I learned today that one of my favorite baseball broadcasters, Bill King, passed away yesterday. I've been a little down since I heard the news. Who, you say?
Bill King has been the voice of the Oakland A's for the last 25 years. He also called games for the Oakland Raiders, and the Golden State Warriors, and did all three for a couple of years. I never got to hear him call basketball or football games, but had the pleasure of listening to him and Lon Simmons do A's games on the radio while I was living in the Bay Area. Simmons was inducted into the broadcasters wing of the baseball hall of fame this year, and many will say that Bill King was better.
My memories of A's baseball while I was out there include some great baseball, and some great A's teams, with Canseco, McGwire, Weiss, Steinbach, Stewart, Welch and Eckersley. The Oakland Coliseum was still a decent ballpark, before the monstrosity called Mt. Davis was erected in center field. But I think what I remember most about those times were the voices. The deep voice of Roy Steele, still the A's public address announcer, the baritone voice of Lon Simmons on the radio, and the unique, sometimes staccato, always crisp tenor of Bill King.
I loved how he described the game- smooth and steady, often painting a picture for you. Plenty of humor, with personal anecdotes that never seemed to get in the way of the action on the field. When things got exciting, you never quite knew what he would say, but you knew it would be classic, and would describe the situation perfectly. No matter what, you got the sense that he was really enjoying what he was doing, and who he was working with, which made it all the better.
His most famous call was with the Raiders, the famous "Holy Roller" forward fumble of the early 70's. He capped off his description of the frantic play with "Nothing is real anymore, The Oakland Raiders have won the game!" My best memory of him was a call for a Jose Canseco home run I heard one night. After hearing the crack of the bat, he rattled off in about three seconds: "That one is high! That one is deep! That one is gone!" Then, after a second or two, his trademark "Holy Toledo!" followed by a more detailed description of the homer. Simple, eloquent, and capturing the raw power of the Bash Brothers.
It is often said that fans develop a special attachment to their team's broadcasters, because they hear them so much, because they represent the team, and especially because radio can be such a personal medium. Here in Norfolk, I've enjoyed the last couple of years with Jeff McCarriger calling our Tides games. But the truly great broadcasters stick with you, even when you don't listen regularly. Luckily, thanks to the internet and satellite radio, I have been able to tune in to the A's broadcasts every once in a while over the last couple of years, and listen to Bill King. I think it was almost more important that I was listening to him call the game than that I was listening to the A's game. Next year, I'll be able to tune in and listen to Vin Scully, Bob Uecker and Marty Brennaman, but it just won't be the same without Bill King, one of the best.
Here is a great tribute to King written by Ray Ratto of the San Francisco Chronicle:
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2005/10/19/SPGD1FANUT1.DTL
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Monday, July 18, 2005
Wahconah- Old Wooden Grandstand
Just the basics in Pittsfield. Some box seats, which sold for $6 each for this game, and some wooden bench seats that reminded me of church pews. Wahconah Park was built in 1919, and like most older ballparks, has been added onto, subtracted from, and fiddled with; but it maintains its character. It is a fun place to see a game and feel like you are part of a community.
A familiar name is involved in keeping baseball alive in this little gem of a park. Dan Duquette, former general manager of the Red Sox, is president of the Dukes.
A familiar name is involved in keeping baseball alive in this little gem of a park. Dan Duquette, former general manager of the Red Sox, is president of the Dukes.
Pittsfield- No Sun Delay Today
Wahconah Park has the distinction of facing the wrong way. The sun sets over the outfield fence, in the BATTER'S eye! The game sometimes has to be stopped when the sun gets in a particularly hazardous spot, but the night I was there was not a problem. It was overcast, so us fans could watch the game without squinting!
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Wahconah- A True Backyard Ballpark
Located in an established residential neighborhood, Wahconah park is literally in some people's backyard, as can be seen here.
Squeezing into a neighborhood means that sometimes a ballpark's dimensions are sometimes a little strange, and Wahconah Park is no exception. it measures 400 feet to the right-field power alley, and 374 feet to straightaway center-field. Normally these dimensions are reversed.
Squeezing into a neighborhood means that sometimes a ballpark's dimensions are sometimes a little strange, and Wahconah Park is no exception. it measures 400 feet to the right-field power alley, and 374 feet to straightaway center-field. Normally these dimensions are reversed.
Wahconah Park- an Old Classic
The second stop on my dad and I's little trip was Pittsfield Massachusetts, and Wahconah Park. It is the home of the Pittsfield Dukes of the New England Collegiate Baseball League.
Over the last 10-12 years there has been a boom in construction of new minor league ballparks, and a flurry of team relocations. The Pittsfield Mets of the New York-Penn League moved to Brooklyn, and have become one of the higher drawing teams in all of minor league baseball.
College summer leagues give college baseball players a chance to play ball all summer long, using wooden bats instead of aluminum. The college leagues have seized a ready-made opportunity, and have taken over many of the parks abandoned by the minor leagues, including Wahconah Park.
