Weekly Column: Diamonds in the Grass

In his capacity as a Columnist for California Sports Lawyer®, Founder and Managing Attorney Jeremy Evans has written a column about the journey and experiences traveling to and seeing all thirty current Major League Baseball ballparks and few that are no longer around.

You can read the full column below.

Seeing all 30 Major League Baseball ballparks was a lifetime experience and a blessing! Thank you to all the gracious hosts and venue staff and all the wonderful people who experienced one or two or more of the ballparks together. This is a not a ranking, but a sharing of experiences. There are definitely favorites, where noted. The year in parentheses marks the first year of attendance at the ballpark. At most parks, the local cuisine was tried along with a mainstay of hot dogs and toppings.

American Family Field (Milwaukee Brewers) (formerly Miller Park) (2024)

A beautiful setting sitting outside the Downtown Milwaukee area. The ballpark’s retractable roof is a wonderful marvel to behold. The fans are kind and love their Brewers.

The food and beer options are local. The weather in the summer is hot and humid so make sure to get a seat(s) in the shade. It might be advisable on hot and muggy days to close the roof when it hits a certain temperature for the day.

Interesting notes: try the cheese curds. Watch the sausages race in the outfield. See the slide in the outfield. Love the logo and re-design from a few years ago with the glove and ball. The area behind home plate is only accessible if you have a seat. The walking area behind the plate on the concourse blocks the view via a wall of suites. The suites are nearly field level, which is very interesting, close to the action, and different from other stadiums and ballparks.

Angel Stadium (Los Angeles Angels) (2009)

An intimate ballpark that has a mix of Disneyland, Southern California culture, and is the fourth oldest ballpark (1966) in Major League Baseball right behind Dodger Stadium. The stadium has deep green seats and beige colored walls. The venue makes for a very family friendly environment with its entertainment, fans, seating, and food options.

Interesting notes: the first game attended here was for the World Baseball Classic that pitted the United States vs. Japan. The traffic is less than Dodger Stadium and there are some restaurants and bars directly across the parking lot. Disneyland is also right next door along with the Grove, a music venue. Amtrak and Metrolink train stops are beyond the parking lot beyond center field. The Pond, where the Anaheim Ducks play, is across the freeway.

Busch Stadium (St. Louis Cardinals) (2016)

An absolutely beautiful venue in revitalized Downtown St. Louis with an amazing ballpark village. Broadway Oyster Bar is a must before or after the game for the live jazz and blues entertainment and Cajun food. The Gateway Arch, barbecue, and history of St. Louis make it a terrific city to visit. Cardinal fans are some of the nicest and love and know their club history.

Interesting notes: check out the statues outside the stadium from Stan “The Man” Musial to Bob Gibson, Enos Slaughter, Lou Brock, Red Schoendienst, Dizzy Dean, Rogers Hornsby, Cool Papa Bell, George Sisler, and Ozzie Smith.

Chase Field (Arizona Diamondbacks) (2013)

First game here was also part of the World Baseball Classic that pitted Canada vs. Italy. Chase Field has beautiful views from most seats and the aprons in the outfield along with the retractable roof are wonderful additions. The Diamondbacks are one of the newest franchises along with the Tampa Bay Rays (1998), but have two World Series appearances. Their beginning also unushered in a renaissance in Cactus League Spring Training in the State of Arizona.

Interesting notes: the pool/spa in the outfield and the interesting food options like the Churro Dog.

Citi Field (New York Mets) and old Shea Stadium (2005, 2021)

Both stadiums are iconic in Queens. Shea Stadium famously had sightline issues with obstructed view seats. However, the big red apple in the outfield was always a wonderful site. Taking the train to the game is a great experience with the city views and experiences. Citi Field is built on the parking lot of Shea Stadium and is part of the retro-style stadium that looks older with the use of brick on the facade that was made famous by Janet Marie Smith at other ballparks like Camden Yards.

Interesting notes: the Mets color scheme is a mix between the formerly New York Giants (orange) and Brooklyn Dodgers (blue) and Shea Stadium (named after a former Mayor of New York) was built on the site where former Dodgers owner Walter O’Malley planned to build a domed new stadium home for the Dodgers before moving them to Los Angeles in 1958. Citi Field’s exterior brick facade is reminiscent of Ebbets Field, the Dodgers former home in Brooklyn.

