Redhawks Field at Bricktown Ballpark

As the 2011 edition of the Houston Astros is on pace for 110 losses this season, we couldn't help ourselves from checking in on the 25 guys that weren't able to crack this illustrious group.  Perhaps the fact that Oklahoma City became the Astros AAA affiliate beginning in 2011 combined with the fact this stadium is a mere 120 miles from our house may have factored in as well. 

View from the hotel

Redhawks Field is located in Bricktown, which is in downtown Oklahoma City.  Just behind left field is the Hampton Inn, which offers rooms overlooking the ballpark. 

The Nashville Sounds (AAA affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers) were in town that night taking on the local nine.  We were able to take in pregame activities from the comfort of our room. 



Pregame activities

Our seats for the night were behind home plate, which meant we were also in amongst scouts.



Nelson Figeuroa's next stop might be Japan

Completed in 1998, Redhawks Field provides a good venue for AAA baseball. Although the quality of the on-field product is lacking, there was still plenty to like, but some to dislike, too.

Promotions: Thirsty Thursday = $1 beers.  A+

Concessions: Standard ballpark concessions are available with prices somewhat on the high side considering this is minor league (although keeping with Astros tradition).  The highlights included a Hideaway Pizza stand, which offers both traditional and specialty pizza by the slice.  Also bringing up the grade was the availability of Pop Ice.  Overall grade: B-



Overall gameday atmosphere: In true Astro tradition, the between inning entertainment and mascot pretty much sucked.  They did spare us the Goya Bean Can Shuffle, but we were subjected to "If You're Happy and You Know It," and the worst mascot this side of Junction Jack.  For whatever reason, a western-themed red female bird was hanging out with a male counterpart.  At least this is less of a stretch than a rabbit's relation to "Astros," but was still overall pretty weak.  Also, the graphics department couldn't seem to get hold of a Nashville media guide, so several players appeared on the Jumbotron as silhouettes. On the plus side, as the score reached 12-2 by the 7th, the guys in the bullpen had decided it would be more fun to screw around than warm up for any game time, unless pitching behind your back or under your legs is some new fancy delivery.  Final grade C+, saved by the bullpen guys.  Mascot still gets an F--.