Gwinnett Braves Homestand Highlights

G-Braves host Durham (April 12-15) and Norfolk (April 16-19) on eight-game homestand

By Dave Lezotte

April 10, 2012

Lawrenceville, GA - After opening the 2012 campaign with a seven-game road trip to Durham, NC and Norfolk, VA, the Gwinnett Braves open their home schedule with an eight-game homestand from Thursday, April 12 through Thursday, April 19. The G-Braves will welcome in the Durham Bulls for a four-game series (April 12-15) and the Norfolk Tides for a three-game series (April 16-19).

Opening Night is scheduled for Thursday, April 12 at 7:05 PM as the G-Braves take on the Bulls. Prior to the game, the G-Braves will honor the memory of legendary Richmond Braves player and manager Tommie Aaron and retire his No. 23. Aaron, the older brother of Hank Aaron, was the International League's Most Valuable Player in 1967 and guided the R-Braves to the IL Governor's Cup championship as the manager in 1978.

Right-hander Julio Teheran, the International League's Most Valuable Pitcher and Rookie of the Year in 2011, is expected to start on the mound for the G-Braves that evening.

Here's a look at the rest of the Opening Homestand:

Thursday, April 12th

Durham Bulls (Tampa Bay Rays) vs. Gwinnett Braves, 7:05 PM
National Anthem performed by: Chi Christine
Presenting Sponsors: Georgia Power
Features:

T-Shirt Giveaway- The first 2,000 fans will receive a commemorative Opening Day T-shirt courtesy of Georgia Power. Don't be late for this awesome giveaway!
Tommie Aaron Tribute- Join us in our tribute to Tommie Aaron, former Braves AAA player and manager as we will honor his memory and retire his number.
First Pitch: Phil Niekro- The legendary former Braves pitcher and Baseball Hall-of-Famer will throw out the first pitch prior to the game
Royal Flush Performance- One of America's Best Dance Crews, Royal Flush, will be on hand to entertain the crowd in a pre-game performance and several in-game features as well.

Friday, April 13th

Fireworks- A spectacular fireworks display will light up the night following every G-Braves Friday home game.
Veggie Tales Appearance- Bring out the kids to see a special appearance by their favorite characters, Bob and Larry, from Veggie Tales! Also enter for a chance to win prize packs including the new DVD, Robin Good and His Not-So-Merry-Men.

Saturday, April 14th

Fleece Blanket Giveaway- Feel that chill in the air? Then make sure you come out to the ballpark--the first 2,000 fans will receive a fleece blanket courtesy of Coolray Heating and Cooling.
Marquese Scott Performance- Youtube sensation and local performer, Marquese Scott, will entertain fans with Dub-step dancing prior to and throughout the game.

Sunday, April 15th

All About Kids- We will be recognizing organizations that are all about kids!
Family Sunday- Bring your ball and glove for pre-game catch in the outfield from 1:00 to 1:15 PM. All kids 12 & under will get to run the bases following the game.
Jackie Robinson Day- Come celebrate Jackie Robinson Day, where we will honor his baseball career by retiring his number.

Monday, April 16th

Kids Eat Free Monday- All kids 12 & under will receive a voucher for a free hot dog, a bag of chips, and a small soda.

Tuesday, April 17th

2 for 1 Tuesday- 2 for 1 tickets are available every Tuesday with valid coupon. Visit www.gwinnettbraves.com/Tuesday to print your coupon. Some seating level restrictions apply (limit 6 tickets per group).

Wednesday, April 18th

Winning Wednesday- Attend our Wednesday games for a chance to win big with the Georgia Lottery! Also- if the G-Braves are victorious, everyone at the ballpark will receive a special discount offer on future game tickets.

Thursday, April 19th

$3 Thursday- Kick off the weekend right with $3 food and drink specials all game long presented by Dave FM. New for 2012: all general admission berm seating is also $3 on Thursdays!
Business Person's Special- Play hooky for the afternoon and join us for a Business Person's Special!

Tickets for all Gwinnett Braves games are available now, starting at just $6. Fans can purchase tickets for lower online fees and print from home at gwinnettbraves.com, or purchase tickets via the Coolray Field Box Office by calling (678)-277-0340.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves, including the 2012 schedule, full promotional schedule, online team store and more, visit gwinnettbraves.com.