Daily Edition: Rebuilding MLB's Past

by Joe Persinger

@Brew_Mastr_Joe on twitter

Ever since I began watching baseball, I've always wondered what it would have been like to watch a game at Ebbets Field.  Or what the rooftop views from Schibe Park looked like, the smell of the grass, freshly popped popcorn at Crosley Field, and the ivy covered spacious outfield walls of Forbes Field.  

Over the last 20 years, many retro-modern baseball parks have began to spring up.  Giving fans a feel for the golden years, but with all the amenities these modern times have to offer.


But are they really "retro-modern"?

I think "modern-retro" would be a more appropriate.

Most design companies have done a great job incorporating the old with new, but something isn't right.  The newer baseball parks capture that moment in time, but only at field level.  By the time I walk to the concourse there are flat screen TV's, digital connections everywhere, food coming at me in every direction, along with some of the cheesiest promotions I have seen.

As a little kid I used to think to myself:  "If I ever fall into a large sum of money, I am going to give it back to baseball by rebuilding all the old baseball parks!"

But then the child I was grew up (sort of).  

I started to see how evil, cynical, and greedy this world can actually be and once I was old enough to figure out financing, property taxes, leases, overhead, and the rest of the headaches involved, I moved on.

But I can still dream.  

In the concrete and steel era of ballpark construction and design, the new ballparks of yesterday were born.  Most of these stadiums, parks, and ball fields became synonymous with the golden era that they thrived in.

With Fenway Park celebrating 100 years, and Wrigley Field being right behind it, I've created a list of the most memorable ballparks that have existed in the Major League's.

As a daily addition to Joe's Sports Corner, I will release one ballpark each day that has disappeared over the years.  I've listed each edifice when it was constructed with a brief description about the features and history.  

Then I'll ask and answer 2 questions.

What's There Now? & Is It Possible To Rebuild?

Bringing back that golden era of jewel box, retro ballparks would only add to mystique of baseball.  Anyone that has ever been to a game at Fenway Park or Wrigley Field, knows how timeless baseball can be.  It's a gift that should be shared throughout the league.  

Even if it would be on a part time basis. 

Here is today's edition of "Rebuilding MLB's Past":

Tiger Stadium

As Ty Cobb continued to play at a high level for the Tiger's, his base stealing and hitting ability helped fill the stands and ultimately helped the Tiger's finance their new ballpark.   

Navin Field was named after then, Tiger's owner, Frank Navin.  The name was changed to Briggs Stadium in 1938, and changed again to Tiger's Stadium in 1961 by the new owner, John Fetzer.

Opened on April 20, 1912(9 days after Crosley Field), Tiger Stadium, as most of us remember it, wasn't the original design. 

Double decker grandstands curved around home plate to the first and third base sides.  Beyond the double decker grandstands, were single decked pavilions that extended to the outfield walls.  Bleachers ran across the perimeter of the outfield walls , bringing the total capacity of newly built stadium to 23,000 seats.

The ballpark was renovated to include double decker grandstands from foul pole to foul pole and across right field in 1935.  The overhang of the right field grandstand, known for obstructing views, was the "home run" porch was only 320 feet from home plate.  

3 years later, city hall relocated and the double decker grandstands were extended through left field bringing the stadium capacity of 52,416.

The double decker grandstands were some of the best views in Tiger Stadium giving every spectator the feeling of being right on top of the action.  

The ballpark was the site of Babe Ruth's 700th home run which cleared the right field (single deck) bleachers.  On May 2, 1939 Lou Gehrig pulled himself from a Yankees/Tigers game, in Detroit, ending his iron man record at 2,130 games.  

Tiger Stadium also hosted three All Star games in 1941, 1951, and 1971.

The ball club wanted a new stadium, despite the resistance from traditionalist fans, who wanted to keep the team in Tiger Stadium.  Despite this, the team left the ball park after the 1999 season and moved to Comerica Park in downtown Detroit.

What's There Now?

Many preservationists groups fought to keep the historical edifice erect, but after a few chances given to them by the city, their efforts were in vain.     

The final stages of demolition was finished on Sepetember 21, 2009.

The baseball diamond and the center field flag pole still exists today.  I'm not sure if it's open to the public, but the field has been preserved and with 18 of your friends, is ready for a pick up baseball game.

Is It Possible To Rebuild?

