A banner welcoming guests is displayed at Engel Stadium in this 2012 file photo.Engel Stadium officials are excited about hosting the 2014 Southern League Home Run Derby, and they insist the historic facility will be ready.
"It's the perfect setting, and we're fortunate that a lot has been put into the stadium the past two years," Janna Jahn, the stadium's executive director, said Friday afternoon. "The filming [of the motion picture '42'] obviously sparked a revitalization effort and allowed us to do some fundraising, and we got a little money from them, so it's all come together. We're going to work on the light towers, and that's really the main thing.
"We're starting on some field work, but everything is up to code. The restrooms are working, the grandstand area looks great, and I think people will be surprised when they go in there and see how good it looks."
The Home Run Derby will be held June 16, with gates opening at 5 p.m. for a Fan Fest that will include autograph opportunities. The competition will begin at 7.
On June 17, the league's all-star game will take place at AT&T Field, with first pitch scheduled for 7:15. Earlier that day, there will be a luncheon to recognize the players, managers and umpires.
"We are honored to have this opportunity and to bring another great event to the city of Chattanooga," Lookouts president and general manager Rich Mozingo said.
Tickets for the game will go on sale March 15.
Contact David Paschall at dpaschall@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6524.