T-Mobile Park
{{Short description|Baseball stadium in Seattle, Washington}}
{{Distinguish|text=the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas or the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City}}
{{redirect|The Safe|other uses|Safe (disambiguation)}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2025}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2024}}
{{Infobox venue
| stadium_name = T-Mobile Park
| nickname = "The Safe" / "Electric Factory"
| logo_image = 250px
| image = SafecoFieldTop.jpg
| image_size =
| caption = T-Mobile Park (then Safeco Field) in 2007
| address = 1250 First Avenue South
| location = Seattle, Washington, U.S.
| publictransit = {{rail-interchange|seattle|Line 1}} Stadium
{{rail-interchange|us|Amtrak}} {{rail-interchange|seattle|sounder}} King Street Station
| coordinates = {{Coord|47.591|N|122.333|W|type:landmark|display=it}}
| pushpin_map = United States Seattle Downtown#USA Washington#USA
| pushpin_relief = yes
| pushpin_label = T-Mobile Park
| pushpin_mapsize = 250
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Seattle##Location in Washington State##Location in the United States
| broke_ground = {{Start date|1997|03|08}}
| opened = {{Start date|1999|07|15}}
| closed =
| demolished =
| owner = Washington State Major League Baseball Stadium Public Facilities District
| operator = Washington State Major League Baseball Stadium Public Facilities District
| surface = Kentucky Blue Grass /
Perennial Ryegrass blend
| website = {{URL|https://www.mlb.com/mariners/ballpark|mlb.com/mariners/ballpark}}
| construction_cost = $517 million
(${{formatprice|{{Inflation|US|517600000|1999}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars{{inflation-fn|US}})
| architect = NBBJ
360 Architecture
| project_manager = The Vosk Group LLP{{cite web |url=http://www.thevoskgroup.com/Safeco%20Field.html |website=Vosk Group |title=Safeco Field |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130728150202/http://www.thevoskgroup.com/Safeco%20Field.html |archive-date=July 28, 2013}}
| structural engineer = Magnusson Klemencic Associates
| services engineer = Flack + Kurtz Inc.{{cite web |url=http://www.wspgroup.com/en/Welcome-to-WSP-Flack--Kurtz/Sectors/All/Property/Safeco-Field/ |title=Flack+Kurtz: Safeco Field |website=WSP Global |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130209142426/http://www.wspgroup.com/en/Welcome-to-WSP-Flack--Kurtz/Sectors/All/Property/Safeco-Field/ |archive-date=February 9, 2013}}
| general_contractor = Hunt-Kiewit{{cite web |url=http://www.ballparks.com/baseball/american/seabpk.htm |website=Ballparks.com |title=Safeco Field |access-date=June 1, 2012 |archive-date=March 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180302063847/http://www.ballparks.com/baseball/american/seabpk.htm |url-status=live}}
| main_contractors = The Erection Company Inc.
| former_names = Safeco Field (1999–2018)
| tenants = Seattle Mariners (MLB) 1999–present
Seattle Bowl (NCAA) 2001
| seating_capacity = Baseball: 47,929{{cite web|title=T-Mobile Park|url=https://www.scribd.com/document/400121107/2019-Seattle-Mariners-Media-Guide|publisher=MLB Advanced Media|work=2019 Seattle Mariners Information Guide|date=February 21, 2019|access-date=February 25, 2019|page=304|archive-date=March 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329221915/https://www.scribd.com/document/400121107/2019-Seattle-Mariners-Media-Guide|url-status=live}}
Football: 30,144
| record_attendance = WrestleMania XIX 54,097
| dimensions = Left Field – {{convert|331|ft|abbr=on}}
Left-Center – {{convert|378|ft|abbr=on}}
Center Field – {{convert|401|ft|abbr=on}}
Right-Center – {{convert|381|ft|0|abbr=on}}
Right Field – {{convert|326|ft|abbr=on}}
Backstop – {{convert|69|ft|abbr=on}}
}}
T-Mobile Park is a retractable roof ballpark in Seattle, Washington, United States. It is the home stadium of the Seattle Mariners of Major League Baseball and has a seating capacity of 47,929. It is in Seattle's SoDo neighborhood, near the western terminus of Interstate 90 and is owned and operated by the Washington State Major League Baseball Stadium Public Facilities District. The first game at the stadium was played on July 15, 1999.
During the 1990s, the suitability of the Mariners' original stadium—the Kingdome—as an MLB facility came under question, and the team's ownership group threatened to relocate the team. In September 1995, King County voters defeated a ballot measure to secure public funding for a new baseball stadium. Shortly thereafter, the Mariners' first appearance in the MLB postseason and their victory in the 1995 American League Division Series (ALDS) revived public desire to keep the team in Seattle. As a result, the Washington State Legislature approved an alternate means of funding for the stadium with public money. The site, just south of the Kingdome, was selected in September 1996 and construction began in March 1997. The bonds issued to finance the stadium were retired on October 1, 2011, five years earlier than anticipated.{{cite news|url=http://blog.seattlepi.com/seattlepolitics/2011/09/27/safeco-field-taxes-to-end-finally-on-saturday/|title=Safeco Field taxes to end (finally) on Saturday|last=Grygiel|first=Chris|date=September 27, 2011|newspaper=Seattle Post-Intelligencer|access-date=August 15, 2013|archive-date=August 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120826142745/http://blog.seattlepi.com/seattlepolitics/2011/09/27/safeco-field-taxes-to-end-finally-on-saturday/|url-status=live}}
T-Mobile Park is also used for amateur baseball events, including the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association high school state championships and one Washington Huskies game per season. Major non-baseball events that have been held at T-Mobile Park include the 2001 Seattle Bowl and WrestleMania XIX in 2003, which attracted the stadium's record attendance of 54,097.
The stadium was originally named Safeco Field under a 20-year naming-rights deal with Seattle-based Safeco Insurance. T-Mobile acquired the naming rights on December 19, 2018, and the name change took effect on January 1, 2019.{{cite news|last1=Divish|first1=Ryan|title=Safeco Field, home of the Mariners, is getting a name change|url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/a-name-change-coming-to-safeco-field-mariners-announce-the-naming-rights-agreement-with-insurance-company-wont-be-extended/|newspaper=The Seattle Times|date=June 13, 2017|access-date=June 14, 2017|archive-date=June 15, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170615092952/http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/a-name-change-coming-to-safeco-field-mariners-announce-the-naming-rights-agreement-with-insurance-company-wont-be-extended/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Johns|first=Greg|title=Mariners' home facility renamed T-Mobile Park|url=https://www.mlb.com/mariners/news/mariners-rename-home-facility-t-mobile-park/c-302016148|publisher=MLB Advanced Media|website=Mariners.com|date=December 19, 2018|access-date=December 21, 2018|archive-date=December 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181220230221/https://www.mlb.com/mariners/news/mariners-rename-home-facility-t-mobile-park/c-302016148|url-status=live}}
Location and transportation
T-Mobile Park is in the SoDo district of downtown Seattle, bounded by Dave Niehaus Way (a block of 1st Avenue S.) to the west, Edgar Martínez Drive (formerly S. Atlantic Street){{cite news|title=Seattle to Rename Street After Edgar Martínez|first=Art|last=Thiel|url=http://www.seattlepi.com/baseball/193302_edgarstreet01.html|newspaper=Seattle Post-Intelligencer|date=September 30, 2004|access-date=September 30, 2004|archive-date=October 16, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211016220104/https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/baseball/article/Seattle-to-rename-street-after-Edgar-Martinez-1155566.php|url-status=live}} to the south, Royal Brougham Way to the north, and BNSF railroad tracks to the east.
