Myrtle Beach Pelicans Season Opener

If you're looking for something fun to do on a budget, head over to BB&T Field and check out the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. As a minor league affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, you will get a chance to see all the future MLB stars before they hit it big. Break in your glove and get ready for the first pitch as the Myrtle Beach Pelicans kick off the 2009 season Thursday, April 9 at 7:05 PM.

Led by the Carolina League's 2008 Manager of the Year and Baseball America Minor League Manager of the Year, Rocket Wheeler, the Pelicans are looking to do big things this year. Their opening day roster boasts three of the top six prospects in the Atlanta Braves organization according to Baseball America - outfielder Jason Heyward (#2), first baseman Freddie Freeman (#5) and pitcher Cole Rohrbough (#6).

They are encouraging fans to come out and catch the game, and multi-time pro bowler and Super Bowl champ Jerome Bettis. The former Pittsburgh Steeler joined the team last year as a part owner, and will be in the house for opening day.

The Pelicans will also be honoring late pitching coach Bruce “DC” Dal Canton. To do so, they've invited Canton’s longtime friend and former teammate Steve Blass to throw out the first pitch for the season opener. Dal Canton is a former Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher and a current Pirates broadcaster.

Pelicans single-game tickets, season tickets, mini-plans, flex books and group outings are on sale now. Tickets are still available for the season opener on April 9 and for the Jerome Bettis appearance on April 14. For more information, contact the Pelicans at (843) 918-6000 or toll-free at (877) 918-TIXX, visit the Pelicans Box Office at BB&T Coastal Field or log on to myrtlebeachpelicans.com.