In most baseball parks, the distance to the center field fence is 75-100 feet greater than the distance down the lines. Why?
Actually, I think the rules call for a minimum distance of about 400 feet in center for new parks. So, I guess you could argue that it’s that way because the rule says so - but why the rule?
There were some old, oddly shaped parks where, for example, right-center field was deeper than straightaway center, but they were rare.
As for why, take a look at the infield. Second base is father away from home plate than first or third (about 128 feet vs. 90), so it makes sense that center field would also be father back. And if, as is the case with many old ballparks, you built it on a city block, simple geometry tells you that center field will be farther away.
Actually the Rules of Baseball call for a minimum distance of 300 feet from home plate down either line. The Commisioner’s Office “strongly recommends” that the distance be a minumum of 325 feet. There are no other rules for field size. This subject was covered in depth on the Atlanta Braves pre-game radio show during our visit to Houston. Enron field is completely “legal” according to the Rules of Baseball, no special dispensation was required.
Skip Caray read the rule in question on the air. Sorry I don’t have a link or rule number handy, but I’m sure someone out there has their rulebook in hand.