It’s the ultimate gathering of friends, neighbors and fans in one spot. With the St. Paul Saints about to begin their second season in CHS Field the annual World’s Largest Game of Catch, presented by District Energy, will once again take place just blocks from their award winning ballpark. For the first time in the events history it won’t take place in the afternoon, rather during Happy Hour.
On Wednesday, May 18 the Saints block party goes from 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at 6thStreet between Wacouta St. and Sibley St., adjacent to Mears Park. The event serves as a kick-off to the 2016 season and fans are encouraged to bring their gloves. Everyone in attendance will receive a free soft baseball with the Saints logo.
Fans will have a chance to meet the 2016 Saints team, players and coaching staff, get autographs and play catch with the players. The 2016 four-legged pig will be unveiled for the first time along with the swine’s name.
After a month-long Name the Pig Contest presented by the Star Tribune, the 2016 pig will be introduced and his name will be revealed. In past seasons, names have coincided with reality show stars (Kim Lardashian and Kris Hamphries in 2012), sports icons (Brat Favre in 2010), local flair (Garrison Squeallor in 2007), national flavor (Boarack Ohama in 2008, Stephen Colboar in 2014), baseball lore (The Great Hambino in 1998), music style (Mackleboar in 2013, Justin Bieboar in 2011, Squeal Diamond in 2004, The Notorious P.I.G. – Piggy Smalls in 2003 and Hammy Davis Jr. in 2000) and an ode to the neighborhood they moved into in 2015 (Pablo Pigasso).
During this Happy Hour celebration there will be plenty of choices for both food and drink. With the World’s Largest Game of Catch taking place right in front of many of the best establishments in Lowertown, look for food and drink specials from the restaurants in the area.
A representative from the Mayor’s office will be in attendance and kick-off the event.
“The Lowertown neighborhood has welcomed us with open arms since we moved in last year,” said Saints Executive Vice President/General Manager Derek Sharrer. “We view this as not only a party to start our season, but a celebration of Lowertown and all that it has to offer.”
The Saints, St. Paul BOMA and District Energy will be joined by participating sponsors Walser Automotive, KSTC45 and Star Tribune. Sister Rosalind Gefre will be giving massages to benefit her Christian Ministry.
Saints tickets continue to be a tremendous value. Tickets begin at $5 for berm seating (available only on day of game in person at the box office), $6 for bleacher seats, $12 for the drink rail, $14 for outfield reserved, $16 for infield reserved and $18 for home plate reserved. Friday Home Games with Post-Game Fireworks are an additional $2 per ticket. The American Association All-Star Game on Tuesday, August 2 with Post-Game Fireworks Supershow and Post-Game Fireworks Supershows (May 29, July 4 and September 4) are an additional $3 per ticket. Tickets purchased on the day of the game are an additional $2 per ticket. Children under the age of 12 and seniors 65 and older receive $1 off the admission price. Children under 2 that don’t require a seat are free.
Saints Box Office hours on non-game days are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. On game days, the Box Office will open at 9 a.m.Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. Saturday and 12:00 p.m. on Sunday and will remain open until 15 minutes following each game. Tickets are always available at saintsbaseball.com.
The Saints open the 2016 season on Thursday, May 19 with a 7:05 p.m. game against the Gary SouthShore Railcats. For more information contact the Saints at 651-644-6659 or visit saintsbaseball.com.
[St. Paul Saints press release, Sean Aronson]
