Atlanta’s SunTrust Park was the eighth ballpark I visited. By the end of the weekend, I had been to ten. As I write this piece, I’ve just returned from Baltimore, so now my number is eleven. I rank SunTrust third behind San Diego’s Petco Park and Baltimore’s Camden Yards out of the eleven.

The Park

There is a lot to like about SunTrust.

SunTrust Park and The Battery

SunTrust is a pretty and comfortable brick ballpark with good sightlines and food. Additionally, it is connected to “The Battery” a commercial area built along with the stadium that offers bars, restaurants, and hotels. It’s a great reason to avoid Atlanta’s horrible traffic and go to the park early for dinner and a few beers.

The combination of the stadium and The Battery is very profitable for the Braves. In the park’s first year, revenue grew by 47% to $124M. ¹

• 

• 

The area is also suitable for out of town visitors. I stayed in a hotel just a short 15-minute walk to SunTrust. I could have stayed closer, but the hotels in the Battery are not cheap.

Celebrating Team History

They do history right at SunTrust. It has a Hall of Fame area with a statue of Hank Aaron in the center. Hank is next to a “sculpture” of the number 755 built out of 755 baseball bats. 755 is, of course, the real – my opinion ² home run record. It also displays the Braves’ 1995 World Series trophy. It is the only championship trophy awarded to a team from Atlanta. Like the Dodgers that sell Brooklyn hats, the Braves sell Milwaukee hats in the Team Store.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Food – Hot Dogs

The food is good too. With many local restaurants represented at the ballpark, I had my requisite hot dog at H&F Burger and was pleased. H&F has another location in the Ponce City Market, near midtown Atlanta. It’s grilled, with a good bun and I added onions and relish. There is no brown mustard, but Atlanta is not alone in that area.

• 

• 

Additionally, “Taste of Braves Country” the Braves offer delicacies influenced by different parts of the South. So, after my hot dog, I tried the Pimento Cheese Patty Melt, evidently a staple in South Carolina. This is a grilled hamburger patty with melted pimento cheese on marble rye toast. Never heard of pimento cheese? That discovery is worth a trip to the South – book now.

The Team is Good!

A visit to the park does not just entail history, food, and beer. They also play baseball there. After, “tanking” for a few years they have amassed a group of great young players that will be a force to be reckoned with for a long time.

The Organist

I hear the organist play “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” when one of the visiting players comes to the plate. It seemed odd to hear the song with these lyrics in the heart of the old Confederacy:

‘Til Stoneman’s cavalry came and tore up the tracks again
In the winter of ’65, we were hungry, just barely alive
By May the tenth, Richmond had fell, it’s a time I remember, oh so well

Robbie Robertson ³

Of course, the tradition is to play recorded walkup songs for each player entrance, and they do so for the Braves. They handle the visitors a bit different. When each visitor comes to the plate, the organist plays songs that are cleverly chosen based on the players’ names. A fan behind me said that it can take him an entire four-game series to figure out the connection for each player.

Why “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down?” It took me a while, but finally, I realized that the honored player was Lorenzo Cain. The song starts with the lyric “Virgil Cain is my name,,,” Obscure and fun.

So Why Is SunTrust Third on My List?

SunTrust should be an excellent place to have fun and watch a ballgame for a long time, so why is it third on my list?

It’s third because Petco Park and Orioles Park at Camden Yards are pretty darn cool. From my point of view, there are reasons why SunTrust is weaker. I expect it will drop a few places on my list as my journey proceeds. Here are a few issues I have with SunTrust:

• The Battery only approximates an existing commercial district like the historic Gaslamp District next to Petco. I like the originals better. Orioles Park has a similar area incorporating the historic warehouse on Eutaw Street behind the outfield. Moreover, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is just a few blocks away for pre and post-game use.
• The view from SunTrust consists mainly of the new hotels in the Battery. The others have better views. Petco is near the bay and has a beautiful view of the city. You can’t see Baltimore’s Inner Harbor from Orioles Park, but the warehouse offers a beautiful setting.
• SunTrust’s food and drink are possibly better than Orioles Park, but Petco has more craft beers and better food choices.

However, the main reason that I can’t rank SunTrust higher on my list is Braves management’s embrace of the “tomahawk chop.” It’s why I would never recommend a visit and the reason I likely won’t return.

The “Tomahawk Chop”

Branding the Braves

Welcome to the phenomenon that has accompanied, if not lifted, the Braves into a 2-1 lead over the Pittsburgh Pirates in the National League Championship Series. Welcome to Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, alias the Chop Shop.

Dave Anderson ⁴

Most know how the chop is done. The stadium plays a war chant associated with the way “Indians” were depicted in old western movies. The fans chant along and swing their right arms from the elbow in an up and down motion. This motion approximates the way one would swing a tomahawk if they were killing their foe. Stadium lit signs, foam tomahawks, lit iPhones (called the “iChop”) and a guy pounding a huge drum accompany the spectacle.

The chop is synonymous with the Braves brand. The term “chop” is used throughout SunTrust and Braves nation. There is “The Chop House,” a restaurant in the park near the associated “Chop House Gate.” There is the “Chop Shop” a blog devoted to all things Braves. The Terrapin Beer Company from nearby Athens, Georgia offers a “session version” of their “Hopsecutioner IPA” with a baseball twist. In honor of the Braves, they age the Hopsecutioner over wood chips made from Mizuno bat chips and call the result the “CHOPsecutioner.” Of course, the Chopsecutioner is available in the stadium.

• 

• 

What’s Wrong With the Chop?

The tomahawk chop and war chant have little basis in Native American history. Native Americans used the tomahawk as a weapon but also revered it as a sacred object. Europeans and Native Americans scalped their enemies in the Colonial era, but it was not a widespread practice. The spread of the popular association of Native Americans with mock savagery probably dates to the early 20th century. It was likely fueled by the Boy Scouts who began using Native American-inspired terms and images in its curriculum. The principal chief of the Cherokee Nation called the use of the gesture “offensive and racist” when Senator Scott Brown’s staffers used it during the campaign against Elizabeth Warren. ⁵

The chop does nothing to help baseball. Most of all, it puts the good people of Atlanta in a poor light.

I mean this sincerely. I have terrific friends who live in and/or are from Atlanta who plan to return. They don’t like the chop and don’t deserve the scorn that the chop engenders in many of us. However, I’m also not naive enough to assume that there are no Braves fans who like it and participate. ⁶

Random Events and a Sad Irony

That a team named the Braves plays in Atlanta is very accidental and sadly ironic. That’s not to say that Atlanta’s baseball team was an accident. Atlanta had the necessary qualifications to win an MLB franchise by the mid-1960s. Placing a team in the Deep South was a good way for baseball to expand its influence and popularity.

However, that team might not have been the team from Boston by way of Milwaukee. Moreover, the Boston club tried many names before settling on the “Braves.” Other names that fit the Boston area were possible. Finally, the chop migrated from Florida State University, where it originated because of only one player. One out of the thousands that played for the club.

What is not accidental is the corresponding racist imagery, including the chop that the Braves adopted. All are a sad reflection of our country’s normalization of Native American bigotry. To their credit, the Braves ended many of these practices. It’s to their shame that they allowed the chop to become such a big part of their brand.

• 

• 

• 

Moreover, it’s so sadly ironic that a team named “the Braves” with all the accompanying imagery is based in Atlanta. So close to the area where the “Trail of Tears” began. I doubt anyone thought about the juxtaposition of name and place when the Braves moved to Atlanta.

The “Trail of Tears”

In the 1830s, Eastern Woodlands Indians of the Southeast region of the United States were forced to leave their homes. These nations included Cherokee, Creek, Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Seminole. All were forced to travel (mostly on foot) to the Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River.

Estimates based on tribal and military records suggest that approximately 100,000 indigenous people were forced from their homes during that period, which is sometimes known as the removal era, and that some 15,000 died during the journey west. ⁷

Georgia was one of nine states that worked to remove Native Americans from their land.

Atlanta is quite close to the so-called “removal area.” Additionally, the Braves’ Class A affiliate, plays in Rome, GA which was on one of the Trail’s “pickup routes.”⁸ Rome is just a short 68 miles from SunTrust Park.

