FedEx Park Avron Fogelman Field - Memphis Tigers
- stadiumjourney
- Mar 14
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 16
Photos Courtesy of @baseballtravels/IG
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3. 29
FedExPark Avron Fogleman Field
974 Getwell Rd.
Memphis, TN 38111
Year Opened: 1972
Capacity: 2,000
From Nat Buring Stadium to FedExPark
A new era of Memphis Tigers baseball began in 2010 when the program unveiled a dramatically renovated home ballpark. After spending 36 seasons at Nat Buring Stadium, the Tigers opened the newly transformed FedExPark, a modernized facility that reflected the university’s renewed investment in its baseball program.
The transformation was made possible through a $3 million gift from Memphis-based FedEx Corp. The funding allowed the university to completely overhaul the stadium that had served as the team’s home since 1972.
In the fall of 2022, a $3.5 million renovation project was made possible through the generosity of Memphis businessman and philanthropist Avron Fogelman, along with stadium namesake FedEx. Fogleman was the former owner of the Memphis Chicks Double-A baseball team from 1978 to 1988.
The project introduced a state-of-the-art artificial turf playing surface along with a new videoboard to enhance the fan experience. Additional improvements included upgraded seating areas, new fan safety netting, and a brick exterior wall that gives the ballpark a more polished, welcoming appearance.
Fans also benefit from several upgrades included in the redesign. The grandstand area features an expanded press box with dedicated radio and television broadcast booths as well as workspace for media and event staff. New restrooms and concession areas were added to improve game-day comfort.
A grand entrance on the left-field side of the stadium welcomes fans arriving from the parking lots and creates an inviting gateway to the ballpark.
Food & Beverage 3
Their concession items are simple, but what you would expect to see at a ballpark of this size. The menu options include hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, popcorn, candy, and soda. There is a grill that serves up burgers and brats during the game.
However, one must not overlook the barbecue nachos, a regional delicacy in Memphis. The university also offers its own beer, “Tiger Tail,” exclusively brewed by Grind City Brewing Company. It is a craft malt liquor that is slightly sweet and aged on toasted American oak for a light, smooth taste.
Photo Courtesy of David Hill
Atmosphere 4
FedExPark is a small ballpark, measuring 318 feet down the left-field line, 317 feet down the right-field line, 360 feet to the power alleys, and 379 feet to center field. It is a simple design that features 9-10 rows of seating in a brick grandstand. Each seat is made of a blue back seat for added comfort.
However, the park often plays differently depending on the wind. When breezes blow in from left field, pitchers tend to have the advantage. When the wind shifts and blows out toward the left, the ballpark can quickly become more favorable to hitters.
The backstop features retired numbers of past baseball greats. There are 12 in total, including Stan Bronson, Jr., who was a batboy from 1958-2014 and is regarded as the "Most Durable Batboy" per Guinness World Records.
Neighborhood 3
The ballpark is surrounded by a mixture of commercial and residential housing on the University of Memphis Park South Campus. It is a few miles north of I-240 and near the main intersection of Getwell Road and Park Ave. You are not going to find a lot within driving distance.
Downtown Memphis is 8 miles west of campus and about a 20-30 minute drive from the ballpark. Beale Street is a popular tourist destination for live music, famous eateries, and places for drinks. Dyer’s Burgers have been cooked in the same grease since 1912, Bill Sweet’s Sugar Shack specializes in homemade fudge, King’s Palace Cafe serves Cajun-Cuisine and live Blues music, and Rendezvous is your place for Memphis-style barbecue.
Within just a few blocks of the arena, visitors will find several of Memphis’ most notable attractions. The National Civil Rights Museum and the Blues Hall of Fame both sit nearby, offering powerful looks into the city’s cultural and musical heritage. A short walk toward the river brings fans to Mud Island, located along the Mississippi Riverfront, where exhibits highlight the history and importance of the mighty river as it flows past downtown Memphis.
Fans 4
The fanbase was really into the game despite the Tigers losing record at the time of the visit. There appear to be many regulars who make their voices heard throughout the grandstand and field of play. They bring a much-added punch to the proceedings that is quite welcoming at a ballpark of this size.
Access 4
The entrance to the ballpark is in the left field corner, and fans make their way to the grandstand along an inner concourse. There are plenty of areas to move around inside the seating bowl. The best way to access the stadium is by car. Parking is available behind the left field wall.
Return on Investment 3
The price of a ticket to the game is $9 for standing room only or $11 for general admission. The price of concessions is reasonable, and it's a comfortable place to enjoy a game during the springtime in town.
The Tigers offer multiple promotional days, including $2 Tuesdays, where tickets and hot dogs are just $2. Friday Happy Hour: $2 beer is available 15 minutes before the first pitch and 45 minutes after. Sunday Fundays, where kids are allowed to run the bases and select players are available to sign autographs. There is also Bark in the Park on select nights.
Photo Courtesy of David Wolf
Extras 2
The ballpark has a nice entrance way in the leftfield corner that makes it easy for fans to park their cars at the game. It includes a small tiger statue at the gate. The food quality is better than expected, including barbecue nachos.
Final Thoughts
FedExPark Avron Fogelman Field blends modern amenities with decades of tradition. With continued investment in both player development and the fan experience, the ballpark remains a central part of Memphis Tigers baseball and its future growth.
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