Over the last 10-12 years there has been a boom in construction of new minor league ballparks, and a flurry of team relocations. The Pittsfield Mets of the New York-Penn League moved to Brooklyn, and have become one of the higher drawing teams in all of minor league baseball.
College summer leagues give college baseball players a chance to play ball all summer long, using wooden bats instead of aluminum. The college leagues have seized a ready-made opportunity, and have taken over many of the parks abandoned by the minor leagues, including Wahconah Park.
A Midsummer Night at Yale Field
This is the second year for the New Haven County Cutters. Hopefully they draw better than the did the night my dad and I were there. The announced attendance was 905, the actual crowd was something less.
Cutters management does try hard, and has a sense of humor. Their slogan is "Fun is Good." The between innings stunts and promotions are over the top, from the obstacle race to the plunger toss.
I was impressed with the concessions also. "Brew Haven" was a welcome sight, with eight different imports and microbrews on tap. The Bar B Q in the left field corner looked to be in the southern tradition, and even had macaroni and cheese on the menu! Of course, the hot dogs tasted good!
Cutters management does try hard, and has a sense of humor. Their slogan is "Fun is Good." The between innings stunts and promotions are over the top, from the obstacle race to the plunger toss.
I was impressed with the concessions also. "Brew Haven" was a welcome sight, with eight different imports and microbrews on tap. The Bar B Q in the left field corner looked to be in the southern tradition, and even had macaroni and cheese on the menu! Of course, the hot dogs tasted good!
Yale Field Grandstand
In preparation for the Ravens arrival, the grandstand was renovated and modernized. Wooden stands were replaced with metal stands- some of the noisiest stands you will ever hear. The Cutters management takes advantage of this, and encourages foot stomping by the fans at every opportunity.
Yale field has a semicircular grandstand, which means there is a large amount of foul territory. A pitcher's dream!
Yale field has a semicircular grandstand, which means there is a large amount of foul territory. A pitcher's dream!
Yale Field
I took a short trip with my dad right after the 4th of July to visit two old parks. First stop, Yale Field, home of the New Haven County Cutters, a team in the independent Can-Am league. The New Haven Ravens in the AA Eastern League once called Yale Field home, but moved to greener pastures a few years ago. This ballpark is located at the athletic complex of Yale University, across the street from the Yale Bowl football stadium.
The most distinctive feature of Yale Field is probably the open arches in the outer wall of the park. They sit above the top row of the grandstand, and are rather striking.
The most distinctive feature of Yale Field is probably the open arches in the outer wall of the park. They sit above the top row of the grandstand, and are rather striking.
Monday, May 23, 2005
DC: In the Seats at Richmond
There are three tiers of seats at the Diamond. The red seats are box seats, the silver seats are reserved, and the gold seats are general admission. All of the seats are the same otherwise. Bench seats with irritating little armrests that stick out from the somewhat contoured bench-back.
Also notice the luxury boxes down low to the field, as opposed to higher up in most parks. They kind of serve to segregate the box seats from everything else at the ballpark.
The Diamond has had it's share of troubles recently. At the end of the 2004 season, the R-Braves had to play some of their home games at Norfolk's Harbor Park because heavy rains made the poorly draining field unplayable. A good bit of the outfield was under water.
One of my few favorite things about the Diamond? The fireworks! The fourth of July home games are always sold out, and feature the BEST ballpark fireworks I've ever seen. They are so good, that people check in to the motel beyond the left field fence just to sit outside their rooms and watch. just a great fireworks show!
Also notice the luxury boxes down low to the field, as opposed to higher up in most parks. They kind of serve to segregate the box seats from everything else at the ballpark.
The Diamond has had it's share of troubles recently. At the end of the 2004 season, the R-Braves had to play some of their home games at Norfolk's Harbor Park because heavy rains made the poorly draining field unplayable. A good bit of the outfield was under water.
One of my few favorite things about the Diamond? The fireworks! The fourth of July home games are always sold out, and feature the BEST ballpark fireworks I've ever seen. They are so good, that people check in to the motel beyond the left field fence just to sit outside their rooms and watch. just a great fireworks show!
DC: Richmond's "Rough" Diamond
The last stop on my little weekend adventure was an afternoon day game in Richmond, VA. The Richmond Braves played my Norfolk Tides.
The Diamond has the distinction of being built just a few years before the big ballpark boom, started by, among others, the Tides' Harbor Park. What a difference a few years and 90 miles makes!
The Diamond was built in a part of town I'd describe as "warehousey." It is convenient to I-95, and to the surrounding parking lots, but not much else. It was also built very quickly, during one off-season.
It is a very basic, symmetrical stadium, with one huge grandstand. The concourse is accessed by steps, something that always irks me.
The picture shows a massive roof over the stand- a good feature in my opinion. Plenty of cover for those rainy days when they keep playing the game!
