Rickwood Classic to be played in Rickwood Field again today

After a year of absence, Rickwood Field is back as the venue where the Rickwood Classic is played. Last season, much-needed repairs forced the turn-back-the-clock game to be canceled.

This year, the Birmingham Barons will host the Chattanooga Lookouts. The Barons will wear throwback grey uniforms and caps from the fifties with text in the vintage Yankees navy blue script that will be auctioned off to benefit the Friends of Rickwood and their continuing efforts to preserve the ballpark. The Chattanooga Lookouts will wear appropriate uniforms as well.

This year’s Rickwood Classic will be the 22nd of the fabulous event. Special guest of honor will be Bucky *beep*ing Dent, who will throw the ceremonial first pitch and will be available for signing autographs.

“We are so excited to return to Rickwood Field in May for this iconic game,” said Barons President and GM Jonathan Nelson. “Fans travel from all over the nation for the Rickwood Classic, which is a testament to the city of Birmingham’s preservation of this historic ballpark. We’re so thankful for the Friends of Rickwood for allowing us to step back in time to celebrate America’s pastime.”

Since its inaugural year in 1996, almost 150,000 fans have attended the Rickwood Classic. Through the years, the event has been covered by various local and national media outlets. Because of its old feel, Rickwood Field has hosted shootings of several movies like Cobb and 42. Especially with 42, the 108-year-old stadium was adviced by the owner of the Digital Ballparks website.

Rickwood Field is the oldest ballpark in the US that is still standing. It was constructed in 1910. Nowadays, a foundation named Friends of Rickwood is taking care of the ballpark. The foundation does everything possible to keep this old time feel, the ballpark has. Even old style advertising signs are in place.