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Orlando's not a one-mouse town and this is the site that proves it! |
While many fans of Spring Training enjoyed the antique feel of Jack Russell Stadium, the Phillies Spring Training home for 57 years, they can all say good riddance because Clearwater has found just about the perfect mix of new and old at its new park, Bright House Networks Field. This is the first completely new park that has been able to merge the old-time feel with the new amenities required by the modern era of baseball. Simply put, it is a great ballpark. It’s not too big and it has lots of quirky aspects that put it in the top two or three parks in the league. In fact, the only drawback here is the parking. The non-reserved lot is down the street from the front entrance, a good 15-minute walk from the stadium. Still, the walk is well worth it if you are a baseball fan. The positives start at the front entrance. The Spanish architecture and fountains are architecturally appealing. Better yet, the practice field is located right to the left of the ticket window. While waiting for the gates to open, you can look down at pitchers practicing their fielding skills. Just don’t linger too long because you’ll want to get inside and walk around to experience the park to its fullest. The first thing you’ll notice as you walk in is your view of the main field. Unlike in every other Grapefruit League ballpark — most of which force you to walk through tunnels to get to the main seating area — the main concourse here is located above the seats. That means you can see the field and the game no matter where you are in the stadium. If you turn to the left after entering, you’ll find a “Beers of the World” stand, stocked with over 40 different types of beer. A little further along, you’ll see the kids’ playground and moonwalk, great touches that only a couple of other parks offer. Towards the stands, there is a picnic table area on a tiered terrace. This is often filled with groups, but you can buy a ticket specifically for this section and watch the game from the terrace. You’ll see something else unique to Bright House Networks Field as you walk around: the berm goes completely around the outfield. In all other Grapefruit League parks with berms, the berm is limited to one section of the outfield. Here, you can sit over either the right or left field wall. Adding to the excitement, the bullpens are cut into the left field berm; so you can stand on the berm and watch the pitchers warm up at closer range than at any other park in the league. Didn't find what you were looking for? Try a Google search.
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The
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