The Diamond has the distinction of being built just a few years before the big ballpark boom, started by, among others, the Tides' Harbor Park. What a difference a few years and 90 miles makes!
The Diamond was built in a part of town I'd describe as "warehousey." It is convenient to I-95, and to the surrounding parking lots, but not much else. It was also built very quickly, during one off-season.
It is a very basic, symmetrical stadium, with one huge grandstand. The concourse is accessed by steps, something that always irks me.
The picture shows a massive roof over the stand- a good feature in my opinion. Plenty of cover for those rainy days when they keep playing the game!
Sunday, May 22, 2005
DC: RFK Rain Delay
Having kept a close eye on the forecast, I opted for a seat under the protection of the upper deck overhang. So I was able to stay dry during a rain delay in the sixth inning, and ultimately during the game-ending rain delay in the eighth. Before then, the crowd of 40,000 was treated to what would be a Nationals victory over the Mets.
The preseason buzz about the Nationals was that they may not have the best record in their inaugural season, but they would be entertaining. So far, they have exceeded expectations, performing well for their home crowds, and staying close to .500.
Too bad their grounds crew isn't performing as well! Poor tarp management caused a comedy to break out at the ballgame. It took the crew a half-hour to get the tarp on the infield the second time. Their struggles were entertaining to the remaining crowd. Their struggles also ensured that the infield dirt was saturated and unplayable.
The preseason buzz about the Nationals was that they may not have the best record in their inaugural season, but they would be entertaining. So far, they have exceeded expectations, performing well for their home crowds, and staying close to .500.
Too bad their grounds crew isn't performing as well! Poor tarp management caused a comedy to break out at the ballgame. It took the crew a half-hour to get the tarp on the infield the second time. Their struggles were entertaining to the remaining crowd. Their struggles also ensured that the infield dirt was saturated and unplayable.
DC: RFK's View From Above
RFK Stadium is one of the last multi-purpose stadiums remaining, and it has a couple of uses. The prime tenant, of course, is the Nationals, but the very successful soccer team, DC United also calls RFK home.
Compromises have to be made when trying to accommodate many uses, and for RFK, the compromise is the view from the seats in the outfield. This view from the upper deck in left field shows that the outfield wall is well out of sight. Even the steepness of the deck doesn't help!
Everywhere else in the ballpark, the views are fine, unless you are at the very back of the lower deck, where the overhang of the upper deck osbcures your view of the scoreboard.
Compromises have to be made when trying to accommodate many uses, and for RFK, the compromise is the view from the seats in the outfield. This view from the upper deck in left field shows that the outfield wall is well out of sight. Even the steepness of the deck doesn't help!
Everywhere else in the ballpark, the views are fine, unless you are at the very back of the lower deck, where the overhang of the upper deck osbcures your view of the scoreboard.
DC: The Walk to RFK
During my many trips to DC to visit friends, major league baseball was about two hours away. Fight the traffic from Northern Virginia to the south suburbs of Baltimore, then light rail into Camden Yards.
So it was a pleasure to hop on the Orange line metro and join the crowds in the 1/4 mile walk from the Stadium/Armory station to RFK Stadium. From this distance, the stadium's distinctive up-and -down roof can be seen.
So it was a pleasure to hop on the Orange line metro and join the crowds in the 1/4 mile walk from the Stadium/Armory station to RFK Stadium. From this distance, the stadium's distinctive up-and -down roof can be seen.
DC: A New Era
The second leg of my DC weekend took me to the oldest "new" venue in baseball, where I could witness a new era for baseball in our nation's capital. Washington DC waited 33 years to get another chance at major league baseball, and judging by the turnout, they will do well.
Campbell's Field Grandstand
Campbell's Field is a very nice, comfortable ballpark, made more roomy by the often thin crowds. This was a Sunday afternoon in July, with only about 2,000 in attendance. Like many of the new parks, there are plenty of skyboxes and even a group seating area under the tallest part of the roof.
In Ben's Shadow
Campbells Field has one of the most unique locations in baseball, in the shadow of the Ben Franklin Bridge between Downtown Camden and Downtown Philadelphia. One of the massive suspension cable anchors site beyond the left field fence, and from the first base stands, one can see the span of this huge bridge, and the Philly Skyline across the river.
The bridge dominates the entire ballpark, and provides some interesting views. I for one am drawn to the clatter and rumble of the PATCO trains shuttling across the bridge between downtown Philly and the South Jersey suburbs. In fact, the bridge can be something of a distraction from the main event- the ballgame!
The bridge dominates the entire ballpark, and provides some interesting views. I for one am drawn to the clatter and rumble of the PATCO trains shuttling across the bridge between downtown Philly and the South Jersey suburbs. In fact, the bridge can be something of a distraction from the main event- the ballgame!
Mmm, mmm, Good!
