MLB stadiums: American League Central
The original plans for Comerica Park were designed in the 1980’s but didn’t come to fruition until April of the year 2000. Five years later, Dmitri Young crushed a trio long balls during opening day on April 4, 2005.
Kauffman Stadium, or “The K,” opened in 1969 but was renamed after innovator and team owner Ewing M. Kauffman four years later.
Before 2004, the fences in the outfield were pushed back 10 feet, making it tougher on outfielders who had more ground to cover in the process. Still unique for its beautiful fountains, the “K” is one of the loudest venues in all of Major League Baseball when at peak capacity.
Sit back, relax, and watch a time-lapse of new turf being rolled out over three days at Kauffman Stadium. https://t.co/CF8yiJzbVX pic.twitter.com/zHLg3ZCdtd
— John Sleezer (@jsleezer) November 16, 2017
Formerly known as Jacobs Field, the now Progressive Field was built in 1994. Initially, the Cleveland Indians failed to draw decent crowds, spawning the movie Major League, which jested at such “feat.”
However, from 1995 until 2001, “Jacobs Fied” sold out 455 straight home contests, adding that very number (455) to their list of retired numbers, recognizing that very accomplishment.
Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins, is not even 10 years old (2010), a venue that allows you to gaze at the beautiful skyline line of downtown Minneapolis.
"Target Field features a 360-degree open main concourse giving fans an uninterrupted view of the playing field. The concourses are twice as wide as those in the Metrodome."
Before this elite and accommodating stadium, the Twins set up shop in the unique, but rundown Metrodome. With never a dull moment, baseballs would often hit the roof, and routine grounders turned into adventures for infielders.
The idea of turf toe — which is extremely painful — originated with stadiums such as this one. The Twins were undoubtedly more than happy to usher in a state of the art facility, letting the past die.