The bright lights of the major league big cities tend to get a lot of attention, but sometimes you have something special in your own backyard that might not be as known, but is local and it's yours. Welcome to Joe Becker Stadium, Joplin's quaint and absolutely gorgeous local ball field. As you enter, through the easy concrete entry ways (there are ramps if you need them) you will find yourself very close to the action. You'll also find plenty of sections full of box seats and cup holders if you want your own seat. There are bleachers a little down both lines and behind the left field fence as well as plenty of berm seats in right field (bring a blanket) if you want to go the GA route. I mentioned right field, which is in the spotlight here because there is a small hill past the warning track that leads up to the business behind the right field wall that is in play. Have you heard of the hill at old Crosley Field in Cincinnati? This is kind of like that, but reversed and without the impound lot in the infield. It's a really cool little quirk that unfortunately during my visit, I wasn't able to see enter into play. There are a couple of things I want to highlight... the seats, especially along the field will bring you right up to the action. This is cool, but at the same time I was sitting in Row C and had trouble following the ball if it was hit, especially on the ground because I was blocked out by the batter, catcher and umpire. I also had some issues seeing far out in the outfield. Another thing is the netting behind home plate is held up by some poles that look like are lined up as best as possible with the stairs leading to the seats. One small thing is depending on your seat you're basically just staring at the pole. Luckily nobody else was in my row so I just moved over a couple of seats, but you might keep this in mind when you're buying tickets. You also might want to sit about mid way up in the section. If you're local to Joplin, please get out and enjoy your ball park. If you're travelling, please consider stopping to visit. Joe Becker Stadium is a wonderful little field and it's worth it. read more

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