First Home Game at Minute Maid Park (April 9, 2000)

Lore & Background

The ballpark was first inaugurated with a preseason game against the New York Yankees on March 30, 2000.

Reader's Guide

The ballpark has a seating capacity of 41,168, which includes 5,197 club seats and 63 luxury suites, with a natural grass playing field. Statues of longtime Astros players Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio are located in the exterior of the ballpark in a plaza area.

Did You Know?

• The ballpark was built as a replacement for the Astrodome, the first domed baseball/football stadium, which opened in 1965.
• The design integrated the former Union Station building's main concourse, reutilizing the space for a clubhouse, cafe, team store, and office space.
• A large model train was included within the park's design as an homage to the station.