Red Wings Performance Center opens in Monroe County in compliance with MLB standards, providing players with cutting-edge training resources and upgraded support facilities

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County Executive Adam Bello has announced the completion of the Red Wings Performance Center, a state-of-the-art batting practice and workout facility at Innovative Field, just in time for the 2025 Rochester Red Wings season opener. This marks the culmination of several off-season improvement projects aimed at enhancing the ballpark, which has served as the home of the Red Wings since 1997.

The newly unveiled facility is part of a broader, multi-year initiative to upgrade the stadium and ensure it remains a premier venue for baseball in the region.

“For more than a century, Monroe County residents have cheered on the Rochester Red Wings. These ballpark upgrades will ensure that the Wings will continue to play at Innovative Field for years to come and will provide the players, coaches, and staff with a state-of-the-art facility to train and further work on their craft,” said County Executive Bello.

The Red Wings Performance Center is equipped with advanced technology designed to help players hone their skills and prepare for competition. The facility meets all the guidelines set by Major League Baseball for minor league affiliates, ensuring that the Red Wings have access to top-tier training resources.

Naomi Silver, President, CEO & COO of the Rochester Red Wings, expressed her enthusiasm for the upgrades, noting the positive impact on the players.

“From the moment we learned that Major League Baseball was requiring an upgrade to our player facilities in order to be in compliance with their standards, the County Executive’s response was ‘let’s get it done, and let’s be sure to make equivalent upgrades that the fans can enjoy.’ From that point on it was a go, and we are so proud and pleased to see this transformation,” said Naomi Silver.

Previous enhancements at Innovative Field include a new videoboard, upgraded VIP parking, facade LED lighting, and new seating, along with renovations to both the home and visiting teams’ clubhouses. Notably, the upgrades also added new facilities for female staff, accommodating the growing number of women in coaching, training, and nutrition roles within baseball.

The overall improvements were part of a $26 million investment initiative announced in 2022 by Bello, the Monroe County Legislature, and Governor Hochul, who allocated $10 million from the New York State budget towards these renovations. An additional $2.5 million was provided by the Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council.

Support for the project extended beyond local government, with federal representatives also praising the investment. Congressman Joe Morelle commended the initiative.

“The Rochester Red Wings are a core part of the fabric of our community, providing opportunities for homegrown ballplayers and families alike to enjoy the game of baseball in front of a roaring Rochester crowd,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “As a lifelong lover of America’s game, I’m grateful to County Executive Bello, Governor Hochul, and all our state and local partners for continuing to invest in the Red Wings and ensuring our facilities are some of the best in the country. Go Wings!”

The completion of these upgrades not only benefits the players but also promises an enhanced experience for fans, ensuring that Red Wings baseball remains a beloved summer tradition in Rochester. With these improvements, Innovative Field is set to offer top-notch facilities to players and a more enjoyable environment for spectators, fostering a deep, enduring connection with the community.