The new season at Hank Aaron Stadium will include new amenities, as the Mobile BayBears are set to debut some upgrades.
Last fall, the BayBears received approval for a new drainage system at the ballpark. In addition to the new drainage, the BayBears will now be able to offer new seating. Funding has been approved to replace many of the seats throughout the ballpark, which should help to improve the fan experience.
With these changes following upgrades that have taken place in recent years, the BayBears and Mobile officials are working to enhance the viability of Hank Aaron Stadium, which first opened in 1997. More from WKRG.com:
The Mobile City Council recently signed off on $107,000 to replace the stadium’s aged seats after having endured the elements for than 20 years. But it’s not all the improvements in store for the stadium.
“We had new lighting installed before the 2015 season that was to bring it into compliance with major league baseball,” said Chris Morgan, general manager of the Mobile Bay Bears. “We’re standing on a new outfield — more importantly a new outfield with new drainage.”
The improvements are part of an ongoing effort over the last three seasons as Morgan became manager and Sandy Stimpson as mayor. Under Stimpson, the Mobile City Council has shifted their gaze to the aging stadium, recognizing its need for updated equipment.
The BayBears are also entering the season with a new affiliate, having agreed to a player development contract with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim after the 2016 campaign. The Angels will take the place of the Arizona Diamondbacks as the BayBears’ parent club.