Welcome to Whataburger Field, where the beach and baseball collide in a fun and unique way. Situated in Corpus Christi Bay, Whataburger Field is home to the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. From the architecture of the ballpark to the local attractions, this post will take you on a visual and intriguing journey through the Hook’s history, notable alumni, and features that make Whataburger Field a must-visit destination.
Behind the Hooks’ inception are Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan, his son Reid, and Houston businessman Don Sanders, who brought professional baseball to Corpus Christi. Since their establishment in 2005, the Hooks have been an Astros affiliate and have produced notable alumni like Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, and Yordan Alvarez, who have made their way up the coast to Houston.
The ballpark’s location at the Port of Corpus Christi pays tribute to its heritage with mammoth wood beams and corrugated siding. The videoboard in left-center field is framed by antique cotton presses, which dates back to the 1920s. Beyond right field is a pool and spa perfect for beating the heat, and a playground to keep the little ones entertained. Plus, there’s a Little League field and a sport court open to the public.
When it comes to food and drink, Whataburger Field offers a variety of options, from Port Avenue Tacos to Nolan Ryan’s Seven-34 Smokehouse, where you can indulge in brisket sandwiches and nachos. And, of course, Whataburger is served behind home plate, where you can get their famous honey butter chicken strip sandwiches and patty melts.
Outside of the ballpark, Corpus Christi offers numerous attractions, ranging from the Texas State Aquarium to the USS Lexington, a museum ship designated as a National Historic Landmark. Not to mention, some of Texas’ top beaches are just minutes away. Brewster Street Icehouse and Executive Surf Club are both known for their food and live music on the weekends, and seafood lovers must try Water Street Oyster Bar, Catfish Charlie’s, and Doc’s Seafood & Steak Restaurant.
With so much to see and do, Corpus Christi is the perfect destination for a memorable Minor League road trip. From Low-A Fayetteville Woodpeckers to Triple-A Sugar Land Space Cowboys, the Astros’ Minor League affiliates span from North Carolina to Texas. So fuel up at Buc-ee’s and hit the road, you won’t regret it. Come to Whataburger Field, get ready to be hooked.
Source: www.mlb.com