Seattle Mariners – T-Mobile Park
T-Mobile Park opened in 1999 and has the capacity to hold 47,929 fans. When “The Kingdome” was doubted as an MLB stadium, the ownership group of the Mariners threatened to relocate the team. T-Mobile Park hosted Wrestlemania XIX in 2003, which attracted a record attendance of 54,097, but the stadium was known as Safeco Field.
Washington Nationals – Nationals Park
When the Montreal Expos franchise relocated to Washington DC, they became the Nationals. The Nationals temporarily played at RFK Stadium until Nationals Park was completed. It is the first LEED-certified green major sports stadium in the United States, four years before the Miami Marlins. The Washington Monument and Capitol building are visible from the upper deck.
San Diego Padres – Petco Park
Petco Park replaced Qualcomm Stadium, which the Padres shared with the San Diego Chargers. This stadium was opened in 2004 and has carried a record attendance of 45,567. The address to Petco Park is 19 Tony Gwynn Drive.
Cleveland Indians – Progressive Field
“The Jake” was ranked as the best MLB ballpark in 2008 according to Sports Illustrated. Previously, the Indians shared this ballpark with the Cleveland Browns. When this ballpark opened, the Indians sold out 455 consecutive games between 1995-2001. The Indians hosted three World Series at Progressive Field.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Dodgers Stadium
The “Blue Heaven on Earth” was opened in 1962. It’s the third-oldest ballpark in the MLB and the largest baseball stadium by capacity. This pitcher’s ballpark has hosted twelve no-hitters, which include two perfect games. In 2020, Dodgers Stadium will host the MLB All-Star Game and in 2028, will host baseball during the Summer Olympics. Dodgers Stadium also played host to the 2014 NHL Stadium Series game between the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks.
Anaheim Angels – Angel Stadium
“The Big A” opened in 1966 and was also the home to the Los Angeles Rams from 1980-1994. It’s the fourth-oldest MLB stadium. The landmark “Big A” sign is 230ft tall featuring a halo that lights up when the Angels win. The fans say “light that baby up” in reference to the halo illuminating after a win.
New York Yankees – New Yankee Stadium
“The Bronx Zoo” is home to the Yankees and the New York City FC. It’s located one block north of the original Yankee Stadium. New Yankee Stadium has some replica elements of the original Yankee Stadium. At $1.5 billion, New Yankee Stadium is one of the most expensive stadiums ever built.
Boston Red Sox – Fenway Park
“America’s Most Beloved Ballpark” is the oldest ballpark in the MLB. Fenway Park was built in 1912 and rebuilt in 1934. Since it has been rebuilt and renovated, Fenway Park has a few strange features like “The Triangle,” Pesky’s Pole, and the Green Monster. It’s the second-smallest ballpark. Fenway Park has hosted eleven World Series and the 2010 Winter Classic between the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers.
Baltimore Orioles – Camden Yards
This ballpark was built in 1992 and is located only a few blocks west of Inner Harbor. On the way to the ballpark, you can grab an early brunch and get a few brews at a bar all on the way to Camden Yards from the Inner Harbor. The very first game at Camden Yards featured the Orioles hosting the Cleveland Indians.
Colorado Rockies – Coors Field
Opened in 1995, Coors Field is two blocks away from Union Station. Before Coors Field, the Rockies played their first two seasons at “Mile High Stadium.” Due to the high elevation in Colorado, this is a hitters ballpark in the same way that NFL kickers convert longers field goals at “Mile High Stadium.” To combat the high elevation effect on hit baseballs, the outfield fences are further away from home plate and game balls are pre-stored in humidors.
St. Louis Cardinals – Busch Stadium
“Baseball Heaven” is another name for Busch Stadium. Opened in 2006, the Cardinals hosted the Milwaukee Brewers in their first game at Busch Stadium, winning 6-4. This stadium is the third stadium in St. Louis to carry the Busch name.
Chicago Cubs – Wrigley Field
The Cubs played their first home game in 1916 at “Weeghman Park” against the Cincinnati Reds. The ballpark was then renamed to Wrigley Field in 1927. This is the second-oldest ballpark in the MLB. Known for the ivy-covered brick wall, Wrigley Field was also the last MLB ballpark to have lights installed for play after dark.
Milwaukee Brewers – Miller Park
Built in 2001, Miller Park replaced “Milwaukee County Stadium.” In 2021, the ballpark is scheduled to be renamed to “American Family Field.” This stadium features the only fan-shaped convertible roof in North America. The seating capacity stands at 41,900 and the record attendance at Miller Park is 46,218.
Texas Rangers – Globe Life Park
“The Big Ball” was home to the Texas Rangers when “The Baseball Pilgrim” was on his journey to visit every ballpark in 2019. The Rangers vacated from Globe Life Park to “Globe Life Field,” which was set to open in 2020. Now, Globe Life Park is home to the Dallas Renegades of the XFL.
Cincinnati Reds – Great American Ballpark
Opened in 2003, Great American Ballpark replaced “Cinergy Field.” In 2015, Great American Ballpark hosted the MLB All-Star Game. The Gap, which is a 35ft gap between the stands, provides views into the stadium from downtown and views of the skyline from the ballpark. The Power Stacks, two smokestacks, emit flames and launch fireworks depending on the efforts of the team. Usually, flames are spewed after a strikeout and fireworks are launched after a home run.
Kansas City Royals – Kauffman Stadium
“The K” is located across from Arrowhead Stadium, home of the reigning Superbowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. The ballpark is named after Ewing Kauffman, the founder of the Royals. It opened in 1973 as “Royals Stadium” and was renamed in 1993 to Kauffman Stadium. The attendance capacity of Kauffman Stadium, including standing room, is 40,625.
Philadelphia Phillies – Citizens Bank Park
It’s been home to the Phillies since 2004, replacing “Veterans Stadium.” The first game at Citizens Bank Park saw the Phillies lose to the Cincinnati Reds, 4-1. Citizens Bank Park has natural-grass and is true to home with Philadelphia-style concessions. The stadium seats 42,792 and is located across from Lincoln Financial Field and the Wells Fargo Center. Citizens Bank Park also played host to the 2012 NHL Winter Classic between the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers.
Give a follow to “The Baseball Pilgrim” Dan Keely at @ABaseballVoyage on Twitter. His run through all the MLB ballparks is not only awesome but inspiring for any sports fan with similar goals. He’s not only a die-hard Philadelphia Phillies fan, but he is a true fan of the game. Follow me (@EricReesePSN) and Philly Sports Network (@PhiladelphiaSN) on Twitter for more content that you won’t find elsewhere.
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
