NORMAN – Marking a major milestone for the future of Oklahoma Baseball, the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents approved actions Tuesday that advanced the program's stadium renovation and expansion project.

Included among the approvals were the construction management firm selection process, design development plans and the preparation of construction documents.

In September 2025, the Board of Regents authorized improvements to the outfield at L. Dale Mitchell Baseball Park, marking a watershed moment in the OU Baseball Stadium Renovation Project.

Set for completion by the 2026 season, Project 1 includes updates to the outfield wall, batter's eye, bullpens, exterior fence and spectator areas beyond the outfield wall.   

With Tuesday's action, Project 2 now officially moves forward, featuring significant expansion and improvements to team facilities, seating bowl upgrades and fan enhancements, including new concessions, restrooms and a dedicated fan plaza. 

The Board of Regents has also approved the naming of Kimrey Family Stadium and the L. Dale Mitchell Plaza in recognition of the transformational support from Brian and Kim Kimrey.

In July 2024, the Kimreys generously pledged a leadership gift to OU Baseball and OU Football. The gift marked their third major gift in support of the baseball program and has been critical in making the project a reality.

Originally named in honor of L. Dale Mitchell, the mid-1940s Sooner letterman who still holds OU's career and single-season batting records, the renovated facility will continue to honor Mitchell's legacy upon completion with the creation of the L. Dale Mitchell Plaza.

In collaboration with the Mitchell family, which has expressed its full support, the University will usher in a new era with the naming of Kimrey Family Stadium.  

The estimated cost for Project 2 is $41.7 million, bringing the total projected cost for the full stadium renovation to $45 million.

Construction on Project 2 is expected to begin following the 2026 season and continue through 2027, with beneficial use of the stadium anticipated for the 2028 season.

Final completion of the student-athlete areas is scheduled for spring 2028. No state-appropriated funds nor funds from student tuition or fees will be used to fund the project.

Shared Vision: What Our Leaders Are Saying

Anita Holloway, Chair, OU Board of Regents

"For everyone who has cheered on OU Baseball for many years, this is a thrilling moment. The Kimrey family's generosity and vision are helping us take a major step forward, honoring the program's proud past while setting the stage for an even brighter future. This project is about more than new facilities; it's about giving our student-athletes and fans an experience worthy of the Sooner spirit. I'm proud that it reflects both responsible investment and a deep belief in what makes OU Baseball so special – a tradition that continues to thrive under Coach Skip Johnson's exceptional leadership and the program's continued success."

Joseph Harroz Jr., University President

"Oklahoma Baseball is built on a tradition of pride and pursuit of excellence that spans generations. This next chapter honors that legacy while providing our student-athletes the facilities and resources they need to reach even greater heights. Guided by thoughtful planning and purpose, this project reflects OU's commitment to investing wisely in what truly matters: our people and their success. We are deeply grateful to Brian and Kim Kimrey for their extraordinary generosity and unwavering belief in the power of OU Athletics. Their support ensures that the spirit of Sooner Baseball will continue to thrive for decades to come."

Joe Castiglione, Vice President and Director of Athletics

"We're incredibly excited to take this next step for Oklahoma Baseball. This project is vital to our future as we compete in the SEC, the nation's premier league for baseball. None of this would be possible without the support of the Board of Regents, President Harroz and our generous donors, especially the Kimrey family. This project reflects our shared commitment to providing championship-level resources and creating an unmatched experience for our student-athletes, coaches and fans. Oklahoma Baseball has a proud tradition, and this investment ensures its brightest days are still ahead."

Skip Johnson, Head Baseball Coach

"Our program is immensely grateful to everyone who has played a part in this stadium project. Thank you to the Board of Regents, President Harroz and Joe Castiglione for their continued investment in our program. The Kimrey family has made a substantial mark on Oklahoma Baseball that future generations of Sooners will benefit from as they enter a premier facility in college baseball. Our fans will enjoy enhanced amenities, while our student-athletes will be able to take advantage of state-of-the-art training and recovery facilities. The future Kimrey Family Stadium will be a significant cornerstone for Oklahoma Baseball."

Brian and Kim Kimrey, Kimrey Family Stadium

"We are incredibly proud to see this project moving forward and to help support the continued success of Coach Skip Johnson and the Oklahoma Baseball program," said Brian Kimrey. "Our family holds deep pride in the tradition and values of the program, and being tied to its future is a tremendous honor."

Invest in Champions  

The Baseball Facility Project will be made possible through private gifts of all sizes. For additional details on the project, visit TheSoonerClub.com/baseball or contact the Sooner Club at 405-325-8000.