Exploring New Places Through Baseball

One of the incredible things about working in this field is the opportunity to travel to some truly unique parts of the country—or even the world—depending on where you’re assigned. I’ve been fortunate enough to spend extended time in places like Arizona for spring training, where the weather is perfect that time of year. I’ve also spent a significant amount of time in the Dominican Republic, which I’ve come to love, especially the beaches and the hidden gems deep in the jungle.

Throughout my career, I’ve also spent time in the Pacific Northwest, where I’ve really established a sense of home. Spokane, Washington became more than just a stop on my journey; we bought a house there and established a life in that part of the country. However, these past two years have taken me somewhere I never expected—the Northeast.

Growing up in Colorado, I never thought I’d get the chance to spend much time in the Northeast. My childhood was filled with road trips across the continental United States, visiting family in Alabama, driving through the Midwest, and exploring places like Michigan, Wyoming, and the Dakotas. But the Northeast? That was uncharted territory for me.?

Being based in Hartford, Connecticut, has allowed me to explore this part of the country and get to know its unique culture. With our schedule taking us from New Hampshire to Virginia, I have had a chance to see a large part of this region. Ultimately, one of the things that stands out to me the most is the deep history here—the birthplace of the United States. The old buildings, the bustling cities like New York and Boston, and the sheer size and energy, are all incredibly fascinating. The fast-paced lifestyle of the Northeast is no joke and is a stark contrast to the slower, laid-back mountain town life I grew up with. I even noticed this change in myself when I recently returned to Colorado for a wedding—I found myself impatient in line, annoyed at the leisurely pace everyone seemed to be moving at. It’s funny how quickly a place can rub off on you.

Beyond the culture and the history, I’ve come to appreciate the unique nature and landscape of the Northeast. I’ve been lucky to be close to some great fisheries in Connecticut. Additionally, finding streams in New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. Ryan and I have had some fantastic days out on the water. Whether we’re stopping at a river on the way to a road trip or taking the day to fish, it’s been a pleasure to discover the fly fishing history here, especially in the birthplace of dry fly fishing in the United States. Exploring the depths of Vermont and its lovely, small-town vibes, and down to the beach in Delaware for an all-star weekend has all changed my perspective on the Northeast and what it has to offer. I now can confidently say the Northeast is full of beauty and places to explore.??

But of course, I can’t talk about the Northeast without mentioning the food. The deli culture here is something special. There’s nothing quite like popping into a little bodega or a New York-style deli to grab a cheesesteak or a bacon, egg, and cheese bagel. It’s quick, it’s classic, and it’s undeniably Northeast. Lobster rolls become a daily thing while enjoying a week of baseball in Portland, Maine. The food culture here is great and it's just as unique as the lifestyle this part of the country has to offer.???

All of this just goes to show what an incredible journey baseball has taken me on. I’ve been so fortunate to experience life in different parts of the country and learn about the people, the culture, and the history of these places. As our season winds down, I’m feeling grateful for the time I’ve spent in the Northeast and excited to see what the future holds for my career and where I might end up next.

To the grind and the glory,

Coy Coker