The space for more video and graphics on the videoboard has increased by 9,500 square feet, and the resolution has been upgraded with 14.1M pixelsComerica Park
In Detroit, Tony Paul noted the Tigers are marking the 25th anniversary of Comerica Park with several upgrades throughout the park, most notably a "larger, state-of-the-art videoboard that measures 15,688 square feet." It is the second-largest board in MLB, behind only what the Mets have at Citi Field. The videoboard “won't look totally different to fans, in the shape.” The Tigers removed the ad signage, to “allow for more video and graphics,” and the technology has been upgraded. The space for more video and graphics on the videoboard has increased by 9,500 square feet, and the resolution has been upgraded with 14.1M pixels. The old videoboard used 2.4M pixels. Comerica Park also upgraded its sound system, which has been a “topic of complaints since the ballpark opened in 2000.” The ballpark has seen more than 25 new subwoofers installed this offseason (DETROIT NEWS, 3/27).
PLAYING GROUND: In Tampa, Marc Topkin reported that Rays’ first game experience with their new Shaw Sports turf "yielded two prevalent opinions: It looked better than what they had previously,” and it “played differently.” The new surface, which has coconut husk backfill rather than rubber pellets, plays “slower and provides fewer unexpected bounces and more natural grass-like reactions.” Rays 2B Brandon Lowe said, “it’s a more true playing surface, I feel like. It’s been good so far.” Rays manager Kevin Cash said that he “expects that with time the turf will play faster as the blades get matted down” (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 3/26).
NAME CHANGE: In K.C., Pete Grathoff reported the Royals announced a partnership with Heartland Coca-Cola that made the company the “official stadium beverage provider” of the team. Meaning Coca-Cola drinks will be replacing Pepsi beverages at Kauffman Stadium, beginning with today’s home opener. With Pepsi no longer being sold at Kauffman Stadium, it means the “Pepsi Porch” in right field also will be replaced. The Royals have rebranded it as the “QuikTrip Fountain Deck” (K.C. STAR, 3/26).
