September 1, 2026
Populous-Designed ONT Field Named 2026 Ballpark of the Year by BaseballParks.com
Presented by BaseballParks.com Founder Joe Mock, this annual award recognizes the best new ballpark in professional baseball. ONT Field opened in April 2026 as the home of the Ontario Tower Buzzers, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Single-A affiliate. Located within the 199-acre Ontario Sports Empire, the 6,000-seat ballpark was designed as both a premier baseball venue and a year-round destination for the community.
“ONT Field is a prime example of what is possible when architecture, interior design and brand activation weave together seamlessly to create a playful, lively and immersive fan experience.” says Geoff Kornegay, principal at Populous. “From the moment they arrive, fans are fully engulfed by the Tower Buzzers’ world, the nostalgia of aviation history and the joy of baseball.”
BaseballParks.com’s recognition highlights ONT Field’s design, amenities, fan experience and connection to its setting. With a design inspired by Ontario’s aviation heritage and its proximity to Ontario International Airport, the ballpark creates a distinctive identity while providing flexible spaces and experiences for fans, players and the wider community.
“ONT Field is exactly what we believe a Minor League ballpark should be: an incredible place for fans, a best-in-class environment for player development and a true community gathering place.”
“We’re honored that ONT Field has been named Ballpark of the Year,” says Jason Michael Ford, principal at Populous. “The City of Ontario had an ambitious vision from the beginning — to create a ballpark that could serve as a catalyst for the Ontario Sports Empire and become a destination for the community. This recognition is a testament to that vision and to the incredible collaboration that made it possible.”
ONT Field balances the intimacy and energy of Minor League Baseball with facilities designed to support the development of future Major League talent. The ballpark features contemporary seating and sightlines, family-friendly amenities, premium hospitality and group spaces, and MLB-aligned player development facilities. It is also designed to accommodate concerts, community events and uses throughout the year.
“ONT Field is exactly what we believe a Minor League ballpark should be: an incredible place for fans, a best-in-class environment for player development and a true community gathering place,” said Pat Battle, executive chairman at DBH, and Peter Freund, CEO at BBH, in a joint statement, after learning of the award. “The team brought the aviation theme and the Tower Buzzers brand to life in a way that feels completely authentic to the region, and the result is something really special.”
BaseballParks.com’s Joe Mock described the ballpark as “a marvelous example of everything that can be done right when designing and building a new ballpark.” His review highlighted the city’s broader vision for the Ontario Sports Empire, the ballpark’s aviation-inspired design and the experience created for fans.
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