Yes.  The site remains vacant since the final stages of demolition.  The baseball diamond has been restored by Detroit citizens in the surrounding communities and the only thing stopping the reconstruction would be money and building permits. A Michigan senator has also stated there is $3.8 million federal dollars earmarked for the park's preservation. 

5-8-12

Crosley Field

Home of the Cinncinatti Red's, Crosley Field was one of the most memorable ballparks of it's time.  Originally named Redland's Field, the concrete and steal bandbox was one of the smallest ballparks(only 25,000 seats)constructed in that era.  

A double decker grandstand was built around the diamond with a single decked pavilion further down the third and first base line.  There was no seating in left or center field, just a trapezoid like shaped bleacher section out in right field dubbed, "The Sun Deck" or "Moon Deck" for night games. 

Lights were erected in 1935 for night games and upper decks were added to the left and right field pavilion's.  These were the only two changes the ballpark received in it's 58 year existence.

The terrace is visible in the deepest part of Left Field

A stapled feature in the Midwest "bandbox" was the 15 degree incline in left field known as "The Terrace".  The notorious left field feature served many purposes over it's existence.  "The Terrace" served as a standing room area in a time where fans would sit in a roped off section on the field.  Although "The Terrace" was mostly prominent in left field, it did extend all the way through the outfield and served also as a warning track for outfielders.

I'm sure a lot of knees were injured over the years from this incline.

Crosley field's decline began in the 1950's when the car became the primary mode of transportation.  The lack of parking plagued the ball field in it's last 15 years, as did crime, making the area increasingly unsafe, especially during night games.  

What's There Now?

A large building and parking lot occupies the grandstands, and the main field of play.  The Cincinnati Whole Sale Florists sit in left field extending to the foul line and grandstands, and a printing company sits atop "The Terrace".  

If you ever visit the site and look at the parking lot between the Whole Sale Florists building and the printing company building, "The Terrace" incline is still visible.

Is It Possible To Rebuild?

No.

Seven buildings occupy the land the ballpark used to sit on.  Dalton street (which used to dead end at Finlay), now runs through what was then the field of play, now connects to York Lane which is what the left field wall used to run parallel. 

A version of Crosley Field was erected in the suburb of Blue Ash, Ohio as part of the community sports complex. The little league ball park holds true to the dimensions of the original and has a recreated version of the scoreboard in left field.  A 400 seat grandstand sits on the third base side, but outside of those features, its just an over the top little league field.

If I was a billionaire, I would rebuild Crosley (knowing I'd be loosing money) on a smaller basis, but on the same site.  

I would build the newly created field on the corner of Findlay & Dalton Streets.  The layout would still hold true to the original perimeter of the outfield, it would just have smaller dimensions, but still hold true to the features of it's predecessor.  The scoreboard in left field, "The Terrace" in left field that also spans the entire outfield, and the "Sun and Moon" deck.  

I would still hold true to the grandstand layout, but I would construct the 1912 version.  Double decker grandstands along the diamond with the pavilions beyond first and third base sides.  

Although a MLB game would never be played here, it would be a great site for an All Star game exhibition game of some sort(if  Cincinnati were to receive the honors).

Another timeless ballpark ripped from our hands because some fat cat wanted to make a few extra bucks.

5-7-2012

Comiskey Park

Built on the site of a former city dump (yes that pun was intended), purchased by Comiskey in 1909, this pitcher friendly ballpark was erected July 1, 1910.  The third reinforced concrete and steal ballpark, it was nicknamed, at the time, the "Baseball Palace of the World".  It sat an astounding 28,900 fans and was built to suit the style of play the White Sox.  Great defense and with a side of small ball.

The south side ballpark hosted 3 consecutive World Series in 1917, 1918, 1919.  And another World Series against the LA Dodger's in 1958.

The Red Sox and Cubs faced off in the 1918 World Series.  Instead of playing at Wrigley Field, the Cub's owners, felt it would be more prudent and profitable to move the game to Comiskey Park.  With 29,000 seats (compared to 14,000 at Wrigley), Comisky offered more of a fiscal promise than the North Side ballpark.  

Comiskey Park was the site of the first ever All-Star Game in 1933, and hosted that same game 50 years later.  It also hosted the 1983 ALCS, which the White Sox lost.

White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf threatened to move the team to Florida if his team didn't receive some sort of subsidy from public funding.

He received $200 million and built a "ball mall" across the street from the "Baseball Palace of the World".

What's There Now?

