I’m Still a Fan at Heart

Although this will be my fourth year working in professional baseball, with two different franchises, one thing will never change: I’m still a fan at heart. After all the long hours of working six, seven or sometimes eight or nine-game homestands, I’m still able to sit down on a night off and watch a baseball game without hesitation. True, it’s a different perspective but when it comes down to it I’m still the same fan I was when I was a 10 year old kid going to ballgames with my dad.

This job enables me to experience some pretty cool things, such as getting a sneak peek at some of the things that you all will be able to experience in 2012 at Progressive Field. I was able to attend the “What’s New” media press conference today and took in everything I heard not from the perspective of a member of the Baseball Information Department, but as a fan.

When I do attend a game over the summer, off the job and as a fan, the first thing that crosses my mind when I get to the ballpark is what item (or sometimes items) from the concession stand am I going to indulge in that evening. Today at the media event, some of the new food coming to Progressive Field was unveiled and I have to say it was some of the best ballpark food I’ve ever tasted. You have to try the Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese (for those interested you can find it in sections 121, 154, 163, and 550). Trust me, it was as good as it sounds and if you are heading down to Progressive Field during the first homestand (5/5-5/11) you can get the mac and cheese for $2(It’s normally $4.50, but still way worth it). After eating quite a bit of that, I sampled the items that will be featured in the new Food Network Hot Dog and Sausage Bar. I had an Italian Sausage with peppers and onions that was delicious. These will definitely be my go-to food selections throughout the season.

Here is my plate: 

Another thing that I love about coming to games is when it happens to be a giveaway night. There isn’t a better feeling as a fan than walking through the gate, ticket in hand, and being handed that night’s promotional item. In 2012, you all will have the chance to pick up some cool things, including the bobbleheads of fan-favorites Asdrubal Cabrera, Joe Carter, Carlos Baerga, Sandy Alomar, Jr. and Gaylord Perry. I have to say, Cabrera’s, which depicts the bare-handed stab in the hole that started a 6-4-3 DP is pretty awesome looking. The other major promotion unveiled today were the replica jerseys of Carlos Santana, Charles Nagy and Justin Masterson. These jerseys are easily the most authentic looking replica jerseys I’ve ever seen. Something to keep in mind, these items will only be available to the first 15,000 fans, so check the schedule and be sure to get to the ballpark early.

Here is a picture of the Asdrubal Cabrera Bobblehead, I dare you to say it’s not awesome: 

(Photos courtesy of Ian A. C. Johnson/Cleveland Indians)

There were many other things presented today but these were my favorites so be sure to check this stuff out, you won’t regret it. After all, my job aside I’m just like you guys, I’m still a fan at heart.

-Danny Steele, Member of Baseball Information Department, Contributor to TribeVibe