Southern Baseball, Part V

One of the things that drew me to Baseball Sociology was the similarities and differences among the various communities that host minor league baseball teams.  That is one reason I love visiting new parks every year.  Each park has its  own culture and unique features, which are reflective of the community and the history of the team.  As I wrap-up my tales of Southern Baseball Adventures today, I’m posting some photos of minor league baseball in Memphis and Little Rock, for you to see for yourself how they compare!

~ baseballrebecca

AutoZone Park, Memphis, TN:  Home of the Memphis Redbirds

Unique features at AutoZone part include the retirement of Stubby Clapp‘s number and the red seat commemorating the resting place of the home run Albert Pujols hit in the 2000 Pacific Coast League Championship Series.

 

 

Dickey-Stephens Park, North Little Rock, AR: Home of the Arkansas Travelers

The Travs’ stadium, which opened in 2007, shares similar features with AutoZone Park, just two hours away.  The Travs are a Double A, Texas League team; the Redbirds are part of the Triple A Pacific Coast League. 

The Travs’ pay tribute to the history of Little Rock baseball throughout the stadium, from its name (Dickey-Stephens Park) to a museum dedicated to the team’s history right on the concourse.