Yesterday I made my first minor league roadtrip and experienced the new rules first hand as they are being applied at the minor league level. I had read about several of the changes at the ballpark, but the pictures didn’t do them justice.

One can appreciate the improvements even if you have never been to a game at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. With all due respect to the various sponsors and partners of sports teams, I try and keep the name of the arenas and ballparks simple. Fox Cities ballpark works for me.

Like many of the teams in the MWL, the Rattlers pride themselves on their amenities-namely their menus. For the first time this season, I relied solely on the ballpark for my sustenance and was quite pleased with my selections. The variety and scope of their offerings offer great value. I tried 2 of the 5 new sliders and had a 16oz draft beer for less than $8. Rarity of rarities, I purchased the items with cash.

Once I found my way to my third base box seat, I found out the Rattlers had moved their dugout and clubhouse across the field to the first base side. Due to the increased space on that side of the ballpark, they were able to make improvements that the fans will never see.

In an effort to improve the fan experience, they enlarged and totally renovated the Leine Lounge, an indoor bar on the first base concourse. They had the good sense to add some restrooms there as well. They’ve also expanded the Club seating behind home plate and added another AYCE section.

Most importantly, they’ve changed the aesthetics of the park by adding a giant slide and new group seating to the left field bleacher section. You don’t need specific tickets to benefit from the additions as they’re accessible as part of the 360-degree experience. Previously, fans could only make it 96% of the stadium-falling short of the left field line by 80 feet or so. Another benefit is the inclusion of a rail for drinks so people can stand anywhere in the park and watch the game.

Due to the nature of my seat, I didn’t budge during the course of the 2 hour and 19 minute game, but enjoyed the view before the game. The next time I’m in Appleton I’ll probably wander around during the game.

One of the things that hasn’t changed in Appleton is the hospitality of the staff. Before we entered the park, security did a pre-emptive search of our bags in order to expedite the entry process. Another staff member provided everyone with a wristband, identifying us as being of legal drinking age. In most parks, you have to find the stand. In-game programs were plentiful, and complimentary scorecards with starting lineups and rosters were at the guest relations window.

On a day with questionable weather, it’s nice to know that there are a few options to stay out of the rain. Fans with box seats have free and easy access to the comfortable club behind home plate (upstairs).

It was nice to be able to pay with cash and not wait more than 30 seconds for my pop. I did have to wait a few minutes for my cooked to order sliders though. Amazingly, I wasn’t asked to tip for minimal service-ooops, that only comes with using a credit card.

Photo: Note the extension offers an excellent view of the field and is much closer to the action than you’d think.

Thankfully the Rattlers haven’t made big changes to the right field bleachers (not pictured). They have a nice sandy beach and a couple party decks. I will post separately about the game later.