Braves 6/16

Turner Field

In a word?

"unremarkable"

Well, we made it to Turner Field, home of the Braves. 

The field has a nice layout, with good views of the field from all sections.  Even the bleachers in this stadium are good seats. And the chairs angle toward home plate, so you don't have to strain your neck to see the batter.  Because there is not a lot of foul-ball territory, and the first row of seats is nearly at the level of the playing field, Turner Field has an intimate feel.  There is also a great view of the city from the upper level near their version of a giant Coke can.

The diamond-vision at Turner Field is very large, and the production-value is really good (duh!  It's a Turner company!)

There is a lot of pomp to begin a game, and every strikeout is rewarded by firworks.

People were so nice, and very helpful.   curious, not offended or put off, with our A's gear. Especially this guy.

This is Carter.  

And you already know the short one!

Unfortunately, the stadium is getting old and is starting to look run down, especially in the tunnels and hallways.  Most concessions are located in dark hallways, and there is not much of a food selection to choose from. The seats are small and close together, with not much leg-room.  There are not a lot of activities for children, and those they do have, require a $2.00 token. You even need a token for the hall of Braves history museum.  And a soda costs $8.00!  (but does come with a refill)   

Despite the impressive screen, Turner Field's idea of in-between inning entertainment consists mostly of straight-forward audience cam. They just turn the cameras on the crowd, and wait for folks to ham it up. And boy do they!  Atlantans seem to love to see themselves on the big screen!

Some notable exceptions:

pop-fly catch contest
"throwin' gas" (pitching contest)
stolen base challenge (yes, they actually take the base home!)
a couple of quiz games
and, of course, the Home Depot tool race!

And that Tomahawk Chop? After EVERY hit! ...only a tradition a TRUE Braves fan can appreciate. In the unforgettable words of Carter, "It was annoying!"

Have you ever wondered how a wave starts? Well we now know! They begin with bored ushers! (We saw it happen with our own eyes!)

No, we aren't the Braves biggest fan.  But we did enjoy our visit to park #27.  

Rays on Thursday!