Recreation Ballpark
Wasco, CA
Review by Mike
Recreation Ballpark was the home of the Wasco Reserve of the Pecos League. The team was not named because they were a collection of 2nd-string players, but rather in honor of the wines produced in this vineyard-rich region. This was also the inspiration for their burgundy uniforms. The Reserve played four seasons in Wasco, from 2019 – 2022.
The stadium is simple but has some charm. I was not able to get inside for a look around, but I was able to get some very nice views by walking around the outside. Located in a public park along a tree-lined street, with houses all around, this is very definition of a community ballpark. The park and recreation offices are right across the street.
The grandstand behind home plate is covered by a full-sized roof with a fence to protect the fans from foul balls. This structure has an interesting design as the roof is cantilevered rather than supported by pillars, unusual in such a small grandstand. In order to make room the supporting trusses, the back of the building bows outward at a visually interesting angle. Siding covers the exterior and is painted in earth tones to give the whole thing a really unique look.
There are bleachers on each baseline that are not protected by a screen, so it is probably best not to be checking your phone during play. Same goes for the picnic tables next to the main stand. The scoreboard is minimal, one step up from having the scorekeeper shout the score through the window from his perch at the top of the seats. A small concession stand is set into the side, under the seats.
To borrow a term from my counterpart, it is all very quaint and well maintained. It’s a shame that the Pecos League couldn’t make it here because this feels like old time baseball. I can’t give a rating because I didn’t go in, but I was charmed by what I saw and hope that this little ballpark hosts community baseball for years to come.
