From the Press Box — Right Field Ragers Bring Buzz to Alabama Baseball

While this was one of the most anticipated seasons that I have seen in awhile for Alabama baseball, I don't think anybody expected what we have seen in the first two weekends. Granted, the Crimson Tide has been good on the diamond, starting off with a 4-2 record that has them ranked as high as 21st in the country.

But the real buzz is off the field - beyond right field, to be exact.

The Right Field Ragers, as they have dubbed themselves, have made quite an impression after six home games. They've even created their own Twitter handle, @BamaRightField.

When I stopped by the baseball offices Monday, that was as much of the conversation as the team's play, which included some great individual performances as well as two good wins.

The players love the new atmosphere the fans have created. And I say fans, because even though UA students are flocking there in numbers, it really is a great mix of people of all ages.

While there is no admission charged right now, and therefore no ticket count, ushers are using "clickers" to get a close estimate. Last Friday and Saturday's crowds were around 1,500 each, which is about double the amount from the previous weekend.

If the team continues to play well, the weather continues to get better, and the buzz continues to grow, I can see that being an area that fills well before first pitch - and then overflows - during SEC play.

Winning is extremely important, but creating a total fan experience is also vital to creating a program everyone wants to be around.

The new stadium will help in two years. But for Mitch Gaspard's Crimson Tide, and the Right Field Ragers…the future is now.