Camden New Jersey is often thought of as the poster child for urban decay. Parts of it can be pretty nasty. But it does have some things going for it. Like Campbell's Soup, which is still headquartered in the city. Like Philadelphia, conveniently across the river by car, boat, or train. Like the Delaware riverfront, and the attractions that have been recently built. The Tweeter Center amphitheater, the New Jersey Aquarium, the Battleship New Jersey, and Campbell's Field, the home of the Camden Riversharks of the independent Atlantic League. Yes, the soup company is the title sponsor of the ballpark, and has added their touch to the place.
The Atlantic League started from scratch, and was able to get cities in the northeast to construct some beautiful new ballparks for their teams. Most of the teams are located in the large metropolitan areas between Boston and Philadelphia.
The Atlantic League started from scratch, and was able to get cities in the northeast to construct some beautiful new ballparks for their teams. Most of the teams are located in the large metropolitan areas between Boston and Philadelphia.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
DC: Disappointing Delmarva Crowd
I never did catch an attendance figure for the game, but it was easily under a thousand. Quite disappointing for a Friday night, and travel mug night. The threatening weather may have had something to do with it. A storm front was on it's way up from the souuthwest, but didn't hit until a couple hours after the game.
Naturally, in a stadium called Perdue, you can get chicken served any number of ways, and there are two concession stands dedicated to chicken. I still go for the hot dogs, along with a tasty cold beverage!
Perdue Stadium also has some nice picnic areas, including one behind home plate, and a carousel on the concourse in left field for the young kiddies to enjoy.
Naturally, in a stadium called Perdue, you can get chicken served any number of ways, and there are two concession stands dedicated to chicken. I still go for the hot dogs, along with a tasty cold beverage!
Perdue Stadium also has some nice picnic areas, including one behind home plate, and a carousel on the concourse in left field for the young kiddies to enjoy.
DC: Friday with the Shorebirds
I drive up the Eastern Shore of Delaware/Maryland/Virginia about five times a year to see Mom and Dad. The largest city between Virginia Beach and Wilmington is Salisbury MD, considered the center of the DelMarVa peninsula. Chicken rules the roost here, and one passes numerous chicken farms on the drive up US-13. Hopefully the trip isn't spent behind a chicken truck on it's way to one of the processing plants. Tyson, Mountainnaire, and Perdue have plants in the area.
The Delmarva Shorebirds play at Perdue Stadium on the east side of Salisbury. It is a nice, little ballpark set among fields and forests. When driving up the shore in the summer, I try to make it a point to stop, at least for a while, if the 'Birds are in town.
The Shorebirds give you small-town baseball. There is a large percentage of kids and families in a Shorebirds crowd. They may come from Virginia, 40 miles to the south, or Delaware, 10 miles to the north, or the three counties that make up Maryland's eastern shore. Most of them sit in the metal bench seats that make up a majority of the stadium seating. A general admission ticket is all you need to get a good view of the game here!
The Delmarva Shorebirds play at Perdue Stadium on the east side of Salisbury. It is a nice, little ballpark set among fields and forests. When driving up the shore in the summer, I try to make it a point to stop, at least for a while, if the 'Birds are in town.
The Shorebirds give you small-town baseball. There is a large percentage of kids and families in a Shorebirds crowd. They may come from Virginia, 40 miles to the south, or Delaware, 10 miles to the north, or the three counties that make up Maryland's eastern shore. Most of them sit in the metal bench seats that make up a majority of the stadium seating. A general admission ticket is all you need to get a good view of the game here!
DC: A Weekend Trip
At the end of april, I took a quick weekend baseball trip. I had to be up in Washington DC Saturday afternoon for some other business, so decided to make a baseball weekend of it. I would hit three ballgames in less than forty-eight hours, and make a loop around the Chesapeake Bay. Two ballparks would be familiar, and one would be new, to me anyway.
First stop was Salisbury, MD Friday evening. It was only two and a half hours from work, so I only had to leave an hour and a half early. I watched the Delmarva Shorebirds of the single-A South Atlantic League play the Asheville Tourists at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. Saturday night, I had a reserved seat to watch the Washington Nationals take on the New York Mets at RFK Stadium in DC. After a quick trip down I-95 Sunday morning, (with a stop at Potomac Mills outlet mall,) I caught my Norfolk Tides playing the Richmond Braves at the Diamond.
The forecast was iffy, but I was able to dodge the raindrops for the most part and see some good baseball.
First stop was Salisbury, MD Friday evening. It was only two and a half hours from work, so I only had to leave an hour and a half early. I watched the Delmarva Shorebirds of the single-A South Atlantic League play the Asheville Tourists at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. Saturday night, I had a reserved seat to watch the Washington Nationals take on the New York Mets at RFK Stadium in DC. After a quick trip down I-95 Sunday morning, (with a stop at Potomac Mills outlet mall,) I caught my Norfolk Tides playing the Richmond Braves at the Diamond.