How the Braves got to Atlanta

The team named the “Braves” existence in Atlanta is the result of some random and unplanned events:

• For their first 40 or so years in Boston, the names used names including “Red Stockings,” “Red Caps,” “Beaneaters,” “Doves,” “Rustlers,” and “Bees.
• The team adopted the name the “Braves” in 1912 after their new owner borrowed Tammany Hall’s ⁹ Indian Chief symbol. ¹⁰
• The Braves could have become the “Brewers” historic name of Milwaukee’s baseball teams when they moved there. ¹¹
• The Braves were successful in Milwaukee and didn’t need to leave. ¹²
• Atlanta courted the Kansas City Athletics who may have moved there if the Braves had not. ¹³
• In a more evolved political climate, the Braves may have felt compelled to change their name when they moved.
• If Deion Sanders played for any other team, he could not have introduced ¹⁴ Florida State’s Tomahawk Chop to Atlanta. ¹⁵
• The chop was introduced in Atlanta, just as they were becoming competitive. In so doing, the chop took additional importance. ¹⁶

• 

• 

The Shame of it All

The shameful part of the story is that the Braves organization adopted the chop and made it part of their brand.

Moreover, they instigate the chop. I stayed through the seventh inning stretch and by my count the crowd was prompted to chop at least eight times. It started when the Braves came to bat in the first inning. Other times when the Braves were rallying or threatening to rally the call to chop began. At one point the lights when down, signs flashed and the crowd waved their flight lit phones. I was told this is called the “iChop.” Fans started a wave or two, but never the chop.

One would have hoped that the team had never adopted the practice. It follows that a good time to end their involvement was when they built SunTrust Park. The Braves could have quietly decided not to put up the flashing tomahawk and chop related signs, not sell chop merchandise, and ask vendors to remove the chop branding. Moreover, they would never prompt the fans to chop. Instead, assume fans that wanted to do the chop would do so and others would follow just like fans start a wave. If they had done so, the practice might have died out over time.

However, the Braves reaction to the chop in 1991 was:

“We’ve had a few complaints that the tomahawk is demeaning to Native Americans, but we consider it a proud expression of unification and family.” –

Jim Schultz, the Braves’ director of public relations ¹⁷

How Do You Put the Toothpaste Back in The Tube?

Now it’s hard to stop the chop. As the saying goes, “It’s hard to put the toothpaste back in the tube.” Any declared end to the chop would face a fan rebellion and “Save the Chop” protests. Fans don’t like to be told what to do and don’t like change.

Major League Baseball is also complicit. Last week commissioner Rob Manfred announced that SunTrust would host the 2021 All-Star Game. In his comments, he said:

There is no better-managed organization in baseball than the Braves. It’s been true for a very long time, and it makes it a lot easier for us to give them an event

Rob Manfred ¹⁸

“No better-managed..” only if you forget that the Braves include this display of racial intensity in their brand.

People evolve. I’m old enough to remember when the Braves, Indians, Redskins and other teams names and behaviors seemed OK. For example, the “Saltine Warrior” was the Syracuse University mascot when I arrived for my freshman. When I was a junior in 1978 the university banned its use.¹⁹ It seemed odd – it doesn’t now. People evolve, organizations should too.

Beautiful SunTrust Park and the good people of Atlanta deserve better.

My next stop was Texas for games in Arlington and Houston.

Monday morning, I headed back from Mexico. I flew nonstop from Monterrey to Los Angeles. When we landed, I promptly rented a car and headed to San Diego, about a three-hour drive. The next morning, after I spent a lovely evening in Petco Park, I drove back to Los Angeles. That night I visited the venerable Dodger Stadium. No offense to Dickens, but it is somewhat a “tale of two cities” – certainly two ballparks. Dodger Stadium is one of the oldest ballparks, and Petco Park is one of the newest ones. Both have their charms.

It’s also not “The best of times and the worst of times,” in terms of the teams. The Dodgers have won the National League pennant the last two years and want to go back and finally win it all. On the other hand, the Padres have experienced bad times but are rapidly improving. They have a lot of good young ballplayers and are starting to win. Let’s call it “The best of times and the getting better times.”

Petco Park

Petco Park opened in 2004 and is one of the youngest ballparks. Only six are older. It is a gem!

The Gaslamp District

The park is situated near the harbor and the Historic Gaslamp Quarter which is full of bars and restaurants. An excellent place to meet friends and have drinks and dinner before the game and drinks after it. It is advertised as the “West Coast’s premier entertainment district” with “rich Victorian architecture and history.¹” Additionally, there is a pedestrian promenade that connects the area with Petco’s “Park at the Park” a vast area behind the stadium. This area is where ticketed fans can hang out and relax. It’s also where a beautiful statue of Tony Gwynn is located.

A few things that I like in a ballpark:

• The park’s look and feel are similar to the surrounding area. Petco’s exterior isn’t Victorian, by any means. In fact, its sandstone and stucco exterior was patterned after the sandy colored San Diego cliffs and beaches.² However, it seems to fit the area nicely. Additionally, incorporating the Western Metal Supply Co. warehouse in the design helps to incorporate the surrounding area.
• The park incorporates a commercial district nearby where fans can hang out before and after the game. The Gaslamp District provides more than enough bars and restaurants.
• The commercial area should precede the ballpark. Better that, than an area built when the park is. Turning the concept into a mall of sorts. Those built with the stadium are better than nothing but not as good as if the area exists already.

I stayed at the Horton Grand Hotel in the heart of the District. It was inexpensive and a quick walk to the ballpark and harbor. The room was a suite, with a bedroom, a sitting room and bath. Not bad for less than $200, but I was only there for the day. This is a place that I would like to return to with Mrs. Nomad. We could spend a week experiencing the Gaslamp District, other points of interest, excellent restaurants, and some visits to Petco.

Honoring Padres History

Petco also offers a nod to San Diego’s vast baseball history. Yes, there are the retired numbers as all ballparks have. These are displayed on the stands behind home plate and just above the “Jerry Coleman Broadcast Center.” The broadcast center is another acknowledgment to the team’s history.

Jerry Coleman played second base for the Yankees in the 1950s. He was a Yankee broadcaster for seven years in the 1960s and then the Angels. In 1972, he started a 42-year stint as the radio voice of the Padres. That is except for 1980 when he managed the team.

They also have a Hall of Fame, again, most ballparks do. But Petco’s is prominently placed near the left field entrance off the pedestrian promenade. Over the entrance are paintings of Randy Jones, Dave Winfield, Tony Quinn and Trevor Hoffman (I think).

Also in the plaza is the “Padres in Cooperstown” area. The area is devoted to National Hall of Fame members associated with the Padres. Remember, the Padres were members of the Pacific Coast League for a long time before they were awarded a major league franchise. Nice to see a plaque for San Diego native, Ted Williams.

• 

• 

Food, Craft Beer & A Bacon Wrapped Hot Dog

I’ve seen good and bad reviews about Petco’s food and didn’t try enough to comment. However, I was intrigued. There are restaurants of many denominations throughout the ballpark many local outposts. Also some bars as well.

A few of the local outposts offer bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Since I was focused on the “Hot Dog Challenge” I asked around and found one at Randy Jones barbecue. It’s a 1/2 pound dog with a somewhat crusty bun and the optional grilled onions. Guess what? They have brown mustard at the condiment stand! Yes, this one is at the top of my list.

• 

• 

Petco offers many craft beers. I had the “San Diego Pale Ale .394” – named in honor of Tony Gwynn’s historic batting average when he challenged the .400 mark. I also tried the “Ballast Point Swingin’ Friar Ale.”

The Game

Rookie Chris Paddack and Jacob DeGrom hooked up for one of those great pitching duels. DeGrom gave up two runs over the seven innings he pitched. Paddack was better, shutting out the Mets for 7 2/3 innings. Paddack has a level of intensity that is difficult to describe. He has these fierce eyes and sticks his jaw as he stomps to and from the mound. The game was not as close as the 4 – 0 score suggests. Paddack and the Padres were always in control. You can read more about the game here.