Citizens Bank Park (Philadelphia Phillies) (2023)

The fans and the beautiful ballpark give this experience a wonderful memory. The ballpark is intimate and has great views from most seats. The fans are passionate and will voice their opinions. The area outside the stadium (Xfinity Live! Philadelphia) and Chickie’s & Pete’s in South Philly are great for before and after game activities.

Interesting notes: check out Saloon Restaurant and Scannicchio's for great dinners. Enjoy a Philly Cheesesteak inside and outside the ballpark. The sunset from one of the decks or concourses during the summer are epic. New Jersey is close and so is the Jersey Shore. Jersey is known for its vegetables as “Jersey Fresh” and the Italian Long Hot peppers are a must! As locals are accustomed to saying, “Don’t sleep on Philly,” and “Don’t sleep on Jersey!”

Comerica Park (Detroit Tigers) (2024)

This ballpark and the city have major swag! The tiger statues and sculptures inside and outside of the ballpark, along with the downtown city views in the background make this one of the favorites. The downtown area has been revitalized and is vibrant. The history of the Tigers franchise from Ty Cobb to Hank Greenberg, Justin Verlander, and Miguel Cabrera is rich. The stadium was a surprise because so much of what is heard and seen does not highlight the beautiful richness of the this ballpark.

Interesting notes: check out Buddy’s Pizza for Detroit-style pizza, District Seventy8 for dinner, Gilly’s Clubhouse before and after games, the Henry Ford Museum and Ford Factory!

Coors Field (Colorado Rockies) (2012)

Another favorite and where yours truly celebrated passing the bar exam with dear friends. The perfect purple sky and sunsets are unlike any other. The downtown area has been revitalized for years and is a very popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The views of the Rocky Mountains are very special. The stadium also has a retro-style look and feel with the use of brick in the facade.

Interesting notes: Denver, Colorado has a wonderful Midwestern culture along with great restaurants and local hangouts. Make sure to do your research on the best spots before going.

Dodger Stadium (Los Angeles Dodgers) (1987)

The first ballpark and everything for yours truly. The renovations to the stadium have been a Godsend as fans can now roam around the stadium and enjoy new concessions, shopping, and viewing decks. Tommy Lasorda called Dodger Stadium “Blue Heaven” and from the first time in view its large field of green grass and vista of the San Gabriel Mountains has stuck. The Clubs history and fan base is some of the richest and most passionate in baseball.

Interesting notes: traffic is tough, but there are rideshare and free bus options. Best advice, show up early and leave early to avoid traffic if concerned. The Dodger Dog is a must. Get a picture from the top deck behind home plate of Downtown Los Angeles. Tailgating is missed at Dodger Stadium. If yours truly owned the Dodgers, the new home would be in Downtown Los Angeles with subway and train lines connecting and a host of restaurants, bars, and shopping directly outside for a true downtown ballpark experience. Yours truly has attended more games at Dodger Stadium than any other with Petco Park in second place. A lifetime of memories in the City of Angels.

Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox) (2006)

One of the most epic sporting experiences and venues, anywhere! The oldest ballpark (1912) in the country is also one of the best. From the old wooden seats behind home plate to the iconic Citgo sign beyond the left field wall, Green Monster, and the history and passion of the franchise and its fans. There may not be a better place experience a ballgame.

Interesting notes: the vendors and bars outside the stadium are something to behold and consume. The way the city of fans walks to the ballpark together before first pitch is magical. Fenway like Wrigley, Comerica, Petco Park, PNC, Oriole Park, among others are like a blast to the past in their appreciation of downtown culture and seamless connection to the skyline. Watching Curt Schilling and Pedro Martinez pitch on back-to-back nights was extraordinary. Make sure to sing along to “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond during the game.

Globe Life Field (Texas Rangers) and old Ballpark at Arlington (now Choctaw Stadium and formerly Globe Life Park) (2014 and 2021)

Both ballparks are beautiful and set on the outskirts of Dallas. The ballparks sit right next to each other and the former is now set aside for high school football, “Friday Night Lights” style. The Ballpark at Arlington, with its big archways and Texas sky was an awesome experience especially when the fans sing “Deep in the Heart of Texas” in unison with four claps. The same song is sung at Minute Maid Park in Houston. Globe Life has a retractable roof for those hot Texas summers and deep thunder storms. It has beautiful sightlines with a wide offering of food and beverages.