After it's demolition the lot was turned into a parking lot to accommodate fans attending, what is now called, US Cellular Field.  The White Sox memorialized the park by painting the old foul lines in the parking lot and placing a marble home plate plaque where the original once stood.  The 35th Street spectator ramp pays an om age to "Old Comiskey" by mirroring the old grandstand.  

Is It Possible To Rebuild?

Yes.  The land was turned into a parking lot and the only structure occupying the lot is the spectator ramp which connects to the "Ball Mall" across the street.

The rebuilding of the "Old Comiskey" would be a mirror image of its predecessor's, but would be built with modern technology and with a few modern alterations.

The important aspects of rebuilding would be the exterior of the ballpark, all of the famous arched windows, and the  right field patio, and the iconic scoreboard.  Keeping true to the large dimensions the ballpark had in it's early days would be ideal and gives newer generations a glimpse into where the game was played almost 100 years ago.  

But what would happen to the parking lot?

With plenty of parking already available and the CTA Red Line across the street, I'm sure die-hard White Sox fan's wouldn't mind making the sacrifice to have their old home back. 

If Cub's fan can do it, why can't the south side hobo's do it?

Just kidding.

5-4-2012

Forbes Field

Barney Dreyfuss, owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates, wasn't going to let Ben Schibe and Connie Mack one up him with their newly constructed state-of-the-art ballpark.  Dreyfuss built the new ballpark in an undeveloped part of Pittsburgh leading to criticism from fans and media alike.  When the ballpark was finished and the land began to develop, the criticism relented.

Refusing to allow "cheap home runs" in his new ballpark, Dreyfuss created long dimensions in left field(360 feet), center field(462 feet), right field(376 feet).  All of the outfield walls were covered in ivy and was the first ballpark with this feature, not Wrigley Field.  

With large dimensions, triples and inside-the-park home runs were very common.  Although the park was known as "pitcher friendly", but never had a no-hitter pitched inside it's walls in its 61 years of existence.

Over the years, the infield began to develop a "rock hard" surface causing the ball to take unexpected bounces.  Pirates play-by-play announcer Bob Prince nicknamed the ballpark "The House of Thrills" because of the unexpected path of bounces the baseball would make.  

What's There Now?

The University of Pittsburgh purchased the field from the Pirates in 1958 and ended up demolishing the pitchers paradise in 1971 to make room for buildings and roads to service the University.  Home plate sits in Posvar Hall in it's original location.  This has been disputed by some, saying the "actual" original location of home plate now sits in a women's bathroom stall.

Is It Possible To Rebuild?

Absolutely not.  The land is now occupied by the University of Pittsburgh and they are not going anywhere.  What was open space 100 years ago has become so cramped, rebuilding a replica or smaller scale park would be a futile exercise.  

The U of P has memorialized the park by encasing home plate on the lobby floor of Posvar Hall and marking the left center, center field brick wall--which stands in the original location--with the dimension markings along Roberto Clemente Drive.  A historic plaque has also been placed near the brick wall reminding people of the historical site.

5/3/2012

Source: ballparksofbaseball.com

Schibe Park/Connie Mack Stadium

While the Cub's were busy winning a World Series in 1907, the Philadelphia A's were discovering how popular "America's Pastime" had become in Philadelphia.  

Built for 23,000 patrons just West of the "Baker Bowl" for $301,000 (1909 dollars) using the newest technology of the time. Steel reinforced concrete.  

Most ballparks of that era were built mainly with wood and were prone to fire damage, and known to decay at a rapid rate.

Fans and owners took notice of the new baseball palace as it sparked a boom of 7 new ballparks being built with the new spacious look and steel reinforced concrete shell. 

It was the Camden Yards of it's day.  

The first ballpark to construct a double decker grandstand foul pole to foul pole.  

ballparksofbaseball.com

All the other team owner's took an envious look at this marvel, and followed suit with their current ballpark, or incorporated them into the plans for their new cathedral.  

The signature exterior design is the octangular tower which sat on the southwest corner of the ballpark (behind home plate).  The tower served as offices for the Ben Schibe and Connie Mack.  The ground floor was a main entrance lobby. According to pitcher Bobby Shantz "..it looked like a church".

The ballpark was known for its huge dimensions when it first opened (center field was 515 feet from home plate), but had been shaved down dramatically by 1968.  Home plate was reduced to 415 feet in it's final MLB season.  

