Asheville, September 4, 2025
News Summary
The Asheville Tourists ended their home season with a disappointing 4-2 loss to the Hub City Spartanburgers, finishing with a record of 51-71. While hitters Drew Vogel and Alejandro Nunez contributed home runs, defensive errors played a key role in their defeat. As the team looks towards a six-game road series, significant renovations are underway at McCormick Field, aiming for modernization to Major League Baseball standards by the 2026 season, enhancing the overall fan experience and attendance expectations.
Asheville
The Asheville Tourists concluded their 2025 home season with a 4-2 loss to the Hub City Spartanburgers, finishing the campaign with a record of 51-71, far from their expectations. In the final game, hitters Drew Vogel and Alejandro Nunez each contributed home runs, yet the team’s defensive errors and walks were significant factors that contributed to their defeat. Pitcher Brandon McPherson, who recorded five strikeouts but allowed two runs (one earned), took the loss, ending with an overall record of 0-3.
The Tourists will wrap up their 2025 season with a six-game road series starting Tuesday at Bowling Green. This final stretch of the season precedes substantial upcoming changes to their home at McCormick Field.
Significant Renovations Underway
The renovations at McCormick Field, which commenced in August, are part of an ambitious $38.5 million modernization project aimed at bringing the stadium up to Major League Baseball standards as established in 2021. The projected completion date for these renovations is the 2026 season.
Improvements and Enhancements
This renovation project is supported by funding from the city of Asheville, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, and the Tourists organization. Key improvements include:
- A new front entrance and plaza
- Upgraded ticket office and party areas
- A state-of-the-art scoreboard
- Renovated clubhouses
- Dedicated facilities for women coaches and umpires
The renovation will maintain the seating capacity of approximately 4,000. While construction will not interfere with game play, it will visibly impact fan access areas, and current seating layout issues may temporarily obstruct views.
Fan Access During Renovations
The Tourists promise that familiar fan experiences, including food and beverage options, will remain intact during the renovation period. However, parking will be limited due to construction work. Fans may take advantage of a complimentary trolley service operating from a nearby parking garage to alleviate parking issues.
Future Expectations
The organization anticipates that the renovations will significantly enhance the overall fan experience and boost attendance from about 183,987 (around 2,831 per game in 2024) to as much as 376,200 by 2029. Notable new features of the stadium will include picnic areas, a baseball history walk, and an expanded weight room for the players. Additionally, McCormick Field aims to host more events and concerts beyond baseball, expanding its role in the local community.
In support of local schools, the Tourists have initiated the “Ballpark Changeup” project, donating lockers to Erwin High School and a tarp to Enka High School as part of their community commitment.
Season Ahead
As the 2024 season approaches, fans can expect temporary facilities and areas under construction at McCormick Field, including temporary pods serving as clubhouses for visiting teams during the renovation season. These efforts exemplify the organization’s commitment to modernizing the stadium while preserving the cherished traditions of the Tourists for their loyal fans.
FAQ
What renovations are being made at McCormick Field?
The renovations include a new front entrance and plaza, upgraded ticket office, party areas, a state-of-the-art scoreboard, renovated clubhouses, and special facilities for women coaches and umpires.
When will the renovations be completed?
The renovations are expected to be completed by the 2026 season.
How will fan access be affected during the renovations?
Fan access will be visibly impacted, but familiar experiences like food and beverage options will continue. Parking will be limited, but a complimentary trolley service will be available from a nearby parking garage.
What are the expected attendance increases after the renovations?
The organization expects to increase attendance from approximately 183,987 in 2024 to about 376,200 by 2029.
What community initiatives is the Asheville Tourists involved in?
The Tourists have launched the “Ballpark Changeup” project, donating lockers to Erwin High School and a tarp to Enka High School as part of their community outreach efforts.
Key Features of Renovation Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $38.5 million |
| Completion Date | 2026 Season |
| New Amenities | New front entrance, plaza, state-of-the-art scoreboard, renovated clubhouses |
| Fan Experience | Expectations to increase attendance from 183,987 to 376,200 by 2029 |
| Community Outreach | “Ballpark Changeup” project, donating to local high schools |
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Additional Resources
- 828 News Now
- Wikipedia: Asheville
- Mountain X
- Google Search: Asheville Tourists
- WLOS Sports
- Google Scholar: Asheville Tourists
- The Mountaineer
- Google News: Asheville Tourists
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
