Unusually this year the Blue Jays and their minor league affiliates start their seasons on the same day. All four full season affiliates are in action but the game counts for just three of them. The Lugnuts play their traditional pre-season game against the Michigan State Spartans, a game that is a bigger deal in Lansing than the home opener. This game is the real home opener for the Luggies, in the minds of the Lansing residents. I believe it's also the first $2 thirsty Thursday so the college students can fill up on cheap beer.
Las Vegas start at home and Aaron Laffey, the youngest pitcher on the roster, will be on the mound for the 51's. It's just a dollar for a Bud at Cashman Field tonight. Jesse Chavez and Bill Murphy are scheduled to start games 2 and 3.
New Hampshire start on the road, in Yankee territory, with Drew Hutchison representing. Chad Jenkins will start game 2. Trystan Magnuson is listed as starting the season on the DL.
John Stilson will make his pro debut as the opening day starter for the Dunedin Jays. Sean Nolin and Asher Wojciechowski follow Stilson against their local rivals the Clearwater Phillies.
The Lugnuts will use a parade of pitchers against MSU as the game doesn't count in the standings. Some pitchers from extended spring will pitch including Daniel Norris and Kevin Comer. Because the Lugnuts don't start the season until tomorrow, and because most teams want to avoid playing Easter Sunday, the Lugnuts will play a doubleheader on Saturday. Lansing's starting pitchers haven't been announced yet.
As usual Batters Box will bring you daily updates on all the games. We are excited for the new season. Let's play ball!
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