Even before their first game in 1998, the Arizona Diamondbacks had tried to land an All-Star Game in Phoenix. They had a nice new park to offer, and Major League Baseball seemed to be awarding All-Star Games to cities with new stadiums.But Arizona kept striking out. The Diamondbacks had to see All-Star Games played in stadiums opened after Chase Field (neé Bank One Ballpark): Safeco Field, Miller Park, Minute Maid Park, Comerica Park, PNC Park and AT&T Park.
Friday word came out that Phoenix is finally getting its All-Star Game, in 2011.
Conspiracy theories come to mind. MLB didn't seem to like former owner Jerry Colangelo, who went on a free-agent spending spree before the 1999 season. And when he was ousted in 2004, former agent Jeff Moorad took over as CEO, and someone who drove for big contracts on the other side wasn't exactly a favored son.
Now, just months after Moorad left Arizona for San Diego, the Diamondbacks' wish is granted. (Wonder when PETCO Park will get the All-Star Game?)
"I'm excited. It's a long time coming," Arizona Diamondbacks manager Bob Melvin said Friday before his team played the Los Angeles Dodgers. "With the NBA All-Star game, which was well-received here, I know our building can be shown off for the first time in that type of scenario. I'm sure the fans of Phoenix are excited about it and it will be well-received here."Sure, it'll be comfortable at the game. And maybe tickets will be cheap; what scalper is going to want to sit outside in 110-degree heat waiting for a good deal?
... the construction of a major hotel and the expansion of the convention center, across the street from Chase Field have ensured the game and its surrounding events could be held in air-conditioned comfort. The ballpark has a retractable roof that is closed during the summer months and a swimming pool behind the fence in right-center field.
