WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – Though the famous song “Take Me Out To The Ball Game” includes the line “buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jacks,” the Westfield Starfires have sought to go above and beyond the basics of ballpark fare, and the team’s efforts have been rewarded as the Futures Collegiate Baseball League has named the team the Best Ballpark Food for the 2023 season, the league office announced on Monday, October 30.

Commissioner Joe Paolucci said of Westfield’s enhanced offerings, “The Starfires really stepped up their game this season as it pertains to the fan experience.  In particular, the food and beverage options are second to none in the Futures League.  From the quality of the food to the perfect price point, taking in a Starfires game can be a lot cheaper than taking the family out to dinner.”

Westfield’s food and beverage experience centers on two particular points. The first is the team’s long-standing partnership with Amherst Brewing to produce Starfire IPA, the league’s first team-branded beer. The custom brew has been a hit since it was introduced in the team’s inaugural 2019 campaign and continues to be the single best-selling item at Bullens Field.

New to the ballpark for 2023, and what put the Starfires over the top against quality competition from around the league, was the addition of the North Elm Butcher Block. They provided a host of incredible barbecue options at every game, from brisket sandwiches to burnt ends to mac and cheese, as well as the traditional burgers, hot dogs, and French fries.

“We are constantly looking for ways to connect with our community and enhance the experience for our tremendous fans at Bullens Field,” Starfires owner Chris Thompson said. “Our partnership with the North Elm Butcher Block has been one of the most important means to that goal and this award is a testament to the success of that connection.”

North Elm Butcher Block owner Dan Puza says there is plenty more where that came from and urges fans to come out to taste the Bullens Magic in 2024.

“If you thought we knocked it out of the park this season, wait until next year,” he said.