire the stadium's naming rights. The agreement will run through 2039. The Houston Astros were the first Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise to call the Lone Star State their home when they were founded in 1962. The then Houston Colt .45s spent three seasons at Colt Stadium while awaiting the completion of the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Houston Astrodome. For close to four decades, the ‘Stros held court at the most unique ballpark in the country, if not the world. However, the facts of life are that everything ages, everything changes. So, at the dawn of the 21st century, the Astros bid adieu to the dome and headed to their new digs in downtown Space City. The now-named Minute Maid Park has been the site of unprecedented success for the home team, including four wild card berths, six division titles, five pennants, and two World Series titles. Baseball Hall of Famers Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio spent large chunks of their careers in the Juice Box, while all-time greats Randy Johnson and Iván Rodríguez chased championships in the twilight of their respective careers in Houston. As Minute Maid Park enters its 25th season of existence, the experience still feels new and special. Read on to learn more about the venerable Juice Box. Food & Beverage 5 Anything and everything you could want to eat or drink can pretty much be found at Minute Maid Park. Virtually every stand can get you your hot dog, popcorn, soda, beer, etc. – whatever you’re hankering for, you’re pretty much going to be able to get. National chain spots Chick-fil-A, Pluckers Wing Bar, Papa John’s Pizza, and Shake Shack have a presence at the ballpark, while local spots Killen’s BBQ and Taqueria Arandas offer up the quintessential Texas menu items of barbecue and Tex-Mex. In addition, local breweries Karbach, St. Arnold’s, and Ziegenbock also all have stands in Minute Maid Park offering up their wares. You can get quesadillas, pupusas, Mexican street corn, sausage sandwiches, chopped brisket-top baked potatoes, Cajun po’ boys, and loaded mac and cheese bowls at various spots in the ballpark. However, some of the new items to look out for this season include the Pennant Pickle Dog (available at all “Home and Away Stands” in the park), which is a footlong hot dog topped with Texas chili, jalapeño slaw, and fried pickle chips. Also be on the lookout for the Slova-Chos (located at the Slovacek’s Sausage cart on the main concourse), which are ranch-dusted kettle chips – this stand also offers Crawford Bock beer cheese, sauteed peppers and onions, and a choice of one of Slovacek’s signature sausages. Lastly, look for the Curveball Corn Dogs at the H-Town Grill kiosk; these are mini corn dogs loaded with chili, cheese, and diced onions (only in America, y’all). Atmosphere 4 The Astros and Minute Maid Park continue to find ways to make game days feel like big-time events each season. A lot of this is due to the massive amount of success the ball club has experienced in the last decade-plus. From the moment you walk up to the Juice Box, everything becomes a celebration of baseball and the Astros. The energy is palpable once you are on the main concourse and can see the field. As you make your way through the walkways you see artwork, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, and multiple team stores, including areas where you can get a custom jersey and/or custom baseball bat right there on the spot. As you make your way over to the left field side of the stadium, you’ll come across Hall of Fame Alley, home of the Astros Hall of Fame. Displays capture the legacy and careers of Houston greats like Nolan Ryan, Mike Scott, Lance Berkman, J.R. Richard, Terry Puhl, and more. For baseball fans, it’s a great trip down memory lane. Also, once in your seats, you’ll be able to see the banners representing all the team’s championship success above the train tracks in left field (more on this in the Extras section) – the team’s greats are also represented by the retired jersey numbers above the massive scoreboard in center field. Lastly, in past reviews I’ve mentioned a little about the ballpark’s history – built on the site of the former Houston train depot, many of those details were left here, from the brickyard to the vaulted ceilings in the alleyways, to the aforementioned train. All of this adds to Minute Maid’s unique charm. Neighborhood 5 Space City is the fourth-largest metro area in the United States, and with that comes all the cosmopolitan trappings of it being such. Houston boasts four of the big five pro sports leagues in the country, being home to the Houston Texans, Houston Rockets, and Houston Dynamo, so you always have a chance to double up on games if you plan your visit to Minute Maid Park just right. In terms of things to do besides sports, you can find everything – take a trip to the Museum District to visit a collection of some of the finest museums in the country, or visit Discovery Green, Hermann Park, or Buffalo Bayou Park to take in some of the finest urban green spaces this side of Central Park. If you have young ones on the trip, the