MLB at Field of Dreams

MLB at Field of Dreams is an annual Major League Baseball (MLB) game held in Dyersville, Iowa, near the site where the 1989 film Field of Dreams was filmed. This event marks a unique intersection of sports and popular culture, celebrating both the history of baseball and its impact on American cinema and imagination.

Background

The concept of an MLB game at the Field of Dreams site was inspired by the 1989 film Field of Dreams, which itself is based on W.P. Kinsella's novel Shoeless Joe. The film is famous for its portrayal of a magical baseball field built in a cornfield by the protagonist, Ray Kinsella, played by Kevin Costner. The phrase "If you build it, he will come" became a cultural touchstone.

Development and Execution

The idea to host an actual MLB game at the site took shape as a way to bring the film's magical allure to life. MLB constructed a temporary 8,000-seat ballpark adjacent to the original movie set. The field is designed to maintain the aesthetic feel of the early 20th-century baseball era, complete with a cornfield surrounding the outfield.

Inaugural Game

The inaugural MLB at Field of Dreams game was scheduled for August 13, 2020, featuring the Chicago White Sox and the New York Yankees. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the game was postponed to August 12, 2021. The White Sox played against the New York Yankees in a game that ended with a dramatic walk-off home run, echoing the cinematic themes of heroism and nostalgia.

Cultural Impact

MLB at Field of Dreams has been praised for its ability to blend the nostalgia of classic baseball with the modern American sports spectacle. It serves as a tribute to the history of baseball and its role in American culture, while also bringing attention to rural America and the beauty of its landscapes.

Future of the Event

Following the success of the initial game, MLB announced that the event would be held annually. The 2022 game featured the Chicago Cubs against the Cincinnati Reds, continuing the tradition of celebrating baseball's rich history and its connection to American culture.

See Also

• History of baseball in the United States
• Sports in the United States
• Cultural impact of baseball