Spring Training is just a week away and a couple question marks remain in terms of the on-field product we will see at Oriole Park this year. Names like Yovani Gallardo and Dexter Fowler have been thrown around in discussions as GM Dan Duquette looks to fill out the roster.
Despite a 20% increase in ticket prices this year (thanks, Crush…), fans have been opening their wallets to renew season plan memberships. Though single game tickets are not yet on sale, Orioles faithful will be marking their calendars for some exciting giveaway dates, which were announced on Thursday afternoon. Pictures of the giveaways have not yet been released.
What do we have to look forward to this year?
May 8 – Mother’s Day Infinity Scarf
As is a Mother’s Day tradition at Camden Yards, the first 1,000 ladies 18 and over through the gates will be treated to a nice little gift. This year, it’ll be a scarf. One that goes on forever, apparently? I don’t know, I’m not really into scarves.
June 18 – BBQ Spatula
I think it’s safe to assume that this giveaway was inspired by Wayne Kirby. Last year, they gave away a BBQ apron, and this year, they’ll follow it up with a spatula. What’s cookin’?
June 25 – Orioles Batting Practice Pullover
The first 20,000 fans 15 and over will receive an O’s BP pullover on June 25. I’m rather excited for this one, as I’ve always been a fan of those stylish short-sleeved windbreakers. Why? Well, I don’t really know, but I’m looking forward to getting my very own in June.
July 9 – Manny Machado Garden Gnome
Last year, it was #SHOWtheGnome. This year, Gnomechado? Machadgnome? Whatever we call it, this gem will certainly have fans lined up outside the gates of Camden Yards bright and early on what hopefully won’t be too hot of a July afternoon.
July 22 – Orioles Floppy Hat
The tradition continues. I’m excited to see this year’s Miller Lite floppy hat pattern. The first 20,000 fans 21 and over on July 22 will add to their collection. I just turned 21 in December but this will be the fourth floppy hat I’ve gotten. I also still order from the kids’ menu, occasionally. Don’t tell anybody.
July 24 – 1966 Replica Jersey
This one will certainly be popular among the older generation of fans. The first 20,000 fans 15 and over will receive a replica jersey (presented by UMBC [ed note: GO RETRIEVERS!]) commemorating the year the Orioles won their first World Series. I’ll certainly wear mine proudly as I remember my grandfather, who taught me so much about what it means to love the Orioles and the game of baseball.
August 20 and September 17 – Orioles bobblehead
Two more O’s bobbleheads will be given away this year to the first 25,000 fans 15 and over on August 20 against Houston and September 17 against Tampa Bay. Specific players have not yet been announced but I’m really hoping we get some Hyun-soo Kim action (and that he’s good enough to warrant the honor).
September 24 – Orioles Hooded Sweatshirt
Last year’s sweatshirt giveaway was very popular and I’m sure that will be the case this year, as well. Fan appreciation weekend will not feature a bobblehead this year, but I don’t think anyone will be too disappointed that we get a hoodie instead.
September 25 – Maryland Flag Orioles Cap
DAP strikes again. This year, their giveaway will feature the Maryland flag. Color me excited.
T-shirt Days
This year’s t-shirt giveaway dates are April 10 (14 and under), May 30 (all fans), June 26 (all fans), July 8 (all fans), August 21 (all fans), and September 23 (all fans).
Kids Run the Bases
New this year, all kids 14 and under will be invited to run the bases following EVERY Sunday home game. There will also be a “Seniors Run the Bases” day during Spring Training where all fans 60 and over will have an opportunity to run the bases. I have a feeling we’ll see a few more home run jogs than steady sprints.
Fireworks Nights
This year’s post-game fireworks nights are May 13, June 17, July 8, August 19, and September 23. If you attend one of these games, please thank the grounds crew members. They are responsible for cleaning up the outfield after the fireworks displays are over, and I can tell you from my experience that it’s not the most exciting job in the world. “Fireworks night” for the grounds crew means they likely will not get home until well after midnight. So please, thank them.
