Ballpark Boys: Recent Episodes
MLB Ballpark Banter
A podcast devoted to exploring the 30 ballparks of Major League Baseball, from four guys who have been to them all.
The ballpark gurus explore the last of the (current) 30 ballparks: their home stadium, T-Mobile Park. In this episode, Kellan and Travis take you through a history of the home of the Mariners, walking you through everything from when Cal Ripken Jr was nearly killed by ceiling tiles—to the season that saved baseball in Seattle. Then, we go "around the bases" of T-Mobile Park, exploring its amazing views, The 'Pen, and the stunning art in the park.
Support the Show.
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore the home of the Giants, giving you a history of this ballpark and diving deeper into McCovey Cove, Triples Alley, the items on the left field grandstand, and Oracle's amazing public transit access.
Check out Red's Java House if you head to a game!
Support the Show.
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the Oakland Coliseum—yes, it's still there!—giving you a history of this important park and then diving deeper into its foul territory, Mount Davis, and the fact that it's below sea level.
Support the Show.
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the home of the San Diego Padres, giving you a history of this stadium and then diving deeper into the Western Metal Supply Co building, the gigantic "Park in the Park" in center field, and the numerous elements of the city you can find sprinkled throughout the grounds.
Support the Show.
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the home of the Marlins, taking you through a history of this stadium and diving deep into its sustainability measures, controversial "Marlinator" statue, and the many architectural elements that make it MLB's most unique venue.
Support the Show.
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore baseball's youngest stadium, giving you a history of the home of the Rangers and then taking you deeper through its unique roof, extra-bouncy turf, and the wacky dimensions throughout the park—which are actually subtle odes to Texas legends.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore "The Juicebox," giving you a history of this park and then diving deep into old Union Station, the train carting oranges, and the ode to old Tal's Hill in center field.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore The Trop, giving you a history of baseball's last indoor-only stadium before diving deeper into its obscure catwalks, Touch Tank, and the Ted Williams Museum.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the home of the Braves, giving you a history of this young stadium and then diving deeper into its suburban location, nature-filled batter's eye, and The Chop.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the home of the Reds, giving you a history of this stadium and diving deep into its wonderful art, riverboat-themed outfield concourse, and the many odes to Pete Rose sprinkled throughout.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore a stadium known as "the ballpark that forever changed baseball," taking you through a history of this influential park and then diving deep into the B&O Warehouse, Eutaw Street, and the two orange seats in the outfield.
Be sure to check out Pickles Pub if you're heading to a game!
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore Progressive Field, giving you a history of this park and diving deeper into its compact size, "little Green Monster," and the John Adams bleachers.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore Nationals Park, giving you a history of this stadium and its trendsetting retro-modern style, before diving into its famous Presidents Race, NATS chant, and bullpen cart.
This episode is brought to you by Solace Outpost - Navy Yard.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore perhaps the mecca of ballparks, Fenway Park, giving you the full history of this famed stadium and then diving into the reasons for its wonky dimensions, Pesky's pole, and the lone red seat in deep right field.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore Citi Field, giving you a history of this park, its connections with the Brooklyn Dodgers, and bridge motif that surrounds both the stadium and Mets branding in general.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore "The Bank," giving you a history of this stadium and then diving deep into its tailgate culture, Ashburn Alley, eternal #RingTheBell rallying cry, and—of course—the Philly Phanatic.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore The Stadium, giving you a history of this classic park, its historic predecessor, and the odes to the past that are sprinkled all around.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore the home of the Blue Jays, giving you a history of this important park and then diving deeper into its trendsetting dome, unique art pieces, and hotel in centerfield.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the home of the Pirates, giving you a history of this gorgeous park before diving deeper into the Roberto Clemente Bridge, incredible view, and those immaculately trimmed hedges in the batter's eye.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore the home of the Tigers, giving you a history of this beautiful ballpark and then diving deeper into its historic neighboring buildings, intimidating stone tigers, and family-friendly carnival rides.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the home of the Kansas City Royals, giving you a history of this (surprisingly unique!) ballpark, and then diving deeper into its modernist design, iconic fountain, and the Buck O'Neil seat.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore Busch Stadium, giving you a history of this ballpark (the third of its name!), and diving deeper into the controversy behind the Stan Musial statue, the wonderful Gate 3, and the multiple iterations of arches that can be found throughout the park.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore the home of the White Sox, giving you a history of this unfortunately-timed ballpark and diving deeper into its unique cooling methods, two blue seats, and the Champions Plaza.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore the home of the Brewers, diving into the (surprisingly dark) history of the park, and then exploring its lively tailgate scene, unique retractable roof, and those iconic racing sausages.
