The Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Ballpark Authority today unveiled plans for a re-imagined right field experience at Target Field. Highlights include the creation of Bat & Barrel, a dynamic new gathering space open to all fans. Additionally, the Twins have unveiled plans for a newly expanded main concourse near the right field foul pole at the intersection of Gates 29 and 34.
"The Minnesota Twins are incredibly excited to unveil more details surrounding these major enhancements to the Target Field experience for the 2018 season," Twins President & CEO Dave St. Peter said. "Bat & Barrel promises to be another highly memorable destination within the ballpark, while the main concourse revisions create meaningful ingress and egress improvements for a huge majority of our fans. Both projects are rooted in a commitment to make Target Field better - each and every year."
Through collaboration between POPULOUS, Shea Design and Mortenson Construction, Bat & Barrel is located in the space formerly known as the Metropolitan Club and will offer fans a new vibrant game day social experience with unique sightlines and seating options, from drink rails to community tables. This new space will feature operable glass windows, allowing fans to become a part of the Target Field experience while being inside the club. New state-of-the-art video elements and signature food and beverage options will also enhance the experience within the club. A new entrance to the Bat & Barrel will create vertical circulation to and from the main concourse.
Inside Bat & Barrel, Twins fans will be able to experience unique artwork by Minnesota-based artists who will create custom murals for the space. Additionally, the Twins 1987 and 1991 World Series Championship trophies will be permanently on display inside Bat & Barrel. The new space will also feature a comprehensive display of major awards in Twins history including replica Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, Manager of the Year, Cy Young awards and Batting Champion silver bats.
"The Ballpark Authority is excited to partner with the Twins to improve access at Target Field and to create a dynamic new destination for fans," said Minnesota Ballpark Authority Executive Director Dan Kenney.
In addition to the renovations within the Bat & Barrel space, the Twins unveiled plans for expanding the main concourse at Target Field at the intersection of Gates 29 and 34 near the right field foul pole. This renovation expands the concourse by more than 1,300 sq. feet, creating enhanced ingress and egress for fans. With as many as 60 percent of fans visiting Target Field through these gates, the new concourse will cut down on congestion and provide fans with premium new drink rail standing-room locations. Also included in the main concourse upgrade are enhanced concession options including a NEW tap wall known as DRAFT 34, which will feature up to 22 unique beers from across Twins Territory.
The renovations will be completed prior to Opening Day and will instantly become a destination for Twins fans to enjoy as well as a popular location for events, private functions and meetings year-round. Specific food and beverage options within Bat & Barrel will be announced at the 2018 Target Field F&B Preview prior to Opening Day.