Parking is available at the stadium's parking garage across Edgar Martínez Drive, the Lumen Field garage to the North, and other privately operated lots in the area. Sounder commuter rail serves nearby King Street Station.{{cite news |last1=Gutierrez |first1=Scott |url=http://blog.seattlepi.com/transportation/2011/06/14/appeals-court-allows-metro-shuttle-to-seahawksmariners-games/ |title=Appeals court allows Metro shuttle to Seahawks/Mariners games |work=Seattle Post-Intelligencer |publisher=Hearst Seattle Media |date=June 14, 2011 |access-date=May 24, 2013 |archive-date=June 3, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603084419/http://blog.seattlepi.com/transportation/2011/06/14/appeals-court-allows-metro-shuttle-to-seahawksmariners-games/ |url-status=live}} T-Mobile Park is also served by the 1 Line of Sound Transit's Link light rail system and local King County Metro and Sound Transit Express bus routes at the nearby Stadium station.
A dedicated ride-hailing lot opened in June 2023 along 3rd Avenue; it cost $2.8 million to construct and opened ahead of the 2023 MLB All-Star Game.{{cite news |last=Timotija |first=Filip |date=June 27, 2023 |title=Ride-hailing lot opens at T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/transportation/ride-hailing-lot-opens-at-t-mobile-park/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=June 27, 2023}}
History
On March 30, 1994, county executive Gary Locke appointed a task force to assess the need for a new baseball stadium to replace the rapidly deteriorating Kingdome. Many feared that the Mariners would leave Seattle if a new stadium was not built. In January 1995, the 28-member task force recommended to the King County Council that the public should be involved in financing the stadium. The task force concluded that a sales tax increase of 0.1% (to 8.3%) would be sufficient to fund the stadium. King County held a special election on September 19, asking the public for this sales tax increase;{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=n0ZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3139%2C4940113 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=Associated Press |title=Seattle vote on stadium a close one |date=September 20, 1995 |page=1B |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050109/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=n0ZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3139,4940113 |url-status=live}} the measure led early,{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=oUZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2472%2C5420816 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=Associated Press |title=Stadium plan leads by 310 votes |date=September 22, 1995 |page=4C |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050116/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=oUZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2472,5420816 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=okZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2450%2C5740100 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=Associated Press |title=Seattle scrambles to keep the Mariners if vote fails |date=September 23, 1995 |page=2D |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050109/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=okZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2450,5740100 |url-status=live}} but was narrowly defeated by one-fifth of one percent.{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=pUZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6756%2C6696021 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=Associated Press |title=Stadium vote falls behind |date=September 26, 1995 |page=3D |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050122/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=pUZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6756,6696021 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=qEZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4722%2C7248702 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=Associated Press |title=Final vote has leaders scrambling on stadium |date=September 29, 1995 |page=1D |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050116/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=qEZWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4722,7248702 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=MrVeAAAAIBAJ&sjid=ITAMAAAAIBAJ&pg=3318%2C124863 |work=Lewiston Morning Tribune |agency=Associated Press |title=King County not yet sold on new stadium |date=October 16, 1995 |page=4B |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050120/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=MrVeAAAAIBAJ&sjid=ITAMAAAAIBAJ&pg=3318,124863 |url-status=live}}
On October 14, a special session of the state legislature authorized a different funding package for a new stadium that included a food and beverage tax in King County restaurants and bars, car rental surcharge in King County, a ballpark admissions tax, a credit against the state sales tax, and sale of a special stadium license plate. Nine days later, the King County Council approved the funding package,{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=680qAAAAIBAJ&sjid=6NAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=2756%2C779332 |work=Moscow-Pullman Daily News |agency=Associated Press |title=King County Council approves ballpark financing |date=October 24, 1995 |page=2B |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050108/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=680qAAAAIBAJ&sjid=6NAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=2756,779332 |url-status=live}} and established the Washington State Major League Baseball Stadium Public Facilities District to own the ballpark and oversee design and construction.{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=0UlWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=G-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5425%2C5817993 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=(New York Times) |title=Another win for the Mariners: a stadium |date=October 24, 1995 |page=1A |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050118/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=0UlWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=G-sDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5425,5817993 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=Safeco Field History |url=http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/ballpark/information/index.jsp?content=history |access-date=March 19, 2014 |archive-date=November 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129182523/http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/ballpark/information/index.jsp?content=history |url-status=dead}} Taxpayer suits opposing the legislative actions and the taxes failed in the courts.{{cite web|title=Voters reject a stadium for the Seattle Mariners on September 19, 1995|url=http://www.historylink.org/index.cfm?DisplayPage=output.cfm&File_Id=3429|publisher=HistoryLink.org|access-date=March 19, 2014|archive-date=March 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319030849/http://www.historylink.org/index.cfm?DisplayPage=output.cfm&File_Id=3429|url-status=live}}
Initial concepts for the new stadium, developed under the working name of New Century Park, were unveiled by architecture firm HOK in March 1995. The design included a retractable roof split into four sections and a seating capacity of 45,000 seats on four levels.{{cite news |last=Birkland |first=Dave |date=March 23, 1995 |title=Mariners unveil vision of new stadium |url=https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=19950323&slug=2111759 |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=February 13, 2024}} On September 9, 1996, the site was selected for the new stadium, just south of the Kingdome.{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=MqQpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=h_EDAAAAIBAJ&pg=1635%2C6809274 |work=Spokesman-Review |title=Mariners' stadium plan advances |date=September 10, 1996 |page=C2 |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050112/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=MqQpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=h_EDAAAAIBAJ&pg=1635,6809274 |url-status=live}} In late fall, several members of the King County Council wrote a letter to the Seattle Mariners, requesting a postponement of the projected $384.5-million stadium project.{{cite news|title=Mariners Put Up For Sale – Owners Blame Council Members For Discussing Ballpark Delay|first1=Elliot|last1=Almond|first2=David|last2=Schaefer|first3=Richard|last3=Seven|first4=Stephen|last4=Clutter|url=https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/19961215/2365157/mariners-put-up-for-sale----owners-blame-council-members-for-discussing-ballpark-delay|newspaper=The Seattle Times|date=December 15, 1996|access-date=September 15, 2011|archive-date=October 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003011036/http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=19961215&slug=2365157|url-status=live}}
File:Safeco Field under construction - 1998.jpg is visible in the background.]]
