What is it that makes Fenway Park 'America's Most Beloved Ballpark'? It's not just that it's the home of the Boston Red Sox. Open since 1912, it is the oldest operating baseball park in the country. As such, the park has many quirks that make for a unique experience. See them all on a ballpark tour. (Avoid afternoon tours on game days; crowds are huge and tours shortened.)
The Green Monster, the 37ft-high wall in left field, is the most famous feature at Fenway Park. It's only 310ft away from home plate (compared to the standard 325ft). That makes it a popular target for right-handed hitters, who can score an easy home run with a high hit to left field. On the other hand, a powerful line drive – which might normally be a home run – bounces off the Monster for an off-the-wall double. As all Red Sox fans know, 'the wall giveth and the wall taketh away.'
The Green Monster was painted green only in 1947. But since then, it has become a patented part of the Fenway experience. Literally. The color is officially known as Fence Green and the supplier will not share the recipe.
The Pesky Pole, Fenway's right-field foul pole, is named for former shortstop Johnny Pesky. 'Mr Red Sox' Johnny Pesky has been associated with the team for 15 years as a player and 45 years as a manager or coach.
The Triangle , in the deepest darkest corner of centre field where the walls form a triangle, is – at 425ft – the furthest distance from home plate.
The bleachers at Fenway Park are green, except for the lone red seat : seat 21 at section 42, row 37. This is supposedly the longest home run ever hit at Fenway Park – officially 502ft, hit by Ted Williams in 1946.