Venerable Dodger Stadium

I don’t think you can say “Dodger Stadium” without adding “venerable.” It doesn’t sound right without the word “venerable” included. The stadium opened in 1962 and is the third oldest ballpark in the major leagues. Only Boston’s Fenway Park and Chicago’s Wrigley Field are older.

Chavez Ravine

When you approach any other ballpark, they stand out like proud edifices to the great game. It’s not that way at Dodger Stadium. Unless you approach the stadium from the outfield side, you only see gardens, stairs, and signs. When you approach the stadium from the front, you enter at the level that your seats are at and then you see it. The beautiful stadium is spread out in all its glory below you.

There are palm trees and views of the San Gabriel mountains past the outfield fence. From my perch in right field, I could see a series of homes either built into or on top of the ridge behind the stadium.

The outfield bleachers and grandstands are covered with wavy rooftops that instill a 1960’s feel. This feeling is reinforced by the murals on the walls and the font used in the signage.

Where’s the Recognition of Dodger History?

While it’s a beautiful baseball stadium and a fun place to see a game, I didn’t sense the park’s glorious history. Remember, this park is where Koufax and Drysdale had their greatest success. This is also where Kirk Gibson hit his dramatic World Series home run in 1988. Frankly, Dodger Stadium was home to eight World Series, but you wouldn’t know it. It is also home to twelve no-hitters.

However, it’s interesting that in the merchandise store they sell Brooklyn “B” hats along with the now classic “L.A.” ones. I say interesting, because the last time I was at (now) Oracle Park, I thought it would be fun to get a New York Giants cap – yes, the baseball team. They didn’t have them.

There are also signs that celebrate the longest rivalry in baseball – the Dodgers vs. Giants. I did a double take – forgetting for the moment that they have been playing each other for a long time. That is if you consider Brooklyn, Flatbush, Coogan’s Bluff, etc. when discussing the rivalry.

The Park is Restrictive

Part of the problem is that it’s a hard stadium to get around in. The design restricts you to the seat level that your tickets are in. ³ I Ubered in and entered at the top of the stadium and was able to walk around the entire level. However, then I took the stairs down to my level and didn’t get a sense of the rest of the ballpark. It’s easier when you enter on the ground floor, and the stadium is designed to show you its best features. That’s the joy of the new.

So I don’t know how much of a Hall of Fame there is and didn’t remember to see the Jackie Robinson statue which is outside in the Left Field Reserve Plaza. ⁴ Probably a long walk from where I was in Right Field.

Food Choices

In keeping with its “venerable” status, Dodger Stadium has not entered the 21st century in the food arena. Again, I may have missed something. But walking into Dodger Stadium is like going back in time to when a dog and a beer was sufficient.

Actually, with some post-game research, I found that there was more food than just the Dodger Dog and Mexican food like the beef burrito I had after my Dodger Dog adventure. However, as I write this, I wonder how a slightly overweight, and happy eater like myself didn’t notice the other choices. So while there are more choices than I realized, it’s still a relatively “skinny” menu compared to other places. I should point out that they are competitive in the alcohol area. But, all in all, Citi Field, Petco Park, and many others have Dodger Stadium beat.

The Famous Dodger Dog

In keeping with my goal of getting a representative hot dog at every stadium, I tried the famous Dodger Dog. The Dodger Dog is so famous and has such a cult following that there is a Dodger Dog statue at the stadium.

• 

• 

When the stadium opened, Thomas Arthur wanted to capture some of the “old-school Brooklyn charm.⁵” So he created the Dodger Dog that is “inspired” by those that you can get at Coney Island. I love this next part.

New York’s Coney Island was known for their “footlong franks,” and while Arthur planned to borrow the moniker, the actual hot dog measured in at ten inches. To stop the inevitable customer complaints about those two missing inches, the Dodger Dog moniker came to Arthur’s mind, and L.A. has never looked back.

I’m a proud New Yorker and son of a proud Brooklyn Dodger fan. As such, it’s nice to know that the best that L.A. could do was two inches shorter than New York.

Moreover, they offer a thing called the “Doyer Dog.” “An homage to the Spanish pronunciation of the team name.” This version is actually larger than the traditional dog and “topped with chili, nacho cheese, chopped tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos.⁶” If you agree that the term “doyer dog” is racially insensitive, you will love my next piece about Atlanta’s “chop.”

Is The Dodger Dog Worth The Hype?

So how is the Dodger Dog? Most would say – “not so good.” New Yorker’s interpretation of the phrase is “sucks.” I have little to nothing good to say about the experience except that I found some brown mustard. For the most part, it does not meet my criteria for a good hot dog. It’s a pre-prepared dog – you pick up your foil-wrapped bundle at concessions stands. Including the “Dodger Dog Express.” The dog is tasty enough, but if it is grilled, it still has no char, no crunch. The bun is steamed, no crust. Condiments are OK, and yes there is brown mustard.

I ate my requisite Dodger Dog and then went off to find something substantial to eat and had a pretty good Beef Burrito.

The Game

The Dodgers proved why they are one of the best teams in the game. In contrast, the Braves displayed the relative weakness of the N.L. East. Hyun-Jin Ryu pitched a complete game 4-hit shutout and no-hit the Braves for five innings. Justin Turner hit three home runs. The Dodgers walloped the Braves 8 – 0. You can read more about the game here.

Where else but in L.A. can you see KISS frontman, Gene Simmons sing the National Anthem. I caught it on a video monitor as I raced to my seat.

Why I Watch

And then there was Cody Bellinger in right field.

It’s the top half of the seventh inning and there are two out. The Braves have Ozzie Albies on first, and Ronald Acuna Jr. is at bat. They both are fast, and Acuna Jr. is the reigning Rookie of the Year. They’re the kind of players you can draft if you lose a lot of games for a few years.

The Dodgers are ahead 5 – 0, Ryu is “lights out” so it’s not like I think the Braves can come back, but you never know. Acuna Jr. launches a line drive to right field, and Bellinger starts to run to his left in pursuit of the ball. Since Acuna Jr. bats right-handed, the ball has some spin that keeps pushing it away from Bellinger. My mind starts to race as I imagine the others do as well. Will Bellinger get to and catch the ball? If he doesn’t, how far will it roll? Albies will score, but where will Acuna end up – on third, or will he score too ⁷ Finally, and right below me, Bellinger reaches across his body and a few inches above the turf. The ball nestles into his glove as he tumbles head over feet ⁸.

The suspense, tension, and brilliant play are why I watch.

Next, I was off to Atlanta’s new SunTrust Park, where I encountered a pretty good hot dog, a Pimento cheese patty and the infamous ”Chop.”

I needed an excellent rebound from the Lost Weekend in Florida. Luckily, I planned an early season trip with Mrs. Nomad to Toronto to see the Blue Jays and relax a bit. From a trip planning perspective, I wanted to get this one out of the way. The Rogers Centre is domed so the weather wouldn’t be an issue. Why not get the trip done before the schedule got crazy? As it turned out, the trip was just at the right time. It was relaxing, fun and rejuvenating. Mrs. Nomad and I have always had fun in Canada, and this trip north of the border was no different. Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s first weekend in the show was an added plus.

Vlad Guerrero Jr. – Ken Griffey Jr. or Clint Hurdle?

When we drove north on Friday, I was feeling much better. So much so that I suggested that we try and see Friday night’s game too. After all, it was Vlad Jr.’s first game. However, I got the look – not that Mrs. Nomad doesn’t like baseball – but this was an overly aggressive idea. We were both tired.

“Discretion is the better part of valor” is my new motto. So, instead of testing fate, we decided to have a quick dinner and watch the game on television. Predictably, I fell asleep in the middle of the game and missed Vlad Jr.’s ninth-inning double and Brandon Drury’s home run to win the game.

Hazel Mae is a member of a seemingly excellent Blue Jays’ broadcasting team and seems to be a good reporter. So, I mean no offense. However, she said something on Friday that struck me as odd. While recounting how Vlad Jr., a weak fielder, was working diligently on his defensive skills, she said it was his “next step on the road to greatness.”