Construction officially began in 1997, with a groundbreaking ceremony on March 8 featuring Mariners star Ken Griffey Jr.{{cite news|title=Great Moments at Safeco Field|url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/great-moments-at-safeco-field/|newspaper=The Seattle Times|date=July 12, 2009|access-date=July 10, 2016|archive-date=September 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918061933/http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/great-moments-at-safeco-field/|url-status=live}} The construction, overseen by chief financial officer (and former team president and minority owner) Kevin Mather,{{cite web |work=Walla Walla Union-Bulletin |url=http://union-bulletin.com/news/2012/mar/30/n-mariners-cfo-visits-walla-walla/ |title=$n$ Mariners CFO visits Walla Walla |publisher=Union-bulletin.com |date=March 30, 2012 |access-date=January 23, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140123153931/http://union-bulletin.com/news/2012/mar/30/n-mariners-cfo-visits-walla-walla/ |archive-date=January 23, 2014}} continued through the beginning of the 1999 season. Its first game was on July 15,{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=1NRYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=H_IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5958%2C3733479 |work=Spokesman-Review |agency=Associated Press |title=Mariners welcome grass, sky |date=July 15, 1999 |page=C1 |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050108/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=1NRYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=H_IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5958,3733479 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=1dRYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=H_IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2622%2C4198322 |work=Spokesman-Review |last=Welch |first=Craig |title=Pricey park boasts priceless views |date=July 16, 1999 |page=A1 |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050110/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=1dRYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=H_IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2622,4198322 |url-status=live}} immediately after the All-Star break; the Mariners lost 3–2 to the San Diego Padres with 44,607 in attendance.{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=WlNWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=vesDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6208%2C4232617 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=(Seattle Post-Intelligencer) |last=Kepner |first=Tyler |title=Field of dreams; nightmare result |date=July 16, 1999 |page=1C |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=June 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220602144444/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=WlNWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=vesDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6208,4232617 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=bsUjAAAAIBAJ&sjid=D9EFAAAAIBAJ&pg=1936%2C1483318 |work=Moscow-Pullman Daily News |agency=Associated Press |last=Cour |first=Jim |title=The dome is no longer Mariners home |date=July 16, 1999 |page=1B |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=June 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220602144445/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=bsUjAAAAIBAJ&sjid=D9EFAAAAIBAJ&pg=1936,1483318 |url-status=live}} Longtime team broadcaster Dave Niehaus threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the game to Tom Foley, the former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives.{{cite news |last=Drayer |first=Shannon |date=May 4, 2020 |title=Drayer: Mariners' Safeco Field opener in 1999 was a curveball for the team |url=https://sports.mynorthwest.com/840553/drayer-mariners-safeco-field-opener-1999/ |publisher=Seattle Sports Radio |accessdate=September 15, 2023}}
The naming rights were sold in June 1998 to Seattle-based Safeco Insurance, which paid $40 million for a 20-year deal.{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=PswqAAAAIBAJ&sjid=itAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3058%2C336137 |work=Moscow-Pullman Daily News |agency=Associated Press |title=Safeco pays big bucks to name M's new stadium |date=June 4, 1998 |page=1D |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050108/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=PswqAAAAIBAJ&sjid=itAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3058,336137 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=jqteAAAAIBAJ&sjid=pi4MAAAAIBAJ&pg=2407%2C1000382 |work=Lewiston Morning Tribune |agency=Associated Press |title=Ballpark christened Safeco Field |date=June 5, 1998 |page=3B |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050111/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=jqteAAAAIBAJ&sjid=pi4MAAAAIBAJ&pg=2407,1000382 |url-status=live}} The 2018 season was the last played under this name, and the Safeco signage was removed from the ballpark beginning that November.{{cite news |last1=Spedden |first1=Zach |title=Safeco Field Signage Comes Down |url=https://ballparkdigest.com/2018/11/12/safeco-field-signage-comes-down/ |access-date=November 12, 2018 |work=Ballpark Digest |publisher=August Publications |date=November 12, 2018 |archive-date=November 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113031024/https://ballparkdigest.com/2018/11/12/safeco-field-signage-comes-down/ |url-status=live}} The naming rights were awarded to T-Mobile, whose U.S. headquarters are based in nearby Bellevue on December 19, which paid $87.5 million for an agreement that will last 25 years,{{cite news |last=Divish |first=Ryan |date=December 19, 2018 |title=Goodbye, Safeco Field. The Mariners' stadium is now called T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-reach-a-stadium-naming-rights-agreement-with-t-mobile/ |work=The Seattle Times |access-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219174007/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-reach-a-stadium-naming-rights-agreement-with-t-mobile/ |url-status=live}} and the name change officially took effect on January 1, 2019.{{cite news |date=December 31, 2018 |title=Goodbye Safeco Field: Mariners ballpark officially becomes T-Mobile park on Tuesday |url=https://q13fox.com/2018/12/31/goodbye-safeco-field-mariners-ballpark-officially-becomes-t-mobile-park-on-tuesday/ |publisher=Q13 Fox News |access-date=January 1, 2019 |archive-date=January 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190101044453/https://q13fox.com/2018/12/31/goodbye-safeco-field-mariners-ballpark-officially-becomes-t-mobile-park-on-tuesday/ |url-status=live}}
Ken Griffey Jr. returned to Safeco Field in 2007 with the Cincinnati Reds (where he had been traded after the 1999 season) to a hero's welcome.{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=lWBWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=iPADAAAAIBAJ&pg=1803%2C5186951 |work=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=Associated Press |title=The Kid, now 37, returns to the house that he built |last=Bell |first=Gregg |date=June 23, 2007 |page=1 |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050110/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=lWBWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=iPADAAAAIBAJ&pg=1803,5186951 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=X2hWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=bvMDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3385%2C1238079 |work=Spokesman-Review |last=Blanchette |first=John |title=Junior's journey 'home' |date=June 23, 2007 |page=A1 |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050111/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=X2hWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=bvMDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3385,1238079 |url-status=live}} In commemoration of Griffey's achievements with the team, the Mariners unveiled a new poster that declared Safeco Field "The House That Griffey Built."{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=9lwlAAAAIBAJ&sjid=OvAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3551%2C2568071 |work=Moscow-Pullman Daily News |agency=Associated Press |last=Bell |first=Gregg |title=Griffey takes a trip down memory road with visit to Seattle |date=June 23, 2007 |page=3B |access-date=October 4, 2019 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405050120/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=9lwlAAAAIBAJ&sjid=OvAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3551,2568071 |url-status=live}}
