Great news on the Shorebirds front for baseball-starved fans like me! While the official press release is here, I can perhaps fill you in on some other things to expect.
This game will be a seven-inning exhibition game, and most likely Delmarva manager Ryan Minor will be trying to get everyone into the contest (with the possible exception of his Opening Day starting pitcher, although it depends on how pitching coach Troy Mattes handles side throwing.) It may even mean teammates facing each other as the game progresses.
The hope for this game is that it becomes an annual event, as Shorebirds General Manager Chris Bitters has worked for three seasons to get these teams together. It also provides a good dry run for the staff based on the crowd expected opening night, as concession stands will be open just as they would during a normal Shorebirds game.
Of course, the little bit of lagniappe is that the Salisbury University Seagulls are ranked among the top teams in Division III, and who knows? Maybe a select few will get a taste of what the pro ranks are like for their future reference.
Besides the game itself, though, my favorite part is getting to know the Shorebird players and having the chance to get pictures for Shorebird of the Week! (Yes, that’s coming April 8th to a website near you.) So I encourage you to come out and take advantage of the opportunity of getting a sneak peek at the 2010 Shorebirds!
Now, we just have to hope the weather cooperates.
