Becoming the fastest expansion to win a World Series (2001), the Arizona Diamondbacks became an expansion team during the 1998 MLB season. Built as the first stadium with a retractable roof in the United States, the Diamondbacks have called Chase Field in Arizona home since their debut in the National League. During my trip to Phoenix last year, I was able to take in two games and a tour of the stadium. It was also my last time to see Atlanta Braves 3B Chipper Jones during his farewell tour before retiring at the end of the 2012 season.
The tour itself is a treat unlike many others, you get to see an experience a lot many fans don't. The tour started just outside of the team store prior to departing into the interior of the stadium containing the 2001 World Series Trophy and items from the 2011 MLB All Star Game.
During the tour, we were allowed access to many areas of the park that are usually off-limits to fans including the press box, media room and dugout. There is also the chance that you run into a player like we did, Philadelphia Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon. What other MLB stadium can also boast that they have an operating hot tub within the confines of their stadium? While we were in the press box and dugout, we were fortunate enough to catch a portion of the Phillies batting practice.
The stadium itself has one of the best atmospheres in the game for any fan of baseball. Cheap food and beer along with crowd participation. If you are one of those who prefers to eat before the game, I suggest checking out TGIF Fridays located in left field. A portion of the restaurant faces the stadium and offers outdoor seating. Did I also mention that if you arrive early enough that you can watch batting practice from it?
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