In the Major League Baseball, which can be hailed as the birthplace of baseball, you can find stadiums with diverse personalities. You can find beautifully situated ballparks by the sea, ranging from symmetrical baseball stadiums to occasionally extreme asymmetrical structures, which are considered one of the fun elements of the Major League.
“The Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park”
Among these, Fenway Park, used as the home stadium by the Boston Red Sox, is well known for its unique structure. One side of the wall is high, and the other side is low, displaying an asymmetric shape. Especially, the high fence located in the left field is called the “Green Monster” and provides various points of interest.
“Fenway Park completed in 1912”
Fenway Park began construction in 1911 by John Taylor, the owner of the Red Sox. Construction started on September 20, 1911, and was completed on April 20, 1912. Since its completion, the ballpark has undergone several remodels and continues to serve as the home stadium of the Boston Red Sox, preserving its long history.
“The Green Monster of Fenway Park”
Perhaps the most famous feature of Fenway Park is the mentioned asymmetrical fence. The fence near the left field is notably over 11 meters high, much taller than standard fences, earning it the nickname “Green Monster” because of its green paint.
At first glance, one might think that fewer home runs would be hit over the left field wall due to its height, but in reality, due to its short distance from home plate, many home runs barely clear this wall.
Furthermore, even fly balls that are typically caught out are often hits when they make contact with the Green Monster, making it a hitter-friendly ballpark.
“The Right Field Wall without the Green Monster”
The right field fence opposite the Green Monster does not have a similarly high fence. Rather, it is considerably lower compared to standard fences. However, hitting a home run over the right field fence is not easy, as it is much farther from home plate compared to the left field wall.
In this sense, Fenway Park, used as the home stadium by the Boston Red Sox, boldly departs from the commonly made symmetrical structure of baseball stadiums, offering another layer of fun through its asymmetrical design.