first two options are must-dos. Lastly, if you want to escape the heat and take in a little shopping, The Galleria is the place to be. For dining and lodging, Houston is incredibly diverse, so whatever your tastes and whatever your budget, you’re going to find something that works for you. In the immediate vicinity, you’ve got a wide selection of eateries such as the famed Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse, Irma’s Southwest, and Biggio’s Restaurant & Bar. Hotels range from the four-star Westin Houston Downtown to the Club Quarters Hotel Downtown, Houston. Fans 4 The Astros are currently averaging close to 34,000 fans per game, which places them firmly in the top 10 in all of MLB. As mentioned, the rising tide of the club has raised the ships of all fans in Houston – Astros hats, shirts, jerseys, etc. are more visible now than at any point in the team’s history, and those attending games here are likewise decked out in their ‘Stros gear. The last few seasons I’ve come to Minute Maid Park, the crowds have been loud and energetic; I don’t think casual fans would automatically include Houston among the best baseball fans in MLB, but I think it’s time to start that conversation. Access 4 Located conveniently in Houston’s downtown, Minute Maid Park is sandwiched between two major highways Interstate 10 and Highway 69. I always caution visitors to Houston about its traffic, so if you’re driving to a game, consider that when making your way here. Once in the area parking is plentiful, but it will cost you. If you’re flying in, George Bush Intercontinental Airport – one of the busiest, yet highest-rated airports in the U.S. – is only a 20-minute drive away. If you choose not to drive, the Houston METRO has a rail stop adjacent to the ballpark, which could save you a bit of a headache. Also, if you’re staying downtown and want to walk, the Downtown Tunnels are open Monday through Friday and will give you a respite from the weather. Return on Investment 4 Single-game tickets for the Astros at Minute Maid Park start at just $7 per person – depending on the day and the game – which is a tremendous bargain. However, concessions are a little on the steep side, to be honest, and parking varies depending on how close to the park you want to be (I saw parking recently ranging from $10 to $50 per car). You’re also going to spend a bit if you decide to opt for a souvenir. However, given the caliber of baseball, the Astros have been playing the past few years, when you come here you’re paying to see a championship team loaded with All-Stars. Extras 3 Aside from the various photo ops throughout the stadium and the Hall of Fame, there is also the previously mentioned home run train. As could be surmised by its name, the replica 19th-century train goes off along a short 56-foot length of track every time the Astros a) take the field in the first inning, b) hit a home run, and c) win. It’s pretty basic, but it’s also pretty fun to see. The other extras are the team’s cheerleaders, the Houston Astros Shooting Stars, and their beloved mascot Orbit. Both are around throughout the game and are ever ready to interact with fans in the stands and on the concourse. Final Thoughts I have been to more Astros games over the years than any other baseball team; I’ve also been to a ton of games at Minute Maid Park. Still, all these years later it remains one of my top handful of places to see a game – the games feel “big” here, and the fans have always cared about their team, even in the down years. For baseball fans, the Juice Box should be added to your bucket list, especially given all of the other things there are to see and do in Space City. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Polar Park 122 Madison St Worcester, MA 01610 Worcester Red Sox website Polar Park website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 9,508 Worcester’s Blue Bandbox In February 2015 a group of investors, including former Boston Red Sox President Larry Lucchino, purchased the Pawtucket Red Sox from the family of the late Ben Mondor. The ownership group immediately began a search for a new ballpark, as the Pawsox’ longtime home, McCoy Stadium, was deemed unfit without major reconstruction. After several proposed plans in Pawtucket and Providence fell through, it was soon announced that the team would relocate to Worcester (pronounced “Woo-stah”), MA for the 2021 season. The new facility would be a part of a proposed live-work-play development. Cost for the ballpark alone would reach $159.5 million, making this the most expensive minor league stadium ever built. Polar Beverages purchased naming rights for the ballpark. The Red Sox, colloquially called the “WooSox,” played their first game on May 11, 2021. Worcester was once home to a Major League Baseball team. The Worcester Worcesters (alternately known as the Brown Stockings or Ruby Legs) played in the National League from 1880 to 1882. The first perfect game in Major League history was thrown in Worcester, by Lee Richmond against the Cleveland Blues on June 12, 1880. The Worcester team was dropped by the league to make way for a franchise in Philadelphia