The Mariners moved the fences at Safeco Field closer to home plate before the 2013 season "to create an environment that is fair for both hitters and pitchers," according to General Manager Jack Zduriencik.{{cite news |title=Mariners Moving Fences in at Safeco Field in 2013|first=Geoff|last=Baker|url=http://seattletimes.com/html/marinersblog/2019323270_mariners_moving_fences_in_at_s.html|newspaper=The Seattle Times|date=October 2, 2012|access-date=October 3, 2012}} Safeco Field had been considered one of the most pitcher-friendly ballparks in the majors since it opened.{{cite web|url=http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/park-factoring/|title=Park Factoring|last=Gleeman|first=Aaron|date=September 29, 2004|work=The Hardball Times|access-date=October 3, 2012|archive-date=January 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130129054837/http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/park-factoring/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/fantasy/baseball/flb/story?page=mlbdk2k10ballparks|title=Ranking The Ballparks|last=Cockcroft|first=Tristan H.|date=March 18, 2010|work=ESPN.com|access-date=October 3, 2012|archive-date=March 28, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130328134501/http://sports.espn.go.com/fantasy/baseball/flb/story?page=mlbdk2k10ballparks|url-status=live}} The center field scoreboard and ad panels were replaced with an {{convert|11435|sqfoot}} board during renovations, becoming the largest among all stadium scoreboards in the major leagues at the time.{{cite web|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/acrobat/2013-04/176488360-14165153.pdf|title=Baseball stadiums by the board|date=April 14, 2012|work=PDF Graphic|publisher=Chicago Tribune|access-date=April 15, 2013|archive-date=April 15, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130415105141/http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/acrobat/2013-04/176488360-14165153.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Booth|first=Tim|url=http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20130408/SPORTS/704089923|title=Mariners open new-look Safeco Field tonight|newspaper=The Herald|date=April 8, 2013|access-date=April 9, 2013|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304053506/http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20130408/SPORTS/704089923|url-status=live}}
After the 2017 season, the field surface, in place since the stadium opened in 1999, underwent its first full replacement. The infield and foul territory were redone in 2012, but the outfield had not been replaced before the resodding.{{cite web |last=Hill |first=Craig |date=November 10, 2017 |title=Mariners show you how to build a baseball field in 20 tweets |url=https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article183988856.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181014091332/https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article183988856.html |archive-date=October 14, 2018 |access-date=October 14, 2018 |work=The News Tribune}}
File:2024 NHL Winter Classic at T-Mobile Park (20240106225501).jpg between the Seattle Kraken and Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Park]]
On January 1, 2024, the National Hockey League (NHL) hosted the 2024 NHL Winter Classic, where the Seattle Kraken won over the Vegas Golden Knights 3–0.{{cite web |last1=Rosen |first1=Dan |date=January 1, 2024 |title=Daccord has 1st shutout in Winter Classic history, Kraken top Golden Knights |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/vegas-golden-knights-seattle-kraken-game-recap-winter-classic-january-1 |access-date=April 19, 2024 |website=NHL.com}}
Features
File:View from the top row, Safeco Field.JPG
There previously was technology that allowed spectators to monitor special game-time features with Nintendo DS receivers.{{cite web|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna19917562|title=Seattle fans can take DS out to the ballgame|work=NBC News|date=July 24, 2007|access-date=April 24, 2013|archive-date=July 13, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713214539/http://www.nbcnews.com/id/19917562/ns/technology_and_science-games/t/seattle-fans-can-take-ds-out-ballgame#.UXhz1yvwLuF|url-status=live}}
=Layout=
There are five main levels to the stadium: Field (or Street), Main Concourse (100 level – 20,634 seats{{cite web|title=2010 Seattle Mariners Media Guide|url=http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/downloads/y2010/2010_SEA_Media_Guide_v2.pdf|publisher=Major League Baseball Advanced Media|access-date=April 4, 2010|archive-date=December 26, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101226143738/http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/downloads/y2010/2010_SEA_Media_Guide_v2.pdf|url-status=dead}}), Club Level (200 level – 4,585 seats), Suite Level (1,945 seats), and Upper Concourse (300 level – 15,955 seats). Two bleacher sections are above left field and below the center field scoreboard, with 3,706 seats. The Broadcast Center (press box) is on the Club Level and sub-level between it and the Main Level. As the field is approximately at street level, entry into any of the main gates requires visitors to ascend a flight of stairs, escalator, or elevator to access the main concourse, with the exception of the Right Field Entry, which opens onto the main concourse. Stairs, escalators, elevators, and ramps around the park provide access to all levels.{{cite web|title=Safeco Field Seating and Pricing|url=http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/ballpark/seating_pricing.jsp|publisher=Major League Baseball Advanced Media|access-date=November 11, 2011|archive-date=November 7, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111107031455/http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/ballpark/seating_pricing.jsp|url-status=dead}}
=Seating capacity=
=Food service=
T-Mobile Park offers greater food and beverage selection than typical ballparks. It includes concession stands operated by chain as well as local restaurants, such as Ivar's, Kidd Valley, Salt & Straw, and Din Tai Fung.{{cite news |date=March 30, 2022 |title=Seattle Mariners unveil new local food options for 2022 season at T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.fox13seattle.com/sports/mariners-unveil-new-food-options-at-t-mobile-park |publisher=Fox 13 News |accessdate=January 31, 2025}}{{cite news |last=Didion |first=Alex |date=March 28, 2023 |title=2023 Opening Day: What to know before attending Mariners game at T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.king5.com/article/sports/mlb/mariners/seattle-mariners-games-t-mobile-park-2023-guide/281-0328fd1a-92a7-44e4-9388-22a3bc230824 |publisher=KING 5 News |accessdate=January 31, 2025}} Patrons could previously order food with a Nintendo DS app called Nintendo Fan Network. The ballpark debuted "Walk-Off Market", the first cashierless store in an MLB stadium, in May 2022 using technology supplied by Amazon. Three additional locations the following season and include grab-and-go food and beverages.{{cite news |last=Schlosser |first=Kurt |date=March 28, 2023 |title=Amazon's tech is a hit: Seattle Mariners add three more stadium stores featuring 'Just Walk Out' |url=https://www.geekwire.com/2023/amazons-tech-is-a-hit-seattle-mariners-add-three-more-stadium-stores-featuring-just-walk-out/ |work=GeekWire |accessdate=January 31, 2025}}
=Retractable roof=
File:Retractable roof open, Safeco Field.JPG
In the open position, the roof rests over the BNSF Railway tracks that bound the stadium to the east, with part of it hanging over the stands in right field. This has the effect of echoing the whistles from passing trains into the stadium. Train horns were often heard inside the stadium throughout the 2000s, but abated significantly when an overpass was built for Royal Brougham Way, the street that bounds the stadium to the north which previously crossed the tracks.{{cite web |last1=Gilmore |first1=Susan |title=New overpass may silence train whistle near Safeco Field |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/new-overpass-may-silence-train-whistle-near-safeco-field/ |website=The Seattle Times |access-date=January 24, 2022 |date=April 11, 2010 |archive-date=January 24, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220124112717/https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/new-overpass-may-silence-train-whistle-near-safeco-field/ |url-status=live}} Unlike other stadiums with retractable roofs, the roof at T-Mobile Park does not fully enclose the ballpark; this allows the wind and temperatures to still impact the game with the roof closed.{{cite news |last=Sistek |first=Scott |date=March 29, 2023 |title=Which MLB team uses their retractable roof the most? It's backward weather logic |url=https://www.foxweather.com/learn/mlb-baseball-stadium-retractable-roof-frequency-data |work=Fox Weather |accessdate=July 1, 2024}}{{cite news |last=Kramer |first=Daniel |date=February 11, 2021 |title=How often do Mariners use ballpark roof? |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/t-mobile-park-roof-and-rain-history |work=MLB.com |accessdate=January 27, 2025}}
