Hot Rods Rev Up 2010 Promotional Schedule

Bowling Green, KY - The Bowling Green Hot Rods, Class A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, released the first installment of their 2010 game day promotional schedule. The Hot Rods sophomore season will feature fireworks after every Friday night game, the return of Thirsty Thursdays, and the award-winning "What Could've Been" Night presented by Southern States.

"Without a doubt, this is one of the best days of the offseason," said Hot Rods GM/CEO Brad Taylor. "Our staff has spent the last few months coming up with new ideas and we think this promotional schedule is the start to another fun, entertaining year at Bowling Green Ballpark. From fireworks to giveaways, we'll have something for the entire family in 2010."

The centerpiece to the 2010 promotional schedule is the addition of several post-game fireworks shows. In 2009, the team launched fireworks after a handful of Friday night games, always in front of a full crowd. In 2010, fans will see an amazing fireworks show after every Friday night game beginning on April 16. In total, there will be a dozen Friday Night Fireworks displays, plus a special show to celebrate Independence Day on Saturday, July 3.

The Hot Rods will also continue two popular promotions introduced in 2009. On Thirsty Thursdays, fans 21 and older can enjoy $2 draft specials until the 7th inning. On Sundays, kids 14 and under can run the bases after the game like their favorite Hot Rods during the Smucker's Uncrustables Fun Run.

A variety of new fan giveaways will be featured on select nights in the 2010 season, highlighted by a pair of 'bobble' collectibles. On Saturday, August 28, the team will bring back "What Could've Been" Night presented by Southern States. Named the top promotion of the year by MiLB.com last season, the Hot Rods exploration of 'what-if' scenarios will feature a Cave Shrimp Bobble-Tail giveaway for the first 1,000 fans. On Saturday, July 31, the Hot Rods will honor their mascot Axle with a commemorative bobblehead on Agriculture Night. The first 1,000 fans will receive a collectible featuring "Farmer Axle" riding a tractor courtesy H&R Agri-Power.

Special youth-themed giveaways have also been scheduled for the upcoming season. On Memorial Day, May 31, the first 1,000 fans 18 & under will receive a Hot Rods Full-Size Skateboard Deck courtesy of Coca-Cola. On July 25, the Hot Rods and IGA will once again hold KidsFest at Bowling Green Ballpark, featuring Hot Rods Lunch Boxes for the first 1,000 fans 12 & under. A week later, on August 1, the first 1,000 fans 12 and under will receive a Hot Rods Backpack presented by Coca-Cola.

New themed nights have been added to celebrate the wackiness of Minor League Baseball. On Thursday, May 13, Hootie-palooza will honor the birthday of former Hootie and the Blowfish front man Darius Rucker. Music from Hootie and Mr. Rucker's solo career will serenade fans throughout the night. The Hot Rods have also invited Mr. Rucker to throw out a ceremonial first pitch.

There is a special night scheduled for June 2 to honor the toys that make childhood great. More than 40 of these items, including such favorites as Checkers, LEGO, and Mr. Potato Head, have been recognized by the National Toy Hall of Fame. The Hot Rods will celebrate these toys of American youth by giving away select items during the game.

The Hot Rods will expand upon their education events this season. On April 12, 1,000 fans will receive a Hot Rods calendar featuring artwork submitted by local students participating in the Fueled by Art program presented by Flora Templeton Stuart. There are three dates scheduled to honor Coca-Cola's Most Improved Students and a pair of dates to recognize Axle's Book Buddies, a reading program presented by Flora Templeton Stuart.

Citizens First Opening Day is Sunday, April 11 against the Dayton Dragons (Cincinnati Reds). First pitch is at 5:05 PM. The Hot Rods have new mini-plans centered on the 2010 promotional schedule. For more information on mini-plans, as well as season tickets and group outings, call 270.901.2121 or visit www.bghotrods.com.

Click here to view the 2010 Hot Rods Promo Schedule

2010 Promotions (as of Wednesday, January 20)

Additional promotions to be announced at a later date. All promotions subject to change. Some restrictions may apply. Purchase of a ticket does not guarantee receipt of promotional items. Game times are Central Daylight Time.