that became the Phillies. Food & Beverage 5 Concessions have become a point of emphasis in all new sports facilities as a way to maximize the fan experience. Polar Park is no exception, as there is great quality and variety in the concessions offered (a complete map of concessions can be found here). There is a particular emphasis here to use local companies and products (which will be a recurring theme throughout this review). Among the local favorites fans can sample at a WooSox game are slices from Wonder Bar Pizza, hot wieners from George’s Coney Island and sausages from The Sausage Guy. Since we’re in New England, it’s only natural that you can grab a lobster roll or clam chowder at the cart in right field. If you are looking for a snack, personal-sized Table Talk Pies (their factory is located next door to Polar Park) are sold at all stands for just $2. Be warned that concessions lines are long, although they do move well. The cola wars have skipped Polar Park entirely, as the ballpark sponsor, Polar Beverages, provides the drinks here. If visiting from out of town, Stadium Journey recommends the orange dry. The best way to describe one is it tastes like an orange soda and a ginger ale had a delicious soda baby. The craft beer game is strong at Polar Park. Drafts from Wachusett, Harpoon, Sam Adams and Greater Good are featured throughout the ballpark. The star of the show at Polar Park is Worcester-based Wormtown Brewery, which offers up several brews, including “Don’t Worry, Be Hoppy,” “Mass Whole,” and a mash-up with Table Talk Pies, “Blueberry Lemon Pie Ale.” If all these choices don’t do it for you, take a walk on Summit Street, open behind the center field stands during games. The Taste of Worcester, featuring a rotation of local restaurants, can be found here alongside other favorites. Atmosphere 5 Fans of the Red Sox AAA franchise who have followed the team back to its days in Rhode Island may remember the strong community connection the team had in Pawtucket. In Worcester, that connection has been turned up to eleven. While planning the construction of Polar Park, fan feedback and ideas were actively solicited and used, and this process has continued over the team’s early years. As you look around the park, it’s evident that fan input is taken to heart. Park is a bandbox, with precious little foul territory and fans right on top of the action. There are numerous social gathering areas throughout the ballpark that all fans can access, giving the park a community feel and a lively buzz during games. The giant, if poorly placed, video scoreboard in left field is put to good use with game stats, replays, and features throughout the game. The sound system is clear and there is noise and activity going on throughout the park all game long. The team’s unique mascot, Smiley Ball, has been the subject of much derision, but even it has a Worcester-related back story. Harvey Ball, a Worcester native, designed the famous yellow Smiley Face (think “have a nice day”) in 1963. Smiley Ball now heads a team of four mascots that roam Polar Park and help with promotions all game long. Of course, with Worcester located firmly in Red Sox territory, there’s no doubt that this is a Red Sox affiliate. Replicas of Red Sox championship rings stand in the entrance plaza and one of the duck boats from the 2007 World Series parade sits atop the left field berm. Neighborhood 3 Polar Park is in the Canal District of Worcester, traditionally one of the city’s least desirable neighborhoods. However, recent years have seen a revival, with development happening, including the nearby Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center. The ballpark was planned to be the centerpiece of a mixed-use tax district designed to pay off the cost of the ballpark, but those developments have been slow to come to fruition and have been severely downsized. One project, the so-called “Left Field Building,” has been terminated, leaving only a foundation completed behind the left field berm. Green Street, just a few blocks from Polar Park, is home to several bars and restaurants worth a visit before or after a WooSox game. The Worcester Public Market contains several locally owned specialty shops and eateries, including Wachusett Brew Works. Other spots to check out near Polar Park include the Miss Worcester Diner, the Hanover Theater and the Worcester Historical Museum. Worcester’s famous “Restaurant Row,” located on Shrewsbury Street, is located just over a mile from Polar Park. With more than 40 restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining, diners to brew halls, there is something for all tastes here. With a plethora of shops and eateries, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll on a beautiful summer day. The DCU Center, home of the ECHL’s Worcester Railers, is located just over a mile away in the Central Business District. Fans 5 Worcester couldn’t be more excited to be the new home of the Red Sox’ top farm team. With Fenway Park located a mere 44 miles to the east of Polar Park, Worcester lies firmly in Red Sox Nation. The fans here are as knowledgeable and dedicated as any