The Florence Freedom, presented by Titan Mechanical Solutions, break ground on the highly anticipated 2018 campaign tonight, when they welcome the Joliet Slammers to UC Health Stadium.
A season ago, Florence produced nine all-stars and four affiliated-club signees en route to representing the West Division in the Frontier League Championship Series. 2017 also saw the Freedom collect their first 60-win season in franchise history, finishing 61-35 while never spending a day in second place.
Final roster cuts for 2018 will be made Tuesday night, but as of now, Florence returns sixteen players off last season’s team, including six all-stars, two of whom signed with Major League organizations in 2017.
In collaboration with the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the Freedom are also thrilled to announce the Opening Night Home Run Derby. Prior to first pitch, Reds legends; Dmitri Young, Reggie Sanders and Pokey Reese will swing for the fences in an epic derby presented by Marathon and Montgomery Inn. In addition, three lucky fans selected at random from the VIP Meet ‘n Greet will have the opportunity to compete side-by-side with the former big leaguers.
Gates will open to the public at 5:35 p.m. with the derby slated for 6:15 p.m. First pitch between the Freedom and Slammers is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. with the game ball being airlifted into UC Health Stadium by helicopter.
Young, Sanders and Reese will then throw out the ceremonial first pitch before signing autographs and taking photos with fans on the concourse during the ballgame. The night will feature $1 Thirsty Thursday domestic beer pricing and $4 crafts.
All fans with tickets are allowed entrance into the pre-game home run derby.
The Freedom will be looking to defend their Frontier League West Division title and earn their third playoff spot in the past four seasons.
Florence Freedom