The roof covers approximately {{convert|9|acre|ha}} and weighs {{convert|22|e6lb|kg}}. It moves with 128 wheels that move along rails on the north and south side of the ballpark. The top of the roof is {{convert|269|ft|m}} above field level, while the bottom is {{convert|217|ft|m}} high.{{cite news |last=Farley |first=Glenn |date=April 8, 2016 |title=Behind the scenes of Safeco's roof |url=https://www.king5.com/article/sports/mlb/mariners/behind-the-scenes-of-safecos-roof/281-126619041 |publisher=KING 5 News |accessdate=July 1, 2024}}{{cite news |date=June 17, 1999 |title=Stats class: The stadium roof |url=https://www.djc.com/special/safeco/10053886.htm |work=Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce |accessdate=July 1, 2024}} The roof takes 10 to 20 minutes to open and is moved 300 to 500 times per year, mostly to manage the stadium's grass. The Mariners play an average of 17 to 18 games per season with the roof closed, the least among MLB ballparks with retractable roofs. From 1999 to 2020, the roof had been used for 367 games—22 percent of those played at the stadium—with a maximum of 25 games during the 2010 season. The Mariners had a 692–632 record in games with the roof open, 116–109 with it closed, and 76–66 in games where the roof moves.{{cite news |date=January 15, 2015 |title=Inside the Numbers on the Safeco Field Retractable Roof |url=https://marinersblog.mlblogs.com/inside-the-numbers-on-the-safeco-field-retractable-roof-6ff9dea9e955 |publisher=Seattle Mariners |accessdate=July 1, 2024}}
=Scoreboards=
T-Mobile Park features a manual scoreboard, the second-largest HD video display scoreboard in MLB, a color LED out-of-town scoreboard, and LED ribbon boards along the terraces.{{cite web|title=Daktronics to Provide Fully Integrated Stadium Information System for Seattle Mariners' New SAFECO FIELD|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Daktronics+to+Provide+Fully+Integrated+Stadium+Information+System+for...-a021131142|publisher=Daktronics|access-date=September 22, 2010|archive-date=October 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021053347/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Daktronics+to+Provide+Fully+Integrated+Stadium+Information+System+for...-a021131142|url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://www.ancsports.com/news/baseball/led-video-display-system-brightens-safeco-field-for-2011 |title=LED Video Display System Brightens SAFECO Field For 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110410005626/http://www.ancsports.com/news/baseball/led-video-display-system-brightens-safeco-field-for-2011 |archive-date=April 10, 2011 }} ANC Sports The main scoreboard, which replaced the original monochrome scoreboard and separate video screen above the center field bleachers before the 2013 season, is more than {{convert|11000|sqft}} in area. The board can be used either all at once, such as for live action or video replays, or split into sections for displaying information such as statistics and advertisements.{{cite news|title=Safeco to Be Home of MLB's largest Video screen|first=Greg|last=Johns|url=http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20121115&content_id=40299520&vkey=news_sea&c_id=sea|publisher=Major League Baseball Advanced Media|date=November 15, 2012|access-date=November 15, 2012|archive-date=November 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121118050100/http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20121115&content_id=40299520&vkey=news_sea&c_id=sea|url-status=dead}}
=Mariners Hall of Fame=
{{Main|Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame}}
Co-located with the Baseball Museum of the Pacific Northwest, the Mariners Hall of Fame features bronze plaques of the eleven inducted members: Alvin Davis (1997), Broadcaster Dave Niehaus (2000), Jay Buhner (2004), Edgar Martínez (2007), Randy Johnson (2012), Dan Wilson (2012), Ken Griffey Jr. (2013), Lou Pinella (2014), Jamie Moyer (2015), Ichiro Suzuki (2022), and Félix Hernández (2023). The plaques describe their contributions to the franchise, as well as murals and television screens showing highlights of their careers with the Mariners.{{cite web|url=http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/history/mariners_hall_of_fame.jsp|title=Mariners Hall of Fame|website=MLB.com|access-date=September 24, 2013|archive-date=January 4, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110104114205/http://seattle.mariners.mlb.com/sea/history/mariners_hall_of_fame.jsp|url-status=dead}}
=The 'Pen=
The 'Pen, known for sponsorship purposes as "The T-Mobile 'Pen", is a standing-room only area adjacent to the bullpens, where spectators can watch relief pitchers warm up before entering the game.
When the stadium opened during the 1999 season, the area was called the "Bullpen Market". In 2013, the Mariners' vice president of ballpark operations described the Bullpen Market as a dark and unwelcoming place that needed a remodel to be more attractive to fans.{{cite news |last1=Muret |first1=Don |title=Edgar's keeps things hopping at Safeco Field 'Pen |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Journal/Issues/2013/10/14/Facilities/Safeco.aspx |access-date=March 31, 2023 |work=Sports Business Journal |date=October 14, 2013 |language=en |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401050246/https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Journal/Issues/2013/10/14/Facilities/Safeco.aspx |url-status=live}}
Prior to the 2011 season, the Mariners brought in three celebrity chefs to introduce special concession stands with exclusive food options.{{cite news |last1=Reichard |first1=Kevin |date=January 27, 2011 |title=Mariners upgrading concessions: "the anti-fast food" |work=Ballpark Digest |url=https://ballparkdigest.com/201101273485/major-league-baseball/news/mariner-upgrading-concessions-qthe-anti-fast-foodq |access-date=March 31, 2023 |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401051732/https://ballparkdigest.com/201101273485/major-league-baseball/news/mariner-upgrading-concessions-qthe-anti-fast-foodq |url-status=live}} In the first season under its new branding, per-capita fan spending in The 'Pen increased by 87% from the previous season. In 2013, Edgar's Cantina, named for Hall of Fame Mariners player Edgar Martínez, opened. Sports Business Journal called The 'Pen "one of the liveliest social scenes in Major League Baseball" in 2013, when fan spending in The 'Pen had risen 42% year over year, which a team spokeswoman credited primarily to Edgar's Cantina.
Local Mexican restaurant Poquitos opened a stand in The 'Pen during the 2017 season, and quickly gained national fame for selling chapulines, toasted grasshoppers, at every game.{{cite news |last1=Rovell |first1=Darren |title=M's to offer toasted grasshoppers at Safeco |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19102331/seattle-mariners-serve-toasted-grasshoppers-safeco-field |access-date=March 31, 2023 |work=ESPN.com |date=April 7, 2017 |language=en |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401052815/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19102331/seattle-mariners-serve-toasted-grasshoppers-safeco-field |url-status=live}} Poquitos sold over 900 orders of chapulines at the first three home games, at $4.00 for a {{convert|4|USoz|ml|adj=on}} cup.{{cite news |last1=Rovell |first1=Darren |title=M's to limit sales of popular toasted grasshoppers |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19156119/seattle-mariners-selling-toasted-grasshoppers-concession-stand |access-date=March 31, 2023 |work=ESPN.com |date=April 14, 2017 |language=en |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401051313/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19156119/seattle-mariners-selling-toasted-grasshoppers-concession-stand |url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Schilken |first1=Chuck |title=Mariners fans can't get enough toasted grasshoppers during Monday's home opener at Safeco Field |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-mariners-toasted-grasshoppers-20170411-htmlstory.html |access-date=March 31, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=April 11, 2017 |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401051313/https://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-mariners-toasted-grasshoppers-20170411-htmlstory.html |url-status=live}}
In 2019, the Mariners opened The 'Pen two and a half hours before the first pitch of Mariners home games, offering happy hour specials to encourage fans to arrive early. As many as 3,000 fans come to The 'Pen during each game.{{cite news |last1=Spanberg |first1=Erik |title=The push to get fans to arrive early |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Journal/Issues/2019/07/08/In-Depth/Concessions.aspx |access-date=March 31, 2023 |work=Sports Business Journal |date=July 8, 2019 |language=en |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401053508/https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Journal/Issues/2019/07/08/In-Depth/Concessions.aspx |url-status=live}}
