Sahlen Field, located in Buffalo, New York, is 36 years old as of 2024.
A Legacy of Baseball in Buffalo
Opened on April 14, 1988, Sahlen Field has served as a cornerstone for baseball in Western New York for over three decades. Originally known as Pilot Field, it was conceived as a state-of-the-art facility for the Buffalo Bisons, the city's Minor League Baseball team. Its construction marked a new era for professional baseball in Buffalo, providing a modern home for fans to enjoy America's pastime.
Over its history, the ballpark has seen numerous significant moments, including hosting Major League Baseball games as a temporary home for the Toronto Blue Jays during the 2020 and 2021 seasons due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This made Sahlen Field the first ballpark built specifically for a minor league team to host MLB games since the 1950s.
Key Milestones and Naming Rights
The ballpark has undergone several naming changes throughout its history, reflecting different sponsorship agreements. Each name marks a distinct period in its operational timeline, yet its fundamental role as a beloved community asset has remained constant.
Here is a timeline of the ballpark's naming history:
| Year Range | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| April 1988 – 1994 | Pilot Field | Original name, sponsored by Pilot Air Freight |
| 1995 – 1998 | Downtown Ballpark | Interim name without a title sponsor |
| 1999 – 2000 | North AmeriCare Park | Sponsored by North AmeriCare Inc. |
| 2001 – 2007 | Dunn Tire Park | Sponsored by Dunn Tire LLC |
| 2007 – 2018 | Coca-Cola Field | Sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company |
| 2019 – Present | Sahlen Field | Current name, sponsored by Sahlen's |
Current Status and Significance
Today, Sahlen Field continues to be the home of the Buffalo Bisons, the Triple-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays. It remains a vibrant hub for sports and entertainment in downtown Buffalo, hosting not only baseball games but also various community events. Its enduring presence underscores its importance as a cherished landmark and a symbol of Buffalo's rich baseball heritage.
