In 2010 the final out was played at Rosenblatt. Some questioned if Sarpy County could do baseball like South Omaha.
“For us it was more about opening and being able to show what we were going to be able to continue to do in the community. Not just Sarpy County, but the entire Metro,” said Cordaro.
But opening night in 2011 quickly convinced a lot of fans that AAA baseball in Omaha didn't die with Rosenblatt.
“To see it now and the way it turned out is just fantastic. I think it's great for everybody and great for the entire city,” said a fan back in 2011 on opening night.
2.2 million fans later, four division titles, three league championships, two national titles and a World Series win for the Royals, Werner Park has done the Storm Chasers and the city well.
“We moved closer to where families are and we are in a spot that is easy to get in and out of,” said Cordaro.
Martie Cordaro, the GM of the Storm Chasers remembers when his stadium was all by itself, now it's a hot spot for development.
“You know we have two new schools within walking distance, also I think there are six developments total from Gretna to here along 370, so a lot of rooftop density. But, you're also seeing a lot of commercial development right along I-80,” said Cordaro.
An elementary school, a park and hundreds of houses are now next-door neighbors to the ballpark. Dozens of acres are just waiting to be developed. But, Sarpy County isn't just home to new development.
"17 of the opening day of 25 down in Kansas City played here,” said Cordaro.
Sarpy County houses the future of the Royals franchise and if you're lucky, a major leaguer may make a pit stop in town.
