From the Aberdeen IronBirds:
Aberdeen, MD – The Aberdeen IronBirds will host the Tri-City ValleyCats Friday night for the first ever playoff game in franchise history. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.
The IronBirds are the 2013 McNamara Division Champions, beating out the Brooklyn Cyclones, Hudson Valley Renegades, and Staten Island Yankees for the right to go to the playoffs.
“It has been a fun season here in Aberdeen with these guys and the fans,” said IronBirds’ Manager Matt Merullo. “We are thrilled that we get to be a part of history at Ripken Stadium on Friday night.”
Aberdeen will send Sebastian Vader to the mound to start the game. Vader, the 2013 Opening Day starter, set a franchise record for wins in a season by a right handed pitcher earlier this year with seven. He has a 7-3 record and a 2.43 ERA. Tri-City will start Michael Feliz, who is 4-2 on the season with a 1.96 ERA.
Fans attending the game will receive a free commemorative game program presented by Esskay. The earliest ‘Birds faithful through the gates will also have a chance to receive one of a limited number of IronBirds Rally Towels presented by APGFCU.
After the game, fans will be treated to a spectacular fireworks show presented by PNC Bank and performed by Fireworks Extravaganza.
Shawnee (sp?) announced at the game Wedensday nite that there would be rally towels for everyone (not just the early birds). Probably the ones that O’s had planned on using in their playoffs, but they won’t be needing them.
It’s Shawny and LET’S GO IRONBIRDS!!!!!