McGuire and Hester completed a comprehensive renovation of Raimondi Park’s baseball field, originally named West Oakland Park and later renamed to honor Ernie Raimondi, a local ballplayer killed in World War II. The renovation focused on updating the existing field to meet the Pioneer Baseball League standards. The scope of work included the demolition of the old infield, mounds, grass, bullpens, dugouts, and fencing, followed by the installation of new features such as improved irrigation and drainage systems, warning track fines, infield fines, and pitchers' mounds. The project also saw the installation of new grass, prefabricated dugouts, bullpens, and a press box, along with fencing adjustments to enhance the field’s overall functionality.
Key improvements focused on upgrading the playability and aesthetics of the field. McGuire and Hester implemented irrigation adjustments and drainage installations to ensure the field’s durability. Warning track and infield fines were installed to enhance safety and performance, while new pitchers’ mounds provided a fresh, professional-grade playing surface. Additional improvements included the installation of new bullpens, prefabricated dugouts, and fencing modifications, all designed to elevate the player experience and meet league standards.
Beyond field improvements, McGuire and Hester enhanced spectator amenities to create a welcoming environment for fans. The project included the construction of DG pathways for easy access, the replacement of the existing scoreboard to modernize game-day visibility, and the installation of temporary bleachers to accommodate increased attendance. These upgrades significantly improved the field’s functionality and overall spectator experience, making it a central hub for community engagement.
Faced with an aggressive schedule to complete the renovations in time for the team’s home opener, McGuire and Hester coordinated closely with subcontractors to manage the sequence of operations and material procurement. Effective communication and meticulous scheduling were key to overcoming these challenges, ensuring that the project stayed on track and met the critical deadline.
The revitalized Raimondi Park has been met with enthusiasm from the community, especially given Oakland’s shifting sports landscape with the anticipation of the Oakland A’s relocation to Las Vegas. The newly renovated field will serve as the home of the B’s throughout the season and will open to the public afterward, offering a valuable recreational space that fosters local engagement with baseball.