The forecast was iffy, but I was able to dodge the raindrops for the most part and see some good baseball.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
At the 'Net- Mount Davis
I had seen it numerous times on TV, but was not prepared for how large and dominating the "new" centerfield stands are. They have been called Mount Davis by their detractors. They were constructed by the Coliseum Commission to lure the Raiders football team back from Los Angeles. The Raiders are run by Al Davis, an icon and football legend in his time, but in my opinion, time has passed him by.
Well, Mount Davis has turned the Coliseum from a decent baseball stadium into a marginal football stadium. Baseball in this place now seems to be lost in a huge hole. But the A's persevere, and do quite well, despite the circumstances.
A few things were still the same, even after twelve years, and new owners and management. I was always impressed with the A's marketing strategies. During the glory years of the late '80's, they brought out the white elephant logo, a nod towards their early history in Philadelphia. Last year, it was "A's brand" baseball.
A familiar voice also greeted me at the 'Net. Roy Steele, the Public Address Announcer. His deep, friendly voice and dry sense of humor always added to my experience, and he is still my favorite ballpark voice, (followed closely by the beer guy at Harbor Park!) I always enjoyed the small touch of irreverence at the Coliseum. It just seemed like the A's never took themselves over-seriously.
A couple of other notes: I ran out of camera battery here, so my pix are lacking a little; and met the hot dog I couldn't finish. It was massive- probably a pound- and in this tough, italian roll that should have been holding a large Philly cheesesteak. I got through almost half, and gave up!
Well, Mount Davis has turned the Coliseum from a decent baseball stadium into a marginal football stadium. Baseball in this place now seems to be lost in a huge hole. But the A's persevere, and do quite well, despite the circumstances.
A few things were still the same, even after twelve years, and new owners and management. I was always impressed with the A's marketing strategies. During the glory years of the late '80's, they brought out the white elephant logo, a nod towards their early history in Philadelphia. Last year, it was "A's brand" baseball.
A familiar voice also greeted me at the 'Net. Roy Steele, the Public Address Announcer. His deep, friendly voice and dry sense of humor always added to my experience, and he is still my favorite ballpark voice, (followed closely by the beer guy at Harbor Park!) I always enjoyed the small touch of irreverence at the Coliseum. It just seemed like the A's never took themselves over-seriously.
A couple of other notes: I ran out of camera battery here, so my pix are lacking a little; and met the hot dog I couldn't finish. It was massive- probably a pound- and in this tough, italian roll that should have been holding a large Philly cheesesteak. I got through almost half, and gave up!
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
At the 'Net- Old Haunts
My last day of this trip to California was "Old Haunts Day" in the East Bay. I started out in the west end of Alameda, my home for four years. I took a walk along San Francisco Bay, my old commute route, and drove around the now closed Naval Air Station. I checked out the old apartments, and a nice breakfast joint on Webster Street. I made a quick trip to Berkeley to wander around the UC campus, and finally on BART to the Coliseum for an evening game between the A's and Red Sox.
For four and a half seasons, I had the pleasure of watching one of the most interesting and exciting baseball teams of the past 50 years- the A's of the late '80's. I saw Canseco and McGwire in their rookie years, as well as Weiss and Steinbach. Carney Lansford at third, Welch and Stewart on the mound, and Eckersley out of the bullpen. It certainly was fun at the ballpark!
The Coliseum was a pretty nice ballpark for what it was- a round multi-purpose stadium. The outfield was open, with a view of the Oakland hills above the bleachers. The seats were a little far from the foul lines, and it was very cookie-cutterish, but it was ten times better than that abomination across the bay called Candlestick.
Then I moved away, and Oakland's obsession with the Raiders ruined a nice park.
For four and a half seasons, I had the pleasure of watching one of the most interesting and exciting baseball teams of the past 50 years- the A's of the late '80's. I saw Canseco and McGwire in their rookie years, as well as Weiss and Steinbach. Carney Lansford at third, Welch and Stewart on the mound, and Eckersley out of the bullpen. It certainly was fun at the ballpark!
The Coliseum was a pretty nice ballpark for what it was- a round multi-purpose stadium. The outfield was open, with a view of the Oakland hills above the bleachers. The seats were a little far from the foul lines, and it was very cookie-cutterish, but it was ten times better than that abomination across the bay called Candlestick.
Then I moved away, and Oakland's obsession with the Raiders ruined a nice park.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
PETCO: More Angles
Here's another look at some of the angles in Petco Park. You also can see the many uses of the Western Metal Supply Building. No one seating area seems to be a standard rectangle. Angles, angles, angles!
Most ballparks have one contiguous grandstand that surrounds a good portion of the field more or less. In Petco, the stands are broken up by the building, and two huge towers along both foul lines. Of course, the concourses link everything together.
I enjoyed my visit to Petco Park. This is a fun place to explore, and there are plenty of nooks and crannies to stick your head into. Once in the seating bowl, the game is king, but take a little walk, and you are in for a treat!
Most ballparks have one contiguous grandstand that surrounds a good portion of the field more or less. In Petco, the stands are broken up by the building, and two huge towers along both foul lines. Of course, the concourses link everything together.
