MLB discloses logo design, renovations for Rickwood Area in Birmingham

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A rain delay at America's oldest professional ballpark turned into the perfect backdrop for a major announcement. As the rain poured down, the event was moved to the area behind home plate, where Major League Baseball, the city of Birmingham, and the Friends of Rickwood nonprofit unveiled a fresh logo design and renovation plans for Rickwood Field, the historic former home of the Birmingham Black Barons.

Much like a game getting delayed before an unforgettable extra-innings victory, the event celebrated the exciting future of the ballpark. The planned renovations will prepare Rickwood Field for a special MLB game on June 20, 2024, featuring the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants.

Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, emphasized the historical significance of the occasion. "This is a landmark moment for the history of Black baseball and the Negro Leagues," Kendrick said. "To have Major League Baseball come to Birmingham and play at Rickwood Field, a site of so much baseball history, is truly special. I've heard people say that the Cardinals and Giants are playing that game, but let me correct that—it's actually going to be the St. Louis Stars against the San Francisco Sea Lions in this matchup at Rickwood Field."Michael McGreevy Jersey

This will be the first-ever regular-season MLB game at a former Negro Leagues ballpark. The event will also serve as a tribute to the Negro Leagues and baseball legend Willie Mays, who played for the Birmingham Black Barons in 1948. Over the years, Rickwood Field has been home to many Hall of Fame players, including Mays, Jackie Robinson, Satchel Paige, and Hank Aaron, all of whom left an indelible mark on the sport.

Many baseball figures attended the announcement, including Kendrick, MLB Network analyst and event host Harold Reynolds, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, and former players such as CC Sabathia, Ryan Howard, Ron "Papa Jack" Jackson, and Randy Johnson. Sabathia, a six-time All-Star, expressed his deep connection to the Negro Leagues and the significance of honoring those who paved the way.

The new "MLB at Rickwood Field" logo was also revealed, featuring white lettering on a black background with the words "1910," "June 2024," and "A Tribute to the Negro Leagues." The design was inspired by vintage posters promoting Negro Leagues games, using typography reminiscent of early woodblock printing and colors that reflect the stadium's iconic left-field scoreboard.

Reynolds explained the thought process behind the branding. "When choosing the name, MLB wanted to remain authentic and honor the history behind this event. Rickwood Field and the rich legacy of the Negro Leagues provide the setting, while the big leaguers from the Cardinals and Giants—Mays' team—are the stars of the show."

To bring the ballpark up to modern standards while preserving its historic essence, several upgrades are planned. Key changes include expanding the dugouts, moving home plate back by 10 feet—which will alter field dimensions—and installing temporary lighting, a new backstop netting system, and updated foul poles. Renovations will begin on October 23 and are expected to take approximately six months to complete.

Murray Cook, MLB's field and stadium consultant, emphasized that the goal is to enhance the ballpark while maintaining its authenticity. "We're focusing on preserving the field's historic charm while making necessary improvements for safety and ensuring it's well-equipped for today's game."

Birmingham is eagerly anticipating the upcoming game, recognizing Rickwood Field's deep cultural and historical significance. Mayor Woodfin captured the spirit of the occasion, stating, "Rickwood Field is sacred ground—more than just a place for sports, it has been a symbol of empowerment. This game represents progress, strength, and, most importantly, pride."