MADISON – A fan is expected to unwittingly become a significant figure this week in the four-year history of the Los Angeles Angels’ Double-A affiliate that calls the Tennessee Valley home.
When the Rocket City Trash Pandas host the Mississippi Braves, the Southern League affiliate in their Atlanta namesake’s system, for a six-game series this week, the one millionth fan will likely come through a turnstile at Toyota Field.
Though one will click the magic number, one fan in attendance on one of those nights will be randomly chosen to honor the milestone and win some spectacular prizes.
“This is a great milestone for everyone who’s been a part of these first three-plus seasons,” Trash Pandas Executive Vice President and General Manager Garrett Fahrmann said. “We couldn’t be more grateful to the local communities who support our team, and we hope each and every night we have reciprocated that support both on and off the field.”
The Trash Pandas led the Southern League in attendance during each of the club’s first three seasons. This season, the Trash Pandas have already welcomed 53,326 fans over 12 home contests.
Meanwhile, the Trash Pandas return home after a dismal trip to Birmingham. Things began on a high note with a Huntsville win, but the Barons took the next four of what was scheduled as the normal six-game series. Sunday’s finale was postponed because of wet, unplayable field conditions and will be made up as part of a doubleheader May 29 at Regions Field.
TRASH PANDAS HOMESTAND VS. MISSISSIPPI BRAVES
- TUESDAY
Gates Open: All gates will open at 5 p.m. VIP Gates open at 4:30. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m.
Star Wars Night: May the force be with the Trash Pandas looking to open the series with a bang. The Trash Pandas will wear specialty Chewbacca jerseys which will be auctioned off during the game.
Nolan Schanuel Bobblehead Giveaway: Our second bobblehead giveaway of the season sponsored by Bill Penney Toyota features former 2023 Trash Panda and current Los Angeles Angels first baseman, Nolan Schanuel.
Reeds Jewelers Ladies Night: Ladies have the chance to win great prizes throughout the game and all fans 21 & older can enjoy $5 wine specials. - WEDNESDAY
Gates Open: All gates will open at 9:30 a.m. First pitch is at 11:05 a.m.
Education Day: This will be the final of two Education Days throughout the season sponsored by WAAY 31. This game will NOT be a Dog Day. - THURSDAY
Gates Open: All gates will open at 5 p.m. VIP Gates open at 4:30 p.m. First pitch is at 6:35 p.m.
First Responders Night: The Trash Pandas will honor local fire, police and medical workers throughout the game.
Team Photo Giveaway: First 4,000 fans will receive one, courtesy of the Huntsville-Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Autograph Session: Select players will be made available before the game to 4,000 fans from 5-5:45 p.m.
Extended Happy Hour: Fans 21 and older can get $3 domestic drafts from 5-7 p.m., available at the Inline Electric Rock Porch and the Fueling Station next to Bandito’s in the Bill Penney Plaza. - FRIDAY
Gates Open: All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m. First pitch is at 6:35 p.m.
Friday Night Fireworks: Stick around after the game for a fireworks show that will light up the night, presented by Pyro Shows.
Scout Night: There will be a parade before the game and scout groups will be sleeping over at Toyota Field. - SATURDAY
Gates Open: All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m. First pitch is at 6:35 p.m.
Saturday Night Fireworks: Fans of all ages can enjoy a post-game firework show, presented by SAIC .
Armed Forces Night: Military members will be honored during the game, and the Trash Pandas will wear special edition Armed Forces hats on the field. - SUNDAY
Gates Open: All gates will open at 1:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 1 p.m. First pitch is at 2:35 p.m.
Sprocket Wine Bottle Topper Giveaway: The first 1,000 women 21 & older will receive one, courtesy of NA Plumbing.
Kids Run the Bases: All kids are invited to run the bases after the game, presented by Listerhill Credit Union!
Mother’s Day: Treat your mom to a day at the ballpark! A special brunch package is currently available for purchase on the Picnic Patio. Fans can call the ticket office at 256-325-1403 option 1 to book their spot.
Diaper & Baby Supplies Drive: Fans are encouraged to bring diapers/baby items to benefit One Generation Away. All fans who bring an item will be entered in a giveaway for a chance to win Trash Pandas memorabilia.
THIS WEEK’S FOOD SPECIALS
- Dumpster Dive: Charred Green Chile Cheeseburger — All Beef Angus Burger, topped with Charred Green Chile Pedals, Melted White American Cheese and Red Onion Rings on a Toasted Pretzel Bun
- Gravity Grill: Red Chile Chorizo Burger — House made All Beef Angus and Chorizo Blend Burger served on a Lightly Toasted Amorosa Bun, drizzled with New Mexico Red Chile Sauce, topped with Cotija Cheese, Diced Red Onions and Cilantro Blend
- All Stars: Rebel Scum Pizza — Breaded Chicken Pizza with Marinara Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, Red Pepper Flakes and Shaved Parmesan Cheese
- Sprocket’s Grill: The Mississippi Mud Flap — Foot Long All Beef Hot Dog on Warm Amoroso Bun topped with House Made Jalapeno Pimento Cheese, Diced White Onions, House Made Lemon Pepper Bacon Crumbles and drizzled with Honey Mustard
Tickets for all Trash Pandas home games start at $8 on tptix.com Additionally, fans can stay up to date with all Trash Pandas games on WZZN 97.7-HD2, and download the WZZN app.
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