When it comes to minor league baseball, you can’t necessarily count on watching star players like Alex Rodriguez or sighting a celebrity in the stands, but there’s one thing that you can usually expect: exciting, creative, and sometimes downright strange promotions. The New Britain Rock Cats’ speed dating night in 2007 or the Charleston River Dogs’ Silent Night in 2003 come to mind. Though, our own Hudson Valley Renegades—also known as the Tampa Bay Rays Class A affiliate—whose 2016 season is set to begin June 17, are no slouches when it comes to off-kilter gimmicks (e.g. ’07’s a toilet-seat cushion giveaway). So we decided to select the team’s most unique, fun, family friendly and/or curious ticket-buyer-baiting promotions at Dutchess Stadium between now and September. (And for more details on ticket prices, etc., visit the Renegades’ web site.)
June 22—Minion Night
During this contest against the Lowell Spinners, those mischievous Despicable Me minions will be invading Dutchess Stadium for photo opps, in addition to food specials involving their favorite delicacy, bananas. Plus, any kids dressed up as the squat yellow creatures can be a part of an on-field group pic.
July 11—Wade Davis Bobble Head Night
You may remember Kansas City Royals’ Wade Davis’s dominant performance against the Mets in last year’s World Series, but did you know that the All-Star pitcher got his start right here in the Hudson Valley, pitching for the Renegades? The HV marketing department certainly does, and they’ll be bestowing the first 1,000 fans with a free Davis Bobble Head.
July 17—Star Wars: The Field Awakens Night
What’s better than a match-up against the in-state rival Brooklyn Cyclones? Naturally, one that’s Star Wars-themed. Franchise characters past and present will roam the stands, players’ headshots will be modified with Star Wars imagery, and there’ll be fan games inspired by George Lucas’ universe.
July 24—Christmas Sleepover
Following an evening matchup against the Aberdeen Iron Birds (during which fans will receive Renegades-themed Christmas stockings), those who splurge on a special ticket-package (refer again to team website) can play kickball on the field, receive a visit from Santa, and pitch a tent on Dutchess grounds and spend the night. Breakfast—one we’re sure will rival any Denny’s Grand Slam—will even be served the next morning.
August 4—Lincoln Lager Night
This one should please both kids and adults, thanks to beer specials for those over 21 and a Lincoln Log play area. As-yet-unspecified, but surely awesome, between-inning games will involve the beloved construction toys as well.
