Astros begin $19-million renovation in CF

HOUSTON — In trying to keep up with a fanbase that increasingly considers attending baseball games a social event, as well as the rapid changes going on around Minute Maid Park, the Astros on Monday broke ground on their $19-million project to renovate the area behind center field, which includes the removal of Tal’s Hill and bringing in the center-field fence.

The renovations, which will be complete in time for the 2017 season, will make the areas beyond the center-field wall more accessible and more attractive to fans who want to watch the game from a different perspective while socializing with other fans.

Shortly after Astros owner Jim Crane, team president Reid Ryan and senior vice president of business operations Marcel Braithwaite — with the help of mascot, Orbit — ceremoniously turned over some dirt on the famous hill, workers began digging it up and removing the outfield-wall padding. The three flag poles, one of which was in play, will also be removed.

“We wanted to create a better walk-up experience, so this will really enhance the stadium,” Crane said. “We think it’s really good for the fans, particularly, and creates a lot more opportunity. They can see more all the way around the ballpark a lot easier.”

Although seats will be removed, the capacity of the …

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