Interesting notes: take the short drive to Fort Worth and see some country and western twang at Billy Bob’s, Neon Moon, and eat some great Mexican food at Joe T. Garcia’s. Make sure to stop by Buc-ee’s, the world largest convenient stores turned amusement parks of food, stuff, and gas.

Great American Ball Park (Cincinnati Reds) (2023)

A beautiful ballpark set on the banks of the Ohio River. The ballpark is small and intimate. The Reds organization is one of the oldest (1881) and has a rich history, friendly fans, and great place to watch a ballgame. Make sure to watch the fireworks after a Reds home run is hit.

Interesting notes: eat at Jeff Ruby’s in Downtown Cincinnati and experience the mother-of-pearl and gold-plated piano and live music. Also, if the Cincinnati Open (tennis) is there on the date, grab some tickets. Make sure to try Cincinnati Chili from Skyline or another local spot.

Guaranteed Rate Field (Chicago White Sox) (formerly U.S. Cellular Field and Comiskey Park) (2006)

The difference between the North Side and South Side of Chicago are as different as the two ballparks in the city. This ballpark pays homage to Comiskey Park with the outfield wheels and flag display and there are plans being discussed to build a new park on the Chicago River. The fans were welcoming with toughness and pride.

Interesting notes: you can take the train to the ballpark. Built in 1991, the second Comiskey Park, with the original across the street built in 1910, was the first new major sporting venue built in Chicago since Chicago Stadium in 1929. This ballpark also predates the retro-style that came later in the 1990s and 2000s.

Kauffman Stadium (Kansas City Royals) (2022)

A beautiful and very clean ballpark that includes a Hall of Fame in the outfield with some terrific artifacts like old gloves, jerseys, and bats. The fountain in the outfield fits in with the Midwest scenery on what is seemingly a hill of green trees. The crown and lights beyond the outfield wall is iconic.

Interesting notes: the Lake of the Ozarks is a few hour drive and worth a visit. There are some great barbeque restaurants in the area. Also check out Union Station Kansas City.

loanDepot Park (Miami Marlins) (formerly Marlins Park) (2016)

Set in the beautiful neighborhood of Little Havana, the ballpark has a retractable roof. The large windows beyond the left and center field wall are a site to behold especially with views of Downtown Miami and thunderstorms when weather permits.

Interesting notes: try a Cuban Coffee (Cafecito, Café Cubano), eat at Versailles Restaurant Cuban Cuisine, or another local Cuban spot, walk down the boardwalk in South Beach to the pier, and take the drive to Key West. Also saw this ballpark with Mom!

Minute Maid Park (Houston Astros) (2007)

Another beautiful ballpark set in a downtown with great restaurants. The retractable roof keeps the temperature temperate and the views are just as pretty when closed. The glass and train in the outfield are awesome sites and there was once a hill in center field with a flag pole!

Interesting notes: the thunderstorms are a wonderful sit when seeing them through the glass walls of the outfield. The fans also sing “Deep in the Heart of Texas” like their Texas cousins up north in Dallas. It is a family friend ballpark with gracious fans.

Nationals Park (Washington Nationals) and RFK Stadium (old Nationals ballpark) (2005, 2022)

RFK was an old stadium that played home to the Nationals after the franchise moved from Montreal, Quebec in Canada. It was a football and multi-purpose stadium that housed baseball for a few seasons. It was wonderful to see the new team play in America’s capital. Nationals Park is beautiful and sits near the Capitol. It is family friendly and has great sightlines. The view from the center field concourse onto the field is extra special and great for photo opportunities.

Interesting notes: saw RFK and Shea Stadium with Mom on a post-undergrad graduation trip so the trip holds a special place. D.C. is a gorgeous city wonderful and deep history.

Oakland–Alameda County Coliseum (Oakland Athletics) (2024)

Built in 1966, it is often criticized for its shortcomings and lack of upgrades. However, the ballpark is quaint and despite the pending move to Sacramento, California, and then Las Vegas, Nevada, the fans are dedicated and passionate. The A’s have a storied history dating back to 1901 in Philadelphia and Kansas City. The green and yellow color scheme is iconic and so are some of their former players.