I enjoyed my visit to Petco Park. This is a fun place to explore, and there are plenty of nooks and crannies to stick your head into. Once in the seating bowl, the game is king, but take a little walk, and you are in for a treat!
PETCO: Angles on the Concourse
The one word that stuck in my mind during my visit to Petco Park was "angles." It seemed like everywhere I looked there were interesting angles, and I spent most of my picture taking energy trying to capture some of them.
The structural steel work at Petco is unique, and dare I say- a little whimsical. No up-down-left-right here! Beams go every which way, and to an engineer like myself, an intriguing design element. The steel has been arranged to make wide, open concourses. Even at the end of the game, it never seemed too cramped.
The structural steel work at Petco is unique, and dare I say- a little whimsical. No up-down-left-right here! Beams go every which way, and to an engineer like myself, an intriguing design element. The steel has been arranged to make wide, open concourses. Even at the end of the game, it never seemed too cramped.
PETCO: From the Berm
Petco Park is unique among ballparks for many reasons, two of which I'll discuss here. It has probably the largest open area outside the stadium portion that is still within the gates of the park. The "Park within the Park" is city-block-sized, and consists of a berm, a small diamond, and general open space. It is in center field, behind the batters eye screen. The Padres sell general admission tickets to this area, and it is a great deal for families on a budget. Spread out the blanket on the berm and enjoy the game from DEEP right-center. Note the video screen for the folks on their blankets- a nice touch!
Also in this picture, you get a nice look at the Western Metal Supply Building. Like Camden Yards in Baltimore, this building was incorporated into the design of the ballpark. The building houses a souvenir store on the first floor, and various clubs and suites on subsequent floors. A set of bleachers is perched on top of the building, and is available for larger groups. The building forms part of the outfield wall, and is a fun part of the park.
Also in this picture, you get a nice look at the Western Metal Supply Building. Like Camden Yards in Baltimore, this building was incorporated into the design of the ballpark. The building houses a souvenir store on the first floor, and various clubs and suites on subsequent floors. A set of bleachers is perched on top of the building, and is available for larger groups. The building forms part of the outfield wall, and is a fun part of the park.
PETCO: From the Outside
This is the view of Petco Park from near the 12th and Imperial trolley station. I did Petco in a day trip from Oakland. Flights on Southwest Airlines are about 90 minutes non-stop between the two airports. There is convenient and frequent bus service from San Diego Airport to the Santa Fe depot, where the trolley is caught to the ballpark.
The ballpark is on the southern edge of downtown and the Gaslamp District. A hotel is nearby, and the convention center is a couple of blocks away. The seedlings of a ballpark neighborhood are in place, and judging by the number of construction cranes in the vicinity, things will be quite active before long.
Aside from the parking lot, the exterior of the park is very inviting, and certainly unique. It is VERY San Diego! Unlike SBC Park or many others, the outside is broken up into individual elements that don't necessarily look like a ballpark. It isn't until you see the seats of the upper deck that you can sense a traditional ballpark look. Note the lack of brick. You won't find that much brick in San Diego either.
The ballpark is on the southern edge of downtown and the Gaslamp District. A hotel is nearby, and the convention center is a couple of blocks away. The seedlings of a ballpark neighborhood are in place, and judging by the number of construction cranes in the vicinity, things will be quite active before long.
Aside from the parking lot, the exterior of the park is very inviting, and certainly unique. It is VERY San Diego! Unlike SBC Park or many others, the outside is broken up into individual elements that don't necessarily look like a ballpark. It isn't until you see the seats of the upper deck that you can sense a traditional ballpark look. Note the lack of brick. You won't find that much brick in San Diego either.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
The King of Baseball
Life begins on opening day. Last night was my 12th straight opening night with the Norfolk Tides. It wasn't the best night for it, with 40-40 weather. That's both temperature AND wind in the 40's! But the Tides beat the Indianapolis Indians 11-1, and baseball season finally started at MY ballpark.
Before the game, the Tides honored Dave Rosenfield, who was celebrating his 50th opening night in the front office, 44 of them as the Tides General Manager. He has been honored as minor league executive of the year a few times, has been vice president of the international league for a number of years, and is almost single-handedly responsible for the current state of baseball in the Tidewater area. That's good, by the way. He was also named "King of Baseball" by his peers at the last winter meetings.
Former Tides, such as Bobby Valentine, Clint Hurdle, Matt Franco and Marty Brennaman sent their video wishes. Brennaman, the hall of fame broadcaster for the Cincinnatti Reds, got his big break with the Tides, and was recommended by "Rosie" to the Reds a year later. Fellow GM's appeared in person to pay tribute to their mentor and friend.
One of the biggest tributes to Dave Rosenfield is Harbor Park itself. One of the first, and still one of the finest "new" minor league ballpark has his stamp all over it. Innovations in Harbor Park were copied all over baseball. Thanks to Rosie, the Tides are one of the most successful franchises in Minor League Baseball, both in fan support, and in the bottom line.