The 'Pen attracts large and often rowdy crowds due to its food and drink options.{{cite news |last1=McLain |first1=Casey |title=Seattle Mariners: The 'Pen Is an Awful {{as written|Ad|diton [sic]|expecting=Addition}} to Safeco Field |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/708472-seattle-mariners-the-pen-is-an-awful-additon-to-safeco-field |access-date=March 31, 2023 |work=Bleacher Report |date=May 28, 2011 |language=en |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401051954/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/708472-seattle-mariners-the-pen-is-an-awful-additon-to-safeco-field |url-status=live}} On April 13, 2013, a man was injured and required reconstructive surgery after a fight broke out over a table in The 'Pen. Two men turned themselves in, one of whom faced a felony assault charge. A team spokesperson said that the Mariners assign more uniformed police officers, private security guards, and alcohol enforcement officials to The 'Pen during special events, such as College Night.{{cite news |last1=Kruse |first1=Brandi |title=Assault at Safeco Field raises safety concerns at The 'Pen |url=https://sports.mynorthwest.com/1086/assault-at-safeco-field-raises-safety-concerns-at-the-pen/ |access-date=March 31, 2023 |work=Seattle Sports |date=May 27, 2013 |language=en |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401053000/https://sports.mynorthwest.com/1086/assault-at-safeco-field-raises-safety-concerns-at-the-pen/ |url-status=live}}
Artwork
{{more citations needed|section|date=September 2021}}
T-Mobile Park and its adjoining parking garage feature extensive public art displays, including:{{cite web |title=Art in the Park |url=https://www.mlb.com/mariners/ballpark/experiences/art-in-the-park |publisher=Seattle Mariners |accessdate=September 7, 2021 |archive-date=September 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907235009/https://www.mlb.com/mariners/ballpark/experiences/art-in-the-park |url-status=live}}
- "The Tempest", a chandelier made of 1,000 resin baseball bats above the home plate entry. A companion 27-foot diameter compass rose mosaic at the home plate rotunda captures a number of elements in the history of baseball. It was created by Linda Beaumont, Stuart Keeler, and Michael Machnic.{{cite news |last=Brown |first=Andrea |date=June 12, 2017 |title=There's more to take in at Safeco Field than the Mariners |url=https://www.heraldnet.com/life/theres-more-to-take-in-at-safeco-field-than-the-mariners/ |work=The Everett Herald |accessdate=September 7, 2021 |archive-date=September 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907232021/https://www.heraldnet.com/life/theres-more-to-take-in-at-safeco-field-than-the-mariners/ |url-status=live}}
- "Quilts" depicting each MLB team logo, made from recycled metal including license plates from the respective teams' states (or the province of Ontario in the case of the Toronto Blue Jays, or the District of Columbia in the case of the Washington Nationals). The collection also includes references to the history of baseball in the Pacific Northwest.
- Stainless steel cutouts of players in various poses while catching, batting, fielding, and pitching, integrated into the fences at the stadium's four main gates.
- Six Pitches, a series of metal sculptures depicting hands gripping baseballs for various types of pitches along the west facade of the garage.
- A {{convert|9|ft|m|adj=mid|-tall}} bronze baseball glove, The Mitt by Gerard Tsutakawa, that has become an icon for T-Mobile Park.
- The Defining Moment, a mural by Thom Ross depicting Edgar Martínez's famed "The Double".
- Children's Hospital Wishing Well, which features a bronze statue of a child in batting position, and includes a geyser effect that was used at the end of the national anthem.
- Porcelain enamel on steel flag-mounted banner-panels depicting "Positions of the Field".
=Statues=
A bronze statue of Mariners broadcaster Dave Niehaus (1935–2010) was unveiled on September 16, 2011.{{cite news |url=http://www.king5.com/sports/Bronze-Dave-Niehaus-statue-unveiled-at-Safeco-Field-today-129949018.html |title=Bronze Dave Niehaus Statue Unveiled at Safeco Field Today |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111024025947/http://www.king5.com/sports/Bronze-Dave-Niehaus-statue-unveiled-at-Safeco-Field-today-129949018.html |archive-date=October 24, 2011}} The statue captures the broadcaster honored by the Baseball Hall of Fame with the Ford C. Frick Award in 2008, and who broadcast 5,284 Mariners games over 34 seasons (1977–2010),{{cite news|title=Mariners Broadcaster Dave Niehaus Dies|first=Larry|last=Stone|url=http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/mariners/2013399999_niehaus11.html|newspaper=The Seattle Times|date=November 10, 2010|access-date=November 11, 2010|archive-date=November 13, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101113002726/http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/mariners/2013399999_niehaus11.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Loss of a Legend: Dave Niehaus, Voice of the Mariners, Dies at 75|work=KOMO|date=November 10, 2010}} at a desk, behind a microphone, wearing headphones with his Mariners scorebook in front of him. His scorebook is opened to the box score for Game 5 of the 1995 American League Division Series, when Edgar Martínez hit "The Double". There is an empty seat next to the statue, so fans can sit next to Niehaus and pose for photos. His longtime broadcast partner Rick Rizzs presided over a private ceremony to unveil the statue. The Dave Niehaus Broadcast Center is on the Club Level behind home plate. When Niehaus died, his headset and microphone were placed by his empty seat in the Broadcast Center as a tribute.{{cite news|title=Loss of a Legend: Photo of Niehaus' Seat in Broadcast Center|url=http://www.komonews.com/sports/107096913.html?tab=gallery&img=4|work=KOMO|date=November 10, 2010|access-date=November 11, 2010|archive-date=October 21, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021093012/http://www.komonews.com/sports/107096913.html?tab=gallery&img=4|url-status=live}}
In April 2017, a statue of Ken Griffey Jr. by sculptor Lou Cella was unveiled outside the Home Plate Entrance to the ballpark.{{cite news |last=Jenks |first=Jayson |date=April 13, 2017 |title=Mariners unveil statue of Ken Griffey Jr. at Safeco Field |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-unveil-statue-of-ken-griffey-jr-at-safeco-field/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=September 7, 2021 |archive-date=September 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907205929/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-unveil-statue-of-ken-griffey-jr-at-safeco-field/ |url-status=live}} After the 2017 season, the bat was broken off in an attempt to steal it, but a bystander from the office building across the street ran down the perpetrator and recovered the bat, which was subsequently reattached.{{cite news |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/bringing-back-griffeys-bat/ |title=Ken Griffey Jr.'s bat is back: Workers repair statue outside Safeco Field |newspaper=The Seattle Times |date=February 3, 2018 |access-date=March 26, 2019 |archive-date=March 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327000921/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/bringing-back-griffeys-bat/ |url-status=live}}
A bronze statue of Martínez, also made by Cella, was installed in August 2021 on the south side of the stadium near Griffey's statue.{{cite news |last=Yamashita |first=Andy |date=August 11, 2021 |title=Cast in bronze, Edgar Martinez immortalized by Mariners with statue outside T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/cast-in-bronze-edgar-martinez-immortalized-by-mariners-with-statue-outside-t-mobile-park/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=September 7, 2021 |archive-date=September 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907191420/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/cast-in-bronze-edgar-martinez-immortalized-by-mariners-with-statue-outside-t-mobile-park/ |url-status=live}}
Notable events
=Major League Baseball=
On April 21, 2012, Chicago White Sox pitcher Philip Humber pitched the 21st perfect game in Major League Baseball history against the Mariners in his second start of the season. It was the 3rd perfect game in White Sox history joining Charlie Robertson in 1922 and Mark Buehrle in 2009.{{cite news |date=April 21, 2012 |title=Philip Humber throws 21st perfect game in MLB history |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=320421112 |access-date=April 21, 2012 |archive-date=October 6, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006102255/http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=320421112 |url-status=dead }}
Nearly 4 months later on August 15, 2012, Mariners pitcher Félix Hernández pitched the 23rd perfect game in Major League Baseball history and the first perfect game in Mariners history. This marked the second perfect game and third no-hitter at the park, all of which occurred in the 2012 season.{{cite news|title=Perfect! Mariners' Felix Hernandez Throws Perfect Game|first=Larry|last=Stone|url=http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/mariners/2018925658_mariners16.html|newspaper=The Seattle Times|date=August 16, 2012|access-date=August 16, 2012|archive-date=August 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120816055607/http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/mariners/2018925658_mariners16.html|url-status=live}}
