Prior to relocating to Camelback Ranch a decade ago, the Los Angeles Dodgers called Historic Dodgertown in Vero Beach, Fla., their Spring Training home for 50 years.
The facility has remained open to a lesser degree ever since the Dodgers’ departure in 2008, often playing host to youth, high school, college and professional teams of various sports.
Former Dodgers owner Peter O’Malley is credited for reviving Historic Dodgertown and keeping it in excellent shape since taking control in 2011.
He, along with former Dodgers pitchers Chan Ho Park and Hideo Nomo, have helped keep the complex relevant by recruiting sports teams from all over the world to play there in recent years.
According to Laurence Reisman of Treasure Coast Newspapers, the usage of Historic Dodgertown could soon be expanded after Indian River County and MLB came to terms on a preliminary 10-year agreement that will shape up the complex’s future:
Indian River County and Major League Baseball have reached a “preliminary agreement” that could make Historic Dodgertown an even greater tourist attraction. … The initial lease to MLB would be for 10 years, with three five-year options, Brown said.
County administrator Jason Brown is thrilled to have the support of MLB for the project and believes the future of Historic Dodgertown is in good hands:
“This is the best partner we could have to ensure the next chapter of Historic Dodgertown is a success,” Brown said, noting MLB is willing to share the cost of site improvements that would make the site even more marketable and user-friendly.
O’Malley, looking to make Historic Dodgertown a more appealing destination for a broader audience, has plans to renovate Holman Stadium and eventually offer tours to the public.
After the expected improvements take place, the complex could further emerge as a more serious venue for baseball games going forward. Such would have a positive effect on the MLB Breakthrough Series and future of inner city sports programs in the area.
