Despite the Chicago White Sox having a disappointing season, a great time still can be had at Guaranteed Rate Field. Last week I had a lot of fun even though the Sox lost 2–1 to the Texas Rangers.

As always, I arrived well before game time. I love watching the calm of an empty stadium fade into the frenzy as fans start to fill the ballpark. Wanting to get clear views of the White Sox legends statues, I immediately walked to the outfield concourse. On one end of the outfield concourse is a mural honoring former White Sox players who had their numbers retired.

Carlton Fisk

Frank Thomas

Also in the outfield is the old shower stall formerly in Comiskey Park, the former home of the White Sox. Innovator-then-owner Bill Veeck installed an actual working shower in the centerfield bleachers for the hot summer days. Today, it is a non-working nod to the old ballpark.

From there I ventured to the top level for luxury boxes and the press box. It’s a beautiful area, decorated with large pictures of great Sox players or moments, jerseys and other Sox memorabilia. I was happy to see a picture of my favorite player, Mike Squires. While not a star, Squires was a Gold Glove first baseman and the longest-tenured Sox player when the team won the 1983 West Division. I do think it should have depicted Squires fielding, though, since that was his forte.

The press box started to fill with so many familiar names, including former players-turned-broadcasters Darrin Jackson, Mike Bacsik and Dave Valle. There were also a lot of media folks I greatly respect, such as Bruce Levine. Just being among these folks was a bit surreal. All were very welcoming, but I had to resist the urge to ask for pictures.

Of course, I couldn’t leave without trying the famous Campfire Milkshake. It is 16 ounces of delicious vanilla shake, topped with graham crackers, marshmallows and bits of chocolate. While I was completely satisfied with fountain Cokes, I had to try this monster shake. Although not really a milkshake guy, I would still recommend the Campfire Milkshake.

As for the game, The Sox lost 2–1 despite a strong outing by starting pitcher Nick Mastrini, who allowed only four baserunners in six innings. The Sox staged a ninth inning comeback, highlighted by Andrew Benintendi’s home run. Unfortunately, that would be the only run, and the Sox took their seventh straight loss.

On the way to a record-breaking bad season, the Sox do show some positive signs. Young starting pitchers have been impressive. Other young players are getting valuable experience. Most importantly, the White Sox fans remain loyal and hopeful.

Despite the outcome, the old saying was still true. You can’t beat fun at the old ballpark.

— John Wroblewski, online writer