Check out this episode's presenting pub: Milwaukee Brat House
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
The ballpark gurus explore Wrigley Field, giving you a history of this classic ballpark and then diving deeper into the stories behind the ivy-covered walls, the celebrity-led 7th Inning Stretch, and the Wrigley Rooftops.
Check out this episode's presenting pub: Almost Home Tavern
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore Target Field, giving you a history of this ballpark and then diving into its compact nature, Target Plaza, and the ever-active sign of Minnie and Paul.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore Coors Field, giving you a history of the home of the Rockies and then diving deeper into the Sandlot Brewery, center field forest, and the real reason this is considered a "hitter's park."
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore a park known as "The Airplane Hangar," giving you its history and then diving deeper into its iconic pool, unique cooling methods, and how it set the trend for synthetic turf.
Check out this episode's Presenting Pub: Crown Public House
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore Dodger Stadium, giving you a history of the ballpark and then diving deeper into the stadium's unique design, Top of the Park plaza, and famous Dodger Dogs.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson explore Angel Stadium, giving you a history of the ballpark and then diving deeper into the California Spectacular, Big A marquee, and gigantic hats outside the stadium.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Ballpark gurus Travis Parker Smith and Kellan Larson take listeners through a history of the ballpark, exploring the various eras of stadium design and how baseball went from playing in cow pastures to whatever is about to be built in Las Vegas.
Support the show
This podcast is brought to you by Touch 'Em All: Short Stories & Observations from America and its Pastime, in partnership with @MarinerMuse. Support the show and learn more at ballparkbanterpodcast.com.
Part 1: T-Mobile Park Ballpark Banter [0:50] - The BBP crew explores the home of the Mariners, giving you a history of this ballpark and diving deeper into the art in the park, The Pen, and the many views from the stadium.
Part 2: Bottom of the Ninth [31:30]- Our journey concludes, as we return to our home ballpark and are greeted by a surprise guest.
Part 1: Oracle Park Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores the home of the Giants, giving you a history of the park and diving deeper into the kayakers in McCovey Cove, Triples Alley, the Coke Bottle, the Mit, and the odd Chevron Adds in left field.
Part 2: Middle of the Ninth [24:30] -Our journey continues as we are approached by an eerily similar group of boys who are embarked on the same journey as us...but with far greater underwriting.
Part 1: RingCentral Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP Crew explores the home of the Athletics, giving you a history of this unique ballpark and diving deeper into its below-sea-level status, massive foul territory, and swath of seats called Mount Davis.
Part 2: Top of the Ninth [30:15] -Our journey continues, as The Van accomplishes its final feat: navigating the most crooked street in the world.
Part 1: Petco Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores the home of the Padres, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into the Western Metal Supply Co building, the park in center field, and the Padres Hall of Fame.
Part 2: Bottom of the Eighth [30:00] -Our journey continues, as we meet a runaway girl in San Diego who sparks reflections of our own current state in life.
Part 1: Globe Life Field Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores baseball's newest ballpark, diving into its wild roof, odd turf, and amazing dimensions.
Part 2: Middle of the Eighth, Part 1 [24:45] -Our journey continues, as we make a poor decision and opt to go to a honky tonk in the middle of Texas.
Part 1: loanDepot Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores the eccentric, wild, and totally appropriate home of the Marlins, discussing how it incorporates Miami culture, its surprising sustainability, and the Bobblehead Museum.
Part 2: Top of the Eighth [33:00]- Our journey continues, as we turn right onto Interstate-10 and drive nearly 1,000 miles on the same freeway, a trek that includes lightning storms, poor choices at gas stations, and an encounter with a suspicious character in the Texas night.
Part 1: Minute Maid Ballpark Banter [0:50] - The BBP crew explore the home of the Astros, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into Union Station, the train, and Tal's Hill.
Part 2: Top of the Eighth [27:00] - Our journey continues, as a gas cap mishap somehow results in the four of us showering in the Minute Maid Parking lot to try and escape the Houston heat.
Part 1: Tropicana Field Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores the home of the Rays, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into the catwalks, the rays "touch tank," and the Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame.
