BATTLE CREEK – The Battle Creek Battle Jacks say they are dedicating the 2026 season to improving the fan experience.
Just words? Not, according to longtime fan Marc Worst of Augusta who was at MCCU Field at C.O. Brown Stadium for the home opener of the Battle Jacks on Wednesday, May 27.
There was Battle Jacks team owner Scott Miles helping out and delivering some hot dogs and hamburgers to fans in the name of improved service.
When Miles handed Worst a hamburger and some chips to shorten his wait, what was the reaction?
“That was pretty awesome. Not everyday the owner comes and delivers you a burger,” Worst said.
And what did he think of his opening day experience?
“So far, so great,” Worst added.
MORE: Battle Jacks are ready to put on a show to open the 2026 season
Miles has been telling anyone who would listen over the past few months that this is a new era for the Battle Creek Battle Jacks. That new era began Wednesday with opening night and it includes a renewed vision for improved fan experience, guest service, entertainment and play on the field.
Miles said helping out by grabbing a burger from the concession stand and getting it to one of his customers is just part of it.
“Just making sure our customers are taken care of,” Miles said. “Everybody has to be rowing in the same direction, just have to grab an oar and go. I have been calling all the season ticket holders in the offseason and telling them it’s going to be an improved experience. And, greeting them, maybe getting them a burger, is a way to connect with them and show my face and thank them for their patronage.”
An excited crowd greeted the 2026 version of the Battle Jacks as Battle Creek hosted the Richmond Flying Mummies in the home opener.
Battle Creek came away with a 12-4 victory with Morgan Hunter and Noah Hogan driving the offense with three RBIs each as AJ Lucas, Sonnier Moses and Jake Stedman added two more each.
But, the action on the diamond was just part of the festivities as the Battle Jacks were eager to put on a show for their fan base. That included a pregame flyover by the Hooligans Flight Team and the Lakeview High School band playing the national anthem. It was also a chance to show off some new additions to the park. The revamped team store included a card shop by Tony & Tucci’s. There is also new space associated with the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame that includes a tribute to ‘Baseball in Battle Creek’ with an exhibit by the Battle Creek Regional Museum.
Terry Newton, who coached one of the Ferrari’s teams that was a focus of the exhibit, was excited to see the nod to the past.
“I love the idea of what Scott (Miles) is trying to do, recognizing the history of baseball in Battle Creek and it will strike a chord positively with the community,” Newton said.
Getting to opening day was the goal for this year’s staff, which is mostly new faces. The first game had everyone hyped.
“This is exciting, great to have people back in the ball park again. I think some of the new promotions we are doing, some of the new concessions, people are digging. I think people liked the flyover,” Battle Jacks General Manager Sam Connell said. “There are some kinks we have to work out. But, we are going to continue to try new things to switch up the experience for people. Hopefully, it’s all good things.”
The opening homestand is scheduled to continue Thursday with an 11 a.m. Education Day. The team will also host rival Kalamazoo Growlers Saturday as part of the I-94 Rivalry Night, which will include the first pre-game concert of the season.
Miles is hoping the crowds will continue to come out and see what his new vision is for the Battle Jacks in 2026.
“This is our first night. Admittedly, hair on fire. But, generally we are doing a good job. But, we are looking to improve every night,” Miles said. “Obviously, we are trying to make changes. And, with big changes and big goals, we are going to continue to work our tails off to give the best fan experience that’s possible.”
Bill Broderick can be reached at bbroderi@battlecreekenquirer.com. Follow him on X/Twitter: @billbroderick
This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Home opener proves Battle Jacks excited to deliver an improved experience
Reporting by Bill Broderick, Battle Creek Enquirer / Battle Creek Enquirer
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