Outdated Ballpark Review

Evil

Since I've been out of the country since the start of the baseball season, I haven't been able to check out the new Citi Field until today. While I was away, I listened to a lot of sports talk radio (via podcasts) and all I heard was how Citi Field does not feel like a "Mets" ballpark. This part is true. For example, the ballpark has a black and orange color scheme, so it looks more like a SF Giants ballpark. Or a Brooklyn Dodgers ballpark, apparently. And the main rotunda in the stadium is the Jackie Robsinson Rotunda. Jackie Robinson never even played for the Mets! How strange.

But all the middle aged fat truck drivers complaining on sports talk radio completely missed the point! Despite the (lack of) branding issue, Citi Field is an awesome new ballpark! It's at least 100x better than dumpy old Shea Stadium.

First of all, Citi Field is much smaller than Shea. Even from the outfield seats, you feel very close to the action. Secondly, the view is great from everywhere, even from the concession areas. You can be waiting on line for a hot dog and beer, but still be able to look back into the field because the ballpark has a very open design. Lastly, everything is so fan-friendly. Plentiful restrooms, many choices of food and drink, many areas to "just hang out," such as picnic tables, standing areas, etc. They also let you walk around anywhere in the stadium without harassing you. I watched 3 innings of the game while standing behind home plate (off to the side a little) on the field level.

Going to check out the new Yankee Stadium next week. Go Yankees!