Following a reflective and educational day in Fargo, we’re ready for baseball in another new park featuring another new UBT league: the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball. On the campus of North Dakota State University, we pull into the parking lot across the street from Newman Outdoor Field.

The clean, brick façade looks professional and inviting. Some tailgating with a taste from Mitch’s growler of North Country Brewing’s Firehouse Red ensue. Then, we cross the street and climb the stairs to the ticket window.

The level of baseball impresses, too. Crisp defense and solid at bats.

Pitchers dominate tonight as the Lincoln Saltdogs dent the plate just once in the Redhawks 3-1 win. Jake Laber (2-1) picks up the win, pitching up to 89 mph into the 7th. Reliever Nathan Kilcrease whiffs four of the five Saltdogs he faces before two more penners salt away the win.

As impressed as we are with the on-field and concession products, Newman Outdoor Field offers more. Much more.

Brian Williams
From Deep Short