It seems to have become somewhat official that the Casper Ghosts have dissolved into the vapor, and will be rematerializing as the Grand Junction Rockies in 2012.  I understand it's disappointing for Wyomingians who have enjoyed the team, but I have to say it's pretty darned exciting out here on the western end of Colorado.

Obviously, we don't really know much about who will be on the team next year (although I would love to hear speculation in the comments, if only to tell me somebody actually read this...).  But for anybody interested in what awaits the Rockies in their Colorado homecoming, a little information about their new home.

This is Sam Suplizio field...

via i.imgur.com

via i.imgur.com

via i.imgur.com

Seating capacity is somewhere between 11-12k, depending on how well you want to get to know your neighbor.  at present there are no actual seats - the stands are bleacher style seating.  But that will change for part of the stadium with an $8.3 million renovation that is currently underway.  The first base stands you can see in the first picture, topped by a press box, are no more.  By next May they will be replaced by this:

via i.imgur.com

Beneath those new seats will be a new concession area - serving, for the first time, a type of fermented grain beverage known as "bier" that I believe is quite popular at many ballparks.  I am told that at times it can be quite helpful in watching the efforts of 18 and 19 year old ballplayers.

But, enough about the fans.  The important thing for baseball nerds is what kind of environment will the players have?  What do we need to know to evaluate the players?   A few particulars after the jump:

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