The Tribe have flown under the radar for all of baseball history for the most part as one of the best franchises, and still do, so it makes sense that their home, Progressive Field, is also underrated. As most clubs have, the Indians’ Progressive Field has the modern look that most stadiums are copying from the emergence of Camden Yards in 1992. However, it is very unique in its own way. Progressive Field, like the team, doesn’t get much recognition, when it should.
As for most of the fairly new baseball venues, Progressive Field has bars/restaurants in the outfield overlooking the field, their own unique concession stands offering a variety of food, extra entertainment (ex: play area for kids), and a memorabilia section, but 2 things stand out that make Progressive Field one of the must see major league stadiums. One, most stadiums, like Citi Field or Citizens Park, have their concession stands back against the wall with the concourse in the middle separating them from the seats, but Cleveland has theirs up against the seats on the main concourse. Two, very recently, the Tribe debuted their new gigantic jumbotron scoreboard in left field, which is one of the biggest in baseball. These two unique twists make the Indians’ home a must see, maybe even on the list with other popular USA tourist sight seeing attractions. But, the way the concessions are set-up help reserve the true meaning behind baseball being America’s past time.
Baseball was invented as America’s game; a game where fans can enjoy a great game while relaxing with a beer and dog in hand as one enjoys the company of friends and/or family. Other sports like basketball are a game in which one must leave the sight of the game to get food then come back and sit down and watch the game closely as it is fast pace. But, baseball is a game in which it’s true definition requires one to enjoy the game with their eyes from all views. The concessions at Progressive Field are set up right behind the seats with both ends open, enabling fans to order from either side of the stand, while not missing a pitch. In terms of food, there are several hot dog stands with multiple different ways of cooking the dog, in addition of course to a great bar in right field and other unique food choices. When enjoying a dog and beer either sitting in the stands or standing at one of the two creatively designed standing areas, a fan can keep track of the games happenings on the new large scoreboard in left field.
The new super scoreboard has to be one of the largest in the game today, as it takes the modern/new term to another level to appeal to the current technology generation. Progressive Field may not have much old-fashioned appeal to go along with the modern look like PNC does, for example, but what’s important is appealing to the current fans (young fans). And, with the unique concession style layout, the game’s history and meaning is well preserved in Cleveland. In addition, Heritage Park in centerfield, is almost a replica look of Cooperstown’s Hall of Fame plaques section, which brings a fan back in time to remember the game’s rich history. All in all, Progressive Field, gets an A rating as a must see American destination, as it captures the essence of the game of baseball’s adaption to change, all while preserving it’s history.
