FRANKLIN COVEY FIELD

Franklin Covey Field is one of the best minor league parks in America. As you can see, the view beyond the fences is incredible. Those are the Wasatch Mountains in the background, and they are simply stunning. The park was built in 1994 when the Salt Lake Buzz were brought to the city, and it is a two-level stadium that can seat up to 15,500. During the first season of Buzz baseball, the team set a new PCL attendance record with over 700,000 fans (almost 10,000 per game).

The front row seats behind home plate are closer to the plate than the pitcher's mound, so you are right on top of the action. You can literally talk to the players while they are in the on-deck circle, and if you are nice, they might even talk back.  For those of you who don't like to sit on the chairs, it is OK to bring a blanket and sit on the grass behind the fence. Given the high elevation of Salt Lake City, you can expect a couple of homers every game. There are also some picnic benches that you and your family can sit at and enjoy a meal while watching the game. On the second level there are also private suites, but I can't imagine wanting to sit there when you can be right next to the field.

Picnic bench in right field - note the two decks in the background

The concourse is similar to that in major league ballparks, with a number of concession stands, a gift shop, and an autograph booth that allows fans to get autographs from a couple of Stingers players before game time. There is a good variety of food as well, although the "Triple Play" (hot dog, soda, bag of chips at a small discount) may be your best bet.

An interesting point is that starting lineups are posted around the stadium before the game starts. Very useful if you are stuck waiting for an autograph when the starting lineups are announced.

There are really no problems with the stadium - access is made easy by the Trax system which drops you off one block from the field. If you are looking at taking a minor league road trip, try to include Salt Lake on your trip. It will definitely be worth it.