Central STL News

Benjamin Hill, a traveler and storyteller of Minor League Baseball, recently visited Peoria's Dozer Park. This visit was part of his exploration of unique baseball stories across the nation. The ballpark has been home to professional baseball since 1883, with the current team, the Peoria Chiefs, established in 1983.

Originally known as O'Brien Field, Dozer Park opened in downtown Peoria in 2002. It is named after Caterpillar's bulldozers, a company once headquartered in Peoria for over a century. The park features a brick exterior that aligns with the historic industrial architecture of downtown Peoria.

Hill's guide during his visit was Cody Schindler, a broadcaster for the Chiefs. Schindler highlighted recent developments at the park, including a pedestrian bridge and an updated batting cage area.

The park pays homage to local baseball history with memorabilia from Pete Vonachen and Albert Pujols. Vonachen bought the team in 1983 and remained involved until his death in 2013.

The Chiefs occasionally adopt alternate identities like Distillers or Pork Tenderloins. Josh Ebbert, designated eater for Hill's visit, praised the pork tenderloin sandwich as a Midwest specialty.

Hill also sampled Street Taco Nachos and gyros during his visit. Ebbert shared personal connections to Peoria baseball through family history tied to the Peoria Redwings.

Despite cold weather on game day, fans enjoyed postgame activities such as autograph sessions and running bases. For more information on Dozer Park and other minor league stadiums, readers are encouraged to explore Minor League Ballpark Guides by Wyndham Rewards.