The West Virginia Power is the lone full-season minor league team in the state, but don’t let this fact dissuade you from hitting the Mountain State on an east-coast baseball road trip. Sure, other teams aren’t exactly close, but you won’t regret a detour to Charleston to see the Power. Although professional baseball in the city dates as far back as 1910, the Power is a relatively new club. It took its name (and its new ballpark) in time for the 2005 season. Previously, the club was known as the Charleston Alley Cats and Charleston Wheelers, and played at the historic Watt Powell Park.
Appalachian Power Park has an intimate feel. It’s devoid of the vast second level that characterizes many MiLB parks (a small second level is home to the park’s suites) and its open concourse provides great views from all areas. The ballpark features a concourse that wraps around the entire field, a kids area in center field, a team shop on the first base side and the entertaining Budweiser Party Deck in the right field corner. A visit to Appalachian Power Park is affordable for the whole family and offers one of the best views in the minors.
During your visit, make sure to look in the seats behind home plate for Rod Blackstone, who’s more commonly known as the Toast Man. This local celebrity is the most vocal fan in the ballpark and keeps a toaster and a loaf of bread handy. When an opposing batter strikes out, Blackstone yells “You’re toast” and tosses a piece of toast into the crowd.
You must be logged in to post a comment.