Interesting notes: one can fly up and back in the same day to see a game if living in California and attending an afternoon game.

Oracle Park (San Francisco Giants) (formerly Pac Bell Park and AT&T Park) (2016)

A beautiful ballpark sitting on McCovey Cove is home to some iconic moments and players. One of the gems of the retro era. The restaurants around the ballpark are fun and entertaining. The food options are also some of the best in baseball, especially the Gilroy Garlic Fries.

Interesting notes: bring a coat or sweater. The wind, air, and chill off the water can get cold. In other words, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” ~Mark Twain. Tony Bennett closes all home games that the Giants win with the iconic, “I left my heart in San Francisco.”

Oriole Park at Camden Yards (Baltimore Orioles) (2005)

One of the best ballparks in the country that is rich in history and ties to Babe Ruth and his family. It is set in a beautiful downtown area with restaurants and fun activities. The iconic Baltimore & Ohio Warehouse sits behind the center and right field wall.

Interesting notes: completed in 1992, it started the retro-revival in downtown’s across America for ballparks and city-centers. Food: crab cakes and Boog’s BBQ.

Petco Park (San Diego Padres) (2006)

Opened in 2004, it is one of the prettiest ballparks and settings in the country. It sits near the bay in the Gaslamp District of San Diego, California. San Diego is often referred to as America’s Finest City and maybe better said a city with great neighborhoods and the best lifestyle. The Western Metal Supply Co. building is gorgeous and incorporated into the field of play as the left field foul pole.

Interesting notes: The Padres have done a better job than anyone at incorporating local food and beverage options into the ballpark. The ownership has also done a terrific job in updating the ballpark to keep it new and fresh. If you stay at the Omni Hotel next door and you have a ticket to the game to you can take walking skybridge into the park. Many memories in this ballpark before, during, and after law school.

PNC Park (Pittsburgh Pirates) (2007)

Arguably the most beautiful setting in all of baseball or sports. This description could probably end there and not much else needs to be said. The yellow Roberto Clemente Bridge sits beyond left field and the scenic views of Downtown Pittsburgh sit across the Allegheny River. Please do yourself a favor and search for PNC Park images.

Interesting notes: local food and beverage options like the Primanti Bros. sandwich, Yuengling (the oldest operating brewing company in the United States and is only currently sold in two states west of the Mississippi River, in Missouri and Oklahoma), and the ability to take a car or boat to the game cannot be overlooked. Pittsburgh is a wonderful city. The park is intimate and cost friendly, comparably. The fans are fantastic and fun. Seeing it with dear friends, priceless!

Progressive Field (Cleveland Guardians) (formerly Jacobs Field) (2024)

A terrific ballpark that has wonderful Hall of Fame statues in the outfield. There is something extra special about the wind blowing the American, Ohio, and Cleveland flags in this retro ballpark. The fans are very friendly and as comedian Drew Carey would say, “I love the normalcy of Cleveland. There's regular people there.” The views of the downtown skyline are impressive.

Interesting notes: check out the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame next to Lake Erie!

Rogers Centre (Toronto Blue Jays) (2024)

The common saying that Canadians are nice is very much true. Toronto is a gorgeous city with much to see. The ballpark is open, big, and yet feels intimate because the ballpark walls feel tall and the dome above is towering. The CN Tower beautifully looms above the park. There are many seating and standing areas, including a live band on one of outfield decks. Beverages can be purchased with a souvenir cup that is a shaker and the top is a Toronto Blue Jays ball cap!

Interesting notes: ride the subway, get out on the water in Lake Ontario for city views, see the St. Lawrence Market, try the wonderful food, and meet all the wonderful and kind people in Toronto. It is also currently the only Canadian city with a Major League Baseball team.

T-Mobile Park (Seattle Mariners) (formerly Safeco Field) (2009)

Seeing the ballpark was on the tail end of a summer study abroad program in law school that saw yours truly travel to twenty-nine cities and nineteen countries in three months. The trip started in Los Angeles and ended in Seattle, flying the long way around the world. It was fitting to end in an international city like Seattle with its wonderful food, culture, and world-famous summers.