50 years and still going! Rosenfield has no intentions of retiring anytime soon. His legend will only grow, and the fans of Norfolk will continue to reap the benefits.
Before the game, the Tides honored Dave Rosenfield, who was celebrating his 50th opening night in the front office, 44 of them as the Tides General Manager. He has been honored as minor league executive of the year a few times, has been vice president of the international league for a number of years, and is almost single-handedly responsible for the current state of baseball in the Tidewater area. That's good, by the way. He was also named "King of Baseball" by his peers at the last winter meetings.
Former Tides, such as Bobby Valentine, Clint Hurdle, Matt Franco and Marty Brennaman sent their video wishes. Brennaman, the hall of fame broadcaster for the Cincinnatti Reds, got his big break with the Tides, and was recommended by "Rosie" to the Reds a year later. Fellow GM's appeared in person to pay tribute to their mentor and friend.
One of the biggest tributes to Dave Rosenfield is Harbor Park itself. One of the first, and still one of the finest "new" minor league ballpark has his stamp all over it. Innovations in Harbor Park were copied all over baseball. Thanks to Rosie, the Tides are one of the most successful franchises in Minor League Baseball, both in fan support, and in the bottom line.
50 years and still going! Rosenfield has no intentions of retiring anytime soon. His legend will only grow, and the fans of Norfolk will continue to reap the benefits.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Cactus- Taliesin West
Frank Lloyd Wright was one of America's most famous, and important architects. His winter residence and studio, called Taliesin West is located in Scottsdale, and is open for tours. It is a fascinating insight into Wright's ideas and principles. For those not into design or architecture, it is just a cool building.
The tour covers the exterior site, as well as unique rooms used by Wright and his associates to model and present their designs. Two theaters in the complex are also included. If you have the time, the extended tour goes into the recently restored living room and private studio of Wright.
The tour covers the exterior site, as well as unique rooms used by Wright and his associates to model and present their designs. Two theaters in the complex are also included. If you have the time, the extended tour goes into the recently restored living room and private studio of Wright.
Cactus: Camelback from the Desert Garden
Looking for other things to do in Phoenix, when you aren't at the ballpark? How about the Desert Botanical Garden, which happens to be next to the Phoenix Municipal Stadium.
We stopped there one morning and were treated to just about every type of cactus imaginable, plus a surprising variety of other desert flora. From the mighty Saguaro to the tiniest barrel cactus, to the tree with green bark, the Palo Verde, the garden is full of surprises, especially for an east coast guy like me.
The Desert Garden is well worth a couple of hours. In fact, we went back after the ballgame to finish our own tour!
We stopped there one morning and were treated to just about every type of cactus imaginable, plus a surprising variety of other desert flora. From the mighty Saguaro to the tiniest barrel cactus, to the tree with green bark, the Palo Verde, the garden is full of surprises, especially for an east coast guy like me.
The Desert Garden is well worth a couple of hours. In fact, we went back after the ballgame to finish our own tour!
Monday, March 28, 2005
Cactus: Buttes of Papago Park
This is a view from the seats behind first base at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. The buttes behind the left field fence are located in Papago Park, which is also home to the Desert Botanical Gardens. Just try to find a view like this in the Grapefruit League!
I enjoyed the afternoon at Phoenix Muni. It is a nice, funky ballpark with a spirit. It is older than the parks at Maryvale, Peoria, and Surprise, and is therefore just a little more cramped, but that didn't bother me a bit. Unlike Maryvale, the concessions lines moved quickly.
I think another reason I enjoyed the game is because of the laid-back good natured banter between the Cubs fans and the A's fans. It must have been spring training, where the fans were also getting in shape for another pennant race. There was none of the "edge" that might accompany an important game during the season, just a lot of fun chatter.
I enjoyed the afternoon at Phoenix Muni. It is a nice, funky ballpark with a spirit. It is older than the parks at Maryvale, Peoria, and Surprise, and is therefore just a little more cramped, but that didn't bother me a bit. Unlike Maryvale, the concessions lines moved quickly.
I think another reason I enjoyed the game is because of the laid-back good natured banter between the Cubs fans and the A's fans. It must have been spring training, where the fans were also getting in shape for another pennant race. There was none of the "edge" that might accompany an important game during the season, just a lot of fun chatter.
Cactus: Graphics in Phoenix Muni
What struck me most about visiting "Phoenix Muni" as it is called, was the striking graphics all over the ballpark. This sign is typical of the directional signage throughout the park. I really liked the literal baseball theme.
All along the concourse, banners were mounted that had terms unique to baseball, and their definitions. Not words like ball, strike, or sacrifice, but more colorful terms such as "can of corn" or "Texas leaguer."
This view of a tunnel to the box seats from the concourse also shows the neat stone walls and the currogated steel of the pressbox structure, other features I also like.
