The Baker Bowl
In baseball history, a team's stadium can be as much of a star of the game as the best players. Stadiums bring character to the game, invoking strong emotions and memories. Ebbets Field, Fenway Park, the Polo Grounds, Yankees Stadium, all cathedrals where fans revere the performances of star players from their respective teams' storied past. The Phillies have had its share of memorable ballparks, contributing to the unique personality of the different eras in the team's history. One of the most memorable venues that framed the team's triumphs and tribulations was the Baker Bowl. Known originally as the Philadelphia Base Ball Grounds, the Baker Bowl first welcomed fans in 1887. The stadium, considered state of the art upon its completion, replaced Recreation Park as the home of the Phillies. Recreation Park had itself earned a place in Philadelphia baseball history, having served as the home field of the Philadelphia Centennials, one of three teams tha...