Tempe Diablo Stadium
Tempe, AZ
Review by Gary
One would think that the last place a team called the Angels would play would be called Tempe Diablo Stadium, but that’s where the Los Angeles American League franchise calls home every spring. Since 1993, the LA Angels have played in this venue alongside I-10, which speeds by beyond the rightfield fence. Built in 1969 as the Cactus League spring training home of the expansion Seattle Pilots (1969-1970), Tempe Diablo Stadium went on to house the Milwaukee Brewers (1971-1972) and a few seasons later, another Seattle team. The expansion Mariners moved in and sparred at TDS from 1977 until 1993 when they moved to the Peoria Stadium Complex to cohabitate with the San Diego Padres.
The ballpark was in Spring Training purgatory until 2003 when the Angels descended and brought salvation, but not before Diablo Stadium would undergo a major redemption to modernize the place. The most noticeable change is the majestic front entrance, with the trademark “Big A” with halo towering over the grand staircase.
The smallest ballpark in the Cactus League (9,558 capacity), Tempe Diablo features a nice selection of seating options. There is a tree-lined grassy berm that stretches behind the left field fence where fans can soak up some Vitamin D. Most spectators choose the fixed seats below the narrow concourse that runs all around the diamond, although these are very tight and not comfortable for anyone six feet tall or more. Those choosing the bleachers down the right field line might want to schedule a neck massage after the game because the long bench seating points directly at centerfield, necessitating several hours of turning your head to the left to see the infield.
Strict enforcement of the “No Standing” line on the concourse close to these seats helps keep foot traffic moving on the slender walkway. The numerous support columns along this walkway are adorned with 2’ x 3’ laminated collages featuring vintage ticket stubs, yearbooks, photos, baseball cards and more. These collections celebrate the history of the stadium, the Cactus League and the Angels. An extra ½ hot dog is awarded for this great trip down Memory Lane not seen at many Spring Training parks.
Tempe Diablo Stadium boasts a great view of the nearby butte that looms above left field. Foodies will appreciate the abundant food trucks in the left field corner to add to the choices of vendors around the concourse. One oddity of the remodel is that the luxury suites above the common folk do not continue down to 3rd base like on 1st base side, creating a slight asymmetrical look from the outfield. Overall, Tempe Diablo Stadium is an enjoyable place to see Angels in the outfield, as well as at the plate and on the diamond.
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