Seals Stadium
The temporary Bay Area home that launched the Giants' San Francisco era.
Seals Stadium hosted the San Francisco Giants for their first three California seasons, running from 1958 through 1960. Built originally for the Pacific Coast League's San Francisco Seals, this ballpark gave the franchise an immediate spot in town after moving from New York City while crews finished building the permanent Candlestick Park, about four miles to the southeast.
- Giants Tenure
- 1958–1960
Lore & Background
Its demolition in the early 1960s marked the end of an era. The land was eventually redeveloped, and today, the site sits at 16th and Bryant Streets, roughly 1.5 miles north-northwest of Oracle Park. Walking through the current ballpark is a reminder that Giants history in San Francisco began on this very soil before the iconic concrete walls were ever poured.
In Their Own Story
The dust settled on the infield as the sun dipped below the bay horizon in September 1958. Fans pressed against the brick railings, their voices carrying over the crack of the bat. It wasn't the cavernous bowl they would soon inhabit; this was a neighborhood park transformed overnight into a Major League stage.
Reader's Guide
For supporters today, Seals Stadium represents the humble origins of the Giants' California identity. Visiting the site of its former location near Oracle Park offers a tangible connection to the franchise's arrival in 1958. The tradition of honoring this venue lies in recognizing the transition period between New York and San Francisco. It was here that players like Willie Mays first played on West Coast soil before moving to Candlestick Park. The ground itself holds memories of the initial fanbase rallying behind a team starting anew. Modern fans often overlook this two-year chapter, focusing instead on the long reign at Candlestick or the modern era at Oracle Park. However, understanding Seals Stadium provides context for the rapid growth of baseball in San Francisco. It reminds us that every great franchise has a beginning point where resources were limited but passion was high. Preserving the memory of this ballpark ensures that the full narrative of the Giants' relocation is told. It stands as a testament to the adaptability required when moving a historic institution across an ocean.
Did You Know?
- The stadium was originally built for the Pacific Coast League's San Francisco Seals before hosting MLB.
- It served as the Giants' home while Candlestick Park was being constructed about four miles southeast of Seals Stadium.
- The site of Seals Stadium is located at 16th and Bryant Streets, roughly 1.5 miles north-northwest of modern Oracle Park.
- The Giants played three full seasons (1958, 1959, 1960) at Seals Stadium before moving to a new ballpark.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Seals Stadium?
Seals Stadium was a baseball park in San Francisco originally built for the Pacific Coast League's San Francisco Seals. It served as the temporary home for the National League Giants during their first two seasons in California, from 1958 to 1959.
Why did the Giants play at Seals Stadium?
The franchise moved there immediately after relocating from New York City because their permanent new ballpark, Candlestick Park, was still under construction. It provided an essential venue for the team while crews finished building the larger stadium nearby.
How long did the Giants occupy Seals Stadium?
The San Francisco Giants played at Seals Stadium for only two seasons, spanning 1958 and 1959. Once Candlestick Park opened in late 1960, the team permanently moved to their new facility.
What happened to Seals Stadium after the Giants left?
After serving its purpose as a temporary home, the ballpark was eventually demolished. It no longer exists today, having been replaced by modern development in the San Francisco area.
Why is Seals Stadium significant to Giants history?
It holds the distinction of being the very first stadium where the Giants played after establishing their franchise in San Francisco. This venue marked the official launch of the team's long-standing era in the Bay Area.