Exploring Minor League Baseball with Benjamin Hill
Benjamin Hill journeys across the country to uncover stories that highlight the distinctiveness of Minor League Baseball. This excerpt from the Baseball Traveler newsletter, sponsored by Circle K, is just a glimpse of the wide range of experiences he shares weekly. Read the full newsletter here, and subscribe to his newsletter here.
A Unique Opportunity to Follow the Orioles
If you’re interested in experiencing a Major League team along with all four of its Minor League affiliates within five days, next week offers an excellent chance. The Baltimore Orioles have their affiliates conveniently located nearby, with three teams located in Maryland and one in Virginia, all easily reachable by car.
Key Dates in Minor League Baseball
From April 21-27, all four Orioles’ affiliates—Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds, High-A Frederick Keys, Double-A Chesapeake Baysox, and Triple-A Norfolk Tides—will be home at the same time for a series spanning from Tuesday to Sunday. Additionally, the Orioles will kick off a homestand starting on April 25.
Sample Itinerary for a Road Trip
Here’s an example of a possible road trip itinerary during this well-timed stretch, along with a list of top Orioles prospects currently playing at each venue. Plan your own Orioles’ system road trip here and explore every Minor League Ballpark Guide here.
Highlights at Harbor Park
April 21
Team: Triple-A Norfolk Tides vs. Memphis Redbirds (STL), 6:35 p.m.
Ballpark: Harbor Park
Top Prospects: RHP Trey Gibson (BAL No. 3); OF Enrique Bradfield Jr. (No. 8)…
Exploring the Delmarva Shorebirds
The Delmarva Shorebirds, distinguished by their unique three-state geographical name, play in Salisbury, MD. The scenic drive from Norfolk includes crossing the impressive 17.6-mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, named after the founder of Perdue Farms, celebrates local culture with food offerings like scrapple and dessert options like Sherman’s Gelati.
Final Stops in the Orioles’ System
On April 25, it’s time to check out the major league team: the Baltimore Orioles will take on the Boston Red Sox at 4:05 p.m. at Camden Yards. This iconic venue, only 28 miles from Bowie, revolutionized ballpark design when it opened in 1992 and remains a must-visit location for any baseball fan.