I thought about Clint Hurdle. Then I thought about Ken Griffey Jr. Each had a different career arc, and the appropriate question is “which road is Vlad Jr. on?”

Clint Hurdle

My first memory of Clint Hurdle was the cover of the March 28, 1978 issue of Sports Illustrated. Clint was on the cover – smiling broadly. The headline read “This Years Phenom.” Unfortunately, Clint was anything but a can’t miss rookie. He missed badly.

In ten years, he hit only 32 home runs, batted a mediocre .259 and only played more than 80 games in two seasons. He had a severe back injury that affected his play for a long time. He partied and may have battled alcoholism. Some suggested that they rushed him to the majors too quickly. ¹

Hurdle is now the very successful manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Happy with his life and apparently the saga of his playing days a distant memory.

Ken Griffey Jr.

I don’t remember when I first noticed Ken Griffey Jr. It may have been his broad smile or the way he casually wore his cap backward. Possibly it was the understanding that Reds and Yankee outfielder, Ken Griffey had a namesake that played the game and was going to the bigs.

Griffey Jr. had the pedigree and was gifted. However, lineage is not a determinant of talent, and there was the chance that Griffey Jr. would not be that good.

He was more than good, he was great!

His 22-year career that started in 1989, when the 19-year-old Griffey Jr. was third in Rookie of the Year voting. It ended as a 1st ballot inductee into the Hall of Fame with 99.32 percent of the vote. The highest percentage until a guy named Rivera was a unanimous electee. In his career, Griffey Jr. hit 630 home runs and slashed .284/.370/.538. ²

Vlad Guerrero Jr.??

Vlad Jr. has the pedigree. He has his dad’s swing and has a presence on the field and seems to be a natural leader. Additionally, he enjoys the game and plays with as much joy as enthusiasm. Very highly regarded, he is either the number one or number two prospect in the game.

My only point is that his success is not assured. We shouldn’t be ready to engrave his Hall of Fame plaque at this point in his nascent career. I remember an old saying (that I can’t find a reference to anywhere) “There are two types of ballplayers – the ones that have been embarrassed and the ones that will be embarrassed.” Nothing is certain, especially in baseball.

If Vlad Jr. fulfills his destiny, remember that his success was not a sure thing. It took a lot of work and dedication to get to Cooperstown. On the other hand, if his career doesn’t pan out as expected – remember that he worked just as hard, it just didn’t happen.

I hope he enjoys the road he is on, regardless of the destination. He’s a good guy and deserves that much.

Note that I am not going to discuss the fact that the Blue Jays likely manipulated Vlad Jr.’s service time so that they can control him for an extra year. It’s not a good practice and hurts the players. However, I discussed the practice in a previous post, and I’m sure there will be time to do so later. Let’s stick to the game and fun weekend in Toronto.

Saturday Morning in Toronto

• 

• 

Peameal Bacon Sandwich’s

What do you do when you have a free morning in Toronto? We decided to go in search of the St. Lawrence Market in Old Toronto. The market opened in 1803 and has been a centerpiece of Toronto’s culinary tradition for almost as long and was just a short walk from the hotel. We were in search of a Peameal Bacon Sandwich for breakfast. The best ones are from the Carousel Bakery, “The fabulous sandwich has been often imitated but never duplicated by many competitors.” The sandwich is an adult does of pork on a soft bun. I liked mine, but couldn’t quite finish it.

Montreal Bagels

After we finished our sandwiches, we walked through the market. Past incredible seafood stands – a woman ladling mussels out of a big bin filled with water. Then we went by the meat stands – fantastic steaks, chops, and sausages on display. There were specialty shops, candies, chocolate, “Montreal Bagels” at St. Urban Bagel. A Montreal-style bagel in comparison to the New York-style bagel is “is smaller, thinner, sweeter and denser, with a larger hole, and is always baked in a wood-fired oven. It contains malt, egg, and no salt, and is boiled in honey-sweetened water before being baked.” ³ We tried a delicious poppy bagel.

Canadian Mustard!

And then we found the Kozlik’s Canadian Mustard stand. Kozlik’s is family owned and operated since it opened in 1948. They say that their recipe and process to produce hand-maid mustard in small batches has not changed in 60 years.

Something I did not know – Canada is the second-largest mustard producer exports more mustard seed than any other country in the world.⁴

Kozlik’s had numerous mustards on display. Very few were yellow. They segment their mustards into three groups, Spicy, Sweet, and Savory. As far as I can tell, the traditional Canadian mustard is a lovely shade of brown.

Imagine my concern that the Rogers Centre feature’s yellow mustard. See my comments regarding hot dogs below.

On To The Rogers Center

The game started at 3:00. We arrived at around 1:30 and headed straight to the team store. Unlike the other team stores that I have been to, they had numerous, friendly and cheerful salespeople to assist. I dutifully purchased my Blue Jays’ hat and broke down and got a Guerrero Jr. #27 jersey. Today’s a once in a lifetime event when you see a likely future baseball great in his opening weekend. Might as well commemorate the occasion.

Then we walked the perimeter of the main level. It had been a long time since we were there. The last time was in the early 1990s. The Rogers Center is not a ballyard, it’s a stadium. It feels like a domed arena. The dome is impressive, and it was more than good to be in from the cold. However, it is a closed-in domed stadium without the beautiful windows featured in Marlins Park. as a consequence, there was not a connection to the outside. A fun time, but we felt like we were in an arena – not a relaxing ballyard.

However, if I lived in Toronto, I’d go often. The wave through the smallish crowd during the later innings was silly but quaint. And Rogers Centre is the only major league ballpark that can offer “Loonie Dogs Night” since the “loonie” is the Canadian dollar. So every other stadium can only try “Dollar Dogs Night” which just doesn’t seem to be as much fun.

The Game

“You never know what’s going to happen… And that’s the fun of it!! That’s what baseball’s all about!!”

Keiichi Arawi

The Blue Jays are playing a new style (for them) of ball. They’ve lost their power hitters (e.g., Josh Donaldson, Edwin Encarnacion, and Jose Bautista”) and so they have turned to “small ball.” The change is likely due to new manager Charlie Montoyo who coached for Tampa Bay when they played similar ball. ⁵

The Blue Jays won 7 – 1. Guerrero Jr. went 1 for 4 with a walk and two strikeouts.

We saw a safety squeeze play in the second inning when Eric Sogard pushed a bunt up the first base line allowing Danny Jansen to score from third. Pretty play.

We saw some excellent defense too. Teoscar Hernandez saved the day with two outs in the top of the fifth inning. The Jays were ahead 4 to 1, and Matt Chapman was the tying run at the plate since men were on first and second. Chapman hit a scorching line drive to the gap between left and center field that Hernandez barely reached, stretching to catch the ball. If he missed the ball, Chapman would have been on second (if not third) with both runners scoring.

Here’s something I’ve never seen in a game. In the top of the seventh, Nick Hundley hit a ground ball to the left of the second baseman, Brandon Drury. Drury started moving to his left and collided with umpire Larry Vanover, allowing the ball to go through and Hundley to be safe at first.

The Great Hot Dog Challenge – We have a new leader!

Toronto’s hot dog offering was a very lovely rebound from my choice at Marlin’s Park! Schneider’s franks are the official hot dog of the Blue Jays. They were founded in Canada in 1890 by JM Schneider. So first criteria met – they are unique to the area!

Moreover, the dogs are big not just long – a very meaty feast. They are tasty – with an exciting mix of spices. The dogs are grilled at a specialty stand and assembled as needed. They are on a soft bun with a little crust that works nicely with the crispy dog.

Additionally, they offer grilled onions and a series of condiments from raw onions, relish, chorizo sauce, pickled peppers and more.

So I am giving the Rogers Centre’s hot dog offering high marks and moving them to the top of my burgeoning list. However, I need to deduct some points for their choice of mustard.

How is it possible that in the real home of mustard the mustard of choice is Heinz Yellow Mustard? Moreover, how can they taunt me with the slogan “It Has To Be?” No, it doesn’t “have to be!” Call the folks at Kozliks and offer their mustard, please. Doing so will restore my faith in what is possible.

