Ballparks: Tucson Electric Park

Since 1998, the Tucson Sidewinders of the Pacific Coast League have been playing ball in the middle of a desert oasis.

Tucson Electric Park, or TEP, has been home to the Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks since the team's inception in Major League Baseball.

The 11,000-seat facility is also the site of Spring Training for the D-Backs and the Chicago White Sox, making it the only Triple-A ballpark that also serves as its parent organization's spring home.

Located in the southern part of the city, the ballpark is situated close to downtown Tucson but is far enough away from residential and commercial areas to really take advantage of Arizona's natural scenery as a backdrop.

The desert sunsets, combined with craggy mountain ranges that border Tucson Electric Park on each side, make it one of the most picturesque ballparks in the Minors.

"The Catalina Mountains are right beyond the scoreboard in center," said Sidewinders media director Landon Vincent. "Everywhere you look you see mountains. Tucson's in the desert, it's a very special biosystem we're in the middle of."

TEP is part of the "Pima Sports Complex," a much larger sports compound that boasts 25 to 30 baseball and softball fields.

Once inside, sans have no problem taking in TEP's surroundings. The park's roofless, open design provides a view of the Arizona desert sunset unlike any other.

"It's one of the signature parts of the park," said Vincent. "Our sunsets are just famous -- getting to see the sunset from your seat is one of the best parts about this place."

The 360-degree concourse wraps its way around the main seating bowl, allowing fans to grab a bite to eat without missing a moment of the game.

Straitaway beyond center field is Tucson Electric Park's children's area, complete with jumping castles and playground games. Youngsters can even ride along a live train that runs from left field to right during games.

A grass berm takes the place of conventional seats in the outfield. Families can grab a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy their favorite Sidewinders.

"There's so much to do for families: Kids are always playing on the grass hills, while parents are catching the game or catching up with old friends," Vincent said.

Down the first base line is the grove: a shady, tree-covered locale with a relaxing atmosphere. Fans often listen to local bands play in the area after games, and sometimes players show off their musical talents as well.

With its open terraces and sprawling landscapes, Tucson Electric Park is known as a hot spot for group gatherings. Vincent explains TEP is equipped in such a way that tents can be set up all over the park for groups to enjoy the game.

"Unlike other ballparks with designated group areas, there are group areas all over the place here -- the park's so big inside, we'll set up tents just about anywhere," he laughs. Concessions at Tucson Electric Park are consistent with its desert surroundings. Treats like "Snake Bites" and "Snake Legs" are among the fan favorites on the menu.

Tucson residents are aware they have something special in TEP and are proud to house the ballpark. Vincent says the team has its fair share of die-hards who attend each game and keep up with each move the team makes.

"We make it a point," Vincent said, "to go out into the community and be a part of it rather than wait for the community to come to us --the ballpark is a real staple in the city, the fans are wonderful here."

Tucson Electric Park provides the perfect getaway for fans who love a good old-fashioned baseball game.