The A's ended up moving out West in the 1950's, the Phillies ended up leaving the park in 1970, and the Eagles were out of there by the 1959.

ballparksofbaseball.com

Schibe Park remained without a tenant for the rest of it's existence.  After a fire in August of 1971 which left the grandstand in ruins, the park remained unkempt until a judge declared it to be demolished.  

What's There Now?

In 1991, a church was constructed on the former site and was marked with a historical marker acknowledging when it was constructed, demolished, and how many World Series it hosted over it's lifespan.

Kind of ironic if you ask me.  

Source: Chrisepting.com

Is It Possible To Rebuild?

Not really.  I dont think a church that was constructed a more than 20 years ago would be willing to sale the land and relocate.

Schibe Park(like most parks of that era)was built in a city neighborhood where land has become sparse and very expensive.  There is plenty of land to rebuild in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, but that would be redundant since the recreated park would be constructed in a parking lot--with other stadiums surrounding it--and not in a neighborhood, which played into the parks atmosphere.  

My Top 10 MLB Stadiums

by Joe Persinger
@Brew_Mastr_Joe on twitter


Who hasn't dreamed of taking a road trip through the United States stopping at various baseball fields and stadiums along the way.  What were once small intimate parks, have been transformed into modern day cathedrals where fans come to worship their favorite players, catch foul balls, and appear on a HD jumbo-tron where some conglomerate's logo sits on top and on the front of the building.


What really makes baseball special are the different parks each team play in.  From the waterfalls at Kuaffman Stadium to the catwalks at Tropicana Field, each ballpark is alike because they're all different.


Coming up with MLB's top ten stadiums isn't an easy task.  Based on history, unique-ness, and ballpark atmosphere, I have determined these as my Major League's Top Ten Ballparks.


(This is extremely subjective.  Feel free to tweet me or leave your top 10 in the comments below.)

10.  Coors Field

Opened in 1995 at a cost of $300 million dollars, Coors Field had a record number of baseball fan's through the turnstiles in the inaugural 1993 season.


Many Denver residents know behind the right field stands sits a small restaurant/brewery, where the (now mass produced) Belgian style wheat beer Blue Moon, was invented.  The food at Coors Field is mediocre, but the Mile High ballpark's novelty staple is "Rocky Mountain Oysters".  Not something most people would prefer over hotdogs & peanuts.


Looking for an economic alternative to expensive seats?  


"The Rockpile" sits high in center field and offers a bargain of $4 single game seat in a bleacher style setting.  For those looking for a cheap way into the ballpark, this is the experience for you.


For those in "The Rockpile" and other fans facing South, downtown Denver also provides a backdrop Picasso would envy.


Nothing can top a summer night in Denver (at the ballpark) in that crisp thin mountain air while enjoying a Blue Moon.





9.  PNC Park

Located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh along the Allegheny river, PNC Park is praised by all fans and media for it's retro-modern look and it's panoramic views of downtown Pittsburgh highlighted by the bright yellow "Roberto Clemente Bridge".

The bridge is closed to vehicular traffic on game days to allow fans to walk across and take in the scenery.


The stunning backdrop of downtown Pittsburgh and the intimate feel the modern ballpark gives, is the only bright spot of this recently built cathedral.


But like many teams, the Pirates have made strives to improve the team and upgrade their "river palace".  


After another loosing season, AJ Burnett was traded to Pittsburgh for 2 minor leaguers and cash.  A questionable move at best, but shows the front office wants to make improvements to this team.    


I'm sure some fans wish they'd put some of that money toward a farm system or a quality free agent that isn't scrutinized by the rest of the league.

8.  Busch Stadium

The former stomping grounds of slugger Albert Pujols.  One of the best baseball cities in America (because it's all they have there).  The atmosphere at every game in Busch Stadium is electric and enjoyed with a beautiful view of downtown St. Louis. 


The fan-friendly stadium features a build your own mascot store for those with a thick wallet.  "Fredbird", the team's well known t-shirt throwing, dugout dancing mascot, entertains fans throughout the game and also makes year round appearences in the St. Louis area communities.  


Another great feature, is the Cardinal's management allows outside food/drinks.  You're even allowed to bring in a cooler, if you wish.  Because of this, soda, water, and crackerjacks are sold at a discount to patrons, but that is made up by gouging them with beer prices.


