Critics bleated when Dunkin’ Donuts Park was proposed, overbudget and delayed, but after the $71 million, 6,000-seat baseball stadium opened in April, many would be kidding to say it’s not a huge hit.
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Critics bleated when Dunkin' Donuts Park was proposed, overbudget and delayed, but after the $71 million, 6,000-seat baseball stadium opened in April, many would be kidding to say it's not a huge hit.
The Hartford Yard Goats played their 70th and last 2017 home game Aug. 31 and conclude their season Sept. 4 on the road with a losing record, but the Double-A affiliate of Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies finished strong at the turnstiles, proving the Goats (now that's a farm team) really did find greener pastures in Hartford. The team's average attendance was 5,614 until July 1, and 6,490 after, with 31 sellouts through mid-August. Capacity is 6,850 with standing room only.
General Manager Tim Restall answered a few questions as the season wound down.
How would you gauge fans' reaction to the stadium after the controversy surrounding construction?
Amazing. So many people have seen photos and videos of Dunkin' Donuts Park, but it's very rewarding to see their reaction when they come through the gates the first time. Having this wonderful ballpark and backdrop of Hartford's skyline gives it a Major League feel.
Have you added sponsors since the stadium opened?
Yes, many businesses, small and large, want to be part of this exciting time in Hartford. We continue to meet with businesses that want to be part of the entertainment experience.
How would you rate the team's performance?
Minor league baseball is about developing players for the major league club and our fans have seen many of baseball's top prospects. Rockies infielder Ryan McMahon started the season with the Yard Goats and now we have one of the top prospects in the game, shortstop Brendan Rodgers.
What's the biggest challenge facing the Yard Goats?
Constant visibility in the community — a challenge with so many events in summer and requests for mascot and player appearances. We do our best to be community partners.
What's the biggest opportunity facing the Yard Goats organization?
Utilizing the ballpark for more than baseball. It's a community asset and we work with many groups to host events there.
Tell us something about you people don't know.
I was elected to the student council in high school (Pinkerton Academy, Derry, N.H.). And I've begun trying my hand at smoking meats on my barbecue.
Goat meat?
No, no goat meat. That's not right.