Next stop is Southern California and Mexico.

I planned to fly into Miami on Friday afternoon and see the Marlins that night. On Saturday, I’d drive the three and a half hours to St. Petersburg and catch the Rays. On Sunday, I’d drive back to Miami and fly home. In so doing, I would visit two ballparks I’d never been to before and have some fun. The resulting post would discuss why Florida’s baseball franchises are troubled and my thoughts on the ballparks I visited. That didn’t happen. Instead, it was a lost weekend in Florida, and I never made it to St. Petersburg.

A Rough Start

My game day flights leave early, around 6:00 AM, which means that I am up around 4:30 and out by 5:00. Thus I expect to be tired all day. Friday was no different. I landed in Miami around noon, got to my hotel and promptly slept until it was time to go to the game. This is not the way I roll. I might be tired but never so much that I require an afternoon nap, no. However, I felt odd, out of it and very tired. That night, after the game, I was up every couple of hours with stomach issues.

By Saturday morning I knew I was in trouble. I was a little dizzy, felt feverish my stomach was still bothering me, and I was somewhat short of breath. , I wondered if the pneumonia I had the previous week was back, even though I thought I felt better on Thursday. I didn’t want to drive to St. Petersburg, and I considered taking a train. I didn’t know they had trains between Miami and Tampa.

The timing for the train wouldn’t fit my schedule so I “soldiered on.” I left the hotel around 10:00 and started driving north.

Soldiering On

“Soldiered on?” Isn’t this going to be the trip of a lifetime, every baseball fan’s dream? Yes, the journey of a lifetime and something I desperately want to do. However, that doesn’t mean that every day will be enjoyable and the travel easy. There will be days when I don’t have it all together when things don’t go smoothly.

Moreover, there is no turning back. Thirty ballparks and 42 stops is not a goal, it’s a commitment I’ve made to myself, and I don’t plan on failing. Which means I will need to push myself at times, and so I did.

The drive seemed to be going fine. When I was about 100 miles out, going west on I-75 and just entering the Everglades, I decided to take a break at a rest stop. My sense was that rest stops would be few and far between, so it was a good time to stop.

I didn’t realize how sick I was until I got out of the car and stood up. When I did so, I felt dizzy and didn’t think I had the energy to walk the 100 feet to the men’s room. So I sat on a bench near the car while I gathered my strength to try the walk. In the men’s room, I was hot, sweaty and thought I was going to pass out.

Remembering that “discretion is the better part of valor,” I decided to stop and drove back to Miami. I slept for most of the next 24 hours and flew home.

I’ll go to St. Petersburg on September 7th. I’m soldiering on.

Friday Night at Marlins Park

I may not be the most objective soul out there. I’m a baseball fan and will probably like most of the ballparks I visit. I like Marlins Park and find it sad that more people weren’t there. The Washington Nationals are in town on a Friday night and only 8,000 or so people are in the park. Many of them were wearing Nationals gear; I’d guess that no more than 60% were Marlins fans.

Miami’s attendance is so bad that they didn’t even sell tickets in the upper deck. It’s closed.

My take is it’s a great place to go. I don’t need the Marlins Mermaids dancing during the middle of the third inning, but it’s fun. There is Cuban music playing, Cuban food offered around the park, the bobblehead museum and a beautiful view of Miami through dramatic tall glass windows in left field. Just imagine if the place was packed, the music was blaring and the fans rocking. It would be impressive.

So what went wrong?

What’s Wrong With Florida Baseball?

Florida baseball attendance is awful. In 2018 the Rays ranked 29th (1,155k) and the Marlins 30th (811k) in attendance. Their combined attendance of 1,966k would rank 20th! ¹

The Marlins have been among the worst five teams in average attendance in 18 of the past 19 seasons. The Rays have ranked last in six straight seasons. ²

The poor state of Florida baseball surprises people since it is one of the two states to host spring training. However, many of the fans who attend the “Grapefruit League” are on vacation and not Florida residents. They are not there in the summer. ³

Most of the articles I read point to both macro and micro issues with Florida baseball.

On the Macro side, consider that:

• Florida fans are transient, many move there from other parts of the country. Baseball fans bring their original allegiances with them. So there may be baseball fans in Florida, but a small proportion are Marlins or Rays fans. ⁴
• Additionally, many of these transient fans leave Florida in the summer. ⁵
• The teams are not successful; they have only reached the playoffs six times in their 45 combined seasons. Competitive teams tend to draw more fans. ⁶
• They don’t spend a lot of money which makes it hard to keep their best players. Currently, the Marlins rank 28th and the Rays 30th in team payroll. ⁷

The Marlins’ Problem

On the Micro side, both teams have their distinct issues. I’ll discuss the Rays in September when I finally get to the Trop (Tropicana Stadium). The Marlins problem is that they have a long history of trading their best players.

The team has gone through four distinct fire sale periods in the last 20 years. They sold off critical assets after their 1997 world championship and did so again two years after their 2003 title. This bizarre strategy seemed designed to minimize goodwill and long-term fan investment and failed to capitalize on the rare feat of winning it all. After spending big to coincide with the opening of Marlins Park in 2012, the team once again traded away nearly every major league asset after a disappointing season. Dismantling the team again was probably the last straw for baseball in Miami, especially after the taxpayers of Miami-Dade County had chipped in a staggering and unconscionable $500 million to help build the stadium.

David Faris ⁸

In 2017, the Marlins had one of the best outfields in baseball and traded all three away as part of a historic selloff. That year they traded players that accounted for more WAR (Wins Above Replacement) than any other team in history. ⁹

My Visit To Marlins Park

I got to the park a little early. My assumption was that the gates would open two hours before game time. Nope, the gates open 90 minutes before the game so I waited a bit.

Once I was inside, I took a walk around the perimeter of the first level past the various food stands. There were many Cuban selections, and I wished I was hungry. I wasn’t in the mood for beer either, so I wasn’t too concerned that the beer selections seemed to be similar to most ballparks. Goose Island seems to have made a push into all the stadiums because I see them everywhere.

I visited the bobblehead museum – its big enough to be impressive, yet I assumed it was more prominent. However, where else can you see a Don Drysdale bobblehead, or a Hank Aaron one wearing number 5 as he did in 1954. There are many Mets bobbleheads and two Rusty Staubs. One in a Mets uniform the other in classic Expos garb. My favorite may have been one where Yadier Molina faces Adam Wainwright after winning the World Series. The manic bobbing of the two heads in unison is transfixing and a little disturbing all at the same time.

They Uglified Centerfield!!

As much as I like the ballpark, I was disappointed with what they did to centerfield. Since the ballpark opened in 2012, a very odd 75-foot statue that lit up after the home team hit a home run, dominated centerfield. It was behind a green wall that curved creating a kink in the wall. So it wasn’t just straight. The wall also displayed the out of town scores. I loved it!

• 

• 

Evidently, the new ownership including Derek Jeter didn’t like the statue. I’m also sensing that Jeter is knowledgeable about how franchises can ruin ballparks after his experience playing in the new Yankee Stadium. So the statue is gone and so is the curved green wall. In their place, a three-story plaza where fans can stand and watch the game and a boring straight wall. There is an empty section behind the wall covered in what looks to be fake grass.

Without the statue and the oddly shaped wall, the outfield loses its unique character.

Where’s The Statue?

My understanding was that they moved the statue outside the stadium. So the first thing I did when I got to the park, was to look for the icon. The attendee at a customer information desk laughed and said that the statue was disassembled and stored in the stadium, somewhere.

Further research suggests that the statue will be rebuilt outside in the winter before the 2020 season. I’ll believe it when I see it.

Scorecards

I’ve rekindled my passion for scoring the game!! It’s a beautiful tradition that keeps your head in the game. However, the one thing you need to score the game is a scorecard.

As I trudged around the stadium, I kept asking this question. Where are the guys selling scorecards and giving away the little golf pencils? I can easily find them at Citi Field, and I thought I saw them at Citizens Bank Park and Nationals Park. Is scoring a ballgame such a dying art that we don’t sell scorecards anymore?

Finally, I asked an attendant at the New Era cap kiosk, “do you sell scorecards, anywhere?” The answer, “they may have some at the team store.”

