“We wanted to take the approach of doing some special things to say thank you to our fans for all the support they’ve given us through the years,” said Robert Murphy, president of the Dragons.
The idea is not unprecedented. The Reds played three times previously at Day Air Ballpark before the start of the regular season. They played the Marlins in 2007 and against Reds minor-league prospects in 2009 and 2017. Each of those games, like every Dragons regular-season game, sold out.
Murphy began the conversation with Reds general manager Nick Krall. Eventually Murphy got the call from the Reds he wanted.
“They said that they were interested in doing one final game before their season opened, and they wanted to be able to do this in front of the Dayton Dragons fans,” Murphy said. “Because of our geographic proximity we are constantly, or will always be, a Reds affiliate. I really appreciate the fact that they thought enough of us and our fans.”
The Dragons have been affiliated with the Reds since the franchise moved to Dayton in 2000. Many former Dragons will be on the field for the Reds, led by shortstop Elly De La Cruz second baseman Matt McLain, catcher Tyler Stephenson and outfielder TJ Friedl. Depending on the pitching rotation the Reds set, a former Dragon could be the starter.
The minor-league roster for the game has not been set. But former Dragons who could make an appearance include Edwin Arroyo, Sal Stewart, Cam Colliers, Chase Petty, Hector Rodriguez, Ethan O’Donnell, Jay Allen II and Carlos Jorge.
These type of events often require sponsorship, and Winsupply is the presenting sponsor.
“They have proven to be such a great community supporter in Dayton as they have grown their company here,” Murphy said. “We’re really pleased to have them involved in this event.”
The celebration won’t end with this game. Murphy said the Dragons will be announcing more events and special nights to celebrate the 25th season.
The Reds open the regular season at 4:10 p.m. on March 27 at Great American Ballpark against San Francisco.
Dragons season ticket holders, suite lease holders, and sponsors will be contacted by the Dragons for first ticket-buying opportunities.
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