The "Gateway Cathedral" has already seen multiple World Series, one of the best hitters of all-time, and an All-Star game.  With the old stadium now a softball field across the street, the Cardinal's look forward to an era without Tony LaRussa, Dave Duncan, and some first baseman.  


There aren't that many questions on that side of the Mississippi moving forward, but they still have a "decent" team down there on that side of the Mississippi.


Whatever.  (Salty Cub's fan)





7.  PETCO Park

After 4 years and a few court aided construction stoppages, PETCO Park finally opened April 8, 2004.


It's one of the most under-rated ballparks in the National League and is located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, within walking distance of some great restaurants/bars.


Located next to the San Diego Trolley, getting to (and from) the ballpark is easy.  If you're one of those patrons that gets a little "tipsy" during a ballgame (and after) there are plenty of watering holes to keep the party going, and plenty of hotels to crash at.  Prepare to pay some real coin though.


"The Park at the Park" serves as a free local park to citizens on non game days and only costs a small $5 to enter during home games.  It grants a great view of the ballpark and has plenty of space to lay out and enjoy the sounds and smells of the game.  It's still a great seat and the action isn't far away.  It just feels secluded from the rest of the stadium.    

View of Petco's "Park at the Park"

Petco Park has a buffet of colors for the eye.  From the aqua blue San Diego Bay, to the exposed white painted steel, and the amazing downtown view, it's hard not to be distracted from the game going on.










6.  Dodger Stadium

Not far from downtown Los Angeles and tucked away in Chavez Ravine is Dodger Stadium.  


Inside these stadium walls there have been 10 no-hitters, 1 World Series, and multiple renovations over the years.  


There was a lot of controversy around the construction of the stadium in the late 50's after contractor's were making low-ball offers too it's long time Mexican residents, to move them out of their homes.


After everyone was evicted the original ravine was filled with the dirt excavated to build the west coast ballpark.  


Those who sit in both bleacher sections are treated to an elevated view of downtown Los Angeles which is a breath taking view at night.


Dodger Stadium became the largest seating stadium in both leagues (56,000+).  The Dodger's set a record of 57.099 fans for the 2009 home opener (mostly due to a high amount of standing room tickets sold).  


They must have done this count at some point in the third inning because Dodger fans are notorious for showing up late and leaving early.


And "Dodger Dog's" suck by the way.





Honorable Mention:  Marlin's Park  



If this park opened last year it would have made the top 5 of this list.  Located in the heart of Miami on the former site of the Orange Bowl, this new park is (excuse the old man phrase) "a sight for sore eyes".


Built with a retractable roof made of a "white membrane" it takes 14 minutes to open, and another 8 minutes for the outfield panels to expose a beautiful view of downtown Miami.

Like Petco Park, this new modern stadium has an array of bright colors ranging from the blue seas of the ocean, to the green leaves of palm trees, and the bright orange and yellow colors of the team that blend perfectly into the scenery.


The 600 & 450 gallon aquariums behind home plate give the ballpark its "niche", as does the new "Home Run Feature" installed in dead center field (see video to right).




I'm not to sure what the Marlin's were thinking when they installed Pachinko machine, but at least it stays consistent with the bright color theme.


I expect to hear great things about this ballpark over the next few years and hope I get a chance to visit it sometime in the near future.





5.  Yankee Stadium


Almost built on the backs of hard working New York taxpayers, Yankee Stadium broke ground in 2006 and was open and ready for baseball for the 2009 season.

A construction worker (a Boston Red Sox Fan) buried a David Oritz jersey in the visitor's dugout in hopes of bringing a curse upon the boys in pinstripes.  


Aside from being ratted out by his fellow co-workers (and having to exhume the jersey), his efforts truly failed as the Yankees went on to win their 27th World Series title in the stadiums inaugural season.


The stadium's exterior is mirrored after the original Yankee Stadium with 11,000 pieces of Indiana Limestone granite and pre-cast concrete.  The interior design of the new stadium has been replicated from the original to keep a modern look, with the old time feel.  


Looking at the new Yankee Stadium, I can understand why ownership would want a new building.  But is it worth it?


Are those seven story ceilings between gates 4 and 6 (where the "Great Hall" was constructed) worth it? Was moving monument park to center field under a sports bar limiting fan access worth it?  


Tearing down the "house that Ruth built" might not feel like a mistake over the next 20 years, but as the Cub's and Red Sox come close to their 100 year anniversary at their respective homes, I wonder if John Q. Yankee Fan will feel a slight disdain toward the "house that George built".





