Review from July 8, 2018
Nashville Sounds vs. Iowa Cubs
Nashville Sounds vs. Iowa Cubs
Music City Experience
By: Matthew Preslar
Realizing the fluidity of minor league rosters, the Nashville Sounds publicly declare there is no need to “promote” players, but simply to create an event every time they host a game. I agree with this concept and appreciate their efforts. First Tennessee Park had many completely unique features, all while remaining loyal to perception of the city. The most predominant feature is the score/video board in the shape of a guitar. We had read about this in our research and were somewhat skeptical. However, it was one of the most creative signature attractions I have seen in any ballpark. Other events helped maintain the country party theme: with corn hole and ping pong in a private party area to classic country music playing over the speakers before the game. There was also a $5 putt-putt course open to the entire crowd. I have never seen amenities like these in any other park. There was also a full bar and couches along the outfield concourse in "The Band Box" section.
My disappointments are few with the Nashville Sounds. I prefer seeing more team branding and mentions of the parent team. I saw absolutely nothing announcing the affiliation with the Oakland A’s and very little commemorating current or former Nashville players in the Major Leagues. I only saw a poster of Don Mattingly in the team store, and I believe that dated him back to the early 1980’s. I like learning franchise history as we tour MILB parks. Nashville, for whatever reason, choose not to share that information.
My other negative point was the lack of attendance. By looks, the stadium seemed only half full. Maybe 1/4 or more of those were Cubs fans, cheering on the visiting Iowa Cubs. We have learned that Cubs fans show up for their team: from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach, and all points in between. I believe the stadium would have been even less full without those Cubs fans. I would think the park alone could sell itself. It is a beautiful facility and the talent is one injury away from a call up: any AAA park provides high quality baseball. I hope team officials can increase engagement with the people of the city (or passers by like us) and bring more people in to see the wonderful First Tennessee Park.
By: Matthew Preslar
Realizing the fluidity of minor league rosters, the Nashville Sounds publicly declare there is no need to “promote” players, but simply to create an event every time they host a game. I agree with this concept and appreciate their efforts. First Tennessee Park had many completely unique features, all while remaining loyal to perception of the city. The most predominant feature is the score/video board in the shape of a guitar. We had read about this in our research and were somewhat skeptical. However, it was one of the most creative signature attractions I have seen in any ballpark. Other events helped maintain the country party theme: with corn hole and ping pong in a private party area to classic country music playing over the speakers before the game. There was also a $5 putt-putt course open to the entire crowd. I have never seen amenities like these in any other park. There was also a full bar and couches along the outfield concourse in "The Band Box" section.
My disappointments are few with the Nashville Sounds. I prefer seeing more team branding and mentions of the parent team. I saw absolutely nothing announcing the affiliation with the Oakland A’s and very little commemorating current or former Nashville players in the Major Leagues. I only saw a poster of Don Mattingly in the team store, and I believe that dated him back to the early 1980’s. I like learning franchise history as we tour MILB parks. Nashville, for whatever reason, choose not to share that information.
My other negative point was the lack of attendance. By looks, the stadium seemed only half full. Maybe 1/4 or more of those were Cubs fans, cheering on the visiting Iowa Cubs. We have learned that Cubs fans show up for their team: from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach, and all points in between. I believe the stadium would have been even less full without those Cubs fans. I would think the park alone could sell itself. It is a beautiful facility and the talent is one injury away from a call up: any AAA park provides high quality baseball. I hope team officials can increase engagement with the people of the city (or passers by like us) and bring more people in to see the wonderful First Tennessee Park.
FIRST TENNESSEE PARK
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TICKET VALUE 8/10
CONCESSIONS 7/10
FAMILY FRIENDLINESS 6/5
ATMOSPHERE 9/10
CHARACTER 9/10
PARKING 6/5
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