Interesting notes: retractable roof, beautiful views of the skyline, a terrific facade, and make sure to go crab fishing, visit Pike Place Market, and get out on the Pugent Sound. Staying with wonderful friends made this stop extra special.

Target Field (Minnesota Twins) and Metrodome (2015, 2023)

The Metrodome was an interesting venue with a white fiberglass fabric roof that was self-supported by air pressure. It was also a football stadium so the seats could feel far from the field. The fans have always loved their team. Target Field is an open air ballpark and it feels tall and has great views of the downtown skyline. There are many different seating and standing areas and along with the beige colored facade it has a resemblance to Petco Park in San Diego.

Interesting notes: Stillwater, Minnesota is a beautiful city that hosted a wonderful friend’s wedding along the St. Croix river. The St. Paul Saints (Triple-A affiliate for the Twins) is a beautiful ballpark and Bill Murray was once a part-owner of the franchise.

Tropicana Field (Tampa Bay Rays) (2023)

Tropicana is the smallest capacity ballpark at 25,000, but its quaintness and lovely fans are worth the visit. The city of St. Petersburg is one America’s gems. It sunsets, food, people, and culture are must see. The ballpark is older and a new waterfront park is on the way, but the ownership has done wonders to update the stadium and keep its teams competitive on the field despite being in a smaller market with one of the smallest budgets in baseball.

Interesting notes: make sure to take a stroll down the St. Pete Pier.

Truist Park (Atlanta Braves) (2022)

The 2017 ballpark sits outside downtown Atlanta as opposed to Turner Field. There is a wonderful village that sits around the ballpark. There is a Hall of Fame museum inside the ballpark near home plate and first base on the concourse. The venue feels rich with history. Great views from anywhere in the park.

Interesting notes: Visit Olympic Park, the Coca-Cola Museum, Georgia Aquarium (see the whale shark), Ponce City Market, and Johnny’s Hideaway.

Wrigley Field (Chicago Cubs) (2006)

The second oldest ballpark (1914) in the country is also one of its finest. The friendly confines of Wrigley Field, always gracious, welcoming, and a field of dreams in the midst of a beautiful neighborhood in a bustling city. No other ballpark besides Fenway feels like it is a part of a neighborhood. Other ballparks can feel like part of the city or downtown area, but Wrigley and Fenway exist in neighborhoods. The feeling is akin to walking down the street and seeing a convenient store or gas station, or your favorite restaurant or pub, but in addition seeing a ballpark.

Interesting notes: Wrigleyville, similar to the area around Fenway, are must see before and after games to mingle with locals. The Chicago Dog and Italian Beef sandwiches are arguably some of the best ballpark food in baseball.

Yankee Stadium (New York Yankees) and old Yankee Stadium (2005, 2009)

The Cathedrals of baseball in the Bronx. Built for strength, longevity, and to be held in awe. Old Yankee Stadium has more history, but the new facade of Yankee Stadium is something to behold with its gold lettering on light limestone. The white fencing facade on both the old and new stadiums are beautiful.

Interesting notes: another special place in my heart to experience this ballpark with friends and Mom on different occasions. Monument Park in the new Yankee Stadium off the concourse on the field level is a wonderful museum dedicated to Yankee and baseball history. Take the train to the game and experience the restaurants, pubs, and street vendors. Frank Sinatra's "New York, New York" plays at the end of every ballgame, regardless of outcome. A fitting end to the show.

A few closing notes: only Dodger Stadium sings two choruses to “Take me out to the ballgame”. Remember, it is Cracker Jack, not Cracker Jacks when singing that song. A batter being “on deck” and “in the hole” are in reference to Navy shipman terminology. There is a mini ice cream batting helmet at home from each stadium to signify the moment in time.

The hope is that if you have the goal to see all of the ballparks that you do! Be encouraged and make the plan. God bless you.

About Jeremy M. Evans:

Jeremy M. Evans is the Chief Entrepreneur Officer, Founder & Managing Attorney at California Sports Lawyer®, representing entertainment, media, and sports clients in contractual, intellectual property, and dealmaking matters. Evans is an award-winning attorney and industry leader based in Los Angeles and Newport Beach, California. He can be reached at Jeremy@CSLlegal.com. www.CSLlegal.com.