On the Beat With the Las Vegas 51's

The Las Vegas 51’s are the Triple-A minor league affiliate of the New York Mets. Previous to the Mets, the 51’s were San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays from 1983 to 2013, when they signed on with the Mets.

Cashman Field is the home field of the 51’s. Opened in 1983, Cashman Field is the second-oldest stadium in the Pacific Coast League and the third-oldest stadium in Triple-A baseball.

The first professional game held at Cashman Field was between the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners. In 1993, the Chicago Cubs faced the Chicago White Sox in a game which drew a Cashman Field record crowd of 15,025. Cashman Field hosts at least one Major League Spring Training game every year.

After reading some online criticism of Cashman Field, I gave the park a little extra scrutiny. I am happy to report that it exceeded my expectations. It features fantastic sightlines, a comfortable and professional Press Box, comfortable seats, many food options, and other amenities. The park is old, but it is obvious that improvements have been made and great attention is given to make sure the fans have a great experience.

Last week, we attended our first baseball game in Las Vegas. The 51’s were hosting the Tacoma Rainiers (Seattle Mariners). It was a beautiful evening. The temperature was 96 degrees with just an occasional breeze and a clear sky.

On paper, this was a bit of a mismatch. The Rainiers were in 1st place in the Pacific Coast League Pacific Northern division, while the 51’s were in last place in the Pacific Coast League Pacific Southern division. The Rainiers had won the first two games of this homestand. Unfortunately, they also won this game 8-1.

The 51’s jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the second inning. Travis Taijeron was hit by a pitch and Desmond Jennings eventually drove him in with two outs.

Starting pitcher Kevin McGowan gave up the lead in the next inning, surrendering 2 runs. McGowan did not survive the inning either. He left the game after 2 2/3 innings, having given up 2 runs on 5 hits, with 3 strike outs and one walk.

Beck Wheeler gave up 3 more runs in 1 2/3 innings, before being replaced with Ben Rowen, who didn’t allow any runs in his 1 2/3 innings pitched. Cory Burns surrendered 3 runs in his 1 2/3 innings and David Roseboom finished the game with 1 1/3 scoreless innings.

Despite the loss, it was a fantastic night at the ballpark. Sure, a win would have been nice, but it is hard to beat a warm evening at a baseball game. I also got to see some great young players, like Amed Rosario, who is on my fantasy baseball team.

As we walked around the park, we talked to many fans about what drew them to the game. Nick Hamilton of Detroit (MI) was taking a break from the action on the Strip. New Yorker Mike Lombardi is a fan of the Mets and came to see future Mets. Las Vegas residents Tom Meadows and Bob Maroney are true fans of the 51’s. Henderson (NV) father Joe Nardi brought his sons, who got a handful of autographs.

What attracted us was the experience and we had quite a good one. Just a quick ride away from the Strip, Cashman Field offers an interesting juxtaposition. The hustle and bustle of Vegas versus the tranquility of America’s pastime.

I also have to commend the entire staff at Cashman Field. Every worker there went above and beyond to assist this visiting journalist. I got a lot of interesting takes. One usher praised the lawn area. Another talked about the diversity of the crowds. Everyone offered insight and info. I could not have asked for more from the park staffers and it wasn’t just me. I saw them take extra care with everyone.

I want to thank the Las Vegas 51’s for their hospitality. Because it was such a great experience, I will be returning every time I am in Las Vegas during the baseball season. I encourage others to join the fun. The Las Vegas 51’s really do provide such a unique experience.