4.  Chase Field

Building a ballpark in a downtown desert city is no easy task.  With temps that can reach as high as 115 degrees during the day and staying well over 100 at night provided an egregious task for the ballpark architects.  


What they came up with was a retractable roof structure with a massive HVAC system that keeps the whole field at a cool comfortable level.


Chase Field is equipped with a pool in right center field that holds 35 patrons for $3,500 per game (2011 season).  How many people can say they enjoyed a nice swim on a hot summer night and was able to watch a live baseball game while doing it?


Another feature only found in one other ballpark (Comerica Park) is the dirt stripe that flows from the pitcher's mound to home plate.  This was a feature that was found in most fields in the "dead ball era" and has been forgotten as many new fields and stadiums have been built in the last 20 years.


Chase Field sits on what used to be known as the warehouse district in downtown Phoenix.  The architects decided to make the exterior of the building mirror a large warehouse to pay homage to that point in time in Phoenix's 100 year history.


The ballpark has a mall-like-esque feel to it, but until you're sitting there with the roof open on a 105 plus degree night (and you're not uncomfortable), looking at one the biggest jumbotrons in the United State's hottest city, it's not hard to understand why this is at #4.









3.  Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Built near the "Inner Harbor" in downtown Baltimore from 1989-1992 Camden Yard's success as a fan friendly intimate "downtown" ballpark sparked a trend in construction throughout the majors.

The B&O Warehouse was built into the structure of the stadium instead of tearing it down or truncating it.  With the field sunk into the ground the space between the warehouse and field creates a pedestrian walkway (open to ticket holders only on game day) for fans to watch the game, do a little shopping, or check out former Orioles star Boog Powel'l's BBQ stand.


All the seats are green except for two orange seats that mark two historical events in the park's history.  In right center field section 96, row 7, seat 23 commemorates the spot of Eddie Murray's  500th home run.  The other spot located in left field section 86, row FF, seat 10 is the spot where Cal Ripken broke Ernie Banks home run record for short stops.


Everyone behind home plate is treated to the downtown Baltimore skyline.  This is truly going to be one of the gems of the future for major league ballparks.  The way they incorporate the B&O Warehouse (like Petco Park does with the Western Company Building) is what really makes Camden Yards unique.


Across the street from the stadium is the Baltimore Light Rail and the MARC commuter rail.  So getting to the game for a local Baltimore tax payer isn't a hassle, and if you're an out of town fan, jumping on the MARC commuter rail will bring you right to Camden Yards.

The "Nest by the harbor" is also a short distance from the birthplace of Babe Ruth, which is now a museum.  According to multiple sources, Babe Ruth's father owned a bar/pub on Paca St & Conway Street.  Which is now roughly second base/center field inside Camden Yards.


After 14 consecutive loosing seasons the Oriole's have seen better days.  Having recently hired manager Buck Schowalter and Dan Duquette as President of Baseball Operations/GM, the future looks bright for a team being out shined by their own home.








2.  Wrigley Field

In 1914 on the former grounds of the Chicago Lutheran Theological Seminary, this jewel box park has had it's share of historic events over the last 98 years.  


"The Called Shot" (Read About It Here) in 1932, the 4 no-hitters, "Steve Bartman" in 2003, Wrigley Field getting lights for the first time in August of 1988, and many more that have become the folk lore of Wrigley Field.


One of my favorite historic "nuggets" that most Cub's fan aren't aware of is that the Cub's have never won a World Series at Wrigley Field. 


The Friendly Confines has been a work of progress since the 1920's.  The park was over-hauled in 1922, the double decker grandstands were added in 1927, the construction of the bleachers and Ivy in 1937, the scoreboard also being erected that same year, and finally the lights that were installed in 1988.

Since the Ricketts have purchased The Cub's and Wrigley Field in 2009, a series of renovations have been made to give the ballpark a modernized look.  The bleacher's were expanded over the sidewalk, the back of the iconic scoreboard was repainted, some of the luxury boxes along the third base line were converted into a full service top-shelf bar with large flat screen TVs with indoor/outdoor seating called the PNC Club.


Watching a game at Wrigley Field is a historical journey into baseball's past.  The day games, the organ echoing, the hand turned scoreboard, the ivy, and just you the guy to your left, right, in front, behind you become best friends and weigh in on each other's baseball opinions.  

