The Park
The Newark Bears of the independent Atlantic League began play in 1998. Baseball officially returned to Newark in 1999, when Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium opened. Teams named the Bears and the Eagles once played in Newark, the former a minor league team and the latter a Negro League franchise. A mural in the picnic area in left pays homage to former Eagles stars, including New Jersey native Larry Doby, who broke the color barrier in the American League.
The main entrance is at street level. As one enters the concourse, one is treated to an unobstructed view from behind home of the entire field, unlike most ballparks built in the last decade. The outfield view in left is dominated by an old bridge, reminding one of the city�s industrial history. There is not much to look at in center and right, although on a clear day, the World Trade Center used to be visible in the distance in centerfield. The beer deck on the second level offers good views of the action.
The team is owned by former Yankee catcher Rick Cerone, who year after year signs quite a few former major leaguers. In 2001 alone, we saw Jose and Ozzie Canseco, Lance Johnson, Jim Leyritz, Hensley Meulens, Jack Armstrong, Jaime Navarro, and Pete Incaviglia, not to mention former NFL star Danny Kanell.
All in all, a great ballpark, and an enjoyable baseball experience. |