The stadium has hosted the Major League Baseball All-Star Game twice: in 2001 as Safeco Field and 2023 as T-Mobile Park. The 2001 edition was won by the American League—featuring eight players from the Mariners—in front of 47,364 spectators.{{cite news |last=Stone |first=Larry |date=July 7, 2023 |title=No one can recreate the magical 2001 MLB All-Star Game for Seattle |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/no-one-can-recreate-the-magical-2001-mlb-all-star-game-for-seattle/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=February 13, 2024}} The 2023 edition was won by the National League with 47,159 in attendance.{{cite news |last=Divish |first=Ryan |date=July 11, 2023 |title=The NL takes down the AL in MLB All-Star Game that sped by on perfect Seattle night |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/the-nl-takes-down-the-al-in-an-all-star-game-that-sped-by-on-perfect-seattle-night/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=February 13, 2024}} The event used nearby Lumen Field for several events, including a fan festival and the MLB player draft.{{cite news |last=Ray |first=Benjamin |date=July 7, 2023 |title=2023 MLB All-Star Week: Play Ball Park is a home run for fans |url=https://www.bellevuereporter.com/sports/2023-mlb-all-star-week-play-ball-park-is-a-home-run-for-fans/ |work=Bellevue Reporter |accessdate=February 13, 2024}}
=Minor league baseball=
The stadium has been temporarily used by local minor league teams for playoff games when their normal venues were unavailable. The Tacoma Rainiers played their 2010 Pacific Coast League playoff semifinal games at then-Safeco Field while Cheney Stadium underwent off-season renovations.{{cite news |last=Cothran |first=Jeremy |date=September 11, 2010 |title=Safeco no advantage for Rainiers |url=https://www.theolympian.com/sports/mlb/tacoma-rainiers/article25264684.html |work=The Olympian |accessdate=September 15, 2023}} The Rainiers won their series and advanced to the PCL Championship, which was played entirely on the road due to Safeco Field being unavailable.{{cite news |last=Hill |first=Benjamin |date=September 20, 2010 |title=Rainiers, Clippers vie for Triple-A title |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-14888008 |work=Minor League Baseball |access-date=September 15, 2023}}
The Everett AquaSox of the Class A Northwest League played one game in the 2016 playoffs against the Spokane Indians at Safeco Field.{{cite news |last=Geleynse |first=Jesse |date=September 10, 2016 |title=AquaSox blank Indians 8-0 to advance to NWL title series |url=https://www.heraldnet.com/sports/aquasox-blank-indians-8-0-to-advance-to-nwl-title-series/ |work=The Everett Herald |accessdate=September 15, 2023}} The move was arranged after a rainstorm rendered the outfield at Everett Memorial Stadium unusable for several days.{{cite news |last=Horton |first=Josh |date=September 9, 2016 |title=Spokane Indians players excited for opportunity to play at Safeco Field |url=https://www.spokesman.com/blogs/sportslink/2016/sep/09/spokane-indians-players-excited-opportunity-play-safeco-field/ |work=The Spokesman-Review |accessdate=September 15, 2023}}
=College baseball=
On May 4, 2007, an NCAA Pacific-10 Conference baseball attendance record was set when the Washington Huskies hosted defending National Champion Oregon State in front of 10,421 spectators.{{cite news |url=http://thedaily.washington.edu/2007/5/7/baseball-huskies-win-record-setting-night-at/ |title=Huskies win record-setting night at Safeco Field |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120729094607/http://thedaily.washington.edu/2007/5/7/baseball-huskies-win-record-setting-night-at/ |archive-date=July 29, 2012}} Washington won the game, 6–2.
=College football=
The stadium hosted the 2001 Seattle Bowl, the first edition of the short-lived Seattle Bowl college football game, on December 27, 2001. Georgia Tech defeated 11th-ranked Stanford, 24–14, before 30,144 fans.{{cite news |title=Georgia Tech's defense stiffens against Stanford |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/2001/bowls/news/2001/12/27/gatech_stanford_ap/ |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=CNN Sports Illustrated |date=December 27, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020103071404/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/2001/bowls/news/2001/12/27/gatech_stanford_ap/ |archive-date=January 3, 2002| url-status=dead}}
=Soccer=
The stadium hosted several soccer matches before the opening of Lumen Field, which was designed for soccer. To prepare for soccer matches, the field has to be sodded to cover and replace the dirt infield.{{cite news |date=February 12, 2002 |title=Infield of Safeco Field Being Sodded for US-Honduras Match on March 2 |url=http://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2014/03/17/10/25/infield-of-safeco-field-being-sodded-for-u-s-honduras-match-on-march-2 |publisher=U.S. Soccer |access-date=July 22, 2017 |archive-date=March 8, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308174843/http://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2014/03/17/10/25/infield-of-safeco-field-being-sodded-for-u-s-honduras-match-on-march-2 |url-status=live}}
On March 2, 2002, the United States men's national soccer team played Honduras in a friendly match, winning 4–0 in front of a then-record crowd of 38,534.{{cite news |last=Sherwin |first=Bob |date=March 3, 2002 |title=U.S. struts its stuff against Honduras |url=https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/20020303/soccer03/us-struts-its-stuff-against-honduras |newspaper=The Seattle Times |access-date=July 22, 2017 |archive-date=March 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306022955/http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=20020303&slug=soccer03 |url-status=live}} The stadium hosted four matches during the 2002 CONCACAF Women's Gold Cup in November, including two matches featuring the United States women's national soccer team, as part of qualification for the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup.{{cite news |last=Evans |first=Jayda |date=October 27, 2002 |title=Cup quest: Chastain, team make qualifying stop in Seattle |page=D7 |work=The Seattle Times}} The first U.S. match, against Panama, had an attendance of 21,522; the second match, against Costa Rica, was attended by 10,079 fans.{{cite news |last=Evans |first=Jayda |date=November 7, 2002 |title=U.S. women a head above: Americans steamroll to victory and clinch a World Cup berth |page=D1 |work=The Seattle Times}}
Seattle Sounders FC, a Major League Soccer team that plays at adjacent Lumen Field, once drafted plans to play a 2018 CONCACAF Champions League match at then-Safeco Field due to a potential scheduling conflict.{{cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=March 14, 2018 |title=Had Sounders advanced over Chivas, they would have been forced to play Champions League semi at Safeco Field |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/sounders/had-sounders-advanced-over-chivas-they-would-have-been-forced-to-play-champions-league-semi-at-safeco-field/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=June 2, 2023}}
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:left; width:95%;" style="text-align:center" | |||||
| style="text-align:center; {{Baseball primary style|Seattle Mariners|border=2}};"|Date
!style="text-align:center; {{Baseball primary style|Seattle Mariners|border=2}};"|Winning Team !style="text-align:center; {{Baseball primary style|Seattle Mariners|border=2}};"|Result !style="text-align:center; {{Baseball primary style|Seattle Mariners|border=2}};"|Losing Team !style="text-align:center; {{Baseball primary style|Seattle Mariners|border=2}};"|Tournament !style="text-align:center; {{Baseball primary style|Seattle Mariners|border=2}};"|Spectators | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| style="text-align:center;"|March 2, 2002 | {{fb|USA}} | style="text-align:center;"|4–0 | {{fb|HON|1949}} | style="text-align:center;"|International Friendly | style="text-align:center;"|38,534 |
| style="text-align:center;" rowspan=2|November 2, 2002 | {{fbw|MEX}} | style="text-align:center;"|2–0 | {{fbw|TRI}} | style="text-align:center;" rowspan=2|2002 CONCACAF Women's Gold Cup First Round | style="text-align:center;"|— |
| {{fbw|USA}} | style="text-align:center;"|9–0 | {{fbw|PAN}} | style="text-align:center;"|21,522 | ||
| style="text-align:center;" rowspan=2|November 6, 2002 | {{fbw|CAN}} | style="text-align:center;"|2–0 | {{fbw|MEX}} | style="text-align:center;" rowspan=2|2002 CONCACAF Women's Gold Cup Semifinal | style="text-align:center;"|— |
| {{fbw|USA}} | style="text-align:center;"|7–0 | {{fbw|CRC}} | style="text-align:center;"|10,079 |
=Wrestling=
On March 30, 2003, the stadium hosted WrestleMania XIX, which set an all-time record attendance for the facility of 54,097.