in the nation. The WooSox have finished among the leaders in all of the minor leagues in attendance in each of their four seasons in Worcester. The team has sold over 500,000 tickets in each of the past three seasons. They are the only team in the minor leagues to have accomplished this feat. Access 3 Located in Worcester’s up and coming Canal District, Polar Park is just a few blocks from Interstate 290 and less than a mile from Worcester’s Union Station. But somehow, it’s not as easy to get to as you might think. Traffic in the area can be busy, and the notorious Kelly Square does not help matters. For those not familiar, Kelly Square is an intersection near the ballpark where several of Worcester’s busiest streets come together in the most random way possible. As part of the construction of Polar Park the intersection was redesigned, improving flow, but it is still a bottleneck point when a big crowd meets rush hour traffic. Polar Park is wedged into a small footprint, making for some unique design choices, and space is at a premium. There is a small entry plaza leading to front entrance that screams “warehouse” more than “ballpark.” While this design choice makes Polar Park stand out from the red brick and green seat new “cookie cutter” design, it has met with some derision by fans. A major negative with the design of Polar Park is the small footprint. Due to the lack of space, the concourse is very narrow and is tough to navigate when a big crowd is present. When navigating the park, fans will encounter many areas where you actually have to leave the park, climb stairs or enter areas that are not paved. There are some, let’s call them unique, design choices here. Beyond the seating bowl, fans will find several group areas where fans can congregate and spread out a bit. Polar Park boasts a great deal of standing room and alternate spots from which to catch the action. Return on Investment 2 Much has been made of the expense of WooSox tickets, and yes, we’re not in Pawtucket anymore. Premium seats are priced at $61, but on the plus side, the vast majority of seats are available for less than $30. Box seats behind home plate are priced at $40, with the cheapest seats in the seating bowl sold for $25. The cheapest seats in the ballpark, general admission spots on the berm, now go for $16 apiece. Check the WooSox website for complete seating options. Parking is another area where Polar Park has received criticism. While the club boasts of 7,300 parking spots within a half mile of Polar Park, most of them hardly seem convenient. These lots charge between $15-$30 to park and require a walk through often poorly-lit roads through less than stellar neighborhoods. A small parking garage is located right across the street from the ballpark on Madison Street, which charges $23 for a spot. Complete parking information can be found here. There is little on-street parking in the area. Concession prices are higher than other venues in the area. While not as expensive as a trip to Fenway Park, be ready to spend a few dollars when you head to Polar Park. Extras 5 There are so many special features in the design of Polar Park it would be tempting to give more than the maximum score in this category. From the inclusion of Worcester native Harvey Ball’s Smiley Face to the artwork produced by local artists and the inclusion of local vendors into the concession menu, this ballpark screams Worcester in every nook and cranny. Even the light towers are shaped like hearts, a nod to Worcester’s nickname as “the heart of the Commonwealth.” The entry tower contains a memorial to the Worcester Six, a group of firefighters that perished fighting a warehouse fire not far from the ballpark site. Uniform number 6 has been retired by the team in honor of these firefighters. Also notable as you enter the ballpark is a display of Ted Williams-themed artwork and the Pawtucket Red Sox Hall of Fame. It’s the only recognition of the franchise’s 50 years in Rhode Island. The many unique vantagepoints from which to watch the game earn another extra point. The numerous social gathering spots, such as the Worcester Wall and The Bridge maximize capacity in this bandbox of a ballpark. Not content to sit on their laurels, the WooSox continue to add new features to Polar Park every year. Recent additions include the WooSox reward app, which allows fans to earn points at games and participating businesses to redeem for WooSox merchandise and experiences, and virtual reality games inside Polar Park. Final Thoughts Polar Park has proven to be a very divisive ballpark over its brief history. From the relocation of the iconic PawSox to the price tag for the new facility to the unique look and design of the ballpark, Polar Park seems to have created as many critics as fans. But a closer look at the ballpark shows an incredible attention to detail and connection to community. Like the park’s signature beverages, it may not be to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying the positive impact this blue bandbox has had on the Worcester community. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter and Instagram @PuckmanRI.