Stadium Minor League History:
Eastern League
1994-present
Current Status:
Home of the New Haven Ravens of the Eastern
League (AA)
What's Good: This historic ballpark is also the home field for the Yale baseball team, and just about everybody knows that George Bush played first base here in the 1940s. Although the stadium was 67 years old when professional ball first came here in 1994, the grandstand had also undergone a major renovation in preparation for the new team. The elaborate roof and the graceful exterior arches remained, but most of the seating area was redone. A narrow concourse under the seats offers access to the restrooms and concessions, the latter offering average food but good local beer. Adding to the historic feel of the place is an ancient metal wall in center field, painted dark green and housing a hand-operated scoreboard.
What's Not So Good: When I was there the playing field was in awful shape -- one of the worst professional fields I've seen. I understand, however, that they have since vastly improved this aspect of the park. My other main complaint was the aluminum flooring -- when the crowd decided to stomp their feet, it got very, very loud.
This Photo:
May 8, 1994 New Haven Ravens vs. New Britain Red Sox