Part 2: Bottom of the Seventh [33:00]- Our journey continues, as we face the ultimate question of the trip: should we ante-up the money necessary to save our old, misbehaving camper van?
Part 1: Truist Park Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores the home of the Braves, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into The Battery Atlanta, the field's batter's eye, and monument garden.
Part 2: Seventh Inning Stretch [26:00] -Our journey continues, as The Van breaks down completely, leaving us at the hands of a coked-out tow truck driver in middle-of-nowhere Florida.
Part 1: Great American Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores the home of the Reds, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into its artwork, centerfield riverboat, and Reds Hall of Fame.
Part 2: Top of the Seventh [35:15] -Our journey continues, as a visit to a small town pizzeria leads to an encounter with a mother and daughter, who contagiously promote the benefits of "choosing optimism."
Part 1: Camden Yards Ballpark Banter [0:50] - The BBP crew explores Oriole Park at Camden Yards, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into the B&O Warehouse, Eutaw Street, and the two orange seats in the outfield.
Part 2: Bottom of the Sixth [37:00] - Our journey continues, as we step back from our narrative to appreciate Camden Yards, the ballpark that forever changed baseball.
Part 1: Progressive Field Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP crew explores the home of The Guardians (!), giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into its small seating capacity, "Little Green Monster," and John Adams, AKA the Cleveland Drum Guy.
Part 2: Middle of the Sixth [30:15] -Our journey continues, as a new person is added to the group in Cleveland, in what turns out to be the best thing that happened to our trip.
Part 1: Nationals Park Ballpark Banter [0:50] -The BBP Crew explores Nats Park, giving you a history of the stadium and diving deeper into its retro-modern architecture, the "N-A-T-S" chant, and the Presidents' Race.
Part 2: Top of the Sixth [27:30]- Our journey continues, as we take a break from narration to dive deep into statistics to explore what fanbase is the most miserable in all of Major League Baseball.
Part 1: Fenway Park Ballpark Banter [0:50] - The BBP crew explores MLB's oldest ballpark, giving you a history of this landmarked venue and diving deeper into the Green Monster, Pesky's Pole, and the lone red seat.
Part 2: Bottom of the Fifth [37:00] - Our journey continues, as our communal insouciance grows and grows, resulting in a ridiculous driving maneuver and a second decision to leave the trip.
Part 1 - Citi Field Ballpark Banter [0:45] - The BBP crew explores the home of the Mets, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into how it honors the Brooklyn Dodgers, the Shea Bridge, and the Home Run Apple.
Part 2 - Middle of the Fifth [24:00] - Our story continues as tempers finally reach a boiling point, resulting in a fight between Andrew and Frazier in the middle of Times Square.
Part 1 - Citizens Bank Park Ballpark Banter [1:10] - The BBP crew explores the home of the Phillies, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into Ashburn Alley, #RingTheBell, and the Philly Phanatic.
Part 2 - Top of the Fifth, Part II [40:15] - Our journey continues, as a fight in the Citizens Bank parking lot triggers Frazier to separate from the group for a while.
Part 1: Yankee Stadium Ballpark Banter [1:20] - The BBP crew explores "The Stadium," giving you a history of the ballpark and exploring the white fencing, Great Hall, and Monument Park.
Part 2: Top of the Fifth [31:45] - Our journey continues, as a midnight drive through upstate New York leads to an intense conversation with Frazier, who reveals that he is not planning to attend college.
Part 1: Rogers Centre Ballpark Banter [1:20] - The BBP crew explores the home of the Blue Jays, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into its famous roof, unique hotel, and art installments.
Part 2: Bottom of the Fourth [35:05] - Our journey continues, as The Van suffers a severe injury and Frazier announces that he will not be attending college the following year.
Part 1: PNC Park Ballpark Banter [1:20] - The BBP Crew explores the home of the Pirates, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into the Roberto Clemente Bridge, the 7 hedges in center field, and the view from the ballpark.
Part 2: Middle of the Fourth [32:00] - Our journey continues, as The Van presents further issues that lead us to a mechanic who would prefer to be taken to the ballgame than receive payment.
Part 1: Comerica Park Ballpark Banter [1:20] - The BBP crew explores the home of the Detroit Tigers, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into its surrounding buildings, the stone tigers encircling the stadium, and the stadium's carousel and ferris wheel.