This is what baseball was 70 plus years ago and it's the closest ballpark experience to that golden era some grew up with and some grew to love.  No other ballpark can give you that environment and experience.


It's a small window to what baseball used to be and that's really what the magic of Wrigley Field is all about.


They say time never stands still.  That person never attended a sold out day game at Wrigley Field.

1.  Fenway Park

In 100 years of existence, only 1 of the 7 World Series Boston has won took place in the mecca of baseball facilities.  


Just like Wrigley Field, Fenway Park has seen its share of renovations.  


Constructed in 1912 in the dense Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood, many of the alterations Fenway has seen were not originally envisioned resulting in the quirky features that have made Fenway Park one of the most treasured ballparks in today's society.


Walking inside Fenway Park is like nothing else.  The lighting is complimented by that Boston red and green color scheme.  Various food and souvenir vendors are cramped and scattered throughout, peddling their wares decked out in all Red Sox gear.  The nation of Red Sox fans that swarm though the main arteries of this beast called Fenway Park converse in their Boston accents spending over $7 for a beer, and almost just as much for New England Clam "Chowda".

The field itself is a sight for all baseball fans to see.  The "Green Monster" overwhelms the park but compliments it at the same time.  Throughout its tenancy, it was a 37 foot 2 inch home run stopper was covered with ads.  The manually updated scoreboard was added to the left field wall in 1934 and was considered ahead of its time because it lights up to signify how many balls, strikes, and outs there were.

The first thing noticed about Fenway is how small it is.  The intimacy the park provides gives a hint to what the "Emerald of the East" used to be when Babe Ruth was pitching on the mound and Ted Willams blasting home runs into right field.


The bullpens (aka "Williamsburg") built in right center were constructed for the benefit of Ted Williams and other left handed batters on the home team.  The bullpens jutted out an extra 23 feet closer to home plate adding to the quirkiness of the "Emerald Ballpark".

If you're a fan of baseball, a trip to Fenway Park should be on the top of your list.  The atmosphere is always electric and if you're brave enough to go in another team's jersey the fans will let you hear about it.  The evolvement of the park has slowly married the past Fenway and the future Fenway together.


The green and red exterior colors will always make you feel like its Christmas season, even if it's in the middle of July.

Big $$$ & College Athletics Do Not Mix

By Joe Persinger
@Brew_Mastr_Joe on twitter

There has always been a celebrity factor when becoming the face of a division 1 program.  Football or basketball.  Player or coach.

With all of these growing egos becoming more entitled by the year and the NCAA refusing to acknowledge their major student athletic programs are semi-pros leagues now, not amateurs, two storms have converged on each other to become one "shit show".

What is going on in college athletics these days?

From all the "30 for 30" docu-films that have been made, you'd think the wild west days of paying players under the table were behind us.

Not so fast.

The last 4 years have given us a small glimpse into the dark world of NCAA athletic programs affect on the modern day college athlete and what they have to deal with.

From point shaving scandals, Pete Carrol and USC paying players, Lane Kiffin bailing on Tennessee, Terrelle Pryor, "The Vest", and Ohio State, Bobby Petrino's transgressions, and most recently, Wisconsin basketball coach Bo Ryan attempting to blackball a transferring student into certain conferences.  

But what really has become disturbing, the amounts of money some of these conferences pull in each year.

The explosion of media in our everyday culture has helped the NCAA turn it's basketball and football programs into big business.

Really big business.


Let's use the SEC as an example.

In 2008, they signed a $55 million dollar (annually) 15 year contract with CBS for the right to pick the national SEC game each week.  Not to be outdone, the following year, they signed a $2.25 BILLION dollar/15 year contract ($150 million a year) with ESPN.

But as NCAA football grows into big business and the fat cats get richer, the labor force is being paid in education (not dollars).

Today's society isn't too kind to college graduates as it used to be in year's past.  The economy's recent recession combined with kids being churned out of higher learning establishments in droves, has turned today's college degree into a glorified work ethic on paper.

And there still lies the giant elephant in the room.

Paying the players.

This is met with opposition from universities.  Citing all student-athletes are just that.  They are brought into the school, and just happen to possess an extremely rare talent in the sport they participant in.

This ignorant stance these Big Business Schools (BBS) take, is possibly, the root of the problems that plagues major college sport programs.  It's basically the same stance the South took when in came to abolishing slavery.  What's even more ironic, the SEC basically covers the old confederate states.

