Ballpark Digest is previewing what every MLB team is doing to begin the season, both on and off the field, as the 2018 campaign launches today. Up next: the San Diego Padres and Petco Park.
The San Diego Padres have taken a multi-faceted approach in introducing new features at Petco Park. Changes to the food lineup are one of the highlights for 2018, but Petco Park has received improvements that offer focuses on video technology and sustainability.
New at Petco Park this year is a right-field videoboard. Measuring at 55.2′ by 31.2′ (1722.24 sq. ft.), the videoboard manufactured by Daktronics gives the ballpark an additional video display.
Along with the addition of a new videoboard, another major project undertaken by the Padres was the installation of a new solar power system. The 336,520-watt Sullivan Solar Power system is the largest in Major League Baseball and is expected to generate 330 kilowatts of solar power, enough to power the entire Padres front office.
Beyond those changes, the Padres have worked with Delaware North to bring some new options to Petco Park’s menu for 2018. Two local staples will now have a presence at Petco Park, as the Padres have brought Buona Forchetta and Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill into the fold. The offerings at Buona Forchetta’s Petco Park location will include Neapolitan style and thick-crust Roman-style pizzas, along with a wine selection that features a mix of California and Italian varietals. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill’s offerings comprise of fish tacos, plates, and sandwiches.
When it comes to their food offerings, the Padres are refining some Petco Park staples. The team is updating its Friar Frank for 2018, and longtime Petco Park staple Phil’s BBQ is adding a location on the Western Metal Supply Co. Building Rooftop. That will be in addition to its the Park at the Park and the Field Level section 113 locations.
Jack & Craft will provide Petco Park with a new dedicated dessert option, and even feature a rotating menu of San Diego craft beers that can be paired with dessert options. In keeping with the beer theme, the Padres will see some other additions this year, including two new Sculpin IPA bars from Ballast Point. A rum bar from Cutwater Sprits will debut on the field level, joining The Still by Cutwater Spirits that was added to the Toyota Terrace level last year.
One other notable addition for 2018 is the Pendry Luxury Boxes, a premium seating option for Season Ticket Holders. Located on the Toyota Terrace in Section 204, the luxury boxes will include cushioned seats that offer built-in USB chargers, private TVs, and in-seat service. Fans in this area will also have access to the Omni Premier Club.
Image courtesy San Diego Padres.