Part 2: Top of the Fourth [30:00] - Our journey continues, as two of us set out into Detroit and find ourselves immersed in awe at the creaky, empty Michigan Central Station.
Part 1: Kauffman Stadium Ballpark Banter [1:05] - The BBP Crew explores the home of the Kansas City Royals, giving you a history of "The K" and diving deeper into its modernist design, the gigantic fountain in right-center field, and the Buck O'Neil seat behind home plate.
Part 2: Bottom of the Third [22:00] - Our journey continues, as an overnight drive through the middle of Missouri turns into a pseudo horror story worthy of the Twilight Zone.
Part 1: Busch Stadium Ballpark Banter [1:20] - The BBP crew explores the home of the Cardinals, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into the statue of Stan "The Man" Musial, the iconic Gate 3 entrance to the stadium, and the many iterations of the Gateway Arch that can be viewed throughout.
Part 2: Middle of the Third [17:45] - Our journey continues, as we meet a mechanic at Busch Stadium who asks to take a look at The Van to try and find the source of its clicking problems. The offer is kind, but it results in us adding a large and unwelcome extra companion to our car's already tight space.
Part 1: Guaranteed Rate Field Ballpark Banter [1:20] - The BBP crew explores "The Grate," giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into its strange cooling methods, two blue seats, and Champions Plaza.
Part 2: Top of the Third [15:15] - Our tale continues, as the reality of the length of our journey hits us in a dark, dampening way.
Part 1: Bottom of the Second [1:20] - Our journey continues, as a fight breaks out that is quickly remedied by the healing power of simply having a catch.
Part 2: American Family Field Ballpark Banter [14:20] - The BBP Crew explores American Family Field, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into its tailgate scene, unique accordion roof, and famous sausage races.
Part 1: Middle of the Second [1:20] - Our journey continues, as we learn the story behind the PA system at Wrigley Field, which oddly involves folk music icon Jimmy Buffett.
Part 2: Wrigley Field Ballpark Banter [16:30] - The BBP crew explores Wrigley Field, discussing the ballpark's incredible history and diving into its ivy-covered wall, iconic marquee, and famed Wrigley Rooftops.
Part 1: Target Field Ballpark Banter [0:50]- The BBP crew explores the home of the Twins, giving you a history of the ballpark and diving deeper into its urban construction, Target Plaza, and famous "Minnie and Paul" sign.
Part 2: Top of the Second, Part II [16:00] -Our journey continues as we encounter a character who despises baseball, prompting a discussion on why ballparks are the only sports venue that allows a trip like ours to happen.
Part 1: Coors Field Ballpark Banter [0:50] - The BBP crew explores Coors Field, giving you a history of both and diving deeper into its humidor, forest, and Rockpile.
Part 2: Top of the Second, Part I [14:30]: Our journey continues, as we explore the odd characters that compile the mascots of baseball while perusing a promotion at Coors Field.
Part 1: Bottom of the 1st [1:20] Our tale continues, as The Van starts to experience issues and a question arises that soon becomes a central theme for the entirety of the trip.
Part 2: Chase Field Ballpark Banter [17:10] The BBP crew explores Chase Field, diving deeper into the history of the ballpark and taking you "around the bases" by discussing the stadium's roof, its artificial turf, and (of course) its pool.
Part 1: Dodger Stadium Ballpark Banter [0:50] - The BBP crew explores Dodger Stadium, diving deeper into the history of the ballpark and taking you "around the bases" by discussing the unique home plate entrance, the stadium's accordion roofs, and the old THINK BLUE sign.
Part 2: Middle of the First [21:15] - Our tale continues, as the four of us learn how to deal with what will quickly become a constant obstacle on the journey: heat.
Part 1: Angel Stadium Ballpark Banter [0:50] - The BBP crew explores Angel Stadium, diving deeper into the history of the ballpark and taking you "around the bases" by discussing the California Spectacular, the Big A marquee, and the brick diamond outside of the ballpark.
Part 2: Top of the First [12:45] - The narration of our tale continues, as the four of us meet an odd character who claims to know the source of LA's incredible traffic.
Part 1: Why Ballparks? [1:20] - The BBP crew discusses why ballparks are more interesting than other sports venues, thus allowing a trip and podcast like ours to exist.
Part 2: Taking The Field [11:30] - Our journey begins, explaining our journey through the ballparks of America and introducing the main characters, including our old hippie-bus.