=Ice hockey=
The 2024 NHL Winter Classic on January 1 was held at T-Mobile Park and was contested by the Seattle Kraken and the Vegas Golden Knights. The Kraken won 3–0 in front of 47,313 spectators.{{cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=January 1, 2023 |title=Kraken's Joey Daccord shines in shutout win over Vegas in NHL Winter Classic at T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/kraken-score-rare-shutout-win-over-vegas-in-nhl-winter-classic-at-t-mobile-park/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=January 1, 2023}}
=Concerts=
=Other=
- The stadium was the home to the Microsoft annual employee meeting until 2012, attracting over 20,000 employees.
{{cite web |url=http://www.king5.com/news/business/MICROSOFT-HOLDS-ANNUAL-EMPLOYEE-MEETING-AT-SAFECO-103927634.html |title=Microsoft Holds Annual Employee Meeting At Safeco |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101011092135/http://www.king5.com/news/business/MICROSOFT-HOLDS-ANNUAL-EMPLOYEE-MEETING-AT-SAFECO-103927634.html |archive-date=October 11, 2010}}
- Bernie Sanders held a rally for his 2016 presidential campaign on March 25.{{cite news |last1=Le |first1=Phuong |last2=Baumann |first2=Lisa |title=Bernie Sanders holds Safeco Field rally before caucuses |url=https://komonews.com/news/local/bernie-sanders-holds-safeco-field-rally-before-caucuses |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=KOMO |date=March 25, 2016 |language=en |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408183021/https://komonews.com/news/local/bernie-sanders-holds-safeco-field-rally-before-caucuses |url-status=live}}
- The stadium hosted Nitro Circus Live on September 16, 2017.{{cite news |last1=Cedeno |first1=Jose |title=Nitro Circus makes a stop in the Emerald City |url=https://www.king5.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/evening/nitro-circus-makes-a-stop-in-the-emerald-city/281-474657910 |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=KING |date=September 13, 2017 |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408183127/https://www.king5.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/evening/nitro-circus-makes-a-stop-in-the-emerald-city/281-474657910 |url-status=live}}
- On September 15, 2018, Russell M. Nelson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, along with his wife, Wendy Watson Nelson, and Second Counselor Henry B. Eyring, held a devotional that was attended by 49,089 church members, friends, and members of the community.{{Cite web |url=https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders-and-ministry/2018-09-16/president-nelson-shares-5-lessons-life-has-taught-me-with-49000-in-safeco-field-47997 |title=President Nelson shares 5 lessons 'life has taught me' with 49,000 in Safeco Field |date=September 16, 2018 |access-date=July 18, 2019 |archive-date=January 14, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190114210258/https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders-and-ministry/2018-09-16/president-nelson-shares-5-lessons-life-has-taught-me-with-49000-in-safeco-field-47997 |url-status=live}}
- Several local high schools and universities have held graduation ceremonies at the stadium.{{cite news |last1=Hunter |first1=Steve |title=Nearly 1,500 WGU students to attend graduation at T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.kentreporter.com/news/nearly-1500-wgu-students-to-attend-graduation-at-t-mobile-park/ |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=Kent Reporter |date=July 14, 2022 |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408183652/https://www.kentreporter.com/news/nearly-1500-wgu-students-to-attend-graduation-at-t-mobile-park/ |url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Lake Washington School District to host graduations at T-Mobile Park |url=https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/lake-washington-school-district-host-graduations-t-mobile-park/X3NMUMM3XVA57GPUAOMGKE6PP4/ |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=KIRO |date=March 22, 2021 |language=en |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408183653/https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/lake-washington-school-district-host-graduations-t-mobile-park/X3NMUMM3XVA57GPUAOMGKE6PP4/ |url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Gracey |first1=Celeste |title=Issaquah School District celebrates commencement at Safeco |url=https://www.issaquahreporter.com/news/issaquah-school-district-celebrates-commencement-at-safeco/ |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=Issaquah Reporter |date=June 13, 2011 |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408185156/https://www.issaquahreporter.com/news/issaquah-school-district-celebrates-commencement-at-safeco/ |url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Grads all score at Safeco Field commencement |url=https://www.uwb.edu/news/june-2018/2018-commencement |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=University of Washington Bothell |date=June 14, 2018 |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408183655/https://www.uwb.edu/news/june-2018/2018-commencement |url-status=live}} Issaquah High School's class of 2000 was the first to graduate at the stadium.{{cite news |title=Issaquah High graduation will be at Safeco Field |url=https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=20000403&slug=4013374 |access-date=April 8, 2023 |work=The Seattle Times |date=April 3, 2000 |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408183311/https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=20000403&slug=4013374 |url-status=live}}
See also
{{Portal|Baseball}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category|T-Mobile Park}}
- [https://www.mlb.com/mariners/ballpark Stadium site on MLB.com]
- [http://www.metacafe.com/watch/445605/clouds_over_mariners_safeco_baseball_field_in_seattle/ Video of Safeco Field – shows the roof open and close in time lapse]
- [http://seatingchartview.com/safeco-field/ Safeco Field Seating Chart]
- [https://www.espn.com/page2/s/caple/ballparks/safeco.html ESPN Review]
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{{Succession box
| title = Home of the
Seattle Mariners
| years = 1999 – present
| before = The Kingdome
| after = current
}}
{{Succession box
| before = Turner Field
Dodger Stadium
| after = Miller Park
Globe Life Field
| title = Host of the All-Star Game
| years = 2001
2023
}}
{{Succession box
| title = Host of WrestleMania
| years = 2003 (XIX)
| before = SkyDome
| after = Madison Square Garden
}}
{{succession box
|title=Host of the NHL Winter Classic
|years= 2024
|before=Fenway Park
|after= Wrigley Field
}}
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Category:Seattle Mariners stadiums
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