With Fenway Park turning 100 years old this past week I got to thinking where each stadium ranks. I've put together my rankings of all 30 baseball stadiums starting with No. 30 all the way to No. 1.
Let the debating begin.
30. O.co Coliseum - Oakland Athletics
Easily the worst yard in the bigs. From the unsanitary all-around venue to the obnoxious horn blowers in the outfield, the A's play in the most unpleasant stadium in the game. I guess the only good thing about going to an A's game is seeing other teams for a fairly cheap price. Get Billy Beane on the horn, this yard needs a serious makeover.
29. Tropicana Field - Tampa Rays
"The Trop" isn't as tropical and beautiful as Tampa Bay, that's for sure. The Rays have become a relevant ballclub, but for a long time they stunk as bad as their home yard. Hopefully they continue their success, generate some money, and build a new venue because as it is now, the Rays play in a fish tank that hasn't been cleaned since Wade Boggs wore a Devil Ray uniform.
28. Rogers Center - Toronto Blue Jays
I like what Toronto is doing bringing back the old-school uniforms but nobody said they needed to keep the old-school stadium too. The Rogers Center is home to one of the worst teams in the league. The last time Toronto had any real success was in the early 90's winning back-to-back titles in 1992 and 1993. Hopefully they can start winning some games, sell some tickets, and get themselves a new ballpark.
27. U.S. Cellular Field - Chicago White Sox
I hate to do this to my man Hawk Harrelson but the White Sox have a weak venue. I'd much rather them bring back the ol' Comiskey Park with the candy in the outfield - that was a good look. But, that was then, this is now. It's 2012 and the South Siders are rebuilding their team around new head coach Robin Ventura rather than rebuilding their stadium.
26. Chase Field - Arizona Diamondbacks
It's not that this venue is necessarily bad it's just that there are a lot of good stadiums out there. The reason I have this yard so low is because of one thing; the lighting. Every time the D-Backs are on TV it seems as though they are playing in the dark. I don't know what the electric bill on that stadium is but I would imagine it's pretty low considering they have the dimmers on. Turn the damn lights on.
25. Rangers Ballpark in Arlington - Texas Rangers
This venue is quite old compared to the many other stadiums in the league. This is one of the few stadiums that I have not been too but I don't know that I am to eager to either. The backdrop in the outfield isn't all that bad I just can't imagine watching a game in a sauna and enjoying it all too much. Jerry Jones needs to call Nolan Ryan and upgrade like the Cowboys did.
24. Minute Maid Park - Houston Astros
You know, I used to like this stadium but after looking over it again I don't know if I feel the same. The odd dimensions of the field were intriguing when they first came out but now they're just a nuisance. The actual stadium itself is pretty cool with the train attraction in left field, but other than that it's just okay. Minute Maid Park, like Chase Field, seems a little darker than other venues which definitely irritates me. I'm thinking that I just don't like the stadiums with the dome-roof option.
23. Progressive Field - Cleveland Indians
This yard isn't bad either so I hate to have it so low, it's just tough with all these great ballparks across the league. However, there's always one thing that strikes me as a little odd when watching the Indians play at home. It's the dirt. It seems to be a little darker to me and I don't know if they're trying to incorporate the "Indian" aspect with the red colored dirt or what but I'm not sure if I like it, or if it's appropriate. Other than that, it seems like an enjoyable place to watch a game when the Indians are playing well.
22. Nationals Park - Washington Nationals
This is a pretty generic stadium. There isn't too much wrong with it and there isn't too much to get excited about. However, Nationals fans should be getting excited about the future of their ballclub. Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper are the future a young and talented team that has started out hot in 2012 with strong efforts from their underrated pitching staff. From what used to be a dead spot in D.C. I think Nationals Park might be heating up if they continue to win.
21. Turner Field - Atlanta Braves
I hate to do this to the Braves but Turner Field isn't what it was in the mid 90's when Bobby Cox had the Braves in contention seemingly every year. It's been around a long time and gets some tradition points over others, but with the new age of baseball stadiums I think love and respect for Turner Field got lost in the mix. I've never actually been there but I definitely want to catch a game and get involved in the infamous tomahawk chop.
20. Dodger Stadium - Los Angeles Dodgers
I hate the Dodgers and I hate their yard. I mean everyone makes it out to be this historic landmark that sits on a hill with views of the city but to me, it's a dump. The only reason I don't have this stadium any lower is because of the playing surface. Dodger Stadium keeps a pretty clean looking field that sparkles in the day time. Other than that though, I hope Magic Johnson and his team make some renovations to the yard.
