Fresno Grizzlies

Although professional baseball in Fresno dates back to the late 1800s, hosting such teams as the Fresno Raisin Eaters, Cardinals, Sun Sox, Giants and Suns. Although today’s Fresno Grizzlies team was formed in 1998, the franchise’s roots date back to 1969. The Tucson Toros played in the Pacific Coast League from that year to 1997, before making news by relocating to Fresno and becoming the Grizzlies. The Grizzlies have been affiliated with the San Francisco Giants since 1998, but the Toros’ affiliates over the years included the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, Texas Rangers and Houston Astros.

Ballpark

The Grizzlies play the home games on their schedule at Chukchansi Park, which was formerly known as Grizzlies Stadium. The park opened in 2002 and was built in the city’s downtown as part of a major commercial development project. Chukchansi Park had an official capacity of 12,500 and was designed by Populous, which has designed such notable MLB parks as Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

No Pacific Coast League Championships

Fresno hasn’t had a significant amount of success since moving to town. Although the club won its division in its opening season, it’s failed to do so since and has yet to win a Pacific Coast League title. The franchise was more successful in Tucson, winning the PCL in 1991, 1993 and 2006.

Fresno Grizzlies Roster

Many stars off the San Francisco Giants roster have appeared on the Grizzlies roster in recent years. These names include Buster Posey, Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, Sergio Romo, Madison Bumgarner, Brian Wilson, Pat Burrell and Brandon Belt.

Spring Training

During Spring Training, members of the Grizzlies share Scottsdale Stadium with other players from the San Francisco Giants system. The park opened in 1992 and also serves as one of the host parks for the Arizona Fall League.

The Ballpark Guide hasn’t visited the Fresno Grizzlies yet, but hopes to in the near future. If you’re excited to read a fan guide to Chukchansi Park, check out the many ways you can support The Ballpark Guide on future baseball road trips.