Between 1956 and 1991, the original Scottsdale Stadium hosted five teams for spring training; Baltimore Orioles, 1956-58; Boston Red Sox, 1959-65; Chicago Cubs, 1967-78; Oakland Athletics, 1979-81 and San Francisco Giants, 1982-91. After the Cactus League season ended in 1991, the ballpark was razed. In its place a new $7 million facility was constructed. The Giants were the beneficiaries of the fancy new ballpark. The retro design by HOK proved to be a hit. In spite of newer stadiums coming along since, Scottsdale Stadium is still regarded as the crown jewel of the Cactus League.
The Phoenix Firebirds of the Pacific Coast League called Scottsdale Stadium home from 1992-97. The ballpark also hosted the Valley Vipers of the independent Western League in 2000 as well as a professional women’s baseball team for one season. Scottsdale Stadium is also home to the Arizona Fall League and rookie level Arizona League.
Scottsdale Stadium FAQs:
The Giants 15-game home schedule starts on Thursday March 4 vs. Milwaukee.
Scottsdale Stadium
7408 East Osborn Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Capacity: 11,500
Dimensions: LF 360’; CF 430’; RF 360’
Tips: Circle these games on your schedule; Saturday March 6 vs. Arizona; Monday March 8 vs. the Dodgers; Thursday, March 25 vs. Oakland (7:05, the only night game at Scottsdale Stadium this spring); and Tuesday March 30 vs. the Cubs……Arrive early to claim free parking in the garage just north of the ballpark otherwise parking can be a challenge….This is the ballpark where you are most likely to see fans wearing ties. Don’t be afraid to raze these businessmen who sneak away from the office to catch a few innings. A popular needle is “hey, nice tie.”…..For a taste of San Francisco, try the Anchor Steam beer on-tap.
Giants in 2009:
Regular Season: 88-74, 3rd Place NL West; ERA 3.55; BA .257; HR 122
Spring Training: 21-19; ERA 5.37; BA .304; HR 46
Beginnings and endings…..
Brooks Robinson and Carl Yastrzemski spent their first big league springs in Scottsdale Stadium; Ted Williams and Barry Bonds spent their last spring seasons there.
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