I head back to the team store where I had already purchased my souvenir — a fitted Marlins replica of the cap they wear at home. I didn’t see scorecards. So I went to the counter, where the salesperson said: “welcome back.” I guess I’m more memorable than I thought.

She had two versions of a scorecard. One was in a small program type affair. The other was printed on an 81/2” by 11” piece of printer paper. I took them both.

I now carry my own scorebook which will enable me to score the games to my heart’s content — counting pitches and keeping tabs on all the other detail I crave.

The Rain Came

The massive wall of windows in the outfield that displays a dramatic panorama of downtown is even more impressive during a rainstorm.

Yes, around the seventh inning they announced that they were canceling the outdoor-after-game-party due to impending bad weather. Who knew? Bad weather?

Then the lightning started. Through the outfield windows, we saw lightning illuminate the night’s darkness. Loud bursts of thunder followed it.

When we got outside, it was pouring. A classic Florida downpour. Not sheets of rain. Just a steady downpour that soaked me while I tried to find my ride. It’s challenging to get a Lyft or an Uber using your phone in the rain in the confusing, designated “shared ride lot.”

I loved the stadium and am looking forward to going back, but Marlins management: please work on the shared ride experience.

The Great Hot Dog Challenge

Marlins Park is not a hot dog paradise. I headed for “Top Dog” as I assumed these would be more unique than the dogs sold at the general concession stands. If they are unique to the ballpark, they are still not special. Just an assortment of Nathan’s Hot Dogs. I chose the “Slaw Dog.” The basic Nathan’s Hot Dog with brown mustard and slaw. Very good, but also very run of the mill.

• 

• 

I asked if there was another stand with other hot dogs, “not really” they said. Later I saw them! At certain beer stands, they have grills with nice big dogs and sausages with grilled peppers and onions. I almost got one of those which I assume would be better than my “slaw dog.” However, I wasn’t feeling well, wasn’t hungry and figured that I had similar at Roger Dean Stadium. My favorite, the “Dean Dog.”

Note to Marlins management: they’re called signs. You write in big letters that you have grilled dogs and sausages along with the beer, and people may buy them.

I rated the hot dog experience as average. It was okay, but nothing special.

The Game

I don’t tend to discuss the games I see in my posts since they are more than adequately covered all over the internet including my favorite home away from home www.mlb.com.

My recap is that the Marlins’ Caleb Smith struck out eight and led them to a 3 to 2 victory. Smith is in his second season and was picked up from the Yankees. He is one of the young guns that could make the Marlins competitive soon. Hopefully, the Marlins will fulfill that destiny. If they do, I hope the fans will give them another chance and start attending games as they should. If they do, they will find an excellent baseball experience awaits.

Next stop is the doctor and then Toronto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

They said it would be warmer. I was thinking early 60’s, a lovely spring night. Then I heard it was going to be windy. So, there I was with four layers sitting in low 50’s weather with the wind blowing. It felt like the temperature was in the 30’s. At least that was my impression. I’m just recovering from a bad cold that my doctor told me on Friday might be “pneumonia.” A cold night in Philadelphia, indeed, but I had to observe Jackie Robinson Day in a ballpark.

These are my impressions of the rather short night.

Jackie Robinson Day

Remember, I planned to go south in the early part of the season and avoid the cold northeast. I slightly amended my plan because of the Jackie Robinson Remembrance.

Los Angeles would have been a better choice. Jackie was a Dodger, and it would be warm in L.A. However, I tied my L.A. trip to the series in Mexico so I couldn’t go in mid-April as well. Philadelphia seemed easy – I could drive. The Mets were playing the Phillies, why not go?

I needed to remember and celebrate Jackie Robinson in a ballpark, finally. My last post “My Father and Jackie Robinson’s First Game” should have made it clear how special I think Jackie is. I had to see everyone wearing the same number 42. And I had to join the baseball community and pay my respects.

I didn’t drive. I wanted something easier. So, instead, I used some points to fly to Baltimore and drive up to Philadelphia. Baltimore is much more affordable than Philly, and it’s an easy drive to and from. Moreover, I would offset the cost of my rental car by losing a night in a hotel. I was so happy I made that choice. Driving six hours from Rochester to Philadelphia while recovering from pneumonia would not have worked well at all.

It’s a beautiful sight. Tonight, the out of town scoreboard that lists the probable pitchers by number only contains the number 42. Oddly, all except for Los Angeles which is showing a number 22. Obviously, a mistake, but I’m standing there saying “WTF Kershaw.”

Then the players appear wearing number 42 with no names on their backs. We are all equal, no? Honorable mention goes to Bryce Harper who wore UCLA (Jackie’s alma mater) Bruins accessories.

All in all, I was moved.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an interesting place to celebrate Jackie’s debut. After all, in 1947, Philadelphia was managed by the notorious Ben Chapman. Chapman’s insulting taunts were awful, one of the few times Robinson reconsidered his no retaliation promise with Branch Rickey. When the Dodgers got to Philadelphia, Chapman was forced to make nice grudgingly. Sixty-nine years later the city apologized. ¹

Additionally, the Phillies and Philadelphia had a long history of poor relationships with the black community for a long time. In 1969 Curt Flood would not accept a trade from St. Louis to Philadelphia. “The Phillies were a second division club known for their hostility toward black players.” ² He sued the league and the rest is history. Yes, Flood hated the Reserve Clause ³ and the idea of being forced to change teams, but the idea of moving to Philadelphia was galling.

The point is that times change. More importantly, people change.

It was moving to see black families happily enjoying an evening at the ballpark. I watched as they posed for pictures next to a statue of Jackie. But it was also moving to see everyone enjoy the moment. “Moving?” you likely will ask. It is the anniversary of the event that instigated the change. We celebrate the occasion together. We rejoice in it.

History Normalizes Events and Attitudes

History normalizes things. Most of us were born and raised in an integrated society; to us it is normal. To some, it may be either embarrassing or insulting to remember those bad days. It was so long ago.

Really, how long ago?

• It’s the 72nd anniversary of Jackie breaking the color barrier. Roughly the same for the integration of the armed services by Harry Truman.
• It’s 65 years since Brown vs. Board of Education in 1954
• 62 years since the Montgomery bus boycotts
• 56 years since the Letter from the Birmingham Jail and the March on Washington
• 54 years since the Voting Rights Act
• 51 years since Martin Luther King’s assassination
• 48 years since the forced busing decisions

I could go on, but clearly, the days of segregation were a long time ago.

But think about it this way. The so-called “Gentleman’s Agreement” that segregated baseball can be traced to 1887. Segregation was a 60-year tradition that was as normal then as integration is now. Yet the practice ended. And when it broke, there was a tidal wave of other changes that followed.

However, I sense that in hindsight we assume that integrating baseball was a fait accompli. That we just needed a Branch Rickey and Jackie Robinson to come along to make everything right. I don’t think so.

What if the player chosen wasn’t a great player? Robinson was. What if the player selected didn’t understand the mission and had overtly challenged the forces of resistance? Robinson understood his task. What if the player chosen couldn’t handle the pressure? Robinson could. What if the player selected didn’t draw fans and make the owners money? Robinson did.

That’s what made me emotional. Segregation didn’t have to end. We have Jackie Robinson to thank for the world we live in.

Citizens Bank Park

I like it! It’s a bandbox, but I like it. The promenade around the stands is fun. The food selections in “Ashburn Alley” are good. I love “The Yard” where kids can play in a small version of the stadium. There is leg room between the rows – so much room that I, frankly, couldn’t believe it.

The scoreboards are where scoreboards should be. They provide great information.

The stadium is not too loud, it’s not too quiet.

The fans seem to know what’s going on. It appears to be a community. As I was hunkered down under my four layers of clothes trying to stay warm, I heard a woman yelling behind me. It’s her grandmother’s birthday. Grandma is sitting there under a few blankets looking like she may have been a young adult when Jackie broke in. The woman asks us to all sing happy birthday, and we do. Fun!

