Let’s get this party started!

Last night was the annual season ticket holders picnic/meet the team event.

We showed up at the ball park around 6:30 and the team was already on the field for practice.  Like last years’ practice, the Manager and coaches were giving the boys instruction.  I am fascinated with baseball instruction.  They were working on infield skills when we arrived.  It is almost like going to the ballet, but much more exciting.  They way they go through the various drills until, somehow, it becomes instinct.  They moved on to batting practice and the pitchers to pitching drills.  Although this was the first time I saw this team work together, I was impressed.  I quickly came to the conclusion that this may well be the first time in Daytona Cubs history to win back-to-back championships!

We met up with the other members of the “Jack family” and grabbed a burger and a dog.  One of the best things about minor league baseball is the relationships we build with other fans as well as the staff.  I spend a lot of time at the ballpark and have made so many friends there.  We really do become like family to each other.  Many of us stay in touch in the off-season with various activities.  It’s always nice to catch up with everyone. 

The guys practiced until after 8:30.  By then most of the ticket holders left, but a few of us diehards stuck around to greet the team.  As they players and coaches came out to the picnic area, we welcomed them and got hugs from the returning players and even from some of the new guys. They were all very nice people.  They seem to really appreciate the support they get from us fans. This group was no exception.  A really good group of guys.

I spent some time talking to Dave and Mariano.  Both of them have a bit of a sarcastic wit about them and it’s quite enjoyable to listen to the banter back and forth. We also got to meet and talk to our new pitching coach, Ron Villone.  I think he is going to fit in quite well.  Right off the bat, I told him about the legacy of our pitching coaches and told him we had a strong tradition of pitching coaches that were not only great coaches, but great men.  He responded that he was happy to take on the challenge and that he was up to the task of carrying on that tradition.  I liked him immediately! 

We stuck around until the coaches were heading out.  When we were heading out, Clint, the AGM for the Cubs, showed us some of the improvements at the Jack, including new and expanded restrooms and a new concession area.  These changes should make a big impact on wait time on big nights.

As we were leaving the ballpark, I had the feeling that this was going to be a very good year….

Tonight is our exhibition game against Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.  But before that, a few of us are having an early dinner with our good friends Buck and Babs Rogers.  Buck was our GM several years back.  He and Babs have since moved on and up to the Huntsville Stars, a Brewer’s affiliate.  I am looking forward to seeing them and catching up!  I’m sure there will be a story or two about them coming soon….Stay tuned!