DAYTON - Graduates of the Dayton Dragons return to Fifth Third Field today, April 4, some of them already with the parent Reds, most of them part of a Reds Futures team, the best of the organization's prospects.
The two teams will play an exhibition game beginning at 3:05 p.m. with, naturally, entertainment extending past the game when the Dragons are hosting the show. Former Dragons expected to play for the Reds include first baseman Joey Votto, right fielder Jay Bruce, third baseman Edwin Encarnacion, catcher Ryan Hanigan, shortstop Paul Janish, left fielder Chris Dickerson and starting pitcher Johnny Cueto.
Every year of the Dragons except for the first, 2000, will be represented by at least one player, including catcher Devin Mesoraco and infielders Todd Frazier, Zack Cozart and Neftali Soto from last year's team. Jordan Smith, from the 2007 Dragons, is expected to start for the Futures, who will also have such former Dragons notables as Chris Valaika, Drew Stubbs and Chris Heisey on the team.
Weather permitting, both teams have scheduled batting practice, so gates will open at 1 p.m. Tentative BP times are 12:55-1:40 p.m. for the Futures team, 1:40-2:25 p.m. for the Reds.
Former Reds outfielder Eric Davis will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
Every fan will receive a Futures Game poster upon exiting the park at game's end.
A Reds Hall of Fame exhibit will be on display.
Reds president and chief executive officer Robert Castellini will address the fans during the game.
Love the mascots? Heater and Gem will be joined by Reds mascots Gapper, Mr. Red Legs and Rosie Red as well as the Dragons' Green Team and Mini-Dugout Dancers.
Sure, the game is sold out,
but a limited number of lawn tickets are available at $12.
The Futures beat the Reds 12-4 in an exhibition game Friday in North Carolina.
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