| Ray Winder Field took visitors back in time. It was a charming old ballpark with a covered grandstand, seats close to the action, and almost nothing but organ music playing between batters and innings. While they hosted some between-inning on-field contests, these did not detract from the great baseball atmosphere that existed there. It was refreshing to see a team that did not feel the need to make a sound effect after every pitch or blare rock music between every batter.
The large covered grandstand featured about 15-20 rows of box seats and around 20 rows of general admission seats, which were also of the fold-down type. There were no strictly reserved seats—fans could sit anywhere in the box seat section unless a season ticket holder claimed that spot. A small metal bleacher section down the left field line didn’t quite fit with the rest of the park, but it didn’t detract from the experience either.
Sightlines were fantastic, as the box seats sat extremely close to the field, with some even positioned in front of the dugouts. Behind home plate, there was only minimal netting. The concourse was located beneath the grandstand, out of view from the playing field. While it could be a bit cramped during large crowds, that was not the norm.
The concession stands were limited, with only hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and brats available. Prices were quite cheap, and the quality was decent, though one frustrating aspect was that food and drinks had separate lines, meaning fans couldn’t grab everything in one stop. A small souvenir stand was also located in the concourse area.
The park was situated right next to I-630, which led to the installation of a high net, known as the "screen monster," in the outfield. On a return visit in 2006, I was pleased to see that smoking had been banned from all areas of the ballpark except the bleacher section—previously, fans were allowed to smoke anywhere.
Ray Winder Field was just a great place to catch a game, especially for those wanting to be reminded of a different era of minor league baseball. Unfortunately, 2006 was its final season hosting professional baseball, as a new ballpark in North Little Rock opened for the 2007 season. After several years of uncertainty regarding its future, the decision was made to demolish Ray Winder Field in 2012 to make room for a parking lot.
I feel fortunate to have been able to see two games at this classic ballpark before it was lost to history.
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