Estadio Monterrey in Mexico stepped into the international spotlight when it hosted a thrilling three-game Major League Baseball series. For the first time in 19 years, MLB regular season games were played in Mexico, with Estadio Monterrey serving as the proud venue. The series between the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers not only brought top-tier baseball to Mexican fans but also showcased the stadium’s readiness to meet MLB standards, thanks to significant field upgrades.
Home to the Sultanes de Monterrey, a beloved team in the Mexican League, Estadio Monterrey was chosen to host this momentous MLB event. The selection highlighted the growing passion for baseball in Mexico and the stadium’s potential to accommodate world-class sporting events. The San Diego Padres, familiar with playing in Mexico from previous regular-season trips, faced off against their rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, in this historic series.
Ahead of the games, anticipation was high. Padres first baseman Wil Myers expressed the team’s excitement, stating to MLB.com, “We look forward to playing in Mexico in front of some of the most passionate and knowledgeable baseball fans in the world.” To ensure the field was up to MLB’s exacting standards, BrightView Sports Turf was entrusted with a comprehensive renovation project.
Murray Cook, President of BrightView Sports Turf, explained the scope of the undertaking: “The playing surface needed work. We had to replace the field, which involved its re-grading and the installation of new turf and a warning track.” Beyond the field itself, Estadio Monterrey received further enhancements including new lighting systems, modernized dugouts, and improved bullpens, ensuring a top-notch experience for players and fans alike.
Construction commenced in early December, with meticulous attention to detail continuing in the weeks leading up to the series. The result was a resounding success. Each of the three games witnessed sold-out crowds, creating an electric atmosphere. The opening game became instantly memorable as the Dodgers achieved a historic combined no-hitter, marking only the 12th in MLB history, with a 4-0 victory. The Padres rallied in the subsequent games, securing wins of 7-4 and 3-0, demonstrating the high level of competition and excitement throughout the series.
The impact of MLB’s visit to Monterrey extended beyond the professional games. Following the series, approximately 300 young Mexican baseball enthusiasts were invited to Estadio Monterrey as part of MLB’s Play Ball program. These aspiring players participated in hitting, fielding, and baserunning drills, receiving invaluable experience on a major league field.
Reflecting on the event, Murray Cook concluded, “There may have been a lot of zeroes on the scoreboard over the weekend, but we’re all happy with how it turned out.” The successful hosting of the MLB series at Monterrey Stadium underscored Mexico’s fervent baseball fanbase and Estadio Monterrey’s capability as a premier international sports venue.
