Rickwood Field is set to make a nostalgic return to the spotlight this year with Minor League Baseball action gracing its storied grounds once again. The iconic ballpark, the oldest professional venue in the United States, will host a Southern League matchup between the Pensacola Blue Wahoos and the Birmingham Barons.
This game isn't just about baseball; it's a tribute to Rickwood Field's rich history in Black baseball. Pensacola will don the jerseys of the Pensacola Seagulls, a nod to the team's past as part of the Negro Southern League, when they face off against the Barons on Wednesday, May 27.
Rickwood Field, which opened its gates in 1910, was home to both the Birmingham Barons and the Birmingham Black Barons. The field has seen legends like Willie Mays, Satchel Paige, Willie Wells, and Mule Suttles grace its diamond.
Jonathan Griffith, president of the Blue Wahoos, expressed his excitement about the event, emphasizing the importance of celebrating baseball's deep roots in the community. He highlighted the connection between the past and future stars, making the upcoming Rickwood Game an experience to remember.
The Barons, who now play at Regions Field just a few miles away, have a tradition of hosting the Rickwood Classic annually from 1996 to 2016 and then again in 2018-19. This year marks the first time the Pensacola franchise will participate in a game at this historic venue.
Rickwood Field underwent significant renovations leading up to the MLB and MiLB games in 2024, and it hosted notable events in 2025, including a clash between the Rocket City Trash Pandas and the Barons, as well as the MLB's East-West Classic.
Beyond baseball, Rickwood Field has been a backdrop for several films, including the Jackie Robinson biopic "42." Yet, perhaps no figure is more intertwined with Rickwood's legacy than Willie Mays. "The Say Hey Kid" grew up nearby and made his professional debut at this very field in 1948, playing for the Black Barons and leading them to the final Negro Leagues World Series.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming game, fans can look forward to witnessing not just a matchup of teams, but a celebration of a field that holds a special place in baseball history.