Baseball is one of the most beloved sports in the United States and around the world. Baseball stadiums have evolved over time to include many features that improve the fan experience. One particular feature that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the retractable roof. Retractable roofs provide a number of benefits, such as protection from the elements, improved noise control, and more. But just how many baseball fields have retractable roofs?
What Is a Retractable Roof?
A retractable roof is a structure that can be opened and closed on command. The roof is typically made of a material such as metal or fabric and is designed to slide open or closed as needed. Retractable roofs are used in a variety of sports stadiums, including baseball fields.
Benefits of Retractable Roofs
Retractable roofs offer a number of benefits for baseball stadiums. The most obvious benefit is the protection from the elements. By closing the roof, fans are able to enjoy the game without worrying about rain or snow. Retractable roofs also improve noise control by blocking out external noises and keeping the noise within the stadium. This makes the game more enjoyable for fans.
How Many Baseball Fields Have Retractable Roofs?
MLB Fields with Retractable Roofs
Currently, there are six Major League Baseball (MLB) stadiums that have retractable roofs. These stadiums are:
- Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida.
- Miller Park in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
- Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona.
- Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas.
- Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas.
- Mariners Safeco Field in Seattle, Washington.
Minor League Fields with Retractable Roofs
In addition to the MLB fields with retractable roofs, there are also a number of minor league fields with retractable roofs. These fields are located in cities across the United States, including:
- Pensacola Bayfront Stadium in Pensacola, Florida.
- Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Florida.
- Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Durham, North Carolina.
- Isotopes Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- Kino Veterans Memorial Stadium in Tucson, Arizona.
- AT&T Park in San Francisco, California.
- NBT Bank Stadium in Syracuse, New York.
- Buckaroo Stadium in Reno, Nevada.
- Raley Field in West Sacramento, California.
College Fields with Retractable Roofs
College baseball fields have also begun to install retractable roofs in recent years. As of 2021, there are a number of college stadiums with retractable roofs, including:
- TD Ameritrade Park in Omaha, Nebraska.
- Raymond C. Hand Park in Oxford, Mississippi.
- Wake Forest Baseball Park in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
- Goss Stadium in Corvallis, Oregon.
- Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.
- UMass Baseball Stadium in Amherst, Massachusetts.
- USF Baseball Stadium in Tampa, Florida.
- Jackie Robinson Stadium in Los Angeles, California.
High School Fields with Retractable Roofs
High school baseball fields have also begun to install retractable roofs in recent years. As of 2021, there are a number of high school stadiums with retractable roofs, including:
- New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois.
- Tustin High School in Tustin, California.
- Silver Creek High School in Sellersburg, Indiana.
- Ocoee High School in Ocoee, Florida.
- Cedar Hill High School in Cedar Hill, Texas.
- Chandler High School in Chandler, Arizona.
- Newton High School in Newton, Massachusetts.
- St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a number of baseball fields around the world that have retractable roofs. From Major League Baseball to college, high school, and even minor league fields, retractable roofs are becoming increasingly popular as a way to improve the fan experience. With the protection from the elements and improved noise control, retractable roofs are sure to be a feature that will stay in baseball stadiums for years to come.