Opening day…for baseball fans, it’s the real first day of spring and New Year’s Day all rolled up into one happy occasion. Norfolk Tides fans have much to celebrate on this first day of our new year. We will have a super roster this year, thanks in part to the return of Kevin Gausman (tonight’s starter) and Henry Urrutia in right. My early prediction is that the Tides will beat last season’s 77-67 record and will see some post-season action. The reason for my optimism lies largely in the speed and experience of this team. Nearly all starters, and sixteen players total, have spent time in the majors (Casilla played eight seasons there) and will be bringing that maturity and leadership to the new field at Harbor Park. Another reason to be hopeful is the current starting rotation of Gausman, Johnson, McFarland, Yoon, and Wright. If you don’t believe they’re good, you didn’t see them keep the parent Orioles in check last Saturday.

Speaking of that game, I was among the crazy people who took up residence in the stands during last Saturday’s exhibition game/deluge and got to see the new field drain. When you arrive at the park, you will see some other improvements. There are new concessions, including a new craft beer stand. The last section in right field has been converted to picnic table seating, which should prove popular in more hospitable weather than we had Saturday.

When you are at the park, be sure to pick up a schedule. Start times Monday through Thursday during April and May will mostly be at 6:35, but there are exceptions (e.g., tonight). Also, the number of home games in April and August seems small, but there are extended homestands in June and July.

First pitch for tonight’s game with the Knights is set for 7:05, but you’ll want to get there early. Unlike Saturday, the weather should hold. I believe there is a 20% chance of showers. And, if you were among the waterlogged sitting in the stands for the exhibition game Saturday, you can redeem your ticket for a free April weekday game! I saw some twitter that several folks got free tickets for the game tonight.

Oh, before I sign off, I just learned that Mike Belfiore, who was put on waivers by the Orioles, has been picked up by Detroit and assigned to Toledo. We’ll have a chance to see him again when the Mud Hens come to town in July.

Okay, I need to get some work done before tonight’s game. I wish you all the happiest of Opening Days and a fun season! – RR