19. Miller Park - Milwaukee Brewers
There's just something about the stadiums with a roof that I don't like. I feel that baseball is an outdoor game and when the roof covers the stadium it feels very morbid and unbecoming. This stadium was just recently built and isn't a bad stadium by any means. The slide in the outfield and fairly new design makes this ballpark a decent one. Actually, from the exterior this ballpark is one of my favorites so I will at least give the beer lovers some credit there.
18. Angel Stadium - Los Angeles Angels
Well, this is my hometown team and there's nothing like a day game at the Big A. I have to remain unbiased though and say that this stadium could use another renovation. Hopefully with our new additions we begin to garner some attention as legitimate contenders and fund money for some upgrades. Angel Stadium is near and dear to me as I often pass by it on the freeway but it upsets me that it's not making the top 10. Also, the victory light on the Big A outside the stadium needs to be fixed, the modern lighting they use now is brutal. But, for what it's worth, light that baby up!
17. Great American Ballpark - Cincinnati Reds
I actually like this yard. The river in the background along with it's cool outfield backdrop make this a good but not great venue. The Reds are starting to become serious contenders in the NL Central with Joey Votto as the centerpiece for their offense. Fans should also be excited about flame throwing Aroldis Chapman who I'm sure will fill up every seat in the house when he takes the mound as a starter. I wish I could have this stadium higher on the list but it's too hard with the many great venues the game of baseball has to offer.
16. Marlins Ballpark - Miami Marlins
The Marlins opened their 2012 season with new uniforms, a new manager, new players, and a new stadium. From the outside the stadium looks impressive. On the inside though, it's a little too modern for me. The lime green color runs wild in the ballpark which doesn't appeal to me all that much. I do like the dome-roof option on this ballpark as it keeps the climate controlled without substituting any lighting. Overall, I think the stadium is nice and it's definitely an upgrade from their old stadium they were sharing with the Dolphins and Miami Hurricanes football program.
15. Petco Park - San Diego Padres
The Dads play in a mega park, plain and simple. When you talk about pitchers parks, the Co is definitely in consideration for taking the top spot. Other than its gigantic playing grounds the yard is actually quite nice. It's a relatively new venue that is the exclusive home of the Padres who used to share Qualcomm Stadium with the Chargers. I haven't been to Petco yet but will probably make the 1-2 hour drive south to catch a ballgame very soon. I would imagine a day game there is spectacular.
14. Citi Field - New York Mets
I've been to the old Shea Stadium and it was decent. The Mets' new stadium is actually quite appealing. There is a lot going on in the outfield as well as outside the stadium towards home plate. Ironically enough I kind of like how congested the stadium appears to be. I don't know if it's reminiscent of New York City but the stadium definitely maximizes its space which I think is somewhat unique. I like this yard, I do.
13. Comerica Park - Detroit Tigers
If you want to talk about another pitchers ballpark, look no further than Comerica Park in Detroit. It's hard enough to hit off Justin Verlander but it's twice as hard when you face him at home. I went to this stadium when I was a kid and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The buildings in the backdrop of the stadium accompanied by numerous Tiger statues around the stadium make this a solid venue, that is unless, you're stepping into the batter's box to face Justin Verlander.
12. Coors Field - Colorado Rockies
I love this yard. The first word that comes to mind is "refreshing." The stadium is clean, it's beautiful, and it seems like a great place to enjoy a ballgame. I would like to have this stadium a little higher on the list but being in the better half of the stadiums isn't bad considering this stadium has been around for a while. I went there when I was too young to remember but hopefully I'll be back soon to catch a game with the Lowery family.
11. Target Field - Minnesota Twins
The Twins' new ballpark ranks 11th on the list. They were in desperate need of getting a new stadium, the Metrodome was arguably the worst venue in the game. An outdoor park in Minnesota is very unique, but I can't imagine going to a game in the fall when it starts to get cold. The Twins won't be playing in the fall though unless they make some roster moves to compete with division rival Detroit.
10. Kauffman Stadium - Kansas City Royals
I really like this yard. Although I've never been to this stadium I've heard this is a fairly underrated stadium. From the looks of it, the stadium has that "Field of Dreams" persona. I really like the stadium's simplicity and clean look all while keeping it original with their outfield display and waterfall. The Royals are a young team that could be a force in a few years. I hope this reigns true so Kauffman Stadium can garner some attention because it's truly a beautiful place to play a ballgame.