Bryce Harper

Don’t tell anyone, but I like Bryce Harper. I’m not sure he’s worth the money they paid for him. He is a bit full of himself, and he isn’t Mike Trout, but I like him. It was a cold night, a lot of empty seats, but not in right field, where Harper plays. Those seats seemed full. I enjoyed Bryce charging out to right, his dramatic bow and then pumped fists inciting the fans.

I also like that when I watch him hit, I see a little bit of Babe Ruth. He starts with his feet back in the box and as the pitch comes in and he starts to swing, his entire body flows into the act.

Finally, I like his commitment. A few years ago, we saw the Nats – with Bryce – play the Mets in Spring Training. It’s the seventh inning. All the starters have hit the showers. To quote Bob Dylan “as the crowd thinned out, (and) I’s just about to do the same.” ⁴ Yet, there’s Bryce, still in right field. I’ll never forget that.

The Great Hot Dog Challenge

I’m trying to watch my weight, so I’m trying to be careful. However, I did commit to testing a hot dog in each ballpark. So, I need to find a unique one that fits my criteria. I also need a Cheesesteak. I mean we’re In Philadelphia – how can I not get a cheesesteak. Also, how many ballparks ensure that the food they are known for is in the park? Rhetorical question, we’ll find out this summer.

I have two cheesesteak choices – both in Ashburn Alley. Ashburn Alley is the section along the left field side that opens early for people to hang out, take their kids to “The Yard” and stuff their faces with unhealthy things that make one glad to be alive. My choices are either Tony Luke’s or Campo’s Steaks.⁵ I chose Campo’s and got the basic cheesesteak. Steak, provolone and grilled onions on a delicious bun. I loved it.

The Hot Dog is from the “Boardwalk Eats” section. Instead of the “Phillies Frank,” I choose the “South Philly Dog” a dog with “sharp provolone, roasted red peppers, and broccoli rabe. Is broccoli rabe a south Philly thing?

The South Philly Dog isn’t bad – the broccoli rabe provides a bitter counterpoint to the sweet red peppers. It comes on a doughy, crusty bun. Complaints? The dog isn’t crispy enough for my taste, the bun is a bit too big, so it overwhelms the dog, I couldn’t taste the cheese, and there is only yellow mustard. Not bad, I would do it again. I’m ranking it slightly behind Washington’s offering.

The Game

Yes, there was a game. Possibly due to to the cold, the Aaron Nola – Noah Syndergaard matchup did not materialize into a great pitching duel. Nola is still trying to locate his breaking pitches and gave up five runs in four innings. Syndergaard was dominant in the first inning but gave up a three-run lead in the second and another two-run lead in the third. He was gone after five innings.

The Mets finally won in the eleventh on a Rhys Hoskins error. By then I was back at the hotel, having hung up my authentic Jackie Robinson jersey that no one saw since it was the second of four layers.

I’m glad I went to Citizens Bank Park but I need to go back when it’s sunny. After all, there is a cheesesteak from Mr. Luke’s to try. Next stop is two games in sunny Florida, one in Miami and the other in Tampa Bay. I’m guessing I’ll be able to watch more ball there.

On Thursday, many teams played their first game with 161 more to go. I visited the first stadium of 30 I will see this season. My story recounts the day – the glory of opening day, the National’s odd legacy “The Tale of Two Cities,” and my first installment in the “great hot dog debate”. Yes, I also had visions of the “Swinging Friar.”

When designing my travel schedule, I originally didn’t consider going anywhere on Opening Day, but how could I not go? I couldn’t say I did it all (baseball-wise) if I didn’t go to Opening Day. Then I saw that my Metsies were playing the Nationals in Washington and I like Washington. Most importantly, I knew in November that the Mets opening against the Nationals likely meant a Scherzer vs. DeGrom encounter. That could not be missed! And long after I purchased my ticket I found out my pitching matchup hunch was right.

Opening Day – Morning:

5:00 AM Rochester International Airport – TSA Pre Check Line

I’m in the security line when I pass a priest (maybe a monk – but in Rochester? Do we have monks?). He’s decked out in full regalia (no offense intended) in a full cassock, skull cap, big cross, and rosary beads. I’m only thinking about baseball. Thus, my first thought is:

“He must be heading to a San Diego Padre’s game dressed like their mascot the “Swinging Friar¹.” All I have is my Nats hat and my camera. What if he plans to go to all the stadiums dressed like the home team’s mascot? That’s more than I’m doing.”

5:15 AM Rochester International Airport, Gate B1

I realize I’m going incognito, I’m a Mets fan in a Nationals cap. I bought the hat last year during a family outing to a Nats game and a weekend in DC. That was when I was trying the slow approach to “collect ballparks.”

At the gate I see the usual — a few Yankee hats but no Mets gear. How do I explain if asked? “Going to Opening Day? Are you a Nats fan?” Do you think they will play the Yankees in the series?”

“Actually no, I’m a Mets fan going to DC for the game. I’m wearing the cap because my goal is to get a selfie in the home team’s cap at every major league stadium. I have a blog, and I’m raising money for youth baseball.”

7:00 AM Delta Sky Club LaGuardia Terminal C

I’m eating the standard hard-boiled eggs and bagel surrounded by business people and vacationers. The business people are talking on phones and pounding keys on their laptops. I used to do that – might do so again. Today I don’t miss it and wonder how many of them want to join me at the ball game instead of doing business.

11:30 AM Outside Nationals Park

I can’t do it. My misgivings started when I saw all the fans at the L’Enfant Plaza metro station. Most were in Nationals attire, but a significant few were wearing Mets shirts and hats. Today, I’m not representing appropriately. I don’t feel like I am part of my tribe. I can’t greet my brothers and sisters and wish them luck for the season in a Nats cap. I’m somewhat embarrassed, somewhat ashamed of myself.

Luckily I pass a street vendor selling Nats and Mets caps for $10. The caps have a tab back so I can expand the Mets one to fit over my original Nationals one.

Other than taking my ritual selfie with the Nats cap, I spend most of the day, wearing two hats. I have no place to put the Nats hat except on my head, so I cover it with the Mets cap. The sight draws attention. “So, you’re a Mets fan, but live in Washington?” Or “you’re a fan of both teams, how is that possible?” I explain:

“Actually no, I’m a Mets fan, only in DC for the game. I’m wearing the cap because my goal is to get a selfie in the home team’s cap at every major league stadium. I have a blog, and I’m raising money for youth baseball.”

The explanation is getting redundant, but the spectacle enables me to pass out a few cards and maybe garner a few more followers – all is good.

Later, on the way out, I pass the vendor who sold me the Mets cap. “I remember you,” he says. I express my thanks, “you saved my day.” I’m superstitious, wearing the Nats cap may have jinxed the Mets season and my journey. He’s my mythical angel.

Opening Day – The Day Before

To prep for Opening Day, I am thinking about three things – the bliss of Opening Day, the history of the two cities that spawned the Nationals, and hot dogs.

Opening Day

“There is no sports event like Opening Day for beating back the forces of darkness and the National Football League.”

George Vecsey ²

Previously, I wrote that life begins anew when the pitchers and catchers report to spring training. While that is true, spring training only happens because of the impending baseball season. Spring training is only the first sign that winter is over and that it’s time for baseball. Opening Day confirms our spring training thoughts, that the sun will shine, and all things will be good again. Or, when things aren’t good, you can endure the hardship at a ballgame with a beer and a dog.

Moreover, Opening Day is a time of optimism. On day one, anyone’s team has a chance to win it all. Everyone is undefeated and the future is bright.

Baseball is glorious and Opening Day is rebirth:

“In our sun-down perambulations, of late, through the outer parts of Brooklyn, we have observed several parties of youngsters playing “base,” a certain game of ball … Let us go forth awhile, and get better air in our lungs. Let us leave our close rooms … the game of ball is glorious.”

– Walt Whitman, from the 23 July 1846 edition of the Brooklyn Daily Eagle ³

Baseball is back in all its glory. I am partial, but the first game of the NFL, NBA or NHL is just that – a first game. Opening Day of the baseball season is rebirth, time to enjoy the summer’s warm air and relish in the optimism.

