Squirrels home opener one week away - NBC12 - WWBT - Richmond, VA News On Your Side

Squirrels home opener one week away

By Rachel DePompa - bio | email
Posted by Terry Alexander - email

RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) – It's opening day in for minor league baseball -- including the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Although they won't make their home debut for another week, there's a lot of last minute work underway at their nest. 

They say the grass is always greener and for Richmond's new baseball team, that saying holds true. The first home game at the Diamond is already sold out. 

 "It's an incredibly exciting time for us right now," said Anthony Oppermann. "Last night, have the team working out, seeing them in their uniforms. It's been a really fun ride." 

The Flying Squirrels are playing away games all week, which gives the staff extra time to get the Diamond in shape. They are still changing out the old signs in the outfield; removing the last traces of the Braves. 

The field is under constant care, and the new seats are fully installed. They've removed the upper deck, taking the Diamond from 12,000 to 9,000 seats.  Now they're just waiting for the 9,000 fans on April 15.  

"If you miss opening night you can still come out and welcome baseball back Friday though that following weekend," said Anthony. 

Fans are gathered right now at Home Team Grill in the Fan for a listening party. A live radio pre-game show from the restaurant starts at 6:30 p.m. and the game will be broadcast at 7:00 p.m. so you still have time to make it down there. 

Copyright 2010 WWBT NBC12. All rights reserved.