9. Citizen's Bank Ballpark - Philadelphia Phillies
I really like the stadium the "City of Brotherly Love" put together here. The stadium is fairly new and it's cracked my top 10. I just like the look of the stadium to be honest, there isn't really anything that stands out - it just looks good. The Phillies were the favorite in the National League to start the 2012 season but will have to overcome some serious injuries to uphold the lofty goal of getting back to the World Series.
8. Yankee Stadium - New York Yankees
The Yankees keep things pretty simple. Just win. The old Yankee Stadium was renowned as the cathedral of baseball because of the championships, great players, and baseball history that took place there. The new ballpark in the Bronx is very similar to the old stadium, only it doesn't have as much tradition. It's honestly a pretty boring stadium but if you ever get the chance to see a Yankee game the experience is anything but that. I'll never forget seeing the Yankees at the old Yankee stadium and hope to see the new one in my lifetime.
7. Camden Yards - Baltimore Orioles
Camden Yards is a baseball players oasis. This is a classic stadium with a very traditional feel to it. I remember going to see Cal Ripken Jr. play when I was a little kid. The stadium has seen some years but that doesn't keep me from having this beauty in my top 10. The Orioles have struggled to compete with New York, Boston, and Tampa Bay over the last decade but they've been off to a hot start in 2012. Camden Yards - a great American ballpark that everyone should visit.
6. Safeco Field - Seattle Mariners
It absolutely breaks my heart that I couldn't squeeze Safeco in the top 5. I love this stadium and honestly believe that Seattle might be one of my favorite cities. Everything is so clean, lush, and refreshing. When I look at this yard I am just amazed at the architectural work and how visually appealing this stadium is. I've been to Safeco and the old Kingdome and both yards are definitely favorites of yours truly, my-oh-my.
5. At&t Park - San Francisco Giants
One of the best places to enjoy a day game, this bay-area stadium is a true gem. The stadium is located beautifully against the bay providing fans with a cool breeze in the California sun. The giant glove and Coca-Cola bottle are pretty cool as well. I've been to this stadium a couple times and if you haven't been make sure you try to. It's a beautifully constructed stadium that has a great baseball atmosphere for every game.
4. Busch Stadium - St. Louis Cardinals
This stadium has one of the best backdrops in all of baseball. The St. Louis arch accompanied by the skyline provide a truly beautiful scene. The "Show-Me State" definitely proved their worth constructing an absolute marvel of a stadium. This stadium and city encompass much of what America is - baseball and Budweiser. It's simple, yet rich, it's classic, yet refreshing; it's truly a wonderful place to enjoy America's pastime and an ice cold drink, cheers.
3. Fenway Park - Boston Red Sox
The cathedral of Boston, the city of Boston's most prized possession. Fenway Park oozes history, tradition, Yankee hatred, and green. The Green Monster, the green paint, and the green-green grass. Fenway Park is truly something else - an absolute landmark of American sports. Fenway is known for it's odd dimensions, passionate fans, and great Red Sox ballplayers. Ask any Boston fan which sports team they love most - it's the Sox. Fenway Park, one of the most esteemed venues in all of sports, hands down.
2. PNC Park - Pittsburgh Pirates
It was hard for me not have this as the No. 1 stadium in all of baseball. It is easily the most visually appealing ballpark in the league. The skyline of the city accompanied by the beautiful yellow bridge make this stadium nothing short of spectacular. It's a shame not a lot of people know about this great stadium because of the team that plays in it. The Pirates are one of the worst franchises in all of sports but somehow got it right when they constructed this masterpiece. PNC Park, definitely on my list of ballparks to visit in the near future.
1. Wrigley Field - Chicago Cubs
It's not the newest or sexiest stadium out there but it's Wrigley. When I think of Wrigley I think of enjoying a cold beer on a Saturday afternoon in some cheap seats watching America's pastime. The ivy on the outfield wall, the old-school scoreboard, and the passionate atmosphere all make Wrigley the best yard in the game. Wrigley is a stadium for all ages as it inherently reminds fans that baseball is a kid's game played by men. Wrigley Field, No. 1 on my list and No. 1 in the hearts of many. Take me out to the ballgame.
Don't like the list? I'd love to hear your comments in the comment section below. That's it for my list of the 30 MLB stadiums. Stay tuned for more blog posts.
Gotta compete.
Bisq
