The Games Behind the Game

Edison Field may not be your father’s ballpark; these days it seems more like your kids’. The Angels offer stadium diversions beyond just baseball, many of them geared to younger fans.

Die-hard fans can arrive up to 90 minutes before game time to catch homers during batting practice and seek autographs from players. Prior to a game against the Texas Rangers, Angel pitcher Ramon Ortiz, right, signs baseballs.

You Make the Call is a mock broadcaster’s booth where visitors announce Angel highlights as they play on a monitor. A video of your performance is free.

At the entrance to the park, an actual-size baseball diamond -- crafted from colored bricks -- features a raised pitching mound and lighted bases. Want the real thing? Later this summer, children will be allowed onto the field after Sunday afternoon home games to run the bases.

Want to get into the action? Step up to the plate in the Power Alley batting cage to face a 30 mph fastball.

Retire to the Knothole Club after the 7th inning stretch -- it’s just for season ticket holders until then -- for a cold draft beer while the parking lot empties.

Fans can test their speed on the base paths against Darin Erstad -- who runs from home to first base in 3.23 seconds. The average fan covers the distance in 7.5 seconds.

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Graphic reporting by BRADY MacDONALD / Los Angeles Times