Roam

When you make the trip up I-35 to Austin from San Antonio, you must prepare mentally. Prepare for guaranteed traffic congestion that creates claustrophobia, an accident (or two), construction delays, and the feeling that you are in a race (against whom or what, I do not know - it’s a palatable feeling). But if you can muster the courage, watching Baseball games at St. Edwards University is worth the trip.

There is no admission charge because there isn’t much of a Baseball facility. It feels more like a recreational complex (although the playing surface is pristine according to the players), the lone food truck option is basic, and there are two Port-a-Pottys on a hill when you need to go to the restroom. However, I did find several spots in an open faculty building that the players were using. It is an odd set-up with berms carved out of the hills, a small bleacher thrown in for effect, and strange places to sit under a few Mexican Oaks. It is quintessential Austin.

But what a view. 

It’s one of the best properties in Austin for a Baseball game. Look at the views from the Soccer field as you wind down the campus road to the Baseball field.

Its oddness is charming, even though everyone seems to complain about it: players and spectators alike. Every conversation revolves around improving it, but I liked it more on my third visit there last weekend. It was perfect for Austin Baseball and the most unique Lone Star Conference facility (calling it a facility is generous).

It ended up being the last series for the mighty St. Marys University Rattlers, who ended their season on Sunday, April 27, with a thrilling 11-10 loss in the bottom of the ninth inning on a bases-loaded walk. Baseball can be so beautifully cruel. I’ve never felt as emotionally spent after watching the last two games of this Baseball series. It’s gut-wrenching and beautiful at the same time. That’s Baseball.

There were so many ups and downs that everyone was left speechless. It was a great season being a fan of this team. A special group of players that won a playoff game for the first time in ten years. Watching guys get their last at-bats was an added emotional gut punch. Playing Baseball ends for everyone at some point. Sharing this moment with some of the players was a great experience. I’m grateful I could watch the majority of their games in person. There’s nothing like being on a team. There’s nothing like having a team to root for, either.

Baseball Games Watched

The tally includes a state semi-final game on May 12 and a state title game on May 13 in Arlington, Texas, as the mighty Central Catholic Buttons look to defend their title.

Rally

St. Edwards is just around the corner from The Yard, which gave us another opportunity after the game on Saturday to explore this cool part of Austin.

Vacancy Brewing

This clean, motel-inspired, road trip-inspired brewery has indoor picnic tables and embraces the communal aspect of beer. There is a good vibe going on, and the beer is tasty. As Breweries go, Vacancy is bright and clean and has a modern look and feel. It’s upbeat and calm, with bright colors that create a bubbly atmosphere. Put it on your list to visit.

Muy Yum

Directly across the parking lot from Vacancy Brewing is the food truck, Muy Yum, which looks like it hasn’t moved in years. Muy Yum has killer charcuterie boards and small-bite sandwiches on its sourdough bread. The sourdough went well with the brew, and a small board and sandwich were perfect for two people. Highly recommended.

Fast Friends Brewery

After the game on Sunday at St. Edwards, we were spent. Emotionally and physically. Getting back on I-35 after traversing this path back for three consecutive days (a solid 1.5 to 2-hour drive) wasn’t something we were looking forward to, so we took a detour and visited Fast Friends, which you can see from IH-35. We parked on the back side and walked up three flights of stairs to get to the main serving room. The food and brew are exquisite, and the building and surroundings are well thought out and planned. Parents have learned that the patio deck above the playground is like drinking in a guard tower. You can watch the inmates (children) play below in a friendly, shady area without fear of a soccer ball or other projectile spilling your beer. It was a great stopover that allowed the traffic and our emotions to die down a bit before we made the haul back home — highly recommended.

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Happy Trails. Cheers!