Budget-Friendly Home Plate Renovation

Budget is top of mind for most field managers. With limited resources and time, is it even possible to renovate a home plate area? Yes! Keep reading to learn how.

First, pull string lines from each foul pole through home plate to ensure accurate placement. If you have access to a laser, use it to set the elevation of the plate so water won’t run back onto the plate when it rains.

Next, edge the area around home plate where it meets the turfgrass. Doing so gives the field an elevated look without breaking the bank. You may choose to sod if you have the budget—but if not, edging is sufficient.

After edging, it’s time to add clay. If you have a limited amount of clay, focus on the batter’s and catcher’s boxes before adding the remainder around the plate. If you have access to a small tiller, use it to till the new material three inches into the existing material.

Then use a long, flat board to level the home plate plate. With one end of the board on the plate and the other on the grass edge, slowly spin the board all the way around like a clockhand to achieve a level area. Repeat the process a couple of times to ensure proper drainage well when it rains.

Finally, tire roll the plate to compact the soil. If you have access to a three-ton roller, use that for this step. If not, any heavy equipment will do the job. After tire rolling, complete a quick rake and mat drag.

Ideally, you would topdress the plate area with three to five bags of calcined clay to complete the project. But you can skip that step if you don’t have the budget for it. Even with limited resources, you can give your home plate area a refresh to be proud of.