Opinion: The Citi Field Criticism
Yesterday, USA Today ran a quick Q&A with me, speaking about Citi Field, and Ben Kabak from River Ave. Blues, speaking 
about the new Yankee Stadium.
I have to be honest, I’m really shocked at the level of criticism being aimed at Citi Field, whether from bloggers, reporters or people calling in to talk radio, including some of the station’s hosts.
Yesterday, while eating two chicken tacos out beyond center field in Citi, I heard a loud fan repeatedly chanting, ‘We want Shea,’ which was greeted with laughter from fans who agreed, but also lots of head shaking and eye rolling from fans who clearly disagreed.
Personally, I just separate Citi Field from Shea Stadium.
I have been to Citi Field twice this season, and I find I am not comparing: Shea Stadium rests comfortably in my memory, while Citi Field is in front of me and below my feet today. To me, they are two totally different experiences, with one representing the past and the other representing the present and future.
The most popular complaints about Citi Field seem to be a) ‘obstructed view seats,’ and b) a lack of Mets-centric decor – and both are totally valid… for now.
I mean, I feel it is a bit unrealistic to expect the new ballpark to be perfect from day one. I assume the team needs time, feedback, etc., to make adjustments and strive to perfection.
However, in the end, right now, today, Citi Field is gorgeous, the seats are roomy, they’re comfortable, most all of them them have outstanding views, there are more bathrooms, the food is excellent and there is plenty of it, there are a variety of experiences and ways to see the field, and it is much, much easier to walk around and spend time with family and friends while watching the game.
Beside a new World Championship banner, I’m not sure what else people want. Sure, I wish the outfield wall is blue. But, seriously, why does it matter if the seats are green and not blue, or that the outfield wall is black, or that ushers wear red and not yellow, like they did in Shea Stadium? How do these incidental things impact a) the results on the field, and b) a fan’s experience watching those results?
