Pittsfield, MA - Waconah Park
The Park
When I learned that the Pittsfield Astros were moving to Troy, NY for the 2002 season, I made it a point to see a game there before it was too late.  I made it there on July 19, 2001.  Fortunately, baseball will remain in Pittsfield.  The independent Northern League will have a new franchise there in 2002.

Wahconah Park is beautiful, and unique.  It was built in 1919, before night games, so the setting sun was not an issue.  It is now - sometimes, games are delayed while the sun, which sets in centerfield, goes behind the trees and out of the batter�s view.  Even before the setting sun is a problem, the shadows are something to behold. 

The general admission seats are wooden bleachers.  The first few rows in the grandstand are folding chairs.  The color theme was still blue and orange, the colors of the former franchise affiliated with the Mets.  The seats are very close to the action. 

It�s close to 3 hours away, but I wouldn�t hesitate to drive up there again (for a night game, of course).
That Day
This was my third New York Penn League game, and the third time I saw the New Jersey Cardinals - once in Brooklyn, then at home.

The game�s leadoff hitter, the Cards� RF John Nelson, hit a HR.  NJ scored again in the 3rd and tacked on 2 more in the 7th.  Pittsfield scored 1 in the 4th and 2 in the 7th to come within 1 run.  The Cards added an insurance run in the top of the 9th, and won 5-3.
I can't see!
The shadow knows.
The stands and bleachers.
Copyright 2002 Chris Trapani
All photographs and text on this website and webpage are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the holder of the copyrights, Chris Trapani.  Direct all e-mail inquiries to [email protected].
View from my seat.
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