Stadium Minor League History:
International League 1965-present
Current Status:
Home of the Toledo Mud Hens of the International
League (AAA)
What's Good: I've heard quite a few folks gripe about this stadium, and the team has been desperately trying to get a new stadium built in Toledo, but I can't for the life of me see what the big problem is. Admittedly, I don't know all the details, but I really enjoyed my visit here. A converted racetrack, the ballpark is uniquely laid out -- the stands on the first base side are mostly individual seating, with a cantilevered roof hanging over the section without creating any obstructed views. The third base side is split between individual seats (from field level to about half way up) and benches (the rest of the seating), and also has a roof, but one supported by thick girders. Behind home is a weird pod kind of thing which presumably houses the pressbox and luxury seating, and which is propped up over some "box" seats. The concourse which runs beneath the stands offers access to the restrooms and various concession stands and carts. There's even picnic tables out beyond the right field wall for fans who want a different perspective. Because of the quirky nature of the structure, the active crowd, and even the mascot (I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I couldn't help laughing at his dopey antics -- a far cry from most mascots, which merely inspire indifference or anger in me), I liked this ballpark very much.
What's Not So Good: Nothing I can think of, actually. A lot of people apparently think the stadium doesn't look the way a minor league stadium (particularly at the AAA level) is supposed to look like, but I don't see that as a problem.
This Photo:
June 29, 1995 Toledo Mud Hens vs. Rochester Red Wings