All along the concourse, banners were mounted that had terms unique to baseball, and their definitions. Not words like ball, strike, or sacrifice, but more colorful terms such as "can of corn" or "Texas leaguer."
This view of a tunnel to the box seats from the concourse also shows the neat stone walls and the currogated steel of the pressbox structure, other features I also like.
Cactus: Entering Phoenix Muni
To get to Phoenix Municipal Stadium, you walk up a spiral ramp, cross the main road, and spiral back down to the gate on the third base side. While crossing, you get a good look at the concrete roof over the grandstand that looks a little like the bleachers roof at Dodger Stadium, and the striking graphics that are found throughout the stadium. A full park was expected today, as a split squad of the Cubs was visiting the Oakland A's. It seemed that a good portion of the crowd were Cubs fans, who seem to show up everywhere.
Sunday, March 27, 2005
Cactus: A Little Touch of Home
Every spring training park tries to bring a little bit of the club's home park and city to the game. Often, the current game time weather is given at the start of the game. This day at Maryvale, we heard that the gametime weather in Milwaukee was 31 degrees and snow flurries.
Another touch of Milwaukee was the famous sausage races. Not only did the polish, italian bratwurst and frankfurter race down the right field line, the appeared on the concession menu, "imported" from Wisconsin.
Another touch of Milwaukee was the famous sausage races. Not only did the polish, italian bratwurst and frankfurter race down the right field line, the appeared on the concession menu, "imported" from Wisconsin.
Cactus: Cloudy Day at Maryvale
There are a lot of neat architectural features in the park. I particularly liked the trellised "roof" structure, the outfield berm seating, and the open areas on the concourse.
The only part of the whole Maryvale experience that I didn't like was the incredibly long concessions lines. Three innings for a soft drink sort of saps the fun out of the afternoon.
The only part of the whole Maryvale experience that I didn't like was the incredibly long concessions lines. Three innings for a soft drink sort of saps the fun out of the afternoon.
Cactus: Welcome to Maryvale!
They call Phoenix the Valley of the Sun, saying it has 330 days of sunshine a year. Well, our first game of Cactus League baseball took place on one of the other 35 then. Not that cloudy and 63 degrees at game time is bad, compared to cloudy and 43 when we left Virginia the day before!
Maryvale is located in a residential area on the west side of Phoenix. It is a comfortable, park-like setting for a modern, spacious ballpark and the many practice fields needed for a spring training camp. The complex appears to be an attempt at spurring economic development in the surrounding neighborhood, as it seems a little out of place.
Maryvale is located in a residential area on the west side of Phoenix. It is a comfortable, park-like setting for a modern, spacious ballpark and the many practice fields needed for a spring training camp. The complex appears to be an attempt at spurring economic development in the surrounding neighborhood, as it seems a little out of place.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
A Cactus League Weekend
It has become something of a tradition in my family to take a long weekend in March to see some spring training baseball. It is a great break from the cold weather of the northeast and midwest, and a fun way to "cheat" on the start of the baseball season.
A couple of years ago, it was just my dad and I checking out some games in Florida. I flew down a little earlier than him, and was able to squeeze six games into four days- five of them with him. Last year, my sister and neice joined us, and we saw five games while based in Orlando. This year, five of us ventured out to Phoenix, to sample the baseball among the cacti.
My sister and nine-year-old niece flew in from Cleveland. Dad and mom drove down from New Jersey and flew with me. It was a long trip on cramped airplanes, but when we were greeted with sunset over the mountains, it was already worth it.
Three games were on the schedule. Friday, it was the A's versus the brewers at Maryvale Baseball Park on the west side of Phoenix. Saturday, we saw a split squad of the Cubs play the A's at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. Sunday, our final game was the White Sox versus the Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Because there were no night games scheduled during our visit, we had some time to check out the area and see a few of the sights, Because the ballparks and training sites are so close together, we were able to avoid some of the long drives we had to put up with in Florida in years past.
I'll follow with my thoughts on the ballparks we visited.
A couple of years ago, it was just my dad and I checking out some games in Florida. I flew down a little earlier than him, and was able to squeeze six games into four days- five of them with him. Last year, my sister and neice joined us, and we saw five games while based in Orlando. This year, five of us ventured out to Phoenix, to sample the baseball among the cacti.
My sister and nine-year-old niece flew in from Cleveland. Dad and mom drove down from New Jersey and flew with me. It was a long trip on cramped airplanes, but when we were greeted with sunset over the mountains, it was already worth it.
Three games were on the schedule. Friday, it was the A's versus the brewers at Maryvale Baseball Park on the west side of Phoenix. Saturday, we saw a split squad of the Cubs play the A's at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. Sunday, our final game was the White Sox versus the Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Because there were no night games scheduled during our visit, we had some time to check out the area and see a few of the sights, Because the ballparks and training sites are so close together, we were able to avoid some of the long drives we had to put up with in Florida in years past.
I'll follow with my thoughts on the ballparks we visited.
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