Washington and Montreal: The Tale of Two Cities

The Misery Index

Despite many great players and some successful seasons, the Nationals represent a long history of sad baseball. Depending on how you calculate it, the Nationals heritage includes two cities and four to six franchises. Over 160 years they have won only one major league championship, and that was 95 years ago. To be fair, their Montreal antecedents won some minor league championships. However, so did the precursor to the major league San Diego Padres and their fans long for more as well.

Think of it this way. The last time a Washington team played in the World Series was during the summer before my father was born. He lived for 86 years without seeing a team from Washington or Montreal in the World Series.

This history is why The Atlantic listed the Nationals third on the “Fans Misery Index.” They are behind only the Padres (yes those Padres) and the Mariners.

Washington’s Sad Baseball Legacy

Before the musical “Damn Yankees” George Washington was considered “first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” The play transformed the saying to describe the Washington Senators’ sad legacy. The Senators were “first in war, first in peace and last in the American League.” ⁴

Unfortunately, the current version of the Washington Nationals has continued to disappoint somewhat. Even though they have won four NL East titles, they have never won a playoff series. They are also the city’s third franchise (possibly fourth depending on how you classify the 1901 incarnation).

A Brief Washington Chronology

Consider this brief history:

• 1892 – 1899: The Washington Senators play in the National League until the league reduces from 12 teams to eight.
• 1901: The Senators join the new American League. I’m not sure why this team is not counted as the second Washington franchise.
• 1905: The “Senators” change their name to the “Nationals”, but everyone continues to call them the Senators.
• 1925: The lowly Senators win their only World Series
• 1926: They win their last pennant but lose the Series.
• 1955: The aforementioned “Damn Yankees” opens on Broadway and becomes a hit. Note that the play references the “Senators” even though the team name has been the “Nationals” for 30 years.
• 1956: The Nationals officially change their name to the Senators but continue to play in front of increasingly fewer fans.
• 1960: The Senators move to Minnesota and become the Twins. ⁵
• 1961: Version two (three? see 1901) of the Senators replaces the first one (second?) but is not successful either.
• 1972: After eleven years of difficulty, the team moves to Arlington and becomes the Texas Rangers.
• 1972 – 2005: The city tries to lure a new franchise to the capital. ⁶
• 2005: Washington’s third (fourth?) franchise is born when the ownerless Montreal Expos move to the capital and become the Nationals. They play in a new stadium, and the team is popular.
• 2005 – 2018: Although winning many games, and four division championships, the Nationals never win a playoff series.

Montreal – A Prouder Tradition?

Others may disagree, but my read is that Montreal has a prouder tradition than Washington but ultimately suffered a similar fate.

Montrealers started playing baseball in 1860. They formed the Montreal Base Ball Club (MBBC) in the 1870s and an amateur league in 1898. ⁷

Professional ball started in 1897 when a minor league team from Rochester, NY moved to Montreal and became the Royals. After disbanding in 1917, the Royals reformed in 1928. They soon started affiliations with major league teams, most notably the Brooklyn Dodgers. ⁸

In 1933 and 1934 the Royals were the AA Affiliate of the Philadelphia Athletics.⁹ Then in 1937, they became the AA affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates.¹⁰ In 1939 they started their famous association with the Brooklyn Dodgers, serving as their top farm team through 1960. Between 1935 and 1958 the Royals played in 11 league championships winning seven of them.

As you can imagine, the Royals’ association with the Dodgers enable Montreal to host many future hall of fame members. Campanella, Robinson, Drysdale, Snider, and many more greats (including Roberto Clemente) played in Montreal and thus offered the city a great brand of baseball. I didn’t know that Clemente played in the Dodgers organization. Talk about the one that got away!

The Montreal Expos

Due to baseball’s continued popularity in Montreal, the Expos were formed in 1969 as the Leagues expanded. Their history is fraught with inadequate financial and municipal support. However, they were able to develop and acquire a stable of excellent ballplayers and future hall of famers. These include Gary Carter, Andre Dawson, Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez, and Tim Raines.

Although it took ten years to achieve their first winning record, the Expos won 95 games in 1979. In 1980 they almost won the National League East and in 1981 came within one game of the World Series.¹¹

After an uneven rest of the 1980s, the Expos developed another strong team. In 1994, they had the best record in baseball (74 – 40) when the players went on strike. Since the strike canceled the rest of the season, playoffs and World Series, the Expos’s never capitalized on their strong team. The strike discouraged fans and attendance dwindled. Ten years later the Expos moved to Washington.

Montreal is now in the barren, baseball purgatory that Washington was in for 32 years. They are lobbying for a new team to play in their city.

Hope Springs Eternal – A New Start?

Despite the sad history and losing Bryce Harper to free agency, many still predict them to do well in 2019. Most think they are better than the Phillies who engaged the priceless (“bryceless“) one for the next 13 seasons. I think they are right.

The Nationals have pitching, Victor Robles, Juan Soto, and two new catchers. The Phillies are good, but I think they’re overrated. Sure, they have made many additions, more than just Harper. But winning the offseason doesn’t always mean you will win a pennant.

Opening Day – Reactions to the Game

Tale of Two Pitchers

”There are opening day pitchers, and pitchers who start on opening day.”

– Roger Craig¹³

What many misunderstand is that a great pitching matchup is like a “Mano a Mano” heavyweight fight. Each pitcher goes out to outdo the other with as few pitches as possible. The fans anticipate who will get hit first, possibly “knocked out” of the game.

I don’t know if today’s game was the greatest Opening Day pitching matchup, but it was impressive and record-breaking.

I have nothing but respect for Max Scherzer. Scherzer is relentless as he storms around the mound like a bull, breathing steam out of his nose. Today he was no different. He dominated the Mets striking out 12. However, the Mets were able to plate two – one in the first and one in the eighth.

Jacob DeGrom is brilliant, but today in a less commanding way than Scherzer. DeGrom pitched six shutout innings, striking out 10. However, he faced more challenges than Scherzer, as he had to deal with more men in scoring position. He was able to keep the hitters off balance with an assortment of pitches including his amazing fastball and changeup.

For the record, today’s game was the first time in almost 50 years that both opening day starters struck out at least ten men.¹⁴ DeGrom also extended his streak of consecutive games allowing three or fewer runs. He’s now at thirty and passed Jake Arrieta for the most in history. ¹⁵

Robinson Cano

The Mets acquired Robinson Cano for his power bat and leadership. Mets fans question how much he has left. Today he proved his worth:

1. He homered off Scherzer in the first to give the Mets the early lead – all that was needed.
2. He singled in the eighth to produce the Mets’ second run and the insurance they needed.
3. Most important, he was “pivotal” (pardon my pun) in the 5-4-2-5 double play that ended the third inning and the Nationals’ biggest threat. It’s worth reading Anthony DiComo’s piece about Cano’s day and this play

The Great Hot Dog Debate

A hot dog at the ballgame beats roast beef at the Ritz.

– Humphrey Bogart ¹⁶

I’ve decided to taste and rank hot dogs from each ballpark this summer.

In the next few days I will post the rules for the “contest”, but in the meantime lets discuss Washington’s entry.

I tried the “BANH MI” Hot Dog from Haute Dogs and Fries. The “BANH MI” is a beef dog on a grilled New England style bun, with sriracha mayo that is topped with a Vietnamese style slaw made from Jalapeños, cucumber, carrots, and cilantro.

I found it to be quite good, a nice way to open the hot dog season. The dog had a nice crunch, the grilled bun had a wonderful buttery taste and the slaw was nice and spicy. A refreshing change from the traditional sauerkraut.

However, Haute Dogs and Fries loses points because their signs don’t describe the dog choices. It would be nice to review the menu and know what you are ordering without having to ask. Imagine how many times the counter people had to explain what the “BANH MI” was. Also, the service was slow. They had a great group of people handling the orders but only one cashier.

Opening Day – Midnight:

I fall into bed roughly seventeen hours after I left home on this wonderful day.

The Mets and Nationals have 161 games to go. I have 29 more ballparks and 40 more stops to go. Can’t wait. Philadelphia is next on April 15th.

”The game of ball is glorious”

Walt Whitman