The best of the Tigers' Minor League ballparks
The Minor League Ballpark Guides series presented by Wyndham brings all the most fun features of Minors ballparks across America (and one in Canada!) onto your desktop, tablet or mobile device, whether you're interested in taking a virtual tour from where you sit or planning a trip to catch some
The Minor League Ballpark Guides series presented by Wyndham brings all the most fun features of Minors ballparks across America (and one in Canada!) onto your desktop, tablet or mobile device, whether you're interested in taking a virtual tour from where you sit or planning a trip to catch some games. Here, we present a roundup of the can't-miss elements from every park in the Detroit Tigers organization.
Unique feature
Lakeland Flying Tigers, Single-A:
At Joker Marchant Stadium, fans can get close to the action. Just down the first-base line is "The Dugout." No, not the ones the players are in, but it does have the same proximity to the field at the same level. Take a seat in bright orange Adirondack chairs and chat up the right fielder as he's jogging past. Whether it's Spring Training or the height of summer, this group area is a great spot to feel like you're part of the game. Read more »
Must-try concessions
Erie SeaWolves, Double-A:
UPMC Park has been home to some legendary concessions. There's the award-winning "Rocket Dog" -- a hot dog with mac and cheese, pulled pork and bacon. Then the divisive-yet-viral cotton candy-wrapped dog, topped with Nerds candy. This year, the SeawWolves are celebrating local favorite Stanganelli’s Pepperoni Balls, both on the field and across concession stands. No matter when you go, you're sure to find something tasty at UPMC Park. Read more »
Big league atmosphere, Minor League prices
Toledo Mud Hens, Triple-A:
Toledo is a baseball town, dating back to the the Blue Stockings in 1883 of the Northwest League and the American Association. The area around the park celebrates its roots with signs that honor Moses "Fleetwood" Walker, the last Black player to play in the Majors until Jackie Robinson. Enter through large gates onto a wide concourse and you'll feel like you're at an intimate big league game. Fifth Third Field holds 10,300, but the structure and cityscape give it a grander feel. And the myriad of food and drink options both inside and around the stadium will have you saying, "Holy Toledo!" Read more »
Interesting local attraction
West Michigan Whitecaps, High-A:
LMCU Ballpark is just 10 minutes away from downtown Grand Rapids, though you can also take the scenic route and canoe or kayak down the Grand River. There, you'll find Fish Ladder Park, which is described as a "functional piece of architectural artwork." Further down the river is the Gerald R. Ford Presential Museum, the Grand Rapids Art Museum and several bars and restaurants. Read more »
Kelsie Heneghan is a writer for MiLB.com. Follow her on Twitter @Kelsie_Heneghan.