The Rocket City Trash Pandas are gearing up for their first pitch at Toyota Field on Tuesday, April 12. While they are busy getting ready to start the season, I was able to sneak in and play with some of the toys!
First, I went to the press box. Everyone that sat in the suites last year had to keep their head on a swivel because the protective net was a little lower than expected. Now, its new and improved! And I got a fresh look at it. It’ll take one big crack of the bat to get it over that net, but you should look out just in case.
Next, I snuck down to the field. I inspected the dugout that your Trash Pandas will occupy this season. As you can see, it looks like it’s up to code. There is a noticeable difference to the field. The “keyhole,” a line of dirt connecting the plate to the pitcher’s mound, is no more. I did some digging with the connections that only I have, and it turns out the groundskeeper hated it! So now, back to a normal field!
Security must’ve taken a long lunch because once I checked out the field, I found all the toys including these horses! It looks like they have a ton of new material planned this season, although, they will bring back some fan favorites! Neil, Buzz and Sally were helping NASA fix their rocket today, so I wasn’t able to snag a picture of them, but they’ll be stretched out in time for their races this year.
There will be plenty of fun around the ballpark to go along with the baseball on the field. You might be familiar with some of it, like the kids’ park near left field. The adult park is called the Rock Porch, and that’s in right field. They will also be adding the Mojo Machine! It hasn’t arrived yet, but it will be in Center Field! You and your kids will test your arm strength and find out just how fast you can throw. Careful, no one wants Tommy John surgery from throwing a sad 55 mph fastball…
Weekly theme nights planned for this year include Ladies Night and Bring Your Dog to the Park, and everyone’s favorite firework nights will be back. The special themed nights will continue throughout the season, including Space Night and Little League night in just the first week of the season.
Be on the lookout for special guests throwing out the first pitch. Opening Day will feature former Auburn running back, Madison Academy alum Kerryon Johnson.
Join me for some great baseball and lots of fun for opening day, April 12. Kick back, and watch some baseball while the kids have a blast. You might even hear a familiar voice overhead.
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