PLAY BALL!

On May 1, 1891, Cy Young threw the first pitch of the first game at League Park. For decades thereafter, it was an important stop for Cleveland baseball (football was played there, too). Since 2014, the refurbished League Park has become a cornerstone of the Hough neighborhood and a major destination for local historians and baseball fans. Here are three reasons to check it out.

See some vintage "base ball" Teams from across the country play by 19th century rules. The Whiskey Island Shamrocks have adopted League Park as their unofficial home, and play games there throughout summer.

Visit the Baseball Heritage Museum

Started Downtown in 1997, the Baseball Heritage Museum opened in the former team and ticket offices at the corner of East 66th and Lexington streets in 2014. The museum chronicles lesser-known baseball history, such as local sandlot baseball and the Negro Leagues.

BY VINCE GUERRIERI

See what’s happening to the Hough Neighborhood

In 2022, a new Cleveland Public Library branch opened near League Park. Construction is also under way on a new mixedused project, which should open in the fall. The new space will feature batting cages, an event venue and some exhibition space, as well as office spaces and apartments.