Major league fun at minor league parks
Want to enjoy baseball season without having to head into the city or worry about ticket prices? The area’s minor league baseball teams sell most of their tickets to families, offering an affordable and kid-friendly way to enjoy the national pastime.
Kane County Cougars
Philip B. Elfstrom Stadium, 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, (630) 232-8811; kccougars.com
Tickets: $8-$14
The only Chicago-area minor league team associated with Major League Baseball, the Kane County Cougars have served as a training ground for The Oakland Athletics for eight years, and this year is their first working with the Kansas City Royals. During the team’s 21-year history, more than 100 former Cougars have joined the Major League, including last year’s World Series MVP Edgar Renteria.
“We’re really proud of our alumni base that’s developed over the years,” said Shaun Touney, director of media relations. “We’ve had World Series Champions and Major League All-Stars that once called Kane County home.”
The team plays 70 home games and they often feature special activities. The Cougars have 28 fireworks shows scheduled this year, synced to different types of music like pop tunes, disco and patriotic songs for July 4. This year will also include more theme nights than in years past, with fans encouraged to dress up as their favorite characters from Harry Potter on July 1 or Star Wars on Sept. 3. The team has also added Sunday Fundays, an hour of family-friendly activities before Sunday afternoon games. Attractions vary by date, but can include craft stations, balloon artists, face painters and the chance to try on a Cougars uniform.
“In our mind, adding a little bit more to our Sunday afternoon games gives families a lazy Sunday and some added value to coming out,” Touney said.
Lake County Fielders
Route 173 and Green Bay Road, Zion, (847) 731-8000; fieldersbaseball.com
Tickets: $5-$15
The two-year old team is hoping to have its new stadium built by the June 18 home opener. In addition to bleacher and chair seating, the Lake County Fielders also offer $5 lawn tickets which are especially popular with families with small children.
“You can bring out your blankets and chairs and the kids can still run around and enjoy the game at the same time,” said Kelly Wells, community relations and promotions manager.
The Fielders offer plenty of entertainment beyond the actual baseball game, all included in the ticket prices. The promotional team looks for participants before the game to take the field between innings for competitions like three-legged races and dance offs. A kid zone features rides and speed pitch machines.
On Sunday family days, the outskirts of right field are packed with activities including inflatables, clowns, magicians and face painters. After the games kids can run the bases and get autographs on the field.
Alexian Field
1999 S. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg, (847) 899-2114; alexianfield.com
The Schaumburg Flyers aren’t playing at Alexian Field this year, but you can still catch baseball there according to general manager John Dittrich. This summer, the stadium will host tournaments for Schaumburg Park District youth and summer leagues for college players. Auto clubs will set up in the parking lot and Alexian Field will also offer an Independence Day festival including a fireworks show. They’re also hoping to host concerts and high school showcase games. Check the Web site for a full schedule.