Source: Wikipedia

Yea I said it.

The SEC and some of these other Big Business School's (BBS) are modern day slave owners, with modern day profits.

It's easy to understand why these Big Business Schools (BBS) take that stance.  As long as these student-athletes remain, the BBS will be eligible for tax exemptions that would maximize profits and minimizing their responsibilties (fiscally) toward their athletes.

The last thing the BBS wants, is to do is add a payroll for the 60+ players.

The nature of the relationship is no longer a student-school.  It becomes a job.  And that means benefits and whole array of different problems the BBS would rather avoid.

And the easiest way to do that is call this system something it's not, take an ignorant stance against what is right, and punish the players for trying to survive on nothing.

Terrell Pryor and his antics at Ohio State gave us a glimpse into what the college athlete of today has to struggle with.  Juggling his sport commitment and his academic/scholarship commitment. Trying to feed himself on college food stamps because he has no other form of income.

This whole process doesn't make any sense.  The amount of money allocated to a student player is enough to feed A STUDENT.  Not a student-ATHLETE!  These guys train year round and require a higher calorie intake (especially the bigger guys) than Hubert Q. Student.

To punish an NCAA player for trying to support himself is anathema.  If he owns a jersey, ring, or any other kind of memorabilia, and sells it, so be it.

It's a shame these rules are enforced.  The NCAA rule book is just a thick as the phone book, but with a lot more words and legal talk.  And none of the rules makes sense.

And is something that cannot be swept under the rug anymore.

It seems to have taken more of a (metaphorical) turn into hiding a dead body under an office building, hoping everyone who smells something decaying just keeps on walking, and doesn't ask any questions about the stench that is obviously permeating underneath the NCAA office building.

Matt Forte has lost his leverage

by Joe Persinger
@Brew_Mastr_Joe on twitter

The Chicago Bear's have put Matt Forte in a pickle.  It's amazing what 4 months has accomplished.  Long gone are the fans who turned to social media with hash tags, fantasy football and twitter handles reading: "Pay Forte".


Forte has been reluctant to embrace the position he has been put in, and lost his public composure when the Bear's inked Michael Bush to a 4 year deal ($7 Million Guarented) and spouted off a tweet questioning the dedication of the Bear's and their new GM, Phil Emery.

“There’s only so many times a man that has done everything he’s been asked to do can be disrespected! Guess the GOOD GUYs do finish last.”

After this tweet, the Chicago fan base has collectively taken a step back.  Many fans understand the position he has been put in.  He is pushing closer to that running back expiration date, would like to have job-security and a few zeros in his bank account to show for what he has accomplished.


This is why he was backed by the fans.


But disrespected??


With $7 Million plus due to him this year, and a 110% raise (if they fail to negotiate a deal and franchise him again) next year, sympathies for the Bear's running back slowly starts to recede.


$7 million a year isn't being "disrespected".

Phil Emery has strategically broke a tackle in this whole fiasco.  By acquiring Brandon Marshall and Martz getting the boot, the offensive dynamic for the Bear's is going to drastically change.


With Brandon Marshall now in the mix, and Michael Bush, a good pass blocker, the Bear's can now become a legitimate passing offense and not lean heavily on Forte's production (to a certain degree), shifting the leverage back to the Bears.


Forte was offered a $14 million (guaranteed) contract, which he turned down.  Number 22 wants guaranteed Adrian Peterson dollars ($36 million guaranteed) or something closer to what Arian Foster received about a month ago ($21 million guaranteed).


Let's be serious.


Is it really that advantageous for the Bear's to recklessly spend that kind of cash?  


Is he worth it?  No and yes would be the answers.

If Forte isn't happy about the position he was put in, that is just unfortunate.  Last summer while we sat nervously waiting to find out if the players and NFL Owners could divide $9 billion dollars, the players had an ample opportunity to negotiate the "franchise tag" out of the league.


My guess, this wasn't high on the priority list and was just not important to NFL players as a group, as revenue sharing and off-the-field football issues took priority.


The Bear's have Forte by the (proverbial) balls.


He isn't going anywhere for at least two seasons and by that time he will be almost 30, with roughly $20 million guarenteed from the Bear's (if they franchise him next year).  


He will have lost even more leverage at that point, and the atitude he has displayed will not help him in future contract talks.


I hope the Bear's work something out.  He is a great runner with speed and explosiveness that will compliment the style of offense Mike Tice is bringing to the Bears.